A ripple of murmurs washed over the crowd as I clutched the beast core, its energy pulsating against my skin—a symbol of the intricate play of power, both tangible and political.
"You dare disrespect Elder Jun!" shouted a third-class disciple from the Silent Moon sect, his voice brimming with contempt. "You tread on death's doorstep with such impudence!"
Yet, a simple gesture from Elder Jun halted the disciple's advance. A quiet, yet commanding move that silenced the impending threat.
"Junior, your tongue is as perilous as a thistle's thorn," Elder Jun coldly remarked. "But remember, even a gardener must recognize when to cease plucking, lest he summons a poison far beyond his reckoning." His gaze, heavy and piercing, shifted from the beast core to lock with mine, sending a shiver of dread through me.
Beside me, Tianyi was petrified, the crushing weight of Elder Jun's intent palpable in the air. In the crowd, Li Na's eyes met mine, her expression a mix of worry and a silent plea for caution. Han Wei, standing beside her, subtly shook his head, his eyes mirroring the same concern. Their silent messages were clear: I was treading dangerously.
I braced myself, recalling the oppressive gaze of the Wind Serpent I had once faced. He was just a man, not some unfathomable beast.
Just then, the Heavenly Interface flickered to life before my eyes, overlaying the scene with a translucent, ethereal screen. Words appeared, floating gently.
Elder Jun: Essence Awakening Stage Cultivator, Known for Strategic Acumen. Suggested Approach: Diplomacy and Wits over Bravado.
"Elder Jun, forgive the boy's hasty words. He is under our hospitality, yet unfamiliar with our ways." As Elder Chen's qi enveloped me, easing the suffocating pressure, I felt a mix of gratitude and a sting of being seen as lesser—a mere herbalist in the eyes of cultivators. "He-"
Before Elder Chen could finish, Elder Jun raised his hand, signaling him to stop. His eyes, unyielding and sharp, remained fixed on me. "Enough, Elder Chen. Let the young one speak. It seems he has much to say."
The silence that followed was suffocating. I felt as though I had voluntarily stepped into a spider's web, with Elder Jun the impassive spider at its center, watching my every move. I realized then the precariousness of my position, a guest caught between respect and insubordination, my every word potentially tipping the scales.
Elder Jun's expression remained unreadable, yet there was a glint in his eyes that suggested he found some amusement in this unexpected turn. It was clear he was using my interruption to his advantage, perhaps to test my mettle or to assert his dominance in this delicate dance of power.
I scanned the faces of the Silent Moon disciples, their disdain palpable. The one who had previously threatened me remained silent, yet his hand ominously rested on his sword. Li Na's anxious gaze and Han Wei's disapproving frown were hard to ignore, adding to the weight of the moment. I had made a mistake, running my mouth and letting my emotions get the best of me.
In that moment, I recalled my days as a humble herbalist, dealing with shrewd merchants trying to devalue my goods. Each interaction was a delicate balancing act of tact and assertiveness. Elder Jun's piercing gaze reminded me of those stern customers, and I knew I had to employ the same calm and strategic thinking to navigate this conversation.
"My apologies, Elder Jun," I began, ensuring my voice remained even, masking my inner turmoil. "I never intended to overstep. Yet, given the opportunity to speak, I offer a proposal that respects both our standings."
I swallowed hard, my mind racing. The Interface offered a path, a strategic approach to handle Elder Jun. I didn't know why it chose to activate now, but I could hardly care; It was suggesting diplomacy, a way to engage without direct confrontation. This aligned with my thoughts of proposing a contest, a non-violent resolution that could appease Elder Jun's pride while safeguarding my interests.
Elder Jun's gaze sharpened. "What just resolution could you possibly offer? The beast core belongs to us as its rightful owners.
This was my moment. "While the beast core is indeed valuable, I must remind you of the assistance I provided your disciples during the battle. My potions helped restore their vitality, contributing significantly to their victory. Taking this core from a civilian without recompense, especially one who aided your sect, would surely tarnish the Silent Moon sect's reputation for fairness and honor."
Elder Jun waved his hand dismissively. "Our disciples would have prevailed regardless of your minor contributions. But, speak your proposition."
