Chapter 44: The Antidote

Chapter 44: The Antidote

The sun hung high in the sky, radiating heat despite the onset of early autumn. In his room, Doctor Mo found himself restless and uneasy. Though he was confident in his leverage over Eli, he couldn't help but feel a twinge of doubt.

Suddenly, the sound of approaching footsteps broke the silence, growing louder as they neared his room.

Recognizing the familiar gait, Doctor Mo's heart leaped with joy. He swiftly moved to the door, opening it eagerly.

In the distance, a figure gradually came into view. It was Eli, the one Doctor Mo had been anxiously awaiting. Suppressing his excitement, Doctor Mo forced a smile onto his face.

"You're punctual. I'm glad to see you haven't thought of running away. This shows you're wise. Come inside; we have much to discuss."

Doctor Mo's expression was now as kindly as that of a doting elder, his face lit up like a blooming flower.

"Don't worry, there's no trap inside. It's not a dragon's den or a tiger's lair," Doctor Mo reassured Eli, noticing his cautious glance towards the room, employing a subtle provocation.

"Hmph! Since I'm already here, do you think I'd be afraid to enter your room?" Eli snorted, seemingly roused by the taunt, and strode forward.

Doctor Mo stepped aside with a pleased grin, allowing Eli to enter. He was about to close the door when Eli's voice, cool and firm, stopped him.

"If you dare shut that door, I'll assume you're planning some trap, and I won't proceed with any discussions."

Doctor Mo hesitated briefly but then backed away from the door, pretending indifference. "I truly wish to discuss things with you sincerely. If you prefer the door open, so be it."

He returned to his favorite armchair, while Eli casually pulled up a stool, sitting boldly across from him. The two hadn't seen each other for almost half a year, and they took a moment to size each other up.

Eli noticed Doctor Mo looked significantly older, almost indistinguishable from a seventy-year-old man. This made Eli wonder if Doctor Mo's earlier claims about needing to restore his vitality were true, and whether he had overestimated the man's intentions.

Eli scanned the room and his eyes narrowed slightly. The tall, mysterious man stood silently in a corner, blending into the shadows so well that Eli had almost missed him.

Doctor Mo, having finished his own appraisal of Eli, seemed satisfied. He spoke warmly, "Seeing you now reminds me of when you first joined the sect. You were just a boy, barely this tall. Now look at you, all grown up. Time truly spares no one."

The casual tone took Eli by surprise. He couldn't decipher Doctor Mo's intentions but heightened his guard, reminding himself not to fall into any traps laid by the wily old man.

"Doctor Mo, I am grateful for your guidance all these years. If there's anything you need from me, please feel free to instruct," Eli's expression softened, adopting a tone of respect as if reverting to his role as the dutiful disciple.

"Good, good! I'm glad to hear that. Let me first check your progress with the Changchun Gong," Doctor Mo said, rising from his seat and reaching out to take Eli's pulse.

"Old fox, still playing your tricks," Eli thought, dodging the hand. "Doctor Mo, there's no need to rush. I can assure you that I've mastered the fourth level of Changchun Gong. But shouldn't you first provide the antidote to the Corpse Bug Pill? Once I'm no longer concerned about that, I can show you my progress with a calm mind."

Doctor Mo feigned surprise, "Oh my, you're right! Look at my memory, getting worse with age. I had intended to give you the antidote as soon as you arrived."

He pulled out a silver vial from his sleeve and extracted a dark, round pill, tossing it to Eli.

Eli caught the pill clumsily, sniffing it cautiously. A sharp, spicy odor wafted up, making him glance at Doctor Mo, who watched with an inscrutable smile.

Eli hesitated, doubting the pill's authenticity. But with the Corpse Bug Pill's activation imminent, he had little choice. He reasoned that Doctor Mo still needed him, and the pill was likely genuine. With a solemn expression, he swallowed the antidote and waited for its effects.

Doctor Mo, meanwhile, reclined leisurely in his chair, engaging Eli in small talk, seemingly unconcerned about the real purpose of their meeting.

Soon, Eli felt a brief, sharp pain in his abdomen that quickly subsided. Checking his internal state, he found the Corpse Bug Pill completely dissolved, filling him with relief. A trace of a smile appeared on his face.

