As the early light of dawn bathed the landscape in a golden hue, Zhang Liwei, Feng Hao, and Li Yunxian set off with renewed vigor towards Celestial Bloom City. The camaraderie forged through shared trials had imbued them with a sense of unity, making their journey back to the city not just a return but a procession of triumph. By the time they reached the imposing eastern gate of Celestial Bloom City on the fourth day, a sense of achievement mixed with nostalgia greeted them, the towering structure standing as a testament to their adventures and growth.

Their familiarity with the city's streets, a maze they had once navigated with caution, now felt like retracing steps in a well-known tale. However, as they approached the Hall of Missions, a pivotal moment arrived. Li Yunxian, her demeanor a blend of gratitude and resolve, turned to her companions. "I must go and reassure my family of my safe return, all thanks to your courage," she said, her voice laced with sincerity. "Please, visit the Li Clan Manor, just north of the Celestial Mount Pavilion, after your affairs at the hall. My parents will want to thank you in person."

With a promise to reunite soon, Li Yunxian hurried off, leaving Zhang Liwei and Feng Hao to attend to their final task at the Hall of Missions. Upon entering the hall, they were met with the expectant gaze of the Mission Official. "Have you returned successful from your mission?" he asked, his eyes searching theirs for the tale behind their journey.

Zhang Liwei stepped forward, a smile of quiet pride on his face. "Yes, we have rescued Li Yunxian from the ancient ruins," he reported, presenting their mission tokens as proof of their accomplishment.

After carefully inspecting the tokens, the official paused, then offered a nod of approval. "It's rare to see cultivators return victorious from such challenging missions, especially so swiftly. Your bravery is truly noteworthy," he commented, his voice carrying a note of respect as he acknowledged their successful endeavor.

He then proceeded to update their records, a formal acknowledgment of their daring rescue. "With the completion of this mission, each of you is awarded 500 contribution points," he announced, a note of respect in his voice for their daring rescue.

Zhang Liwei and Feng Hao exchanged glances, a mix of surprise and glee in their eyes. The leap from their last novice mission's rewards to now underscored just how far they had come. "Five hundred points each," Feng Hao whispered, a grin spreading across his face, "That's no small feat."

Zhang Liwei's expression remained optimistic, even as he considered the true value of their reward. "Five hundred points each is a generous amount," he acknowledged, balancing gratitude with realism. "Yet, when we look at the cost of even the most basic resources and tomes, a few hundred points can be spent in an instant."

Feng Hao nodded in agreement, understanding the underlying truth in Zhang Liwei's words. "True, 550 points might equate to a fortune for some, but in the realm of cultivation, it's barely enough for the basics."

Despite this, neither of them felt disheartened. "Still, what we discovered in the underground city," Feng Hao whispered, "those treasures are worth far more than the points we've just earned."

Lost in thought over their conversation, Zhang Liwei barely noticed the Mission Official's scrutinizing gaze until it was almost too late. The intensity of the stare snapped him back to the present, an unsettling feeling washing over him as if he were prey under the gaze of a predator. "Is there something on your mind, sir?" Zhang Liwei finally asked, trying to mask his discomfort with curiosity.

The official leaned forward slightly, his interest piqued. "Tell me, did you achieve a breakthrough during your mission? Your aura suggests as much."

Caught slightly off guard, Zhang Liwei nodded. "Yes, I experienced an epiphany," he admitted, not without a hint of pride.

"Well deserved, congratulations," the official replied, a genuine smile breaking his usually stern demeanor.

"And how old are you both, if I may inquire?" he asked, a hint of curiosity lacing his question.

"I'm 18," Zhang Liwei responded, with Feng Hao adding, "And I'm 19."

The official's gaze lingered on Zhang Liwei and Feng Hao, a mix of respect and curiosity in his eyes. "You mentioned earlier that you're not currently affiliated with any sect, correct?" he inquired, his tone inviting rather than prying.

Feng Hao confirmed, "That's correct. We've been walking the path as rogue cultivators."

The official nodded, leaning forward slightly. "Interesting. Just yesterday, a messenger from Morning Glow Village conveyed their heartfelt thanks to the City Lord for the benevolence shown to their village. They specifically mentioned two young and admirable cultivators who swiftly resolved their predicament. It appears your actions have resonated far beyond those village boundaries."

Zhang Liwei exchanged a surprised glance with Feng Hao, both taken aback by the acknowledgment of their deeds.

The official continued, "To have reached the second realm of cultivation at your ages is no small achievement. However, the life of a rogue cultivator, while free, carries inherent dangers. Lack of backing and resources can hinder your progress."