As I spoke my proposal, the Interface updated in real-time.
Proposal Analysis: Alchemy Contest - Strategic value high. Probable interest from Elder Jun. Note: Balance confidence with humility.
"My aim was never to stir conflict. I seek to safeguard what I've rightfully earned, as would any of you." The beast core's steady hum was a small comfort against my rising anxiety. I spoke slowly, letting my mind absorb the contents of the message before I continued. It felt like I was balancing over the edge of a cliff.
"In exchange," I continued, the suspense hanging in the air, "I propose a just resolution."
The words were a guiding light, reminding me to tread carefully. Each word I chose, every gesture I made, I did so with the Interface's guidance at the back of my mind. It was like having an unseen mentor, providing counsel in this high-stakes exchange.
As I stood there, facing Elder Jun's unwavering gaze, a sense of déjà vu enveloped me. It was like haggling with the toughest of merchants all over again, where every word weighed heavy with consequence. I reminded myself to cool my head, to approach this as I would a tough negotiation - with patience, insight, and a keen understanding of the person I was dealing with.
Elder Jun's penetrating gaze demanded an answer. "Speak your terms," he commanded.
Behind me, Elder Chen's qi was a silent support, but his grip betrayed his apprehension. I could sense his confusion and concern, his uncertainty about my intentions. Even I myself hardly knew what I was going to say next.
The crowd was silent, their eyes a blend of anticipation and eagerness for a misstep. The disciple with his hand on his sword seemed a silent reminder of the potential consequences of my boldness.
"...An alchemy contest," I declared, my voice feigning a confidence I didn't feel. "A testament of skill, where I challenge one of your disciples."
Elder Jun's sneer was palpable. "Alchemy? You overreach, boy. We are warriors, not mere brewers of potions."
Elder Jun: Intrigued yet cautious. Adjust proposal to include martial skill showcase. Increase appeal.
The murmurs around us grew, and I could feel Elder Chen's grip tighten—a mix of support and a plea for caution. I hesitated, searching for an angle that could sway the tide in my favor.
"...Then let it be a test of adaptability," I suggested, "A duel of disciplines, where the core is the prize." Elder Jun, now intrigued, leaned forward. "And what farce do you suggest we indulge in?" Holding the beast core, I gathered my thoughts, speaking with a firmness that belied my inner turmoil.
"I propose a dual trial," I began, my voice steady, masking the storm of thoughts within. Perhaps it was the Memory Palace technique enhancing my cognitive abilities, but my mind seemed to race, weaving through numerous ideas. "Firstly, an alchemy challenge; pitting my abilities against your sect's disciples. The victor of this alchemy trial will earn the right to choose the location for the next phase. Should your disciple win, they may select the venue, aligning with your sect's preferences. Then, we shift to a combat trial at the chosen location. This challenge will test martial skill, where I must not only defend but also land a single effective strike to claim victory."
The sword-bearing disciple sneered, "Survive? A fitting choice of words for your inevitable defeat."
I met Elder Jun's gaze head-on, clarifying, "Not to endure a beating, but to land a single strike. If I do, the victory is mine."
A hush fell over the crowd as the implications of my proposal sank in. The disciples shifted uneasily, exchanging glances that wavered between skepticism and curiosity. I could see them weighing the proposal, their thoughts churning behind stoic expressions. This wasn't a mere test of skill; it was a spectacle that promised to showcase the strengths and weaknesses of both sects in a way seldom seen. The beast core's energy seemed to pulse in sync with the rising tension, a silent chorus to the drama unfolding.
Elder Chen, understanding the stakes, nodded in agreement. "Fair enough. Given Kai's background, a single strike is a reasonable challenge."
The mocking tone in Elder Jun's voice was unmistakable. "You believe a mere gardener can stand against one of our warriors?"
I clenched my fists, familiar with the sting of being underestimated. I've faced scorn before, for my humble beginnings and my trade. I gritted my teeth. I was no stranger to being looked down upon. It happened often, especially when I haggled with merchants as a young child. Nobody took me seriously. But I still had my pride as a person. Being labeled as just a gardener made me clench my fist in anger.
