11 Making Plans

As the elder meeting continued, the discussion grew more intense. Different opinions clashed, and arguments began to arise among the elders.

Elder Zhang, known for his conservative views, raised his voice. "We cannot rely on external aid to solve our financial troubles. It is a matter of the sect's pride and independence. We must find ways to generate revenue internally and reduce our expenses."

Elder Liu, a pragmatist, countered, "While self-sufficiency is important, we cannot ignore the pressing reality. Our debts are piling up, and our resources are strained. Seeking assistance from allies or forming strategic partnerships could provide the financial relief we desperately need."

Elder Lin Xiu, with a furrowed brow, added, "But at what cost? We must be cautious in aligning ourselves with other powers. We risk becoming indebted and compromising our values even more."

Matriarch Xue Mingyu intervened, her voice steady yet diplomatic. "We must strike a balance between maintaining our independence and addressing our financial challenges. Exploring alternative revenue streams, such as trade agreements or cultivation resource exchanges, could offer a viable solution. We should also consider implementing cost-cutting measures within the sect without sacrificing the well-being of our disciples."

The discussion veered towards potential solutions, with the elders deliberating on the feasibility of trade routes, resource allocation, and even engaging in joint ventures with neighboring sects. The prospects of alliances, investments, and revitalizing the sect's reputation were weighed against the risks of compromise and loss of control.

Yue Xuan's voice broke through the discussion, his tone filled with determination. "If I may, Matriarch, I might have a plan." All eyes turned to him, including Matriarch Xue Mingyu, who regarded him with curiosity. "Please share with us your insights," she replied, giving him the floor.

Yue Xuan took a moment to gather his thoughts before he began to explain his strategy. "If we can negotiate with Warlord Huang Long and secure his support, we might be able to leverage his influence to forge a partnership with Merchant Li Xue," he proposed. "Additionally, with Warlord Zhao Wei's formidable army, we could ensure the sect's security and potentially expand our influence."

He paused briefly, his gaze shifting among the elders, gauging their reactions. Confidence emanated from him as he continued, "I would like your permission to visit the fortified city of Thunderpeak in order to garner a meeting with Warlord Zhao Wei. It is there that I believe I can present our case and forge a powerful alliance."

Xue Mingyu observed him with wondering eyes, recognizing the potential within his plan. She knew, however, that achieving such a feat would require more than just strategy. "I will allow it," she stated firmly, her voice carrying a hint of challenge. "But on one condition: If you can reach the Core Foundation realm within two days."

The statement elicited a range of reactions from the elders. Laughter erupted from some, while others protested, finding the demand unreasonable. Elder Liu, concerned for Yue Xuan's well-being, spoke up, "Matriarch, he is only at the Foundation Solidifier realm. How is he supposed to skip an entire cultivation rank in two days?"

The room fell into a momentary silence as all eyes turned to Yue Xuan, awaiting his response. He met their gazes with unwavering resolve. "I understand the difficulty of the task, but I believe in pushing my limits. I will do everything within my power to achieve the Core Foundation realm in the given time frame," he declared.

His determination resonated through his words, leaving some elders contemplative and others intrigued. Matriarch Xue Mingyu, though aware of the challenges, sensed something extraordinary within Yue Xuan. She wanted to test his capabilities, to see how far he could push himself.

"Very well," she finally responded, her voice firm yet tinged with a touch of anticipation. "I shall grant you this opportunity. Show us the strength of your spirit, Yue Xuan."

Yue Xuan nodded gratefully to Matriarch Xue Mingyu, acknowledging her trust in him. "Thank you, Matriarch," he expressed with sincerity. As the matriarch declared that the meeting had come to an end, the elders began to disperse, their voices carrying the weight of discussions and considerations.

Yue Xuan exited the meeting hall alongside Elder Li, their footsteps echoing through the quiet corridor. As they walked, his mind churned with thoughts and calculations. 'If I am to reach the Core Foundation realm in two days, I need a detailed plan,' he mused, determined to rise to the challenge. 'First, I must explore various cultivation techniques and methods. There might be hidden techniques that can expedite the process.'

Lost in his thoughts, Yue Xuan contemplated the possibility of accelerating his cultivation. 'What if I can harness the power of dual cultivation?' he pondered. 'Several female elders have been casting lustful gazes my way.'

As Yue Xuan and Elder Li walked through the quiet corridors of the sect, their conversation remained hushed and discreet. Aware of the prying eyes and ears around them, Yue Xuan leaned closer to Elder Li and spoke softly, "Elder Li, there are matters I would like to discuss further, but it is best done in a more private setting. Would you honor me with a visit to my residence?"

Elder Li's eyes widened slightly, surprised by the invitation. However, a blissful smile crept onto her face as she recalled their previous encounter. She nodded gracefully, her voice laced with anticipation. "Of course, Yue Xuan. I would be delighted to visit your residence. Lead the way."

Yue Xuan's lips curved into a subtle smile as he guided Elder Li toward his secluded dwelling. Thoughts of their previous interaction lingered in their minds, adding an air of intrigue and excitement to their discreet rendezvous. In the dimly lit hallways, their footsteps were barely audible, preserving the secrecy of their encounter.

They then arrived at Yue Xuan's residence, a quiet haven away from prying eyes. Yue Xuan, with a warm smile, asks Elder Li, "Would you like some tea?"

Elder Li's cheeks tint with a rosy hue as she nods, her eyes sparkling with anticipation. "Yes, please. I'd love some," she replies softly, thinking back to the last time they had tea together.

Yue Xuan gracefully prepares the tea, his movements fluid and precise. The fragrant aroma fills the air as he pours the tea into delicate cups, his focus on the task at hand. He hands a cup to Elder Li, their fingers brushing lightly, sending a subtle jolt through both of them.

