Chapter 3: Whispers in the Dao Harmony Palace

Chapter 3: Whispers in the Dao Harmony Palace

The Dao Harmony Palace was abuzz with curiosity. From the lowliest disciples to the highest-ranking elders, rumors were flying: the Divine Doctor, Ming Yue, known for her cold and ruthless demeanor, had seemingly fallen for a man. Whispers of this scandalous affair spread like wildfire, reaching even the ears of the three matriarchs who ruled the sect.

In the midst of this chaos, Ming Yue remained blissfully unaware. Immersed in her vast library, she diligently studied books on medicinal herbs and plants. Her sanctuary, filled with the soothing scent of ancient tomes and rare herbs, was a haven of tranquility amidst the growing storm outside. The commotion did not disturb her focus, as she was entirely absorbed in her pursuit of knowledge.

Meanwhile, Xuan Yu lay asleep, recovering from his recent ordeals. As he rested, the pendant around his neck began to glow softly. Without warning, he vanished from his bed. The sudden change in environment jolted him awake, and he found himself standing in a garden reminiscent of the Garden of Eternal Remorse.

Xuan Yu took a moment to assess his physical condition. To his astonishment, his cultivation was gone, and he was back to being a mortal. However, instead of feeling fear or despair, Xuan Yu felt a surge of joy. He knew that with the knowledge he had accumulated, he could surpass his previous self. He also saw a pendant around his neck.

The pendant was a small, intricately carved jade piece, with a subtle, continuous glow that hints at its immense power. Its design seems to shift and change, revealing different intricate patterns when observed closely.

Exploring the garden, Xuan Yu noticed a tree similar to the one where he had first met the mysterious middle-aged woman. Under the tree lay a letter, a ring which was a sleek, silver band set with a small, clear gemstone that pulsates with an inner light and a vial containing a purple liquid with gold and silver flakes. The powerful aura emanating from the vial indicated that it contained the blood of an extraordinarily powerful creature.

He opened the letter, which read:

"Xuan Yu,

I know you have many questions about who I am and why I have helped you. Do not worry; I have no intentions to harm you. All your questions will be answered in time. For now, focus on surpassing your past self. Here are the gifts I have given you:

1. The Pendant : It is a small world that you can integrate with yourself in the future. No one can sense it except you, and no one can enter it without your permission.

2. The Ring : This is a communication device that will allow you to contact me when you are strong enough. It is also a space ring for storage.

3. The Vial : It contains the blood of an extremely powerful and extinct creature called the Dark Nothingness Phoenix. This will grant your body the characteristics of nothingness, as well as the incredible regeneration and immortality of the phoenix.

4. Your Physique : I have reconstructed your body to enhance your talent and have awakened your dormant physique. This is the first of its kind, so you will learn about its name and powers as you cultivate.

I hope you will find these gifts useful.

Xuan Yu was stunned by the revelations of these gifts, particularly the blood and the unknown physique. His determination to meet the mysterious woman solidified even further.

He quickly wore the ring and it felt almost weightless, and the gemstone flickers in response to Xuan Yu's thoughts, indicating its readiness to store items.

He willed himself to leave the small world and instantly found himself back in his bed. As he drifted off to sleep, thoughts of his future potential filled his mind.

In the Library, Ming Yue was meticulously cataloging a rare herb when a soft knock on the door interrupted her. She glanced up, her serene expression unwavering. A junior disciple stood nervously at the entrance, clutching a letter sealed with the insignia of the matriarchs.

"Grandmaster Ming Yue, this letter is for you," the disciple said, bowing deeply as she approached.

Ming Yue accepted the letter, her slender fingers breaking the seal with practiced ease. Her eyes scanned the contents, and a slight furrow appeared on her otherwise calm brow. The matriarchs had summoned her for an urgent meeting.

She set the letter aside and rose from her seat, her mind already shifting from her scholarly pursuits to the impending discussion. She wondered what could be so urgent that all three matriarchs would call for her. With a composed demeanor, she prepared to meet the leaders of the Dao Harmony Palace, still oblivious to the swirling rumors about her and Xuan Yu.