Zhang Liwei and Feng Hao approached the mission board, their faces a blend of excitement and resolve. Zhang Liwei began reading the novice-tier mission titles aloud, "Herb Gathering, Caravan Escort, Foreign Emissary Escort, Spiritual Cleansing, Lost Artifact Recovery, Local Guardian." He counted them, "Six in total for the novice-tier."

Feng Hao leaned in to take a closer look. "They seem manageable, but time-consuming," he observed.

"Yes, none too perilous, but certainly requiring effort," Zhang Liwei agreed.

Turning their attention to the intermediate-tier missions, Zhang Liwei read the titles with a hint of awe, "Demonic Beast Hunt, Elemental Anomaly Investigation, Ancient Tomb Exploration, Evil Sect Infiltration, Forbidden Artifact Retrieval, Cleansing the Corrupted Spirit."

"Six here as well," Feng Hao noted, his tone serious. "These sound more challenging."

"Indeed, higher stakes and greater risks," Zhang Liwei mused, pondering the feasibility of such tasks for them.

Curiosity then led them to the advanced-tier missions. Zhang Liwei selected one, reading the details aloud, "'Unveiling the Secrets of the Primordial Stone Monolith'. It involves exploring an ancient structure, guarded by elemental entities. No entry for those below the Spirit Core Genesis realm."

Feng Hao whistled softly. "That's way beyond our league. Sounds like a mission for much more advanced cultivators."

Zhang Liwei nodded in agreement. "We're not ready for such challenges yet. Best to focus on where we can actually make a difference."

With that realization, they turned their focus back to the novice and intermediate missions, carefully weighing their options based on their current abilities and aspirations.

A newfound humility settled over Zhang Liwei and Feng Hao as they deliberated their next steps. “Let’s start with the novice missions,” Zhang Liwei suggested thoughtfully. “Once we gain more experience, perhaps we can tackle the intermediate ones, starting with those less perilous.”

Feng Hao nodded in agreement. “Sounds like a wise approach. Let’s see what the novice missions have to offer.”

They focused on the novice-tier missions, examining each carefully. Zhang Liwei pointed to one of the scrolls. “This Herb Gathering mission seems interesting. It requires collecting herbs from a nearby Spirit Mountain, rich in Qi and home to high-quality herbs for the Floating Flower Gardens.”

Feng Hao leaned in to read the details. “It says here we need to be very careful with the roots and soil. Each herb’s suitability for the gardens determines our reward.”

Zhang Liwei pondered for a moment. “That could mean a lot of back and forth trips. It might be more tedious than challenging.”

“True,” Feng Hao replied, scratching his chin. “Let’s see what else is available. We need a mission that's challenging but also feasible, something that can really aid our cultivation journey.”

With renewed focus, they continued reviewing the other missions, their determination unwavering. The opportunity to embark on their first Inner City mission filled them with a sense of purpose and eagerness.

Zhang Liwei and Feng Hao turned their attention to the Caravan Escort mission. Reading through the details, Zhang Liwei said, "This one involves escorting a trade caravan to a remote city. It's a three lunar cycle journey, back and forth."

Feng Hao considered it for a moment before shaking his head. "Three lunar cycles seem too long for our current goals. We should find something more suitable."

Agreeing, Zhang Liwei moved to the next scroll. His eyes lit up as he read the details of the Spiritual Cleansing mission. “Here’s one. We need to travel to a village south of Celestial Bloom City. It seems their crops are withering despite fertile soil. Our task is to uncover and remove whatever curse is causing this.”

“That definitely resonates with our Dao,” Feng Hao said, nodding in agreement. “Let's accept this Spiritual Cleansing mission.”

Approaching the Mission Official, Zhang Liwei initiated the conversation. “Greetings, we wish to undertake the Spiritual Cleansing mission.”

The Mission Official, his attire echoing the scholarly wisdom of ancient tradition, surveyed them carefully. “Your cultivation realms?” he inquired with a measured tone.

“I am at the final stage of the Whispering Qi Initiation realm,” Zhang Liwei responded, while Feng Hao added, “And I'm at the first stage of the Radiant Foundation Nexus realm.”

“And your sect affiliations?” the official continued.

“We are rogue cultivators, not aligned with any sect,” Feng Hao explained.

The official nodded understandingly. “The city always needs capable cultivators for these missions. It’s good to see new faces rising to the challenge.”

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He then offered a word of caution. “Be mindful of the mission's dangers. Sometimes, the real challenge might exceed expectations.”

“We appreciate the advice,” Zhang Liwei said, acknowledging the official’s concern.

The official then proceeded to assign the mission. He retrieved two green tokens from a drawer, explaining, “These are your Mission Tokens. They’re not only proof of your assigned task but will also record your progress.”

He inscribed the tokens with special ink, his brushstrokes precise and deliberate. “Keep these with you at all times during the mission,” he instructed as he handed them over. “Upon your return, they will be used to confirm your completion and award contribution points.”

Zhang Liwei and Feng Hao accepted the tokens, examining them with a mix of curiosity and respect. “We understand and will safeguard them,” Zhang Liwei affirmed.

After completing the formalities, the official added a helpful suggestion, “You might want to visit the Celestial Mount Pavilion with those tokens. There, you can borrow Spirit Beasts to aid your travels.”

