The early summer breeze danced through the nameless forest that stretched between Yunxu City and Qinghe City. Sunlight filtered through the emerald canopy, casting dappled shadows upon the ancient path below. The wind whispered secrets among the leaves, creating a symphony of rustling that echoed through the wilderness.
Amidst this tranquil scene, a luxurious carriage proceeded at an unhurried pace. Its craftsmanship was nothing short of extraordinary—intricate carvings adorned its polished wooden frame, each detail meticulously executed by master artisans. The wheels, reinforced with gleaming metal bands, rolled smoothly over the uneven terrain, barely disturbing the occupants within.
Fluttering proudly atop the carriage, a banner caught the morning light. Its emblem—a pair of criss-crossed swords with a sleeping dragon coiled beneath—announced the prestigious Li Family's presence to all who beheld it. The embroidery was so fine that even from a distance, one could discern the scales of the dragon, each thread placed with deliberate precision.
The Li Family ruled Qinghe City with unquestioned authority. For generations, they had maintained their position as lords of the city, their influence extending far beyond its walls. None dared to challenge their supremacy, for their power was as deeply rooted as the ancient trees of this very forest.
On this particular day, Young Lady Li Meixia, niece of the Li Family's Patriarch, was returning from Yunxu City after concluding business with the Yong Family. Her journey had been successful, though the subtle tightening of her delicate jawline suggested the negotiations had not been without their challenges.
Young Lady Li Meixia possessed a beauty that transcended mortal bounds, surpassing even the ethereal allure of heavenly fairies. Her features were perfectly proportioned—high cheekbones, a straight nose, and lips that naturally curved into a gentle smile. Her eyes, deep and luminous, held wisdom beyond her years, reflecting both intelligence and calculation.
Standing at five feet nine inches, she carried herself with an elegance that spoke of her noble upbringing. Her completely white outfit—a flowing ensemble of the finest silk—reflected the brilliance of the moon even in daylight. The garment was adorned with subtle patterns of cloud and mist, visible only when the light struck at certain angles. With her long black hair cascading freely down her back like a waterfall of midnight, she resembled a holy maiden of the nine heavens, untainted by mortal filth.
Driver Mo, an elderly man with a solemn countenance, guided the carriage with practiced hands. Though his face bore the lines of age, his posture remained straight, his movements fluid. His eyes, sharp and alert, constantly scanned their surroundings, missing nothing. Despite his advanced years, he possessed a vitality that would put many young men to shame.
"The forest is particularly beautiful today, wouldn't you agree, Uncle Mo?" Li Meixia's voice floated from behind the carriage curtain, melodious and refined.
"Indeed, Young Lady," Driver Mo responded, his weathered hands steady on the reins. "The spirits of nature seem especially active this morning."
As they traveled, admiring the natural beauty around them, listening to the song of the nearby river and appreciating the dance of wind and birds, their attention was drawn to a solitary figure on the path ahead.
A young man dressed in a long black outfit walked unhurriedly, his posture straight and powerful. At first glance, he appeared ordinary—no visible signs of Cultivation emanated from him, marking him as completely mortal. Yet, there was an unmistakable air of confidence about him, a stubborn determination in his stride.
It was as if he could challenge both gods and men, even without the strength to match them. His presence, though unassuming, commanded attention in a way that defied explanation.
"Uncle Mo," Li Meixia called out, curiosity evident in her tone. "Please stop the carriage near that gentleman."
"As you wish, Young Lady," the old driver replied, gently pulling on the reins.
The horses released a soft neigh before coming to a halt beside the young man. The stranger turned, his sharp and commanding eyes meeting Driver Mo's weathered gaze.
This young man stood at five feet four inches, with no impressive musculature to boast of—in fact, he appeared somewhat plump. His short black hair framed a face that was neither handsome nor ugly, but possessed a certain compelling quality. His black eyes, however, held a depth that seemed to pierce through facades and pretenses.
He regarded the old driver with curious eyes, while Driver Mo remained silent, awaiting his young mistress's words.
"Greetings, fellow traveler," Li Meixia's voice emerged from behind the carriage curtain, her tone polite yet authoritative. "I am Li Meixia of the Li Family from Qinghe City. May I inquire as to who has the pleasure of sharing this beautiful morning path?"
The young man's gaze shifted to the carriage, though the curtain concealed the beauty within from his view. His expression remained neutral, betraying nothing of his thoughts.
"This humble one is Wudi Egun," he responded, his voice slow and low, yet filled with an inexplicable mystery. Each word seemed carefully chosen, as if even the simplest statement contained layers of meaning. "Just a wanderer who travels from one land to another, seeking knowledge and experience."
There was something in his tone—a subtle inflection, perhaps—that suggested his words held secrets beyond their apparent simplicity. It was the voice of someone who knew more than they revealed, who observed more than they acknowledged.
"If I may ask," Li Meixia continued, intrigued by this mysterious traveler, "where are you heading on this fine day?"
"This one is bound for Qinghe City," Wudi Egun replied, his gaze steady, his posture relaxed yet dignified.
