Mist veiling the mountain clung to Dan Qing’s sleeves like unresolved karma, shrouding jagged stones and the blade-sharp purpose nested within his heart.
A faint pulse glowed beneath his sternum—a lotus root preserved in amber, its petals numbered.
The characters flickered at the edge of his vision, etched not in ink but in the fractured light of his hunpo, the soul’s fragile duality.
The information he sought lay within those walls, guarded by masters of Qi.
Dan Qing approached the gates of the Iron Leaf Sect.
[Qi Sense Activated]
> Scanning immediate surroundings...
> Two guards at the gate: Mid Foundation Realm
> Multiple Qi signatures within the compound: Varying levels, predominantly Foundation to Earth Realm
> Strongest signature: Sect Leader’s aura pulsed deep within—Peak Earth Realm. A sleeping tiger.
[Augmented Reality: Engaged]
Patrol routes bloomed in his vision. Ghostly footprints marked yesterday’s reconnaissance.
Dan Qing adjusted scholar’s robes, blue as faded ink. Scrolls trembled in his grip—calculated frailty.
The guards eyed Dan Qing with mild curiosity as he approached. The taller one stepped forward, his hand resting casually on his sword. "State your business, scholar," he said.
Dan Qing stood before the guards, conscious of their measuring gazes. The afternoon sun caught the polished metal of their sect insignias – iron leaves wrought in steel.
He had three possible approaches in mind, each with its own risks.
He could lean into his scholarly appearance, playing the role of an academic fascinated by martial histories. The Iron Leaf Sect might appreciate having their achievements documented... or they might see through such a transparent attempt to access their secrets.
Alternatively, he could present himself as an envoy from another sect. A bold move, but one that carried severe consequences if discovered.
Then there was the forged letter in his sleeve, prepared for exactly this moment. Its craftsmanship was excellent, but using it would mean fully committing to the deception.
The taller guard's fingers drummed against his sword hilt, awaiting Dan Qing's response.
"This humble scholar greets the esteemed disciples of the Iron Leaf Sect," Dan Qing said, executing a perfect bow – not too deep to seem sycophantic, not too shallow to seem disrespectful. His hair, a waterfall of unbound night, swayed as he bowed. "I am Liu Yixuan, a wandering scholar documenting the rich histories of the various sects. The reputation of Iron Leaf Sect's Wind Step Technique has drawn me here, hoping to record its glorious development for future generations."
[Simulation Analysis Active]
> Guard's posture: Slightly relaxed
> Success rate of current approach: 78%
> Recommended: Appeal to sect pride while maintaining scholarly demeanor
The shorter guard snorted. "Another historian? We had three this month already."
Dan Qing smiled, moon-pale face crinkling like mulberry paper.
"Ah, but did they offer to organize and catalogue your sect's library in exchange for access?" He produced a scroll from his sleeve. "I've done similar work for the Azure Mountain Pavilion. Here's their letter of recommendation."
[Inventory Access]
> Retrieving: Forged Azure Mountain Pavilion recommendation letter
> Quality check: Aged paper, authentic seal replica, matching calligraphy style
The guards examined the document. Dan Qing watched their qi fluctuate—curiosity blooming like lotus buds in still water.
His augmented reality overlay highlighted their micro-expressions:
> Growing interest
> No signs of suspicion
> 92% authenticity acceptance rate
"Wait here," the taller guard said, taking the letter. "I'll inform Elder Chen."
While waiting, Dan Qing activated his Qi sense again, mapping the compound's layout. His augmented reality system began constructing a detailed 3D model of the sect's grounds, marking potential entry and exit points, patrol routes, and areas of high Qi concentration.
Twenty minutes later, Elder Chen arrived with the precision of ink meeting paper – a thin man with keen eyes. His beard, sharp as a calligrapher’s final stroke, quivered with restrained zeal.
Early Earth Realm. Eyes hungry—for order, for recognition.
[Conversation Simulation Active]
> Analyzing Elder Chen's walking pattern and posture
> Predicted personality type: Detail-oriented, takes pride in scholarly pursuit
> Recommended approach: Appeal to academic interests while showing practical value
"Elder Chen," Dan Qing bowed respectfully. "This humble scholar has heard much about your sect's magnificent library. I couldn't help but notice some rare volumes through the window – the 'Treatise on Wind Elements' if I'm not mistaken? The organization system seems similar to the one used in the Southern libraries."
“Southern cataloguing methods?” The elder’s eyes kindled. “You recognize the Treatise on Wind Elements through mere window cracks?”
Dan Qing dipped his chin. “The disordered shelves weep louder than disciples’ practice cries.”