After a moment that stretched as taut as a drawn bowstring, Elder Jun let out another breath, his decision resonating in the sudden quiet that befell the courtyard. Elder Jun finally acquiesced. "Fine, we'll entertain this wager. In four weeks, we settle this matter."
Elder Jun's voice, though calm, carried an undercurrent of challenge that rippled through the air. He paused, his gaze lingering on me, as if measuring my worth. "Remember, boy," he said, his words deliberate and heavy, "this is not just a test of skill, but a test of honor. In our sect, words are as binding as oaths. Fail to uphold your end, and the consequences will be... significant." His tone was not threatening, but the implication was clear.
The Silent Moon sect members began to withdraw, their movements slow and measured. There was an unspoken tension among them, a mixture of skepticism and anticipation. Their eyes lingered on me, some with undisguised curiosity, others with veiled disdain. As they moved away, the courtyard seemed to exhale, the oppressive atmosphere gradually lifting.
As the sect began to disperse, the disciple with the sword couldn't resist a final taunt. "Enjoy your fleeting peace, herb boy. Your words won't shield you in combat."
Elder Jun, having remained silent through the dispersal of the sect members, finally spoke up, his voice carrying a note of contemplation. "Elder Chen, it seems your guest, this young gardener, has saved your sect from potentially paying a heavy price."
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Elder Chen, caught off guard by the remark, could only offer a stiff nod in response. His usual eloquence seemed to falter, replaced by a sense of bewilderment at the turn of events. "Indeed, Elder Jun. Kai has... shown a depth unexpected of his years," he managed to say, his words careful and measured.
The Silent Moon sect elder's eyes lingered on me for a moment longer, as if reassessing his initial impression. Then, with a final nod, he turned and began to walk away, his figure gradually merging with the fading light of the setting sun. The remaining disciples followed, leaving a trail of whispers and murmurs behind them.
Elder Chen turned to me, a grave expression on his face. "That was certainly an... unexpected outcome." He paused, as if searching for the right words. "I must bid Elder Jun and his disciples farewell. Please, take a moment to collect yourself. We will need to discuss this further."
As Elder Chen left, I stood there in the now quiet courtyard, the weight of the upcoming challenge heavy on my shoulders. The beast core, still pulsating in my hand, felt like a double-edged sword - a prize and a burden.
Oh dear. What have I gotten myself into?
"Kai, you absolute fool!" Li Na's voice snapped me out of my daze as she and Han Wei approached, their expressions a mix of disbelief and frustration.
Han Wei grabbed my shoulders, shaking me slightly. "Do you even realize what you've done? Challenging a Silent Moon sect disciple in both alchemy and martial arts? Are you trying to get yourself killed?"
I could only manage a weak smile in response, my mind still reeling from the events. "Well, when you put it like that, it does sound a bit... ambitious."
"Ambitious? It's madness!" Li Na exclaimed, her voice rising in pitch. "You're an alchemist Kai, not some invincible warrior!"
Her words stung, but I knew they came from a place of concern. "Hey, I've survived worse. Just testing my inner warrior, is all..." I joked weakly, trying to lighten the mood. But the look in their eyes told me they weren't buying it.
Li Na rolled her eyes. "Inner warrior? More like inner fool."
Just then, Tianyi, fluttering around in a frenzy, landed on my shoulder, its tiny wings beating rapidly. It was as though she was calling me a fool through our link. But that was crazy! There was no way she could've followed the extent of my conversation with the Silent Moon sect.
I sighed, patting Tianyi gently. "I know, I know. I may have bitten off more than I can chew this time." The little creature's concern was palpable, and in a strange way, comforting.
Li Na and Han Wei exchanged a glance, then simultaneously let out a sigh. "Well, what's done is done," Li Na said, her tone softening. "We'll have to get you into shape. You're alright for a normal person, but as a cultivator? You're going to need more than luck to survive against one of them."
As they walked away, discussing plans for my training, I took a deep breath, feeling the weight of their expectations - and my own. The beast core's energy seemed to pulse in time with my racing heart, a constant reminder of the journey ahead. All I wanted to do was find a way to feed Windy, and this happens?
"Alright, Kai," I muttered to myself. "Let's see what you're made of."