the multi

Chapter 32: Bloody Spray

Xiulan thrust her spear through another serpentine creature. The spiritual beast—a two-headed water snake—thrashed before dissolving into mist. Its spirit stone clinked against the others in Ren Chun's pouch.

"That's the fourth one today." Xiulan wiped sweat from her brow.

A rustle in the reeds drew her attention before Ren Chun could respond. A pack of marsh wolves emerged—their bodies translucent like living water. 

Xiulan spun her spear in a defensive arc as three bounded toward her. Her spear tip pierced through the first wolf's chest. It burst into droplets before reforming, only to meet Xiulan's follow-up strike. The second and third wolves fell just as quickly to precise thrusts.

Ren Chun dispatched two more with casual sword swings. "These beasts grow weaker the deeper we go."

A screech echoed across the water. A crane-like creature swooped down, its wingspan twice Xiulan's height. Its beak sparked with spiritual lightning. Xiulan ducked under its attack and drove her spear upward, catching it mid-flight. The beast crashed into the swamp with a thunderous splash.

"Watch out!" Ren Chun's warning came just as a scaled tail whipped toward her legs.

Xiulan leaped backward. Another crocodilian beast surfaced, its eyes glowing with malevolent qi. Unlike the others, this one possessed real danger. The creature's jaws snapped shut where she'd stood moments before.

Ren Chun's blade flashed. The beast roared as steel bit into its flank. Xiulan seized the opening, driving her spear through its skull. The creature thrashed once before dissolving.

Xiulan watched as Ren Chun collected the spirit stones. He had gathered at least fifty already. Her earlier choice to reject the stones that she contributed to after their deal started to chafe.

"There." Xiulan pointed toward a raised section of land through the mist. "Solid ground ahead."

They reached it quickly. She flexed her toes in her boots at the relief of releasing Water Stepping Foot. It wasn't truly an issue, just a discomfort. At least as long as she wasn't expected to sleep on top of the water, anyway…

Ren Chen continued forward, scanning the swamp's murky horizon.

Xiulan's eyes narrowed as she spotted a cluster of yellow growth near his path. "Stop," she said, her voice firm.

Ren Chun took another step. "What?"

"Stop!" Xiulan shouted, urgency cutting through the air.

He began to turn toward her. "Freeze! Dammit, stop moving your fucking feet."

Ren Chun froze, confusion etched across his face. He glanced down, then back at her. "Have you lost your senses from the qi density?"

The pressure from the qi in the swamp had been building, making it slightly more difficult to breathe. She had been releasing a small stream of energy to keep the pressure at bay.

But that wasn't the problem.

She approached Ren Chun cautiously, kneeling beside him. Her pack thudded softly against the ground as she set it down.

Ren Chun smirked. "I know I'm amazing, and I know you're grateful for my help, but this isn't the time or place to kowtow to me!"

"Shut up." She started digging through the muck. Her fingers brushed past the delicate yellow stalks mixed with swamp grass. The wet earth yielded to her probing hands, revealing a round tuber beneath the surface.

The potato-like growth pulsed with faint spiritual energy. Xiulan's lips curved into a smile as she extracted it carefully from the swamp soil. Of course. The swamp biome always held Earth-Heart Roots. Any experienced player knew to gather these for reinforcement pills.

"What is that?" Ren Chun peered down at the muddy tuber in her hands.

"Earth-Heart Root." Xiulan moved a few paces to the right and unearthed another one. More yellow stalks dotted the ground around Ren Chun's feet, though several lay crushed from his earlier steps. The flattened plants had already lost their spiritual glow. "The ones you stepped on are ruined."

"Wait." Ren Chun's eyes widened. "Are you an alchemist? Did I just stumble into a great relationship?" He grinned. "How much are these worth?"

Xiulan's lips curled into a savage smile. "Oh? Is the price important to you? Each root will probably fetch five to ten spirit stones at market." A playful giggle bubbled up from her throat. "Still think you'll get the better end of our deal?"

Ren Chun shifted from foot to foot while Xiulan dug around him, her hands moving with practiced efficiency through the muck. The Earth-Heart Roots filled half her pack before Ren Chun broke his anxious silence.

"There won't be any room for the Blood Lotus!"

"The lotus can go on top." Xiulan patted the pack. "They're light—won't take much space."

The harvested patch left her pack significantly heavier. Each Earth-Heart Root added substantial weight with its dense spiritual matter. She brushed mud from her hands and looked up at Ren Chun.

"To answer your earlier question—I know some cultivation recipes. If I'm feeling generous when we reach Blackmere, I might make you a reinforcement pill." She tilted her head. "Do you need earth qi? These roots excel at developing early earth affinity."

"It's—it's rude to ask about someone's affinity!" Ren Chun puffed up his chest. "Such things should be learned through observation and competition!"

Xiulan stood and raised an eyebrow.

"Haah..." Ren Chun's shoulders slumped. "Fairy Lin is so strange, so why not? I'm mostly water-aligned, but I aim to develop water-earth qi to follow my master's Rising Stone River Sword Style. My water affinity is low but earth is non-existent, and adding to it would help immensely." He glanced away from her. "The Four-Element pills at Treasure Pavilion cost too many spirit stones."

A wide grin spread across Xiulan's face.

"Please don't look at me like that." Sweat beaded on Ren Chun's forehead.

"Like what?" Xiulan hummed. "You'd better be nice to me~"

"I'm already nice to—"

A thunderous roar cut through the swamp. They spun toward the sound, weapons at ready.

A second roar erupted in the same direction as the first. The sound rippled across the water, sending ripples through the murky surface.

"Should we investigate?" Xiulan adjusted her grip on her spear.

Ren Chun bounced on his toes. "Something that loud must be worth challenging! Think of the spirit stones!"

Xiulan winced. The Blood Lotus remained their primary goal, but the opportunity for getting more things… "Fine. Let's check it out."

They crept through the mist-shrouded terrain toward the source of the commotion. The ground trembled and water splashed beneath their feet. Through gaps in the foliage, Xiulan spotted movement—a massive shape charging through the swamp.

A spirit boar crashed through the reeds, its tusks gleaming with spiritual energy. The beast stood taller than three men, its hide crackling with power. But what caught Xiulan's attention made her blood freeze. She grabbed Ren Chun's shoulder.

"What?" Ren Chun whispered.

"We're staying out of this fight." Xiulan pulled him back a step.

"Why? That boar would make an excellent—"

"Look what it's fighting." Xiulan pointed to the crimson form writhing in combat with the boar. "That's a Blood Lotus."

The plant-beast towered over the boar, its petals sharp as blades and stained with previous victories. Each movement released waves of blood-red qi into the air.

Ren Chun scanned the area and pointed to a withered tree. "We can observe from there."

They retreated silently and leaped into the dead tree's branches, settling into position to watch the battle unfold.

The giant spirit boar charged at the Blood Lotus, tusks gleaming with spiritual energy. The lotus retaliated, its crimson petals slicing through the air like blades. Each impact sent shockwaves through the swamp, churning the water into a frothy mess.

Xiulan watched intently from their perch in the dead tree. The boar landed a few solid hits, but the Blood Lotus wrapped its thorny vines around the beast's legs. The boar struggled, roaring in defiance, but the vines tightened, drawing blood. With a final, desperate bellow, the boar collapsed, its life force drained by the relentless thorns.

The Blood Lotus dragged the boar's carcass under the murky water. Ripples spread across the surface, then slowly subsided. Silence settled over the swamp once more.

Ren Chun shifted beside her, but Xiulan placed a silent hand on his arm. They waited as minutes ticked by. The water remained still until a new Blood Lotus floated to the surface. Its leaves glowed vividly crimson, a stark contrast against the dark water.

"That's what we need," Xiulan whispered. "Not the main plant—the new one."

Ren Chun frowned. "So we have to attract many beasts? It will be hard to fill your pack. Why can't we use the parent?"

"The parent is useless for Blood Lotus petals," Xiulan explained. "Killing it might earn some spirit stones, but for value, it's the small, ungrown flowers we need. I have a plan to get more."

Ren Chun's brow furrowed. "So you'll just need me to protect you while you harvest?"

"Exactly," Xiulan said. "You need to keep the parent at bay while I work. Then we can escape."

Ren Chun looked skeptical. "And not slay it?"

"If we slay it, finding more Blood Lotus will be harder in the future," Xiulan said.

Ren Chun shook his head. "That's looking so far ahead. Why do you think like that?"

Xiulan smirked. "Because I'm smart."

Ren Chun studied her for a moment. "I've never met a cultivator like you before."

"Yes, that makes sense," Xiulan said, rolling her eyes. "Because there's only one of me."

Xiulan leaped from the tree, landing gracefully on the water's surface. The ripples spread out beneath her feet. Ren Chun followed, his sword drawn and eyes scanning.

Xiulan drew one of her daggers, its blade glinting in the dim light. She stopped two dozen paces away from the Blood Lotus, feeling the weight of the moment. She hadn't been entirely sure how she'd handle this before learning Water Stepping Foot, but...

If she could channel qi through her foot to walk on water, what stopped her from using it to manipulate the wind too?

