Phoenix Power: The True Colors of the Empress

Wu’er’s perceptive abilities were remarkably sharp, enabling her to swiftly grasp the cultivation technique imparted by Elder Ming Zhe. Consequently, she had already made significant strides.

Nevertheless, having begun her training relatively late at twelve years old, Wu’er found herself lagging behind peers who had started at a younger age.

Despite this, Wu’er exhibited immense patience and diligence, practicing each movement repeatedly. She harbored a profound resolve to protect herself and the cherished people in her life.

The memory of losing loved ones lingered painfully in Wu’er’s mind, filling her heart with helplessness and anger.

Determined, Wu’er meticulously executed each detail of Elder Ming Zhe’s teachings.

She believed that only by becoming stronger could she ensure her own safety. Although the approaching world filled her with anxiety and fear, Wu’er understood that her only option was to practice diligently.

Observing Wu’er’s hard work, Elder Ming Zhe resolved to protect her. As his disciple, he planned to take her back to the Lishan Sword Sect.

“Wu’er, we’ve been here long enough. Let me take you somewhere better suited for learning cultivation techniques. You no longer need to stay here alone,” he proposed, his tone gentle yet firm.

Understanding his intention, Wu’er looked up as he clasped her hand, sensing the seriousness in his gaze.

Elder Ming Zhe worried about Wu’er’s ability to adapt to the outside world, given her twelve years of isolation. Thus, he decided to bring her to the Lishan Sword Sect first, where his position ensured she would be treated well. This way, even if he traveled in the future, he could be at ease knowing she was safe.

Contemplating her next step, Wu’er felt uncertain about leaving the only home she had known. This place, despite its changes, held twelve years of her memories.

The wolves that once surrounded her had mostly left, and the sapling at the door had matured. Every memory she had was tied to this place.

Wu’er had never ventured into the outside world. All she knew was that it promised a myriad of unknowns. What sort of people would she encounter out there? Would they possess the kindness of Cang Ling Ye and Elder Ming Zhe? Or might they harbor the malevolence of the Blood Demon?

These uncertainties weighed heavily on Wu’er’s mind. Though she had lived harmoniously with the wolves for twelve years, she was unsure how to navigate interactions with humans.

Despite the mysteries of the outside world, Wu’er’s curiosity remained undiminished. She yearned to understand the world that elicited such joy and anger in Cang Ling Ye.

Cang Ling Ye had once shared his concerns about the outside world with Wu’er. She had noticed how his expression shifted from hopeful, with eyes shining, to angry in an instant.

From this, Wu’er gleaned that the outside world was far more complex than the Dark Moon Forest. Yet, she was resolute in her desire to explore it.

She wanted to see how her first friend was faring.

Rising to her feet, Wu’er gazed around her familiar surroundings, her eyes filled with reluctance. After a long, wistful sigh, she nodded decisively, hope shining in her eyes.

Elder Ming Zhe recognized Wu’er’s decision to leave with him for the Lishan Sword Sect to continue her cultivation.

To protect Wu’er from danger, Elder Ming Zhe believed it best to relocate to a safer environment. However, he was unaware that while the Dark Moon Forest was perilous, it was straightforward compared to the outside world. The human heart could be far more vicious than any wild beast.

Wu’er followed Elder Ming Zhe briskly, ready to leave her home behind. Her emotions were a complex mix of reluctance and anticipation. This marked the most crucial decision of her life.

Standing at the forest’s edge, Wu’er realized a few more steps would take her beyond the Dark Moon Forest.

For years, she had never left this place. Moving forward meant distancing herself from everything she knew.

The wolves sensed Wu’er’s impending departure. They gathered behind her, their howls rising and falling, a mix of urging her to stay and bidding her farewell.

Wu’er looked back with great reluctance, her eyes filled with sadness. She had made up her mind to leave, but she didn’t know when she might return or if the wolves would still recognize her then.

“Child, let’s go!” Elder Ming Zhe, noticing her hesitant expression, urged her seriously.

They would have to leave eventually, and any further delay served no purpose.

With a resolute turn, Wu’er took that important step forward. Her determination was palpable, as if she had steeled herself for whatever lay ahead. Her eyes brimmed with hope.

Thus, Wu’er followed Elder Ming Zhe, departing the Dark Moon Forest.

To Wu’er, the Dark Moon Forest was like her hometown. She resolved that whenever possible, she would return to visit her family.

Elder Ming Zhe had already made plans for Wu’er. He intended to continue his travels and explorations. As for Wu’er, he planned for her to join the Lishan Sword Sect and cultivate as a disciple.

The current Sect Master of the Lishan Sword Sect, a disciple of Ming Zhe, had always sought to curry favor with him. Although the sect’s reputation had declined over generations, it still held some esteem.

Despite respecting Elder Ming Zhe, the Sect Master also feared him. Thus, with Ming Zhe’s backing, the Sect Master would not dare to mistreat Wu’er.

With this in mind, Elder Ming Zhe resolved to take Wu’er back to the sect.

He had already sent a messenger pigeon to inform the sect of his imminent return.