Doctor Mo, observing these changes, smiled benevolently. "You see, I administered the Corpse Bug Pill out of necessity. Without its pressure, you wouldn't have mastered the fourth level so quickly."

"Thank you for your kindness, Doctor Mo. But let's avoid such methods in the future," Eli said, feeling more relaxed now that the immediate threat was gone. He began to trust Doctor Mo's intentions a bit more.

"So, can I take your pulse now?" Doctor Mo asked, his voice gentle but firm.

Eli hesitated, wary of a possible trick.

Eli's mind raced. Allowing Doctor Mo to take his pulse meant potentially exposing himself to another hidden threat. He couldn't afford to show any weakness or give the cunning old man any advantage.

"Of course, Doctor Mo," Eli finally replied, feigning a calm demeanor. "But first, let me assure you that my progress in Changchun Gong is genuine. I've reached the fourth level, as promised. However, I think it's best if we discuss the terms of our agreement before proceeding any further."

Doctor Mo's eyes gleamed with interest. "Very well, Eli. Let's hear what you have in mind."

Eli leaned forward, his voice steady but firm. "I need assurances. The antidote you just gave me worked, but I can't trust that there won't be more obstacles. I want a written guarantee that once I fulfill my part, you'll not only release me from any further obligations but also provide me with the means to continue my cultivation independently."

Doctor Mo chuckled softly. "You drive a hard bargain, Eli. But I expected no less from someone of your talents. Agreed. You will have my word and a written guarantee."

Satisfied with the response, Eli nodded. "Thank you, Doctor Mo. Now, you may check my pulse."

Doctor Mo approached cautiously, his hand steady as he reached for Eli's wrist. He felt the strong, steady pulse and nodded approvingly. "Excellent. Your progress is indeed remarkable."

Eli allowed himself a moment of relief, knowing that he had successfully navigated another potential trap. But he remained vigilant, aware that Doctor Mo could still have more tricks up his sleeve.

As Doctor Mo released Eli's wrist, he smiled. "Now that we have that settled, let's discuss the next steps. Your mastery of Changchun Gong is impressive, but there's still more to learn. I have a new technique in mind that could greatly enhance your abilities."

Eli's curiosity was piqued. "What technique are you referring to?"

Doctor Mo's smile widened. "It's a secret technique, known only to a few. It requires a deep understanding of internal energy manipulation and will push your limits even further. But if you succeed, you'll gain power beyond your imagination."

Eli listened intently, his mind already calculating the potential benefits and risks. "I'm interested. But I need to know more about this technique before committing."

"Of course," Doctor Mo replied. "I wouldn't expect anything less. We'll begin with a detailed explanation of the theory behind the technique, followed by practical applications. But first, you need to rest and recover from the effects of the antidote. Tomorrow, we'll start your training."

Eli agreed, knowing that rest was essential for maintaining his strength and focus. As he prepared to leave, Doctor Mo handed him a small vial. "Take this tonight. It will help you recover faster and prepare your body for the intense training ahead."

Eli accepted the vial, carefully examining its contents. He trusted Doctor Mo's words but remained cautious. After all, he had learned to navigate the treacherous waters of their relationship with a healthy dose of skepticism.

As Eli left Doctor Mo's quarters, he felt a mix of anticipation and apprehension. The promise of new techniques and increased power was enticing, but he knew that every step forward brought new challenges and potential dangers.

That night, Eli returned to his secluded training spot. He took the contents of the vial as instructed and felt a warm sensation spread through his body. The fatigue and tension from the day's events began to melt away, replaced by a sense of calm and focus.

Lying on the makeshift bed in his hidden retreat, Eli allowed his mind to wander. He thought about the path that had led him here, the struggles and triumphs, and the uncertain future that lay ahead. Despite the dangers and the constant need for vigilance, he felt a renewed sense of purpose. He was determined to master the new technique and use his skills to secure his freedom and future.

As sleep finally claimed him, Eli dreamed of a life beyond the constraints of Doctor Mo's manipulations, a life where he could forge his own destiny. The road ahead would be difficult, but he was ready to face whatever challenges came his way.