She visualized the flow of her qi, imagining it extending beyond her body. While she lacked formal training in wind techniques, her extensive knowledge from collecting scroll fragments in the game provided a solid foundation for what was actually possible.

She probably had a better understanding of the highest levels of various schools than their lower members.

If anyone discovered she knew about Skyward Institute's Heaven Shattering Sword, Celestial Lotus's Divine Judgement Array, Whispering Shadow Sect's 28 Night Blossom Cloud, or any of the others, they'd likely torture her to find out how she knew the information.

Although, perhaps there were already rumors about those techniques...

Ren Chun cleared his throat. "Fairy Lin? You aren't panicking, are you?"

Xiulan snapped back to the present. "Of course not," she replied, her voice steady. "Just... strategizing."

She raised her knife and pressed it against her left palm. The blade bit into her flesh, creating a deep gash. Blood welled up, pooling in her hand.

"What are you doing?" Ren Chun's eyes widened in alarm.

Xiulan ignored him, focusing on the sensation of her qi flowing through her meridians. She pulsed the energy into the wound, then swung her hand outward and shoved on her qi with a vise-like pinch.

The blood splatter exploded into hundreds of qi-infused droplets, each one shimmering with power. They landed on the water in a rain, glowing softly before dozens of vines emerged from the depths to claim them. 

The vines rapidly retreated, pulling the droplets beneath the surface.

Xiulan repeated the process. The droplets landed again, glowing brighter this time. More vines reached up, eager to absorb the energy.

Satisfied, Xiulan wrapped her hand with a bandage, tightening it to stem the bleeding. The second batch of blood sank into the water.

Ren Chun shook his head. "I don't understand."

"Just wait," Xiulan replied, a hint of a smile playing on her lips.

A minute later, the water began to ripple. A carpet of Blood Lotus plants rose to the surface, hundreds—no, thousands—of them covering the swamp in a crimson blanket.

"I infused the blood with much more qi than that beast had," Xiulan explained.

Ren Chun stared at the spectacle. "The Blood Lotus doesn't seem like it's going to attack?"

Xiulan laughed. "That will start as soon as I start collecting petals." She turned to Ren Chun. "Are you ready?"

Ren Chun grinned and saluted her with his sword. "Not a single vine will pass me to reach you!"

Chapter 33: Thunder God Splits the Sky and...

Xiulan channeled additional qi through her meridians into her feet, strengthening her Water Stepping Foot technique. The water's surface tensed beneath her stance as she slid her pack around. 

Squatting low, she plucked the first blood lotus from the crimson carpet before her, its petals gleaming with spiritual energy.

"One down," Xiulan muttered, tucking it safely away.

The central blood lotus exploded upward in a violent spray of water and rage. A thick vine whipped through the air toward her, but Ren Chun's blade flashed, severing it cleanly. The two halves splashed harmlessly into the dark water.

Xiulan focused on her task, snatching lotus after lotus while keeping her stance firm on the water's surface. 

More vines lashed out in angry arcs. Steel sang through the air as Ren Chun's sword danced, cutting down each attack with precise strikes.

"It's working better than I thought!" Ren Chun called out between strikes.

The abundance of blood lotus made collection swift—she barely needed to move. A sharp crack beneath the water's surface caught her attention. 

A vine erupted directly under her feet but smashed against her qi-reinforced Water Stepping Foot technique. It writhed and twisted around the barrier of her technique, searching for weakness. 

Xiulan drew her knife in a fluid motion and sliced through the probing tendril.

"It's going to try tricks!" Xiulan shouted.

A dozen smaller blood lotus erupted from the murky water, their crimson vines whipping through the air like angry serpents. Ren Chun leaped skyward, his blade flashing in a perfect arc as he spun. The vines targeting him fell in neat segments, splashing back into the dark swamp.

Xiulan bounded sideways as multiple vines converged on her position. Her Water Stepping Foot technique held firm as she landed, but the vines curved in pursuit. 

Channeling qi through her right foot, she stomped downward. A massive spray of pressurized water erupted outward, shredding the pursuing tendrils.

"Get it together!" Xiulan shouted at Ren Chun. "If you can't keep them distracted, just kill the parent!"

Ren Chun pivoted toward the central blood lotus. The massive plant launched a barrage of thorns that cut through the air like arrows. He wove between them with fluid grace before landing beside one of the smaller lotus. His blade struck true, and the lesser plant withered instantly.

Xiulan scooped another bundle of blood lotus into her pack. A vine lashed toward the precious cargo, but she twisted away in a fluid spin. 

She launched herself airborne to escape, but two hidden vines shot up from beneath the water's surface. Fear spiked through her chest. 

Acting on pure instinct, Xiulan clapped her hands together and channeled every drop of qi she could muster. The air itself seemed to explode as a vortex formed, launching her into a wild spin. The attacking vines crumpled under the pressure wave as water erupted upward, sending the remaining lotus bobbing chaotically across the disturbed surface.

The impact as she landed shattered Xiulan's concentration. Dark water rushed over her head as she plunged beneath the murky surface. Her qi reserves drained, she flailed for a moment before finding purchase on the thick, silty bottom. Sharp thorns pierced through her ankle as a vine coiled tight.

Xiulan steadied herself, gripping her pack close to protect the precious blood lotus within. The thin qi barrier around the opening barely worked to prevent the contents from being soaked.

The thorns dug deeper into her ankle, but she pushed the pain aside. Deep in her core, her dantian surged with raw power—wild and untamed like that day with Qingfeng. The qi flooded her meridians in a chaotic rush that threatened to overwhelm her.

This time, I will just let it all out.

Xiulan released her hold on the energy. Qi poured from every meridian, seeping through her skin in crackling waves.

The surrounding water lit up as electric arcs danced outward. The vine disintegrated, its grip reduced to ash. Several blood lotuses floating nearby vaporized in the discharge, but Xiulan couldn't contain the flow enough to spare them.

The churning energy formed a barrier at the water's surface. Xiulan gathered her remaining focus and executed Water Stepping Foot in reverse, pushing upward through her own qi field. Her knees found purchase on the supernatural surface tension as she emerged from the swamp.

"What the fuck are you doing? You're supposed to—" Xiulan's shout cut short as she spotted Ren Chun at the heart of a deadly dance.

Vines whirled around him in a lethal cage. Twenty—no, thirty—forty attacks converged from every angle. His blade flashed in an endless arc of steel, barely visible as he spun to counter each strike. The parent lotus towered above, directing its spawn in a relentless assault.

Fuck the collection. Ren Chun needed backup. Now.

Xiulan yanked her spear free and launched herself toward the nearest smaller lotus. The weapon's tip pierced clean through its center, splitting the spiritual plant in a spray of crimson essence. Without pause, she channeled qi through her legs and leaped to the next target. Her spear found its mark again, reducing another blood lotus to withering fragments.

The Water Stepping Foot technique proved far trickier for combat landings than simple traversal, though. A third leap had her skidding across the water's surface and she nearly plunged headfirst into her target. Her qi flared to stabilize her stance at the last moment.

"River Stone Sundering Strike!" Ren Chun's voice boomed across the swamp.

A crescent of pure qi erupted from his blade, carving through the air with thunderous force. The energy wave tore into the parent lotus, gouging deep into its flesh. Four smaller spawn split cleanly in half, their remnants dissolving into the dark water.

Xiulan bounded toward an untouched patch of blood lotus petals, her feet barely skimming the water's surface. The crimson blooms glowed as she snatched them up by the handful, stuffing them into her pack.

Ren Chun charged at the parent lotus while she continued to collect, his blade singing through the air as he severed vines repeatedly. The massive plant's maw gaped wide, revealing rows of thorn-like teeth. Sharp spikes whistled through the air toward him as he dodged and weaved.

Sweat trickled down Xiulan's neck as she gathered another armful. The pack stretched tight, nearly full. A spike whizzed past her ear, embedding itself in a nearby tree trunk with a solid thunk.

"River Stone Sundering Strike!" Ren Chun's shout echoed across the swamp.

The water erupted as twelve more blood lotus burst from the depths in response. Dozens of vines lashed out like angry whips, their thorny surfaces glistening in the dim light.

Time to wrap this up . Xiulan scooped one final armful into her pack and checked the contents. The quantity exceeded her requirements. She slapped the golden seal across the opening, watching it shimmer with protective qi.

"Crossed River Stone Sundering Strike!"

Twin crescents of pure qi sliced through the air. A wall of vines intercepted the attack, sacrificing themselves to protect the parent lotus. The energy waves curved around, destroying only a few younger plants.

"I have enough!" Xiulan shouted. "Get out of there!"

"Ha! Easier said than done!" Ren Chun spun through a barrage of attacks, fighting his way toward her position.

Xiulan secured the pack tightly to her back and gripped her spear with both hands. She spun it in a tight arc, severing two vines that snapped at her face. More vines pursued Ren Chun as he retreated, forcing him to maintain a constant whirlwind of defensive strikes.

The dark water erupted as another wave of blood lotus burst through the surface—dozens more than before. Xiulan's stomach dropped. Maybe she had used a bit too much qi in her blood? The second spray… might have been excessive.