Zhang Liwei and Feng Hao carefully tucked the tokens into their robes and thanked the official with a traditional fist-palm salute. “We appreciate your guidance,” Zhang Liwei said respectfully.

As they exited the Hall of Missions, Feng Hao spoke with a hint of anticipation in his voice, "Let's head to the Celestial Mount Pavilion next. It'll be interesting to see what kinds of Spirit Beasts they have in this city."

Zhang Liwei, matching his enthusiasm, replied, “Yes, they should make our journey to the village much swifter.”

Together, they navigated their way towards the Celestial Mount Pavilion, anticipation growing with each step. Upon arrival, they were greeted by the grand entrance of the Pavilion, distinguished by its imposing statues of mythical guardians standing sentinel.

As they stepped into the pavilion, they were immersed in the grandeur of its courtyard. Smooth, jade-colored stones paved the ground, leading to a tranquil reflecting pool at its center. The pool, mirroring the azure sky, lent an air of serenity to the surroundings. This peaceful environment enveloped Zhang Liwei and Feng Hao as they made their way across the courtyard, drawing closer to the main building of the pavilion.

Upon entering the main pavilion, Zhang Liwei and Feng Hao found themselves in a vast, elegantly designed hall that radiated the majesty of ancient architecture. The spacious chambers, dedicated to housing the steeds, were a blend of nature's beauty and artistic craftsmanship. Silk tapestries, depicting scenes of mythical lore and legendary battles, adorned the walls, while the floors shone with the polished sheen of jade and pearlwood.

Each chamber within the pavilion was a haven for the Spirit Beasts, equipped with comfortable resting areas that catered to their comfort and well-being. The design of the space ensured ample ventilation, providing a fresh and natural environment for the steeds.

The centerpiece of the pavilion was the magnificent atrium, crowned with a crystal-clear roof that bathed the interior in a soft, ethereal light. Sunlight filtered through, casting a gentle glow over the tranquil garden at its heart. Here, an ancient tree stood tall, its luminous blossoms adding a touch of serenity to the pavilion's ambiance, creating a peaceful haven in the midst of the bustling city.

As Zhang Liwei and Feng Hao approached a pavilion steward, they were greeted with a congenial smile. “Welcome, cultivators. How may I assist you on your journey?” she inquired.

“We're here to borrow steeds for our mission,” Zhang Liwei said, presenting their mission tokens.

The attendant carefully examined the tokens, her eyes scanning the inscribed details. “Ah, for the Spiritual Cleansing mission. You will be provided with Spirit Horses,” she informed them, her tone reflecting the importance of their task.

She then signaled to one of the stable masters nearby. A seasoned stable master, attuned to the needs of the Spirit Beasts, approached them. “Follow me, please,” he said with a respectful nod, leading them towards the steed chambers.

In the chambers, they were greeted by the sight of majestic Spirit Horses, their coats shimmering like morning dew and eyes gleaming with an otherworldly wisdom. “These Spirit Horses are extraordinary,” the stable master explained. “They can traverse great distances at remarkable speeds, equally adept on land and water.”

He then cautioned them, “Remember, these horses are treasured by the city. Any harm or accidents involving them would require recompense. Please treat them with care and respect.”

Zhang Liwei and Feng Hao stood in awe as they approached the Spirit Horses, their magnificence commanding a profound respect. "Look at them, Feng Hao," Zhang Liwei whispered, "they're not just horses, they're like celestial beings."

Feng Hao nodded, his voice filled with reverence. "Indeed, they're partners in our journey, not mere mounts."

Encouraged by the stable master to select their horses, Zhang Liwei was immediately drawn to a robust horse. Feng Hao, meanwhile, chose one that seemed to match his own temperament.

A bit hesitant, Zhang Liwei confessed to the stable master, "I must admit, I've never ridden a horse before."

The stable master let out a gentle chuckle. "Fear not. These Spirit Horses are wise and intuitive. They'll ensure a comfortable journey for you."

He then shared a valuable tip, "To travel efficiently, sit upright and move in harmony with your horse. As cultivators, you'll find the rhythm naturally."

Reins in hand, Zhang Liwei and Feng Hao prepared to depart. "Remember, no riding within the city walls," the stable master reminded them.

They walked their horses through the city, reaching the outskirts where they finally mounted. Zhang Liwei remarked, "Even at this gentle pace, their grace is evident."

"Indeed," Feng Hao agreed. "But I look forward to seeing their true speed once we're beyond the city boundaries."

As they exited the outskirts of Celestial Bloom City, Zhang Liwei and Feng Hao prepared to test the true abilities of their Spirit Horses. Following the stable master's instructions, they gently squeezed their calves against the horses' sides. Instantly, the horses responded, picking up speed and breaking into a graceful gallop.

Feeling the wind rush past them, Zhang Liwei exclaimed, "This is incredible, Feng Hao! The freedom, the speed!"

Feng Hao laughed heartily, his voice full of joy. "It's exhilarating, isn't it? I've ridden horses before, but nothing compares to this!"

Zhang Liwei, his face alight with excitement, shared, "This is my first time riding any beast. It's an experience I'll never forget."

They quickly found a rhythm with their steeds, shifting their weight in tune with the horses' movements.

As they continued their journey south towards Morning Glow Village, their destination, the connection with the Spirit Horses deepened. The journey, initially fueled by a sense of duty, had transformed into an adventure filled with camaraderie and respect for their noble steeds.