[Reality Check]
> Elder Chen's interest: Peaked
> Suspicion levels: Minimal
> Success probability: 89%
Elder Chen stroked his beard, clearly intrigued. "Perhaps... we could use someone with your expertise. Our library has grown considerably this past year, and our current system is..."
"Overwhelmed?" Dan Qing suggested gently. "I noticed some scrolls seemed out of place through the window. I'd be honored to help organize them while conducting my historical research."
[New Quest Obtained]
✧ Infiltrate the Iron Leaf Sect Library
✧ Primary Objective: Locate and study Wind Step Technique manuscripts
✧ Secondary Objective: Map the entire compound
✧ Cover Story: Maintain scholar persona while organizing library
Stolen from its rightful author, this tale is not meant to be on Amazon; report any sightings.
A beat. Two.
“Begin at dawn,” Elder Chen decreed. “But stray not where the lantern’s glow falters.” his eyes sharpened, "certain sections of the library are restricted. You'll understand, of course."
Dan Qing bowed deeply, hiding his smile. "Of course, Elder Chen. I wouldn't dream of overstepping my boundaries."
[Internal Inventory Update]
> Adding: Temporary sect access token
> Mapping: Initial compound layout
> Status: Phase 1 infiltration successful
****************
Dawn bled across training grounds.
Dan Qing shelved scrolls, gaze slicing through paper screens.
It was a perfect vantage point for observation.
[Qi Sense Activated]
> Scanning training grounds...
> Multiple disciples practicing: Foundation to Core Realm
> Notable signature: Young disciple struggling with basic Wind Step form
> Emotional reading: Frustration, determination
[Augmented Reality Analysis]
*Overlay showing the young disciple's movement patterns*
> Form analysis: 67% accuracy
> Success rate: 31%
> Major flaws: Weight distribution, breath timing
> Potential: Above average
Dan Qing recognized the struggling disciple from his library records – Xiao Feng, age 19, joined the sect eight months ago. Perfect.
[Qi Sense Activated]
> Notable: Young disciple, erratic Qi flow
> Identity confirmed: Xiao Feng, showing signs of training difficulties.
---
Xiao Feng stumbled—Wind Step faltering. His Qi sputtered. Face flushed plum-red.
Dan Qing now faced a choice. He could remain a silent observer, gathering more information. Or he could take a more direct approach. Perhaps he could “accidentally” drop a scroll near Xiao Feng, creating an opportunity for interaction.
Or he could offer a casual comment about breathing techniques, a subtle form of assistance that might open a dialogue.
Dan Qing deliberately let a scroll tumble, its journey ending at Xiao Feng’s mud-streaked boots.
The young disciple paused his practice, picking up the scroll.
[Conversation Simulation Active]
> Target personality analysis: Eager to improve, signs of frustration
> Recommended approach: Subtle guidance, appear unintentionally helpful
> Success probability: 84%
“This unworthy one thanks the young hero.” Dan Qing said, approaching with a scholarly smile. "Oh? Are you practicing the Wind Step?"
Xiao Feng's eyes lit up at the recognition. "Yes, but..." He hesitated, glancing around. "I can't seem to get it right."
"Ah, the 'Basic Principles of Wind Element Cultivation' – I was just reviewing this for my research."
Xiao Feng's eyes locked onto the scroll. His AR overlay highlighted his micro-expressions:
> Interest: Peaked
> Desperation: High
> Susceptibility to manipulation: 89%
"You're the new scholar, right?" he asked, handing him the scroll. "I'm Xiao Feng."
[Conversation Simulation Active]
> Analyzing speech patterns
> Recommended approach: Mentor figure, humble but knowledgeable
> Success rate: 94%
"Indeed, I am. I couldn't help but notice your dedication to the Wind Step form earlier. Your commitment is admirable."
His face fell slightly. "If only commitment was enough. I just can't seem to get it right."
"Interesting scroll you've picked up," Dan Qing said, pointing to the one in his hands. "It discusses the relationship between breath and movement in the Southern Mountain styles. Not directly related to your Wind Step, of course, but the breathing principles are... fascinating."
[Inventory Access]
> Retrieving: Knowledge - Basic Wind Step analysis
> Cross-referencing: Southern Mountain breathing techniques
> Generating: Compatible training advice
Xiao Feng's grip tightened on the scroll. "Senior Liu, would you... would you mind explaining more?"
"Well," Dan Qing stroked his chin thoughtfully, "I'm just a humble scholar, but from what I've observed in my research, many techniques share common foundations. For instance..."
He demonstrated a simple breathing pattern, deliberately imperfect but better than his current method.