A thorny vine whipped past her face. She ducked and spun her spear in a defensive arc, buying precious seconds to think. The natural flow of qi cycled through her meridians in an endless loop, drawing power from her dantian to refill them. Each channel had limits—both in capacity and refill speed.

Ren Chun bounded across the water's surface toward her position. He pivoted mid-stride and swept his blade in a familiar motion. "River Stone Sundering Strike!"

The qi crescent carved through the air, but the energy wavered and distorted. The weakened attack scattered the pursuing vines without destroying them. Ren Chun stumbled as he landed beside her, his breathing ragged.

"My qi reserves are almost gone." Sweat dripped from his forehead. "We won't make it at this rate."

Xiulan studied the dissipating remnants of his qi crescent. They shared the same cultivation level, but he executed the technique with two major meridians blocked. If he managed that with such severe limitations...

The implications clicked into place. Her fully opened meridian network should allow for far more.

Xiulan's mind raced as she deflected another thorny vine with her spear.

The basic principles of qi manipulation flashed through her thoughts. No one needed to show her exactly how to do something—she'd already proven that with Water Stepping Foot. The technique required nothing more than precise qi control through specific meridians at calculated pressures.

A quick sidestep saved her from a barrage of thorns as she analyzed the fundamentals. Qi existed as spiritual energy—positive and negative charges flowing through the meridian network like opposing rivers. Yin and Yang and all that.

The destructive potential clicked into place as she watched Ren Chun execute another strike. His qi flowed seamlessly from his meridians through the steel of his blade, transforming raw energy into a deadly crescent. The physics… or metaphysics… made perfect sense—carefully controlled release, focused direction.

You could infuse an item with your qi.

The fighting had separated them as the vines sought to push them apart.

"Get to me!" Xiulan shouted at Ren Chun while batting aside another vine. "Now!"

Xiulan reached deep within, locating her fifth meridian among the complex network flowing through her body. With precise control, she pinched it shut, blocking the natural cycle back to the first meridian. Qi instantly began to pool, pressing against the artificial dam she created. Rather than ease the pressure, she forced more power from her dantian, deliberately overfilling the channel.

Raw spiritual energy cascaded through her secondary pathways, seeking any available outlet. The power surged through her like a flash flood across open terrain. Heat built beneath her skin as the qi saturated every channel to bursting.

"Here!" Xiulan called out through gritted teeth.

Ren Chun darted across the water's surface toward her position. Xiulan drew her dagger with her free hand, balancing its familiar weight against her spear.

One by one, her meridians reached maximum capacity. The spiritual pressure built to unprecedented levels until her entire network threatened to rupture. At the critical moment, Xiulan opened the meridians in both palms while adding a simple filter. 

The weapons suddenly felt different—more like extensions of her overflowing meridians than simple steel. 

Yang energy rushed into her dagger while yin poured into her spear.

The sudden transfer left her dizzy. Her meridians emptied so rapidly she swayed on her feet, momentarily light-headed from the draining sensation. 

The moment she released the pinched meridian, fresh qi began cycling from her dantian to restore balance. But the weapons in her hands pulsed with barely contained power, growing more unstable by the second.

Shit. The realization hit hard—these techniques required careful practice for good reason. The weapons were about to explode.

Ren Chun's boots skidded across the water's surface as his eyes widened at the unstable weapons in her hands. He backpedaled frantically, sending ripples across the dark swamp water.

Xiulan pivoted and hurled the qi-charged dagger skyward. The weapon spun end over end, its blade crackling with contained Yang energy as it arced high above the blood lotus. Without pause, she launched the spear in a lower trajectory, watching its yin-infused form slice through the humid air toward the massive plant.

Time seemed to slow as both weapons traced glowing paths through the dim swamp light. The dagger tumbled at the apex of its arc while the spear drove toward its target.

A ridiculous thought struck her—Ren Chun always called out his techniques. She glanced at his wide-eyed expression and grinned.

Something more dramatic than 'River Stone Sundering'...

"Thunder God Splits the Sky and Fucks You Up!"

The dagger detonated overhead in a brilliant flash. Pure Yang energy erupted outward in a devastating wave. Her spear struck the muddy earth beside the blood lotus parent a second later, missing its mark by mere inches.

But it didn't matter.

A blinding pillar of lightning descended from above, bathing the swamp in brilliant yellow light. 

Xiulan squinted against the searing brightness as a wall of super-heated vapor rushed toward them. Ren Chun materialized beside her, his hands flowing through practiced motions to form a protective qi barrier. Blue energy crackled around them as electricity arced through the steam, the barrier absorbing each deadly discharge.

The devastating display ended in a heartbeat. Where murky swamp water had stretched moments before, only scorched earth remained. A massive plate of fulgurite marked where the lightning had struck, replacing the swamp vegetation with glass-like formations.

Xiulan studied the destruction with a mix of awe and disappointment. So much for harvesting more blood lotus later.

At least I already collected enough. I'll just have to nail the golden meridian pill on the first attempt again.

"Thunder God Splits the Sky...?" Ren Chun stared at her with wide eyes as he lowered the barrier.

"And Fucks You Up." Xiulan smirked at his shocked expression. The technique had worked better than she'd hoped—they'd even survived the blast wave.

"Are you sure you're not... hiding your cultivation?" Ren Chun studied her intently. "You're not a hidden master testing me, are you?"

Xiulan slapped his back with a broad grin. "No way! I haven't even made a single step of progress in body refining yet!"

"But... but that had to be an ancient art!" Ren Chun protested.

"Didn't I tell you?" Xiulan tapped her temple. "I'm pretty smart!"

He looked like he wanted to cry. Poor puppy.

Chapter 34: Tepid Healing Puff

A scaled beast lunged from the murky water. Ren Chun's blade flashed, opening a crimson gash across its snout. The creature retreated with a hiss, joining others that prowled at the edges of their path.

Pain shot through Xiulan's ankle, making her stumble. The phantom sensation of blood lotus barbs pierced deep into her flesh. She'd already checked twice—no thorns remained embedded in her skin, but the bloody puncture wounds around her ankle remained. 

The dull throb intensified into sharp stabs with each step.

Qi refused to flow properly through her injured foot. The blockage forced her to compensate by channeling extra energy through her other leg just to maintain the Water Stepping Foot technique. The uneven distribution drained her reserves faster than normal.

Exhaustion weighed on her limbs. Each step required more concentration than the last. Sweat beaded on her forehead despite the cool swamp air.

Ren Chun glanced back. "We can't stop until we're clear of the Wilds."

"I know." Xiulan gripped her remaining dagger tighter. The loss of her other weapons left her virtually defenseless if the beasts decided to press their attack.

She focused on putting one foot in front of the other, leaving their mutual defense to Ren Chun. Just a little further.

The qi disc beneath Xiulan's feet flickered and dissolved. She plunged downward, barely managing to solidify enough energy to catch herself on one knee before splashing into the fetid swamp water. The impact sent fresh waves of pain shooting through her ankle.

"What are you doing?" Ren Chun turned back.

"Hah... nothing." Xiulan spotted a patch of solid ground nearby and dragged herself toward it. The grass-covered earth provided enough stability for her to settle down.

She pulled back her robe and examined her ankle. Blood seeped through several puncture holes in her boot leather. Neither Qingfeng nor the game had never mentioned Blood Lotus thorns containing poison—but the wound refused to heal.

A normal injury should have started mending by now.

"You can't walk?" Ren Chun's shadow fell across her.

Xiulan looked up at his impassive face, her heart rate accelerating. Stories of cultivators betraying their companions for precious resources flooded her mind. The Blood Lotus and Earth-Heart Roots they'd harvested would fetch an astronomical price. 

With her injured and vulnerable, what better opportunity for him to eliminate competition and claim all the spoils?

Xiulan traced the edges of the puncture wounds. "It's not healing."

"How much qi did you use?" Ren Chun's question made her fingers tighten around the dagger hilt. The worn leather grip pressed reassuringly against her palm.

"Yes." The word slipped out before she could stop it.

Ren Chun's brow furrowed. "Yes what? I meant how much."

The tension drained from Xiulan's shoulders as she released a long breath. "All of it. Twice during the fight." She prodded at the swollen flesh around her ankle. "The problem is this. It won't heal—poisoned, maybe."

"You used..." Ren Chun's eyes widened. "All of your qi... twice? Once at the end, obviously, but in the middle of the fight too and kept going?"

"How can you—" He shook his head and then dropped to one knee beside her, studying her ankle. His calloused fingers hovered over the wounds. "Are you sure you aren't past body refinement, Miss Lin?"

Pain lanced through her foot at his light touch. Xiulan jerked back with a sharp intake of breath. "Very sure, thank you. That hurts."

Ren Chun squatted and turned his back to her. "Well, we should get out of here. Hop on."

Xiulan blinked at his broad back. "What?"

"Ride on my back."

A nervous laugh escaped her lips. "You aren't going to kill me and take my things?"

"That wouldn't be very Justice!" Ren Chun's enthusiastic declaration echoed across the swamp.

She didn't miss the hurt look on his face as he turned away. His palms waved her forward.