Seated across from each other, their gazes locked in an unspoken understanding, Yue Xuan takes a deep breath, mustering his courage. "Elder Li, there's something I'd like to discuss with you," he begins, his voice gentle and earnest.

Elder Li leans forward, her curiosity piqued. "Please, go ahead," she encourages, her eyes fixed on Yue Xuan.

Yue Xuan's voice lowers, laced with a touch of vulnerability. "I've been contemplating a closer connection between us, one that goes beyond our roles as fellow cultivators. I believe our energies could harmonize in a unique way, aiding each other's growth. Elder Li, I'm wondering if you would consider becoming my partner."

Elder Li's breath catches in her throat, her heart pounding with a mix of surprise and anticipation. She takes a moment to gather her thoughts, her eyes searching his face for sincerity. "Yue Xuan, this is quite a proposal. Are you sure about this?"

Yue Xuan meets her gaze, his eyes filled with conviction. "I've thought about it extensively, Elder Li. I believe there's a connection between us, a synergy that could deepen our cultivation. I ask for your trust and openness to explore this path together."

Elder Li's lips curl into a soft smile, a blush spreading across her cheeks. "Yue Xuan, I've sensed that connection too. Let's embark on this journey together, nurturing our shared growth and discovering the depths of our potential."

Their fingers brush against each other, a gentle touch that signifies their mutual consent and understanding. The night unfolds with a delicate dance of exploration, as they merge their energies and embrace the union of their cultivation paths. Their connection is one of intimacy and trust, where each touch and breath carries a profound significance.

In the sanctuary of their shared experience, time seems to lose its grip as they delve into the realms of pleasure and spiritual connection. They discover new heights of sensation and reach a state of profound bliss, their energies intertwining in a dance that transcends the physical realm.

As they finished their cultivation session, Elder Li couldn't help but express her amazement. Her face flushed with a mix of excitement and satisfaction. "Yue Xuan, that was incredible," she confessed, her voice filled with genuine admiration. "I've never felt such purity and power in someone's essence before. Cultivating with you has elevated my cultivation to new heights. Thank you."

Yue Xuan smiled, appreciating her words. He was glad that their cultivation together had yielded positive results. The exchange of essences had not only deepened their connection but also contributed to their individual growth. It was a testament to their compatibility and the potential they held together.

Elder Li marveled at the newfound strength coursing through her meridians. She had never experienced such a rapid rise in cultivation before. The purity of Yue Xuan's essence seemed to have unlocked hidden potential within her, propelling her forward on her cultivation path. It was an extraordinary sensation that left her in awe of his abilities.

Curiosity sparked within Elder Li as she watched Yue Xuan sitting in the lotus position, his face serene and focused. There was an air of mystery surrounding him, and she couldn't help but feel intrigued by his profound cultivation techniques and breakthroughs. She positioned herself in front of him, observing his every move with genuine interest.

Time seemed to slow down as Yue Xuan delved deeper into his cultivation, his Qi surging and his inner energy expanding. The atmosphere around him crackled with power and anticipation. And then, in a moment of revelation, a surge of energy pulsed through him, marking his breakthrough to the Core Condenser realm.

Elder Li's eyes widened in astonishment. She had witnessed a cultivation breakthrough before, but Yue Xuan's progress was nothing short of remarkable. The speed at which he advanced left her baffled, recognizing his exceptional talent and untapped potential.

As Elder Li's gaze lingered upon Yue Xuan's figure, her thoughts echoed in her mind, acknowledging his exceptional nature. "He truly is a monster," she whispered to herself, awestruck by his unprecedented cultivation progress. None of her previous partners had ever displayed such an explosive rise in cultivation. The sheer magnitude of his growth left her both amazed and humbled, recognizing that it was solely his own power and potential that propelled him forward.

Her eyes drifted to the five beautiful moons floating gracefully behind him, their ethereal glow reflecting the depths of his cultivation. Activated by his breathing technique, they enhanced his visage, casting a gentle blue radiance that bathed her surroundings. The sight was simply astonishing, enveloping her in a serene and otherworldly ambiance.

In that moment, as she basked in the presence of this extraordinary individual, Elder Li couldn't help but be captivated by the enigma that was Yue Xuan. His talent, his determination, and his profound cultivation techniques stirred a profound sense of admiration within her.

As Elder Li gently slipped out of the room, careful not to disturb Yue Xuan in his deep state of cultivation, he remained immersed in his practice. A subtle movement caught his attention, and he gracefully opened one eye, glancing towards the direction she had departed.

A hint of intrigue flickered within Yue Xuan's gaze as he pondered her departure. 'What an interesting woman,' he mused to himself, appreciating her respectful consideration.

However, Yue Xuan's mind swiftly transitioned to a matter of equal importance. "I'm almost there," he acknowledged, a calculated smile playing on his lips. The imminent breakthrough in his cultivation was within reach, a culmination of his meticulous planning and tireless efforts.

Thoughts of Xiaoyu, resurfaced in his mind. Assessing the potential benefits of seeking her out, Yue Xuan weighed the potential knowledge and connections she might offer. His pragmatic nature dictated that gathering information and assessing every advantage would be crucial in his pursuit of power and influence.

"I should look up Xiaoyu," he decided, his voice filled with a resolute determination. His focus shifted back to his cultivation, harnessing the energies of the surrounding world with precise control.

As a soft yawn escaped his lips, Yue Xuan acknowledged the telltale signs of weariness. 'I should get some sleep,' he admitted to himself, his thoughts clear and pragmatic. Despite his remarkable progress and indomitable will, he recognized that even his current self was not immune to the limitations of physical exertion.