Chapter Twenty-Eight: Doctor Mo Returns to the Valley

Chapter Twenty-Eight: Doctor Mo Returns to the Valley

Initially, Eli Mason didn't plan to make the last two types of medicine, which were unrelated to his cultivation. However, after careful consideration, he realized that as a martial artist, he could face unexpected dangers or be drawn into the violent conflicts of the martial world. It was better to be prepared with antidotes and healing potions. If he got poisoned or injured and lacked proper medicine, it would be an unfortunate and untimely death.

With this in mind, Eli prepared small amounts of the last two types of medicine to carry with him in case of emergencies. He didn't want to die young.

Although this decision would reduce the quantity of the other two elixirs and slow his cultivation progress, it was a necessary trade-off. In life, one often had to make choices, as there were no perfect solutions.

The day he finished making the elixirs, Eli began following the prescribed methods and took a "Yellow Dragon Pill" and a "Golden Marrow Pill." These legendary elixirs did not disappoint. Under their powerful influence, he easily broke through his bottleneck and reached the fourth level of his cultivation method that very night.

Reaching the fourth level, Eli immediately felt a completely different sensation. His five senses were suddenly enhanced to an unbelievable degree. Everything in his vision became so bright and clear. Tiny details he couldn't see before were now magnified, and he could even see the fine cobwebs in the corners of the room. His hearing also became incredibly sharp, with countless sounds flooding his ears, like the rustling of an earthworm burrowing ten feet away or the buzzing of an insect flying past the house. These sounds were so vivid and clear, as if they were happening right next to him. Additionally, strange new smells made Eli realize his sense of smell had also significantly improved.

Eli was both astonished and delighted. This was the first time he felt that his time spent cultivating had not been wasted. Such distinct sensations proved that the cultivation method was not useless but had its unique merits.

Previous levels of cultivation had improved his senses to some extent, but none had brought such a noticeable change. This was a qualitative leap, making him feel like a completely different person.

Moreover, his body felt much lighter and his mental state greatly improved. Now, Eli could probably go three to five days without sleep without any issues.

Eli savored these new sensations. Standing still, he could perceive everything happening within a hundred feet. This newfound control over his surroundings was intoxicating.

Now, he realized that reaching the fourth level was truly a significant achievement.

He couldn't help but wonder, if the fourth level felt this amazing, what would the fifth and sixth levels be like?

Not long after Eli grasped the profoundness of his cultivation, his nominal master—Doctor Mo—returned to the valley. Not only did he come back, but he also brought a mysterious person with him.

As soon as Doctor Mo entered the Mystic Gate, Eli heard his familiar coughing from afar. Eli was meditating in the stone chamber, striving to advance further. Upon recognizing Doctor Mo's cough, he quickly stopped his practice and exited the chamber, heading towards the valley entrance to greet his master after nearly a year.

Seeing Doctor Mo, Eli was shocked. The person before him was the same, but his face was now a lifeless gray, lacking vitality. Previously, although Doctor Mo had a sickly yellow complexion, he wasn't as severely deteriorated as now, looking like he was at death's door.

What shocked Eli even more was the presence of a mysterious figure behind Doctor Mo. This person was completely covered by a large green robe and a black hood, revealing no skin. The figure was extraordinarily tall and muscular, towering over Eli by two heads, resembling a giant. However, due to the hood, Eli couldn't discern the person's features, only sensing that the face would be terrifyingly hideous.

Suppressing his questions, Eli quickly stepped forward, greeted Doctor Mo, and respectfully stood aside, waiting for Doctor Mo to speak.

Eli knew that Doctor Mo didn't care much for formalities, but as a disciple, he had to observe the proper etiquette to avoid appearing rebellious and putting himself at a disadvantage.

Based on his understanding of Doctor Mo, considering his usual concern for Eli's cultivation progress, Doctor Mo would likely ask about his progress as soon as they met, to gauge Eli's advancement.

Sure enough, Doctor Mo was slightly surprised to see Eli coming out to greet him. After a couple of weak coughs, he asked in a tired voice, "How is your cultivation going? Any progress?" His face showed a mixture of anxiety and hope.

Eli had already prepared his response. "The same as before, no significant changes." He didn't plan to reveal his true progress since he couldn't explain the miraculous advancement without external help.

"Show me your hand," Doctor Mo's expression turned somber, and his tone became harsh.

Noticing this change, Eli felt a slight unease but wasn't worried about Doctor Mo checking his pulse to examine his internal energy. Since reaching the fourth level, Eli found he could control the intensity of his inner energy, masking it at the third level's strength to deceive Doctor Mo.

Eli extended his hand confidently, maintaining a calm demeanor, ready to conceal his true progress from his master.

Doctor Mo took Eli's hand, his eyes narrowing as he felt for the pulse. Eli controlled his breath, ensuring his internal energy remained at the third level's strength, presenting an aura of minimal progress.

After a moment, Doctor Mo released Eli's hand and sighed, a hint of disappointment flashing in his eyes. "Continue your efforts. Don't slack off," he instructed, though his voice lacked the usual vigor.

"Yes, Master," Eli responded obediently, stepping back to let Doctor Mo and the mysterious figure pass.

As Doctor Mo led the mysterious person deeper into the valley, Eli's mind raced with questions. Who was this person, and why had Doctor Mo brought him here? The figure's imposing presence and complete concealment suggested a significant reason.

Eli decided to remain vigilant and observe closely. His instincts told him that the arrival of this stranger would bring changes, possibly challenges, to his life in the Mystic Gate.

Later that night, Eli lay in his bed, reflecting on the day's events. The encounter with Doctor Mo had reaffirmed his decision to keep the vial's secret hidden. The mysterious figure added a layer of complexity to an already precarious situation.

Eli resolved to continue his cultivation discreetly, using the vial only when absolutely necessary. His newfound abilities and the elixirs he had prepared gave him confidence, but he knew he had to be cautious.

The path ahead was uncertain, but Eli felt ready to face whatever came his way. With the secrets of the vial and his growing strength, he believed he could overcome any obstacle and achieve his goals.