Xiulan shifted forward and wrapped her arms around his shoulders. His hand gripped her injured leg while maintaining a firm hold on his sword with the other one.

The world tilted as he stood. Each step jostled her ankle, but his steady grip prevented the worst of the pain. The methodical rhythm of his movement almost lulled her into relaxing.

"Plus, I know how you work now." Ren Chun's cheerful tone sparked immediate suspicion. "You're definitely going to give me a discount on that reinforcement pill, right? Right, Miss Lin? A big discount?"

Xiulan tightened her arms around his neck, applying just enough pressure to make him squawk. She leaned close to his ear. "The very biggest discount, of course—if I don't strangle you first!"

Ren Chun's laugh rumbled through his back. He picked up speed, weaving between beasts rather than engaging them. The swift movements sent waves of dizziness through Xiulan's head, but his grip remained secure as they raced through the darkening swamp.

It took a while, but eventually they made it to the dense fog wall. Pushing through it only took a few minutes more.

The other side revealed a clear sky. 

"We're out." Ren Chun stepped onto solid ground and wiped his blade against his robe before sliding it back into its sheath with a metallic whisper.

Xiulan released a breath she hadn't realized she'd held. "We should head back to the stable in the village."

"Need to find the road first. Get our bearings." Ren Chun adjusted his grip on her legs.

"Right."

Xiulan closed her eyes and focused inward. Her qi flowed smoothly through most meridians—a gentle current of energy circulating through her body. She probed deeper, examining the injured area around her ankle. The chaotic disruption remained unchanged—neither spreading nor healing.

She pushed qi toward the wound. The energy hit an invisible wall, refusing to penetrate the affected area. Switching tactics, she tried redirecting the flow through smaller pathways, attempting to bypass her ankle and reach her toes directly. The qi followed these alternative routes but failed to breach the blockage.

The sensation felt alien. Different from muscle strain or broken bones. Was this what cultivators meant by internal injuries?

In Phoenix Kingdom Chronicles , combat mechanics split damage between internal and external rather than using simplified hit points. The distinction made more sense now—her ankle bore both types of wounds.

The external punctures leaked blood while something deeper resisted her qi's healing influence. At least cultivation meant she wouldn't bleed out like a mortal.

"Surprising," Ren Chun muttered as he carried her through the thinning swamp.

"What is?"

"Well..." Ren Chun adjusted his grip. "I read about this, but Miss Lin doesn't smell like flowers or anything nice."

Xiulan squeezed her arms around his neck and thwacked him on the head. "I doubt you can smell anything at all! We're both covered in swamp shit from head to toe!"

"Oww..." Ren Chun rubbed the spot she'd struck while maintaining his balance. "There's no need to hit me!"

"Let me give you some advice." Xiulan relaxed her grip but kept her tone stern. "Don't talk about how a girl smells unless she already likes you, or she'll hate you."

"I'm sure you like me though—you're riding on my back after all!" Ren Chun's cheerful tone echoed through the swamp.

"Ren Chun, you're losing your discount!" Xiulan tightened her grip around his neck. "Actually, I will charge you double!"

"Please, no! Not that!" Ren Chun quickened his pace.

They reached the village road as dusk approached. She insisted on walking the final stretch despite the throbbing pain. The horses nickered softly as she approached their stalls, ears pricking forward.

"Stable master?" Xiulan called out. The old man emerged from the feed room. "Could you spare two tubs of water for us?"

He tugged at his beard. "Sorry miss, we're too small for an inn here. But I can get you water barrels meant for the animals. Won't be hot, though."

"That will do fine. We can manage." Xiulan glanced around the stable. Ren Chun had vanished somewhere.

She limped to an empty stall and sank into a pile of fresh straw. The pack containing their prize sat heavy in her lap. She wanted to inspect the haul, but breaking Qingfeng's one-time protective seal would endanger the blood lotus—she set it aside carefully.

A clay pot of water sat near the straw. Xiulan pulled her leg closer and poured water over the crusted boot. Pain shot through her ankle as she tugged the leather free. The dried blood cracked and peeled away from the puncture wounds.

"Dammit." She tossed the ruined boot aside and examined her ankle. Blood seeped from the holes as she peeled away her shredded sock, more matted chunks of dried blood coming away with the fabric.

Xiulan flexed her toes experimentally. The movement sent fresh waves of pain up her leg. Her lack of immortal first aid knowledge bit at her. Qingfeng had known about Ren Chun helping her, otherwise she would have assumed he meant for her to die or something.

She sighed. No ambulances or hospitals existed in this world—she'd have to figure something out on her own.

Straw crunched in the stable hall. She glanced up to find Ren Chun studying her exposed ankle.

"Already took it off." He reached into his robe and pulled out a spirit stone. The pale crystal caught the lantern light as he extended it toward her. "Here."

Xiulan accepted the stone. The smooth surface pulsed with latent energy against her palm. "What's it for?"

"Even if we split all the spirit stones to me, I can give you one to help with your injury without complaint, right?" Ren Chun grinned.

"I don't know how to use it." Xiulan rolled the stone between her fingers. "I need heaven grass tea or some kind of remedy?" The words lifted into a question at the end.

He gave her 'that' look again. "Have you never been poisoned or hurt before?"

"Just minor things." Xiulan prodded at the swollen flesh around the puncture wounds. "Never anything like this that won't heal."

"Fine, I'll show you." Ren Chun knelt beside her and took back the spirit stone. He held it over her injury, his usual playfulness replaced by focus. "There's corrupted qi from the blood lotus in your meridian there, effectively sealing it. The only way to fix that is to force it open with more qi—it will resist your own internal flows, so it needs something from outside to knock it loose."

She peered at him. "Why didn't we just do this earlier then, so I could walk?"

Ren Chun scratched his cheek and looked away. "I thought if I could carry you, you'd give me a—"

Xiulan's good foot connected with his side. The impact sent him tumbling backward into a pile of hay. "Ren CHUN!" 

She snatched the tumbling spirit stone out of the air and waved it over her injury. The stupid thing remained inert in her grip.

"That's going to leave a bruise." Ren Chun rubbed his hip as he sat up.

Xiulan swallowed her retort. She couldn't kill him until he showed her how to use the spirit stone first!

Chapter 35: Interluding Cloud

Thunder cracked overhead as Blackmere's city walls emerged through the misty distance. Light raindrops pattered against Xiulan's already mud-stained robes. The weather matched her mood.

"We should pick up the pace before this gets worse." Xiulan adjusted her grip on the reins.

"Hmmm." Ren Chun's noncommittal response drew her attention.

A transparent dome of qi energy shimmered above his head, deflecting each raindrop. The martial artist sat dry and comfortable atop his mount while Xiulan endured the increasing drizzle.

"Want to use your last favor learning this one?" Ren Chun flashed a smug grin.

Xiulan kicked her horse into a trot. "Not interested!" The steady clip-clop of hooves splashed through forming puddles as she pulled ahead.

The city gates thrummed with activity despite the weather. Merchants haggled over goods while porters shouldered heavy loads between the walls. The new acting magistrate had maintained order on the surface at least—a pleasant surprise after the corruption of his predecessor.

Xiulan slowed her mount at the edge of the crowd. Ren Chun caught up as she guided her horse through the gates. The guards snapped to attention with crisp salutes, recognition clear in their eyes despite her disheveled state. She nodded back to them.

Next time she ventured into the wilds, she needed spare robes—or perhaps some kind of mystical cleaning technique cultivators surely possessed. No one in the game ever got muddy.

The rain intensified as they passed beneath the city's archways, turning the cobbled streets into shallow streams.

"Hey! Where are we going anyway?" Ren Chun called out from behind.

Xiulan steered her mount around a merchant's cart. "First, we return these horses. Then I need to verify my family's city manor hasn't burned down in my absence."

He continued to follow her. "Haaa, okay."

The manor's familiar stone walls emerged through sheets of rain. She hadn't been entirely serious about it, but relief washed over Xiulan at the sight of the intact structure, its gates standing wide open. She guided her horse through the entrance.

"Halt—" A guard's challenge cut short. Recognition flashed across his face. "Miss Lin has returned!"

Manager Han rushed out from beneath a covered walkway, his robes fluttering. "Did your expedition yield good results?"

Xiulan nodded, droplets falling from her sodden hair. "Thank you, Manager Han." She turned to a nearby servant. "Please prepare a guest room for Mr. Ren, with baths and fresh clothing."

The servant's eyes widened at their mud-caked appearance. She bowed deeply. "Right away, Miss Lin!"

"So we're just staying here?" Ren Chun asked.

Xiulan released a tense breath and turned toward Ren Chun. "You're welcome to stay as a guest for as long as you like. Consider it thanks for your help."

"Alright, but what about after that?" He returned his horse's reins to a servant who led the animal into the stable to be cared for.

A knot of guilt pricked at Xiulan's stomach and she bowed her head. "You hardly owed me any favor at all. You've done enough—you don't owe me anything more." 

She adjusted her soaked sleeve. "Come by when you wish. I'll see about making that earth reinforcement pill without charge. That should repay you properly."

She pivoted toward the manor entrance, but warm fingers wrapped around her wrist. The sudden contact sent a jolt through her qi meridians. She spun back, eyes widening at his stern expression.