"What a fortunate coincidence," Li Meixia's voice carried a smile. "I am also returning to Qinghe City. Perhaps you would honor me by accepting a ride? The journey would be more pleasant with company, and the roads can be treacherous for a solitary traveler."
Wudi Egun didn't hesitate, though his acceptance came with a subtle nod that somehow conveyed that he was granting a favor rather than receiving one. "I accept your kind offer, Young Lady Li."
With a gesture from Li Meixia, Driver Mo descended from his perch to open the carriage door. Wudi Egun stepped inside with measured movements, his bearing suggesting he was accustomed to far grander conveyances.
The moment he entered, his eyes fell upon the heavenly beauty seated across from him. Though his heart quickened at the sight—for Li Meixia's beauty was truly breathtaking up close—his face remained impassive. He was a master of controlling his expressions, revealing nothing of the turmoil within.
"Please, be seated," Li Meixia gestured gracefully to the cushioned seat opposite her.
Wudi Egun settled himself with the poise of nobility, his back straight, his hands resting lightly on his knees. Outside, Driver Mo returned to his position and urged the horses forward with a gentle command.
"If I may inquire," Li Meixia began, her eyes studying her new companion with undisguised interest, "from where are you returning?"
"I have just completed my exploration of Cloudrest City," Wudi Egun replied, his tone conversational yet somehow maintaining that undercurrent of mystery. "A fascinating place, though perhaps not as renowned as Qinghe City. I have heard much about the Li Family—how they have led Qinghe with wisdom and strength for several centuries. It is an honor to make the acquaintance of one of its distinguished members."
Li Meixia chuckled softly, the sound like gentle wind chimes. She inclined her head in acknowledgment of the compliment. "You are well-informed for a traveler, Master Wudi."
"Knowledge is the true currency of this world, Young Lady Li," he responded, his eyes briefly meeting hers before glancing out at the passing scenery. "Far more valuable than gold or jade."
"And what brings you to Qinghe City?" she asked, adjusting the sleeve of her immaculate white robe. "Business or pleasure?"
"Merely curiosity," he answered with a slight shrug that somehow appeared elegant. "I intend to tour the city, absorb its culture and history, then continue on my journey."
"And where will you stay during your visit?" Li Meixia leaned forward slightly, her interest evident.
"A lodge or hotel will suffice," Wudi Egun replied, as if the matter was of little consequence. "I require little in terms of accommodation."
Li Meixia's perfectly shaped eyebrow arched slightly. "And where do you originally hail from, Master Wudi? Your manner of speech suggests education and refinement not commonly found among ordinary travelers."
At this question, a subtle change came over Wudi Egun. His eyes seemed to grow deeper, more mysterious, and the corner of his mouth curved into the barest hint of a smile.
"I come from a land far beyond the reach of most," he said, his voice dropping to an almost hypnotic cadence. "So distant that even the most determined traveler would find it beyond their grasp. A place where the very laws of heaven and earth differ from those known to the common world."
He smiled then, a light, enigmatic expression that revealed nothing while promising everything. It was the smile of someone who held countless secrets, each more tantalizing than the last.
Li Meixia found herself leaning forward, drawn by his words and the mystery they contained. There was something about this man—something she couldn't quite define—that sparked her interest in a way few had before.
"How fascinating," she said, her voice betraying a hint of the attraction she felt. "You must have many extraordinary tales to share."
"Perhaps," Wudi Egun replied noncommittally, though his eyes suggested he indeed possessed stories that would astound even the most worldly listener.
The carriage continued its journey, wheels turning steadily on the forest path. Sunlight dappled through the leaves above, casting shifting patterns across the travelers within.
"Master Wudi," Li Meixia said after a moment of contemplation, "I find myself reluctant to see our conversation end so soon. Perhaps you would consider staying at the Li Family compound during your time in Qinghe City? We have ample guest quarters, and it would be my honor to show you the true splendor of our city."
Wudi Egun regarded her for a long moment, his expression unreadable. Then, with the air of someone conferring a great favor, he inclined his head. "I would not wish to impose, but if the Young Lady insists, I shall accept your generous offer."
His attitude remained one of nobility and superiority, as if he came from a background so illustrious that even the mighty Li Family would pale in comparison. It was in the subtle tilt of his chin, the precise way he held himself, the measured cadence of his speech—all suggesting a heritage far beyond what his simple appearance might indicate.
As the carriage continued its journey toward Qinghe City, Li Meixia found herself increasingly intrigued by her mysterious companion. There was something about Wudi Egun that defied easy categorization—a depth that belied his ordinary appearance, a confidence that seemed at odds with his apparent station.
Little did she know that behind his facade of polite mystery lay a heart as cold and calculating as the deepest winter night. For Wudi Egun was indeed extraordinary, though not in the way she might imagine. His benevolent exterior masked a ruthlessness that would make even the most hardened cultivator shudder.
And as he sat across from the beautiful young noble, his mind was already turning, calculating, planning. The Li Family would prove useful, he was certain. How useful remained to be seen.
The forest gradually thinned as they approached the outskirts of Qinghe City, the ancient trees giving way to cultivated fields and scattered farmhouses. In the distance, the city walls rose proudly against the horizon, a testament to the power and wealth of those who ruled within.