He then offered, "If you're interested, I can recommend you for a position within the city's government. There are opportunities in the city's forces or even here, at the Hall of Missions. Alternatively, if the structured life of government service doesn't appeal to you, there's the option to register for the disciple selection rites of the sects, occurring in three lunar cycles."

Feng Hao, touched by the genuine offer, responded, "We appreciate your consideration and the advice. We'll give it some thought."

The official nodded, his face softening. "Take your time to rest and consider your options. You're welcome back here anytime, whether to discuss missions or decide on your future path."

With that, Zhang Liwei and Feng Hao thanked the official and stepped out of the Hall of Missions. Stepping into the bustling streets, Zhang Liwei and Feng Hao carried with them the weight of new opportunities and decisions to be made. "The official's advice about considering our options does make sense," Zhang Liwei mused inwardly, feeling the gravity of their next steps.

As they navigated the path leading towards the Celestial Mount Pavilion and then veered north, Zhang Liwei broached a topic ripe for discussion. "Working under the City Lord might bring us a degree of security, not to mention the chance for me to visit my family more often," he reflected, weighing the benefits of a more settled life.

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Feng Hao, however, voiced his reservations. "True, but can we really see ourselves confined by the daily rigors and rules of a government role?" he asked, skepticism coloring his voice, pondering the potential loss of freedom that came with such positions.

Their conversation deepened as they considered the alternative of joining a sect. "What about the sects?" Zhang Liwei suggested, turning the topic to a path less restrictive but equally challenging. "Each offers a unique way to cultivate, but what if they don't see the potential in us?"

Feng Hao picked up on the thought. "Then, we plan our next steps together. Being rogue cultivators hasn't stopped us so far. If the sects don't open their doors to us, we'll continue to carve our own path, as we've always done," he stated confidently, showing a readiness to face whatever outcomes awaited them.

Zhang Liwei nodded, heartened by Feng Hao's resolve. "Agreed. Whatever happens, we'll face it as we always have—together. It's our journey, and the sects are just one part of it."

As majestic manors came into view, they approached the Li Clan Manor, greeted by the watchful eyes of the clan guards. "We are friends of Li Yunxian, here to visit at her invitation," Zhang Liwei announced confidently to the guards, bridging the gap between them with a few chosen words.

A guard stepped forward, recognition lighting up his features. "Ah, you must be the brave cultivators Miss Li has told us about. She's expecting you. Please, come with me," he said, his tone respectful as he beckoned Zhang Liwei and Feng Hao to follow.

Walking through the gates, both Zhang Liwei and Feng Hao were struck by the sheer scale of the manor. "I knew the Li Clan was prominent, but this..." Zhang Liwei trailed off, his gaze sweeping over the sprawling courtyards and lush gardens that dotted the landscape.

Feng Hao nodded in agreement, equally awestruck. "It's like stepping into another world. The wealth and power of the Li Clan are truly on display here."

Their guide led them to a quieter part of the estate, where a house servant was waiting. "You must be Zhang Liwei and Feng Hao. Miss Li Yunxian and her parents are eager to meet you. This way, please," she said, her demeanor warm yet professional as she ushered them towards the main hall.

As they traversed the inner courtyard, Zhang Liwei couldn't help but express his admiration. "Every detail of this place is meticulously cared for. It's incredible."

Arriving at the main hall, the servant paused before announcing their arrival. "Madam, Sir, I present to you Zhang Liwei and Feng Hao, the young cultivators who came to Miss Li's aid," she introduced, stepping aside to allow them entry.

As they entered the hall, Li Yunxian's joyful exclamation broke the silence. "Zhang Liwei, Feng Hao, welcome! They've all been so looking forward to meeting the heroes who rescued me," she beamed, her delight infectious.

Li Yunxian swiftly bridged the gap between her companions and her family. "Mother, Father, these are the courageous friends I spoke of—Zhang Liwei and Feng Hao."

Her father, an imposing figure clad in robes richly adorned with symbols of their clan, his hair meticulously gathered atop his head, offered a nod of acknowledgment. "Zhang Liwei, Feng Hao, your deeds have delivered great relief to our family. We are profoundly grateful to you," he stated, his tone carrying the weight of his authority and genuine appreciation.

Beside him, Li Yunxian's mother stood with a grace that commanded the room, her fine silks flowing elegantly around her. Her hair, styled in a complex arrangement befitting her status, and the subtle, refined jewelry she wore spoke volumes of her position and the family's stature. "It is a pleasure to finally meet the young men behind the tales of valor. Your selflessness has not gone unnoticed," she said, her warm smile reflecting a maternal kindness.