"Aren't you a bit full of yourself right now, Miss Lin?" Ren Chun's grip remained firm but gentle. "Are you thinking I'm too stupid to know when and why I owe a favor? I thought it was interesting and after how well the first one went, you think I'll let you return the last favor like this?" He exhaled sharply and frowned. "I'll pay for the pill, and still owe you a favor."

"But—"

"Ah ah ah, no buts." Ren Chun released her wrist. "Call on me for the last favor when you need it, and I'll try to help. If you can make it as eventful as our adventure in the swamp, that would be great!" 

A grin spread across his rain-streaked face. "And are you really in a position to turn it down? I don't know the specifics, but Miss Lin always gives off the impression that she's in some type of trouble."

Xiulan studied the rain-soaked cobblestones beneath her feet. "I'm sorry, and thank you."

Ren Chun tilted his head. "Are you alright?"

"Huh?"

"Those four words! From you!" Ren Chun spread his arms wide. "Never thought I'd hear that from you! You're such an aggressive person."

"What!" Heat rushed to Xiulan's cheeks as she spun away from him.

Muddy water splashed beneath her boots. "The ingredients for your pill will be ready in a few days. I'll let you know if I need help with something, but right now I just want a bath and to handle today's business!"

"A wise choice." Ren Chun nodded sagely. "As the great Hong Bi always says—a clean body and mind shall keep one ready!"

They trudged through puddles toward the residence.

"By the way," Ren Chun said, "I can still get that discount, right?"

Xiulan's foot slipped on the wet stone, but she caught herself.

It was impossible to not let out a tsk. "Yes, you can have a discount."

Ren Chun's laughter echoed through the courtyard.

Steam curled off Xiulan's skin as she stepped from the bath. The hot water had worked wonders. She slipped into a light silk robe, savoring the smooth fabric against her clean skin.

The plush bed beckoned. Xiulan sank into its softness, releasing a long breath as tension melted away. A servant brought a plate of fresh fruit—sweet lychee and ripe peaches. The burst of flavor helped revive her somewhat.

"Please inform Manager Han and the officials to meet me in the court hall," Xiulan told the hovering servant.

After finishing the fruit, she called for one of her fresh martial dresses. The servants helped her into it, securing each tie with practiced efficiency.

The golden signet ring of the city manor felt heavy in her palm as she walked to the court hall. Its weight carried the authority of generations. Not that she thought her ancestors would look kindly on her for possessing it. 

She settled onto the carved wooden throne, adjusting her posture to project confidence.

Officials filed in, their robes rustling as they bowed in unison. "Greetings, Miss Lin."

"Your reports?" Xiulan kept her tone crisp.

They launched into endless details—grain storehouse inventories, guard patrol schedules, tax collection figures. Xiulan directed some matters to her mother's attention, assigned priorities, and gave clear instructions. The mundane administrative tasks proved more draining than the travel through the swamp.

A dull throb built behind her temples. Even pushing qi through her meridians failed to ease the headache. Isn't it really unfair that cultivators can still get headaches?

"Continue your duties," Xiulan dismissed them with a wave. "Manager Han, stay a moment."

The former soldier remained, standing at attention.

"Watch them closely," Xiulan said. "Report any suspicious activity from them or the city magistrate."

Han Shun bowed stiffly. "I will do my best, Miss Lin, though I lack training in court politics."

She shook her head. "Sometimes a soldier's discipline serves better than a politician's schemes."

Xiulan retreated to her chambers, collected her travel pack, and headed for the armory.

Inside the building, she tested the weight of multiple spears, searching for one that matched her previous weapon's balance. The fifth clicked perfectly into her back sheath—a standard issue weapon that would serve well enough until she could acquire something better.

A fresh dagger snapped into her belt sheathe. The standard-issue weapons she'd lost in the swamp hadn't been anything special, which eased the sting of their loss. Still, she needed to be better prepared next time.

The sleeve of her new martial outfit whispered against her skin as she ran her fingers along the intricate turquoise, black, and gold patterns. The fabric moved with far more grace than her hastily dyed black outfit, which had grown stiff from the rushed treatment.

She poked her head out the door, looking up into the sky. Rain drummed against the roof tiles and she let out an annoyed breath.

Gathering qi into her palm, she attempted to form it into an umbrella shield. It mostly worked with a few leaks, but the energy pulsed bright and visible—too conspicuous for walking through the city streets. She certainly had a lot of qi, if she was using Ren Chun as a measuring stick, but fine control?

She'd probably need to wait until she reached qi gathering or qi refinement stages… and that was still a ways away.

There had to be a trick to the umbrella skill that she didn't know, since Ren could do it.

Her first steps in gathering the items for the golden meridian opening pill served two purposes at least. It was very good training… and it would get help for Mei Chen.

With a frustrated huff, she reached back inside and grabbed a leather-wrapped umbrella. The sturdy construction put the flimsy paper parasols noble ladies carried to shame.

The weight of Earth-Heart Root and Blood Lotus pressed against her back as she adjusted her pack. She would have visited Master Qingfeng first, but appearing at Treasure Pavilion covered in swamp muck would have seemed either disrespectful or desperate.

Neither impression would serve her well.

Qi pulsed through her meridians in time with her growing anxiety. The bath had washed away the physical remnants of the expedition, but clean skin and fresh clothes had brought fresh worry for Mei Chen.

At least the leather-wrapped umbrella kept most of the rain off as she headed out.

"Miss Lin." The gate guards snapped to attention. "Would you like an escort into the city?"

"No need." Xiulan adjusted her pack. The less attention drawn to her movements, the better.

The streets proved oddly empty despite the light rain. The few citizens who spotted her darted into doorways or crossed to the other side. Whispered conversations and furtive glances followed in her wake.

Great. More rumors. At this rate, they probably thought she breathed fire or ate children for breakfast. The image almost made her laugh.

The Treasure Pavilion's curved eaves came into view through the drizzle. Xiulan shook excess water from her umbrella before stepping under the gate. The familiar scent of incense and tea filled the courtyard that beckoned.

A servant approached with a practiced bow. "Welcome to Treasure Pavilion."

She nodded politely. "Please inform Master Qingfeng that Lin Xiulan requests an audience. I've brought Earth-Heart Root to sell and wish to make additional purchases."

"At once." The servant bowed again and retreated.

Movement caught her attention. Two cultivators in indigo robes rose from their usual corner where a half-finished game of Go lay abandoned on the table. 

The taller one stormed toward her with thunderous steps. "You better not be here to cause trouble, we've already had to—"

His companion grabbed his arm. "Wait, Martial Brother Long." The shorter cultivator studied her face. "I recognize her. She's come here before?"

Long stepped closer, squinting at Xiulan. "Martial Brother Mo, I think you're right. Didn't she speak with Master Qingfeng both times?"

Mo performed a crisp martial salute, the sleeves of his indigo robe rustling. "We serve as guards from Aqua Seraph Academy, contracted by Treasure Pavilion."

"Lin Xiulan, sister to Lord Lin." Xiulan returned the salute with practiced grace.

"Remarkable." Long scratched his chin. "Your first visit here showed no signs of cultivation. Yet now..."

Xiulan stretched her lips into a practiced smile. "Why such hostility upon my arrival today?"

A flush crept up Long's neck. "My deepest apologies." He shifted his weight. "We've dealt with numerous young cultivators lately. Many lack proper respect for Treasure Pavilion's customs."

"Oh?" Xiulan arched an eyebrow.

"You haven't heard?" Mo's eyes widened. "A substantial bounty circulates for a rogue cultivator—the one who murdered your family. The notice brought many hunters to the city."

House Chao moves faster than expected. Xiulan pressed her lips together. The rumors spreading through the city would only complicate matters. Though perhaps it didn't matter anymore—House Chao would construct whatever truth suited their agenda.

And the truth was a perfect excuse to pursue Zhang Wei. The trap had indeed set itself.

At least they seemed to lack evidence, otherwise the bounty would have specified her directly.

Her cultivation needed to strike a delicate balance—strong enough to protect her family, yet not so powerful she'd be forced to abandon them. At least until she dealt with House Chao. Her mother would need to secure House Min's support, too.

"I heard about a small bounty," Xiulan said.

Long shook his head. "It started small, but now exceeds a thousand spirit stones. Young masters and fairies flood into the county, drawn by the reward. Word is the culprit still lurks nearby."

A thousand? No wonder. A weak laugh escaped Xiulan's throat. "I hope these visitors don't cause too much trouble."

"Such upheaval must weigh heavily on you." Long's tone softened. "Losing family while awakening as a cultivator... Perhaps catching the culprit will bring peace."

A servant approached with quick steps and dropped into a bow. "Master Qingfeng awaits Fairy Lin on the second floor."

"Thank you for sharing the information." Xiulan bowed to the two martial brothers.

They returned her bow with matching precision. "Good health to you, Fairy Lin."

The weight of their words settled in her stomach as she turned toward the stairs. 

Peace seemed an unlikely prospect.

Chapter 36: Standard Reunion with Alchemical Shopping Spree

Master Qingfeng waited outside the tea room, his hands clasped behind his back. Xiulan approached, giving a deep bow.

