The World Beyond

The days following the attack on our village were filled with hard work and sorrow as we mourned our losses and began rebuilding. Though we were a resilient people, the air was heavy with grief. My determination to avenge my parents and the villagers had only grown stronger.

With the village stable and on the path to recovery, I decided it was time to set out on my journey to seek power and bring justice to those who had wronged us. Before leaving, I sought out Elder Huang, who was overseeing the reconstruction efforts.

"Elder Huang, I've decided to set out on my journey," I told him. "I must become strong enough to avenge my parents and protect our village."

Elder Huang nodded solemnly. "I understand, Yuan Hailong. I have faith in your ability to grow stronger and uphold the honor of our village. Take this map," he said, handing me an old, worn parchment. "It will guide you through the lands beyond our village. Remember, knowledge is power."

I thanked him and unrolled the map, examining it closely. The village of Luoshan was situated on the outskirts of the Great Ming Kingdom, which itself was a part of the vast and powerful Heavenly Dragon Empire. To the east lay the Celestial Mountain Range, its towering peaks a natural border between the Great Ming Kingdom and its neighbors.

To the west, the vast Azure Sea stretched as far as the eye could see, its waters teeming with formidable sea beasts and countless hidden treasures. To the south, the Kingdom of Zephyr, famed for its skilled cultivators and rich spiritual veins, offered a wealth of opportunities for growth and learning.

To the north, the Great Ming Kingdom's capital, the City of Jade, stood tall and proud. At its heart, the Imperial Palace housed the Heavenly Dragon Emperor and his family, ruling over the vast empire with a benevolent yet firm hand. The city was a bustling hub of trade and cultivation, attracting people from all walks of life.

As I traced my fingers over the map, I imagined the vast world beyond Luoshan. The thought of the countless adventures, dangers, and opportunities that awaited me filled me with excitement and trepidation. I knew that the journey would not be easy, but I was prepared to face whatever challenges lay ahead.

I shared my plans with my fellow villagers, and they gathered around to bid me farewell. Their words of encouragement and support filled my heart with gratitude and resolve. Though I would miss them, I knew that I was embarking on this journey for their sake, as well as my own.

With a heavy heart and a determined spirit, I set out from Luoshan, my eyes fixed on the horizon. The world beyond awaited me, its secrets and wonders just waiting to be discovered. The path of a cultivator was long and treacherous, but I was ready to face it head-on.

I had sworn to rise through the Ninefold Celestial Realms and bring justice to the Black Moon Sect. As I left the familiar surroundings of my village behind, I took the first step on a journey that would change not only my destiny but the fate of the entire Heavenly Dragon Empire.