Zhang Liwei, feeling the significance of the moment, replied with respect, "The honor was ours in aiding Li Yunxian. Your warm reception overwhelms us," acknowledging the gravity of their welcome.

Feng Hao added his thanks, "We are simply glad to have been able to assist. Thank you for such a gracious welcome," his words sincere, echoing the gratitude they both felt.

The patriarch, with a heavy heart, shared his fears. "Had you not rescued my daughter, I shudder to think what might have happened. We were at our wits' end, already beseeching the Clan Master to organize a search team when Yunxian returned safe and sound," he admitted, the relief in his voice palpable.

The matriarch, her voice laced with emotion, added, "If anything had happened to our only daughter, I cannot imagine how we would have continued. Your bravery has spared us that pain." Her words underscored the depth of their concern for Li Yunxian.

She then turned to her daughter, her gaze both loving and admonishing. "Yunxian, please promise us more caution in your adventures," she urged, her maternal instinct to protect shining through.

Li Yunxian, caught between embarrassment and understanding, offered a small, sheepish smile in response. "I understand, Mother. I've learned a lot from this experience," she acknowledged, her acceptance drawing them all into a closer bond.

The patriarch then called out, and Steward Yang promptly entered the main hall, bearing a scroll and two ornately designed bottles on a silver plate. "This scroll contains insights into the Eternal Daoist Sect, gathered at Yunxian's request for you," the patriarch explained, offering the scroll to Zhang Liwei and Feng Hao.

"Thank you, sir. This means a lot to us," Zhang Liwei said, his voice filled with genuine appreciation, while Feng Hao nodded in agreement, equally moved by the thoughtful gesture.

The patriarch then gestured towards the bottles. "Here are ten Qi Enhancement Pills in each bottle, intended to aid your preparation for the disciple selection rites," he introduced.

Feng Hao hesitated for a moment before speaking. "Your generosity is overwhelming, but perhaps Li Yunxian needs these more than we do," he suggested, his fairness coming to the forefront.

The matriarch quickly interjected, "While we are merely a branch family, we ensure Yunxian has what she needs. Please, accept these as a token of our appreciation for her safe return."

Seeing their reluctance, the patriarch added, "These pills will strengthen and refine your Qi. It's the least we can do to express our gratitude."

With a shared look, Zhang Liwei and Feng Hao accepted the gifts. "Thank you, we are deeply honored and will make good use of them," Zhang Liwei responded, acknowledging the value of such support.

"Not to mention," the patriarch continued, "we insist you stay with us until the selection rites. Consider it your home away from home."

"We're truly thankful for your kindness and accept your gracious offer," Feng Hao said, with Zhang Liwei echoing his gratitude.

"Please, make yourselves comfortable and familiarize yourselves with your quarters," the patriarch said, signaling the time had come for them to retire to their accommodations.

Steward Yang, with a respectful bow, began to lead the way. "Follow me, please. I'll show you to where you'll be staying," he offered, guiding them with a professionalism that spoke of the Li Clan's impeccable standards.

As they navigated through the elegant corridors of the manor, Zhang Liwei and Feng Hao were soon introduced to their rooms. "Here are your quarters," Steward Yang announced, gesturing towards the open doors of two sumptuously furnished rooms. "We have arranged a feast later to celebrate Miss Li Yunxian's return and to honor your valor."

As they took in the luxurious surroundings of their rooms, Zhang Liwei couldn't help but express his awe. "I've never seen such opulence. The Li Clan truly spares no expense for their guests."

Feng Hao, equally impressed, agreed. "Yes, it's beyond anything I've imagined. Their generosity is overwhelming."

When evening came, and they joined the feast, Zhang Liwei was greeted by an unfamiliar but tantalizing array of dishes. "I've never tasted such exquisite food," he remarked to Feng Hao, each dish a new experience for his palate.

Feng Hao, enjoying a particularly delicate morsel, replied, "It's a far cry from our usual fare. This will be a meal to remember."

As they dined, Zhang Liwei's thoughts wandered to his family. "My family in the village... how I wish they could experience these flavors," he mused aloud, a tinge of melancholy in his voice.

Feng Hao nodded in understanding. "When you return, you'll have tales to tell and perhaps some recipes to share."

The feast, brimming with laughter and shared stories, not only celebrated Li Yunxian's safe return but also marked the beginning of deeper ties among them. "Tonight, we celebrate not just a safe return, but a new bond that's formed among us," Li Yunxian toasted, her voice full of warmth and gratitude.

Zhang Liwei raised his cup in response, "To new beginnings and the adventures that await us." The evening ended on a note of contentment, with promises of future journeys together.