"Master Qingfeng," she greeted him.

"Miss Lin," he replied with a nod. "How did your venture fare?"

"I obtained the Blood Lotus and more," Xiulan said. "I'd like to discuss everything with you, but if possible, I would like to see Mei Chen first."

"Understandable." Qingfeng nodded. "Follow me."

Xiulan followed him along the polished wooden balcony. The late afternoon sun cast long shadows through the ornate railings, dancing across their path. Each step brought a fresh wave of strengthening spiritual energy—stronger than she'd felt anywhere else in the pavilion.

Master Qingfeng stopped at an elaborately carved door. "This is the pavilion's item forge."

The door swung open, releasing a rush of warm yang that tingled against Xiulan's skin. Golden light spilled into the hallway, reflecting off the metallic surfaces within. 

She stepped inside, squinting as her eyes adjusted to the brilliant glow emanating from the walls. Ornate bronze fixtures and delicate golden talismans adorned every surface, each pulsing with spiritual power.

In the center of the room, Mei Chen rested motionless on a massive bronze table. Cushions cradled her body at precise angles, and the metal surface beneath her glistened with condensation. Unlike before, no frost crept across her skin or the surrounding air.

"Were there any issues or changes?" Xiulan asked, studying Mei Chen's face.

"She has been peaceful," Qingfeng said. "By my calculations from the growing yin, Mei Chen will remain stable for at least four weeks, possibly five or six, without intervention."

She approached and pulled a pillow up to sit beside Mei Chen. The cool air clinging to her friend raised goosebumps, but it wasn't unbearable. She slid Mei Chen's hand out and squeezed it. Cold.

Qingfeng watched her intently as she closed her eyes and opened her palm meridian. The familiar pull of qi began, and she let it flow freely. Her dantian refilled the lost qi more easily now compared to when she first broke through.

Whether it was because she regularly flowed qi around and used it, drained it repeatedly in the last few days, or just because her meridians and main line had been cleared out nearly perfectly, she had no idea.

Xiulan sank deeper into the familiar rhythm. Her dantian replenished the flowing energy without strain, making the process feel as natural as breathing. Time blurred at the edges of her awareness.

The peaceful flow shattered as icy energy crashed back through her meridians. The reversal hit like plunging into a frozen lake.

Xiulan?

The ghostly whisper echoed through her mind. Xiulan broke the connection with a sharp gasp. Her eyes snapped open, focusing on Mei Chen's still form. Frost crystals sparkled across her own skin where their hands connected. The air turned white with each rapid breath.

"Are you alright?" Master Qingfeng stood at her shoulder, closer than before.

"A bit chilled." Xiulan suppressed another shiver. The cold burrowed deep into her bones.

"If you hadn't stopped, I would have separated you myself." Master Qingfeng stepped back. "Mei Chen's qi overflowed into your channels. The overwhelming yin energy would do more harm to you than her."

"I heard her voice." Xiulan exhaled another cloud of frost. "In my mind, she called my name."

"While unconventional for spirit communication, it suggests hope." Master Qingfeng stroked his beard. "Unless the yin energy simply addled your senses."

Xiulan wrapped her arms tight around herself as another violent shiver wracked her frame. "Perhaps we could discuss this over hot tea? Somewhere warmer?"

Master Qingfeng's frown deepened as he studied her.

She followed him down the corridor to the familiar tea room. Her limbs still trembled from the lingering cold.

A servant glided into the room carrying an ornate tea service. Steam curled from the spout of the jade teapot as the servant moved to pour, but Master Qingfeng raised his hand.

He pulled a tiny crimson pill from his sleeve and dropped it into the pot with a soft plop. The liquid inside swirled with hints of red.

"Master Qingfeng?" Xiulan straightened.

"I feel the need to try the tea with a bit of extra flavor today." Master Qingfeng gestured to the pot. "Please, try it out."

Xiulan frowned at the steaming pot. The red tint reminded her of blood lotus, but she couldn't just outright refuse without insulting him. She lifted the delicate cup to her lips and sipped.

Heat exploded through her core. Qi surged through her meridians in waves of warmth that pulsed outward from her dantian. The sensation flooded every channel with liquid fire.

Across the table, Master Qingfeng calmly drank his tea as if it contained nothing more exotic than honey.

The frozen numbness in her extremities melted away. The fog that had settled over her thoughts evaporated like morning dew. Xiulan flexed her fingers, noticing the stiffness had disappeared.

"Haa..." Xiulan released a long breath. "Master Qingfeng, I'm really afraid of what you will end up asking for in return for the favor. It seems to keep getting bigger."

Master Qingfeng stroked his beard. "Weren't you the one who encouraged me to get the most value from my investment?"

Xiulan suppressed a groan. She had said exactly that. The realization settled in her stomach like a lead weight—too late to back out now. This felt remarkably similar to climbing an endless incline, with no way to see what waited at the peak.

Master Qingfeng pointed at the forgotten pack beside Xiulan's feet. "Let us inspect the blood lotus."

Xiulan nodded and lifted the pack onto the polished table surface. Master Qingfeng tapped the preservation seal with practiced precision.

The seal broke with a soft hiss. A wave of putrid swamp stench filled the tea room, accompanied by a splash of murky water and dark muck that spilled across the pristine surface. The pungent odor of rotting vegetation assaulted Xiulan's nose.

Master Qingfeng coughed delicately into his sleeve.

Heat crept up Xiulan's neck. "We were in quite a hurry during collection. I didn't consider how the preservation seal would affect everything inside and..." She trailed off, fighting the urge to sink into the floor.

"Your wisdom remains quite unbalanced." Master Qingfeng sighed. "A bit of forewarning would have been ideal." He flicked his wrist in a graceful motion. The muddy water and debris lifted into the air, condensing into a spinning orb before vanishing with a soft pop.

"I'll do my best to even out my wrinkles." Xiulan said as she reached into the pack and began arranging the blood lotus petals across the now-clean table. Each translucent red petal gleamed like a drop of fresh blood in the room's light.

The sorting took several minutes. Xiulan counted just under a thousand pristine petals spread before them in neat rows.

"There should be enough." Xiulan smiled at the impressive display.

"I'll store the five hundred petals you need in the pavilion's vault in a qi-sealed container." Master Qingfeng raised an eyebrow. "You must be very confident if you only collected enough for one attempt." 

Xiulan grinned, placing her left hand over her right biceps and raising a fist. "If there's one thing I'm confident about, it's making this particular pill!"

Master Qingfeng chuckled, the sound echoing off the polished walls. "I don't know where such confidence stems from, but if you made two on your first attempt, I'll accept your word."

Xiulan released a measured breath and nodded. She reached for the Earth-Heart Root, its earthen scent mixing with the metallic tang of blood lotus. "Would the pavilion be interested in purchasing the excess blood lotus petals and roots? I need spirit stones for supplies—a pill furnace and ingredients for a reinforcement pill."

"Of course. That's a standard service we provide." Master Qingfeng straightened the sleeve of his robe. "A pavilion merchandiser can handle the transaction after our discussion."

"Thank you." Xiulan bowed her head.

"Now, about the dawn serpent scales." Master Qingfeng leaned forward. "That will be your next mission. I have arrangements in motion to assist you, but you'll need to return in a few days once everything arrives."

Xiulan blinked at the cryptic statement. "What sort of arrangements?"

He chuckled. "You'll need a specialized tool to extract the scales while the beasts are still alive."

A cold knot formed in Xiulan's stomach. Wasn't Master Qingfeng having too much fun with this?

The thought of harvesting scales from living serpents sounded significantly more dangerous than fighting a plant monster in a swamp.

The trade room gleamed with polished rosewood panels and intricate brass fixtures. A massive evaluation table dominated the center, its surface inlaid with precise measurement markings and protective seals. Brass scales hung from ceiling hooks, while glass-fronted cabinets lined the walls, displaying reference specimens in preserved clarity.

Xiulan arranged her collection on the table's smooth surface.

She separated twelve blood lotuses and four Earth Heart roots for her personal use, setting them aside in a silk-wrapped bundle.

The remaining thirty-one bundles of petals still glistened with preserved moisture. Beside them, she arranged eighty-three Earth Heart roots in neat rows, their earthy aroma mixing with the room's sandalwood incense.

The door opened with a soft click. A tall woman in purple robes entered, her silver hair pulled back in a severe bun. Three golden pins marked her as a senior of the pavilion. Her amethyst eyes settled on Xiulan with keen interest.

"Welcome to the Treasure Pavilion's trade hall." The merchandiser bowed precisely. "I am Senior Appraiser Ming."

Xiulan returned the bow. "Lin Xiulan. Thank you for evaluating my goods."

"The pleasure is mine." Appraiser Ming approached the table. "What price did you have in mind?"

"Four spirit stones per bundle of blood lotus." Xiulan gestured to her arrangement. "These were harvested from the heart of Blackmere swamp. The quality speaks for itself—each stalk contains maximum spiritual essence."

Grown from my own blood, even.

Appraiser Ming produced a set of spectacles and leaned over the blood lotus bundles. Her fingers traced along a slightly bruised petal in the back row. "Two spirit stones per bundle would be fair. The rough handling during transport damaged several."