The next morning, Eli awoke refreshed and invigorated. The effects of the antidote and the vial had worked wonders, leaving him feeling stronger than ever. He knew that the day would bring new tests and trials, but he was ready.

Returning to Doctor Mo's quarters, Eli found the old man already waiting for him, a collection of ancient scrolls and manuscripts spread out on the table.

"Good morning, Eli," Doctor Mo greeted him warmly. "I trust you slept well?"

"Yes, thank you," Eli replied, taking a seat across from Doctor Mo.

"Excellent. Let's get started," Doctor Mo said, unrolling one of the scrolls. "This technique is called the Shadow Veil. It allows you to manipulate your energy to become nearly invisible in any environment. It's a powerful skill, but it requires precise control and intense concentration."

Eli's interest was immediately piqued. "How does it work?"

Doctor Mo pointed to the intricate diagrams on the scroll. "The Shadow Veil technique involves channeling your internal energy in a way that bends light around your body. It's a combination of physical stealth and energy manipulation. The key is to synchronize your breathing and energy flow with the natural environment."

Eli studied the diagrams carefully, absorbing every detail. "This is incredible. How do I begin?"

Doctor Mo smiled. "We'll start with basic energy control exercises. Once you master those, we'll move on to more advanced applications. It will take time and patience, but I have no doubt that you have the potential to master this technique."

Eli nodded, his determination renewed. "I'm ready."

The training began with hours of intense focus and practice. Doctor Mo guided Eli through the intricate steps of energy manipulation, correcting his form and technique with a keen eye. Eli pushed himself to the limit, driven by the desire to succeed.

Days turned into weeks as Eli honed his skills. The Shadow Veil technique was challenging, but he could feel himself improving with each session. Doctor Mo's guidance was invaluable, and Eli begrudgingly acknowledged the old man's expertise.

One evening, after a particularly grueling session, Eli sat down with Doctor Mo to discuss his progress.

"You're making excellent progress, Eli," Doctor Mo said, his tone unusually complimentary. "At this rate, you'll master the Shadow Veil in no time."

Eli wiped the sweat from his brow, feeling a sense of accomplishment. "Thank you, Doctor Mo. Your instruction has been invaluable."

Doctor Mo leaned back in his chair, a thoughtful expression on his face. "Eli, there's something you should know. The Shadow Veil technique is just the beginning. Once you've mastered it, there are even more advanced skills you can learn. Skills that will make you nearly unstoppable."

Eli's curiosity was piqued. "What kind of skills?"

Doctor Mo's eyes gleamed with anticipation. "Advanced techniques that allow you to manipulate not just light, but also sound and even the perception of time. Imagine being able to move through the shadows undetected, strike with lethal precision, and vanish without a trace. The possibilities are endless."

Eli listened intently, his mind racing with the potential of these advanced skills. "I want to learn them all."

Doctor Mo smiled, his expression one of approval. "I expected nothing less from you. But first, you must master the Shadow Veil. Only then can we move on to the next level."

Eli nodded, his resolve strengthened. "I understand. I'll do whatever it takes."

As the days continued, Eli's training intensified. He pushed himself harder than ever, determined to master the Shadow Veil and unlock the potential of the advanced techniques Doctor Mo had hinted at. The grueling sessions took a toll on his body, but his spirit remained unyielding.

Finally, after weeks of relentless practice, Eli achieved a breakthrough. He managed to fully activate the Shadow Veil, becoming nearly invisible in the dim light of the training chamber. The feeling of success was exhilarating, and he knew that he was one step closer to mastering his destiny.

Doctor Mo watched with satisfaction as Eli demonstrated his newfound skill. "Well done, Eli. You've proven your worth once again."

Eli's heart swelled with pride. "Thank you, Doctor Mo. What's next?"

Doctor Mo's smile widened. "Now, we move on to the advanced techniques. Prepare yourself, Eli. Your true training is about to begin."

As Eli stood ready, he felt a surge of anticipation. The path ahead was fraught with challenges, but he was prepared to face them head-on. With Doctor Mo's guidance and his own unwavering determination, he would become a force to be reckoned with.

The journey was far from over, but Eli was ready to embrace his destiny and forge a future of his own making.