[Simulation Analysis Active]
> Modeling improved technique
> Projected success rate with suggested changes: 67%
> Building trust level: Increasing
"Perhaps..." he paused deliberately, "it's not the technique that's the issue, but the fundamental principles behind it. In my studies, I've noticed that many disciples focus on the movement without understanding the wind element's nature."
Xiao Feng leaned forward eagerly. "Could you... would you mind explaining more?"
"Consider how wind moves around obstacles rather than through them." Dan Qing smiled, pointing to a detail in the scroll, “Your form mirrors the heron stalking silverfish—all tension, no yielding.”
Xiao Feng’s cheeks bloomed peony-red. “Elders say force conquers the wind!”
“And yet...” Dan Qing traced a character in the air—suí, ‘to follow’. “Does the reed break when the gale bends it?”
[Training Analysis Active]
*AR overlay simulated correct Wind Step form*
> Identifying key teaching points
> Calculating optimal learning sequence
> Preparing simplified explanation
Xiao Feng's eyes widened as he tried the breathing pattern. His next attempt at the Wind Step showed immediate improvement.
"Amazing!" he exclaimed. "Senior Liu, you must know so much about different techniques!"
"Oh no, no," Dan Qing waved dismissively. "I merely read and observe. Speaking of observation..." He gestured toward the senior disciples' training area. "I notice the advanced practitioners train differently?"
[Quest Update]
✧ Trust Building Progress: 45%
✧ New Information Gained: Basic Wind Step breathing pattern
✧ Next Objective: Observe advanced forms
Xiao Feng nodded eagerly. "Yes! Senior Brother Wei and Senior Brother Liu are the best at Wind Step. They train every afternoon."
"Fascinating!"
A commotion drew his attention. Two senior disciples were arguing near the main training area.
[Qi Sense Enhancement]
> Senior Disciple Liu: Late Core Realm
> Senior Disciple Zhang: Peak Core Realm
> Emotional readings: Rising tension, pride
[Conversation Simulation]
> Analyzing argument patterns
> Calculating intervention points
> Preparing provocative statements
Dan Qing turned to Xiao Feng, speaking just loud enough to be overheard: "Interesting. I've read that the true mastery of Wind Step lies in combat application, but I've rarely seen it demonstrated at its peak."
The arguing disciples paused, glancing his way.
His words had clearly caught their attention. Now, Dan Qing had several paths he could take. He could continue with the subtle provocation, further fueling their curiosity and perhaps even their competitive spirit.
He could choose a more direct approach, openly challenging their pride and skill.
Or, he could subtly use Xiao Feng as a catalyst, perhaps by directing a question to the younger disciple about the Wind Step technique, forcing the senior disciples to either demonstrate their knowledge or appear inadequate.
"Of course," Dan Qing continued, as if speaking only to Xiao Feng, "the ancient texts speak of Wind Step masters who could leave after-images in their wake. But perhaps such skills are beyond even senior disciples these days..."
[Reality Check]
> Provocation success: 97%
> Disciples' pride: Severely pricked
> Imminent sparring probability: High
"What did you say?" Senior Disciple Liu stepped forward, eyes narrowing. “You question our mastery, scholar?” His blade hummed.
[AR Combat Analysis Preparing]
> Recording mode: Active
> Movement prediction algorithms: Running
> Technique breakdown: Standing by
"Oh! I meant no offense!" Dan Qing spread empty hands. “This ignorant one merely recites dusty tales. Surely Iron Leaf’s finest could... illuminate truth?”
Zhang scoffed. "Liu, shall we show this scholar what real Wind Step mastery looks like?"
[New Objective Unlocked]
✧ Observe authentic Wind Step combat application
✧ Record and analyze movement patterns
✧ Identify technical weaknesses
The two disciples moved to the center of the training ground, dropping into combat stances. His AR system began recording every subtle movement, every flicker of Qi.
[Combat Analysis Active]
*Multiple overlays tracking speed, angle, Qi flow patterns*
> Analyzing Wind Step variations
> Mapping movement predictions
> Identifying technical foundations
Blades rang. Qi surged.
Dan Qing observed, still as a mountain contemplating cloud. His mind devoured every step—a crane observing battle.
As the sparring match began, Dan Qing placed a supportive hand on Xiao Feng's shoulder. "Watch carefully," he said, his own eyes missing nothing. "There's much to learn here."
Xiao Feng trembled beside him. “Such skill!”
“Observe the third pivot,” Dan Qing murmured. “A leaf avoids the branch, yet chooses its fall.”
[Internal Inventory Update]
> Adding: Detailed Wind Step combat data
> Mapping: Technical variations observed
> Status: Phase 2 progressing optimally
> Trust Building: 73% complete with Xiao Feng