Xiulan gave a dramatic sigh, though her eyes twinkled. "Rough handling? I used Master Qingfeng's very own preservation pack for transporting them. You're breaking my heart, Appraiser Ming."

Ming's lips twitched almost imperceptibly. "Two spirit stones." She adjusted her spectacles, unperturbed. "The damage is clear."

Xiulan leaned in slightly, her voice dropping to a conspiratorial whisper. "How about we settle at three and I promise to be extra gentle next time? Besides, I know there was a mass purchase of them recently. The price should be up, not down."

Ming straightened and crossed her arms, her eyes narrowing, but not without a hint of amusement. "Three. The market hasn't shifted that dramatically, but I acknowledge the quality of most of the bundles."

"Agreed." Xiulan nodded, relieved to secure ninety-three spirit stones for the blood lotus. A fair compromise.

Ming shifted her attention to the Earth Heart roots, picking one up and examining its crystalline core. "These roots vary significantly in quality. Some barely maintain spiritual resonance. Two spirit stones per root would be generous, considering the inconsistency."

Xiulan shook her head, clicking her tongue lightly. "Ming, you wound me again. Are you trying to make me leave with just enough to buy dinner?" She picked up an Earth Heart root and twirled it between her fingers. 

"Four spirit stones per root. These were harvested yesterday—the qi resonance remains at peak potency." She channeled a wisp of qi into the root, causing it to pulse with golden light. "The freshness commands premium value, and while some are smaller, there are several very large ones that could be considered special."

Ming lifted another root, examining its translucent core against the sunlight. "Three spirit stones. The market can't sustain higher prices, even for fresh specimens." She set the root down with practiced precision. "The variation in size affects their cultivation utility."

Xiulan pursed her lips and gave Ming a sideways glance. "Three spirit stones and I'll even throw in a smile." She flashed a grin.

Ming's expression remained neutral, though there was a glint of amusement in her eyes as she pulled out a jade abacus, fingers dancing across the beads. "Blood lotus at ninety-three spirit stones. Earth Heart roots at two hundred and forty-nine." 

The beads clicked into place. "Total compensation: three hundred and forty-two spirit stones."

Xiulan drummed her fingers against the polished table surface while calculating her next purchases. A basic alchemy setup required specific equipment and supplies—a pill furnace topped her list.

"Does the Treasure Pavilion stock cultivation equipment related to alchemy?" Xiulan kept her tone casual, masking her eagerness.

"Indeed." Ming gestured toward a side door. "Please follow me to our equipment hall."

The adjacent room housed rows of gleaming metal furnaces. Their surfaces rippled with engraved formation arrays, each pattern unique. Xiulan ran her fingers across a mid-sized furnace, sensing the refined spiritual metal beneath her touch.

"This standard cultivation furnace costs one hundred spirit stones." Ming tapped the furnace's rim. "Perfect for beginning alchemists."

"Eighty." Xiulan traced the formation arrays. "The spiritual resonance suggests moderate use."

Ming shook her head. "These furnaces maintain their value. Ninety spirit stones—a fair price considering the quality of the metal."

Xiulan tilted her head, giving Ming a mock pout. "You're tough, Ming. But alright, ninety it is."

After securing the furnace, Xiulan pointed to stacked boxes of spiritual charcoal. "I'll need fuel."

"Thirty spirit stones per box." Ming lifted the lid, revealing densely packed black crystals.

"Twenty." Xiulan picked up a crystal, testing its spiritual density. "They're all misshapen and different sizes."

Ming quirked an eyebrow. "You're burning them, not making jewelry. Twenty-five."

Xiulan gave a small laugh. "Fair enough. Twenty-five it is."

Ming led her to a section filled with crystalline containers. Spiritual water glowed with ethereal light inside sealed jars, small bubbles inside pulsing with pure energy.

"Fifty spirit stones for a jar of spring water from the Frosthelm duchy." Ming lifted a crystal container.

Xiulan studied the spiritual resonance through the crystal. "Forty. These look old. There are specks of dust on the backside of the container."

Ming winced and rotated the jar herself, running a finger over the glass. She didn't betray any emotion, but Xiulan figured someone was going to be in big trouble later.

"Forty-five." Ming traced the jar's seal. "The water maintains purity despite the collection timing."

"Acceptable." Xiulan nodded, calculating her remaining funds.

They moved to a shelf displaying rows of jade-inlaid containers. Spiritual formations carved into their surfaces promised perfect preservation of alchemical ingredients.

"Thirty-five spirit stones each for the qi-sealing containers." Ming demonstrated the locking mechanism. "Triple-layered formations prevent essence loss."

Xiulan inspected the formation work. "Twenty-five."

Ming adjusted her spectacles. "Thirty. If you want, I can apply a normal discount to each item and we don't have to haggle."

Xiulan chuckled. "Where's the fun in that?" She selected three containers with the strongest qi resonance. "Done."

A display of stone grinding tools caught her attention. Various mortars and pestles lay arranged by size and material quality.

"Seventeen spirit stones for this spirit-imbued set." Ming lifted a pestle carved from black stone shot through with silver veins.

Xiulan tested the pestle's weight. "Agreed."

She placed the tool with her other purchases and then spotted several shelves lined with dried herbs sealed in crystal jars. The purification herbs glowed with a faint spiritual resonance, their leaves perfectly preserved.

"Twenty-two spirit stones for the complete array." Ming gestured to a set of twelve jars. "Each herb maintains peak potency through our preservation methods."

"I'll take it." Xiulan said. Ming helped her carry the set to her growing pile of things.

A tray of iridescent sand caught the sunlight, each grain refracting rainbow hues. Ming scooped a handful, letting it flow between her fingers. "Twelve spirit stones for the grinding sand. Essential for breaking down spiritual materials."

Xiulan tested the sand's spiritual density. "Eight."

Ming frowned. "I've already applied a substantial discount to this."

"The qi saturation is uneven." Xiulan picked up a pinch of the sand and pulsed a small amount of qi into her fingertip. It sparkled unevenly in little spots and lines. "It'll take work to homogenize it."

Ming finally nodded. "I can go down to ten spirit stones."

"Done." Xiulan nodded.

A row of bronze braziers lined the next shelf, their surfaces etched with flame-control arrays. Ming selected a compact model. "Twenty spirit stones. The formation work ensures precise temperature control."

"Fifteen." Xiulan traced the arrays. "The bronze shows minor oxidation."

"Eighteen." Ming demonstrated the temperature adjustment mechanism. "The patina doesn't affect functionality."

Xiulan added the brazier to her growing collection. Crystal vials caught her attention, their surfaces marked with precise measurement lines.

"Eight spirit stones for the set." Ming held up a vial. "Spirit-reinforced glass prevents contamination."

"Six." Xiulan inspected the graduation marks. "The reinforcement is thin at the necks."

"Seven." Ming placed the vials in a padded case. "The markings compensate for any structural concerns."

Xiulan smiled and nodded. "Deal." The flow of purchases and their haggling might have gotten a little carried away. "I think that's everything I need."

She counted up her purchases and the prices—she had eighteen spirit stones left. That was just enough for her cultivation and the alchemy tasks she had planned. Probably.

She gestured to her selections. "Have everything delivered to the city manor as soon as possible, please."

Ming smiled as she bowed. "The Treasure Pavilion is pleased to do business with another satisfied customer."

Xiulan smiled back politely. "Well, you'd better be! You nearly robbed me of all my earnings."

Ming raised an eyebrow, her lips curving into a subtle smile. "You drove quite a hard bargain yourself, Miss Lin."

Xiulan laughed. "I guess we both came out even then."

Chapter 37: Standard Fated Encounter in the Street

Xiulan strolled through Blackmere's market district, humming to herself as she headed back to the Lin Family's city manor. She'd done a good job getting the items she needed. The scent of grilled meat wafted from nearby food stalls.

A sharp turn around a tea shop's corner resulted in a solid impact. Xiulan stumbled back, steadying herself against the wall. A young man in expensive silver-trimmed robes glared at her, his cultivation aura pulsing with irritation.

"Watch where you're—" His eyes narrowed, focusing on her spiritual energy signature. "Wait. I don't recognize you."

Xiulan blinked. Uhh… was he supposed to?

Five cultivators emerged from behind him, spreading out to block potential escape routes. Their spiritual energy seemed nothing special, not more than her own or Ren Chun's—but that didn't mean they didn't pose a serious threat to her.

The young master's lips curved into a predatory smile. "Could it be? The rogue cultivator everyone's talking about?"

"Boys, why rush to collect the bounty?" He adjusted his sleeve cuffs. "We should enjoy ourselves first."

One of his followers thrust his hips forward with an exaggerated grunt. The group erupted in raucous laughter.

Seriously? Xiulan suppressed an exasperated eye roll. Do I have some cosmic sign floating above my head?

"I am Lin Xiulan, sister to Lord Lin and daughter of the regent." Xiulan straightened her spine, projecting authority through her stance. "I have jurisdiction over this city. Such vulgar behavior reflects poorly on your houses."

The young master snorted and waved a dismissive hand. "We aren't nobles, brat. Capture her!"

Xiulan drew her spear from her back and held it in a ready stance. The cultivators skidded to an abrupt halt on the cobblestones, their boots scraping against stone. Metal sang as they drew their swords in unison, the afternoon sun glinting off polished steel.

"The bounty specified dead or alive." The young master adjusted his grip on his blade. "Makes no difference to me."

"You're making a grave mistake." Xiulan shifted into a defensive stance. "The bounty isn't for me—I'm the victim's daughter."

Okay, that was sort of a lie. But there really wasn't any point in admitting that.

"Doesn't matter who you really are." The young master's lips twisted into an ugly smirk. "Someone will pay good money for you—or at least parts of you on the black market!"

"Stop!" A commanding female voice thundered from above.

Xiulan snapped her gaze upward. A figure soared through the air, performing a graceful somersault before landing on the cobblestones. Sunlight glinted off the woman's ornate robes as she drew a curved saber from her back. The blade whistled through the air in an elegant flourish.

Was this Ren Chun's sister or something?

"What do you think you're doing?" The newcomer pointed her saber at the group. Her stance radiated practiced confidence.

The six men pivoted toward the woman. Xiulan blinked. They'd momentarily forgotten about her?

This is absurd. Xiulan studied her spear with a grimace. She had taken down mortals and beasts with it, but that was more a product of raw speed and strength. She was under no delusion that she'd beat anyone with more training than her unless she overpowered them with raw strength. 

And against cultivators at the same level as her, that was far, far from being the case. Facing six would end badly even with this mysterious ally—two against six meant terrible odds.

Time for something decisive.

Xiulan dropped her spear. The metal clattered against stone as she surged qi through her meridians. The energy burned hotter than before, racing through her pathways like liquid fire. Master Qingfeng's tea must have enhanced her spiritual energy somehow—the intensity threatened to overwhelm her.

No time to analyze it. Her meridians stretched to bursting as spiritual energy overflowed. Xiulan slammed her palms together, channeling the violent qi through the connecting pathways and releasing it forward.

The horizontal vortex erupted into a raging tornado. The six men launched off their feet, bodies ragdolling through the air before smashing into the stone wall with a sickening crunch.

Three bodies slammed into the wall with sickening cracks, necks snapping on impact. Two more crashed awkwardly, their legs twisting at unnatural angles. Only the young master and his crude friend managed to land in defensive crouches. 

Screams of agony pierced the air as the metallic scent of blood filled Xiulan's nostrils. Even the ones with broken necks didn't die instantly. Well, they were cultivators, so that made sense. Sucked for them, though. She wasn't done.

The young master's mouth opened, likely to spew more threats. Xiulan clapped again. The qi-enhanced wind blast slammed them back against the wall a second time. While the young master anchored himself with his sword, his last companion convulsed, blood streaming from his eyes and ears before he crumpled to the ground.

Wasn't she supposed to name these things? Xiulan tapped her chin. "Ah yes—Thunder God Claps for Arrogant Young Masters."

"Are you going to kill him?" The mysterious woman's tone carried mild curiosity.

Xiulan turned toward her. "Why? Would you like to?"

A casual shrug answered her question.

The young master staggered to his feet, sword wavering as he pointed it at Xiulan. Some people never learn.

Another thunderous clap sent him flying. The wall behind him crumbled inward, burying him and his companions under a cascade of bricks.

Xiulan turned to examine her unexpected ally.

Vivid amber eyes sparkled beneath sandy brown hair that framed an elegant face. Her ornate black and red martial robe trimmed in gold and jade spoke of wealth and status, while her bearing radiated quiet authority.

She's beautiful. The thought caught Xiulan off guard as she admired the woman's striking features. Everything about her screamed 'protagonist'—from her graceful posture to the confident set of her shoulders.

Xiulan raised an eyebrow at her would-be savior. "Were you expecting to rescue a helpless damsel in distress?"

"I thought you needed assistance." The woman sheathed her saber with practiced grace. "Clearly I was mistaken."

"The gesture is appreciated nonetheless." Xiulan offered a genuine smile.

The woman's amber eyes sparkled as she smiled back. "I'm Feng Yu. I overheard the conversation earlier—you're Miss Lin? Daughter of Lord Lin and sister to the new lord?"

Xiulan's smile cooled to neutral politeness. "I am. Did you have business with me?"

"No, nothing like that." Feng Yu shook her head, sandy hair swaying. "Like most others, I'm here searching for the rogue cultivator." 

She glanced at the rubble and wrinkled her nose. "Unfortunately, there are more idiots like him causing trouble than actual investigators."

The thunder of boots announced the arrival of two dozen city guards. Xiulan beckoned their captain forward.

"Check the bodies." Xiulan pointed at the debris. "Confirm they're dead, then transport them to Lin Manor. I'll deal with them there."

From the corner of her eye, Xiulan caught Feng Yu's disappointed frown. Did she really want to play hero for me?

"Would you care to join me for tea at my residence?" Xiulan gestured down the street. "Perhaps we could talk?"

Feng Yu's face brightened instantly. "Yes, I'd love to!"

Interesting. Xiulan studied her eager response. So you do have ulterior motives after all.

The cobblestones clicked beneath their feet as Xiulan led Feng Yu through Blackmere's winding streets. A cool breeze carried the scent of jasmine from nearby gardens.

"How is your family coping with the changes?" Feng Yu matched Xiulan's pace.

Xiulan glanced at her appraisingly before deciding how to answer. "My brother Zhang Wei shows remarkable resilience for his age." She stepped around a puddle. "Mother—Lady Zhao Lian—has taken control as regent. She's adapting well to the responsibility."

Feng Yu nodded politely. "That must be challenging for them both."

"The Provincial Prefect promised support. My cousin arrives soon to help manage the aftermath." Xiulan studied the subtle shifts in Feng Yu's expression.

"Good, good." Feng Yu nodded. "About what happened that night—"

Ah, there it is. Xiulan suppressed a smirk. Looking for information to catch the culprit? Unfortunately, I can't help you there.

"It remains quite traumatic." Xiulan offered an apologetic smile. "Perhaps we could discuss it another time, when I feel more... settled."

"Oh!" Feng Yu's cheeks flushed pink. "I apologize for my insensitivity."

"Think nothing of it." Xiulan waved off the apology as they approached the manor gates.

The doors swung open to reveal the main courtyard. Ren Chun stood in the center, his sword flashing in precise arcs as he worked through a complex form. Sweat gleamed on his bare chest as he pivoted and struck at invisible opponents.

"Ren Chun!" Xiulan called out. "Come meet my new friend who helped save me from some rapist asshole in the market district."

Ren Chun's practice sword clattered to the ground. Both he and Feng Yu stared at her with wide eyes and slack jaws.

"Ah... Miss Lin, you always have a way with words." Ren Chun grabbed a nearby cloth to wipe the sweat from his face. He studied Feng Yu with renewed interest. "I am Ren Chun, disciple of Master Hong Bi." He bowed slightly. "Where do you hail from?"

Feng Yu shifted her weight between feet as she eyed him warily. "I'm a wanderer, though I have family in the Ember Dream Sect." She reached up to brush a strand of sandy hair behind an ear. "Currently seeking to advance my cultivation through travel and experience."

Sunlight caught the amber flecks in her eyes as she turned to Xiulan. "I heard about the bounty. I plan to visit Lin Manor later to see if there's any way to track down the culprit—if that's even possible."

A tight knot formed in Xiulan's chest. She released an anxious breath, the sound barely audible over the courtyard fountain.

"But I didn't know Miss Lin was a cultivator." Feng Yu tilted her head. "How did that come about?"

Xiulan weighed her words carefully. "Master Qingfeng from Blackmere's Treasure Pavilion provides me guidance. I am undertaking several important learning expeditions under his direction."

"Treasure Pavilion? Learning expeditions?" Ren Chun scratched his head. "Is that what the blood lotus was about?"

Xiulan nodded. "Next, I must wait a few days before collecting dawn serpent scales." She paused for effect. "From living serpents."

A broad grin spread across Ren Chun's face. "Then you'll be calling in that favor soon!"

Xiulan lifted her chin, meeting his eager expression with cool indifference. "Did you assume I would ask you?"

Confusion clouded Ren Chun's features as his grin faltered.

Xiulan linked her arm through Feng Yu's, the silk of their sleeves rustling together. "I have a new friend who will definitely help me!"

Perfect excuse to keep her close and away from investigating. The last thing I need is another cultivator snooping around and bothering mother.

"Oh..." Feng Yu glanced at her in confusion, neither pulling away nor returning the gesture.

Ren Chun studied Feng Yu with narrowed eyes. "Can she even help you?"

The question ignited something in Feng Yu. She slipped free from Xiulan's grasp and squared her shoulders. "I assure you I can." Her hand rested on her saber's hilt. "I doubt anyone at our level surpasses my blade work!"

Ren Chun straightened, his eyes narrowing. "Master Hong Bi said I was the fastest learning swordsmen he has ever mentored!"

Xiulan's mouth dropped open slightly. The courtyard's tension thickened as she glanced between them. Wait... are they actually competing over this?