4 introductions I

Yue Wang Zhi slowly regained consciousness, his eyes blinking open to reveal a spacious room that struck a balance between simplicity and luxury. Soft daylight streamed through the sheer curtains, casting a warm glow on the polished wooden floors and tastefully decorated walls. The furnishings, though not as opulent as those in the Moon Palace, exuded an air of refined elegance.

As Yue Wang Zhi shifted on the comfortable bed, he noticed that he was covered by soft, silk sheets. A realization washed over him as he became aware of his nakedness underneath. Confusion mingled with a touch of embarrassment as he wondered where his robe had gone and how he had come to be in this unfamiliar place.

Just then, the door creaked open, and Xue Mingyu entered the room, carrying a stack of folded garments in her arms. She wore a gentle smile, though a faint blush colored her cheeks when she noticed Yue Wang Zhi's puzzled expression.

"Yue Wang Zhi, you're awake," she said, her voice soft and soothing. "Please excuse the absence of your robe. We had to remove it for your comfort and to tend to any injuries or ailments you might have had."

Yue Wang Zhi's cheeks warmed at the thought of others seeing him in such a vulnerable state. He quickly nodded his understanding, grateful for their care but also eager to regain some semblance of modesty.

Xue Mingyu approached the bed, her eyes averted respectfully as she laid the stack of clothes on a nearby chair. "I have brought you fresh garments to wear, suitable for your stay here," she explained. "Once you are ready, we can discuss matters and answer any questions you may have."

Yue Wang Zhi nodded gratefully, his mind still adjusting to the situation. "Thank you, Matriarch Xue Mingyu. I appreciate your thoughtfulness and assistance. The change of scenery and the simple yet comfortable surroundings are a welcome respite."

With a slight bow, Xue Mingyu took her leave, giving Yue Wang Zhi the privacy to dress and collect his thoughts. As he slipped into the clean and neatly folded attire, he couldn't help but feel a sense of anticipation and curiosity.

Dressed once more, Yue Wang Zhi took a moment to appreciate the contrast between the grandeur of the Moon Palace and the understated elegance of this room. It was a refreshing change, allowing him to experience the mortal realm in a different light.

'System?' In fear of the system having been an hallucination he tried to summon it. To his relief, the system popped up.

[What can I help you with master?]

'Where am I? What is this place?'

[...No information has been found about this realm. It has no connection to the Divine Heavens.]

'So I can't return then?'

[That is incorrect. There are multiple ways of travelling to the Divine Heavens, you can for example reach the divine void emepror realm, allowing you to create portals between worlds and using them. Or you can forcefully connect the Qi roots of this world to that of the Divine Heavens.]

'For all of which I am still too weak.'

[That is correct.]

As Yue Xuan emerged from the room, adjusting his attire, he caught sight of Xue Mingyu waiting just outside. Her presence exuded a calming aura, and he felt a sense of trust and comfort in her company. He gestured for her to enter, indicating that he was ready to hear her explanation.

Xue Mingyu stepped into the room, her gaze meeting his with a mix of concern and curiosity. She took a moment to compose herself before speaking. "Yue Xuan, I found you unconscious in the cave, covered in torn and bloodied robes. It seemed as though you had endured a great ordeal. Instinctively, I brought you here to ensure your well-being."

Yue Xuan nodded, appreciating her care and dedication. "I am grateful for your intervention, Xue Mingyu. Your kindness has not gone unnoticed."

Her eyes softened, and a small smile tugged at the corners of her lips. "It was the least I could do, considering the circumstances. As for your name, I took the liberty of introducing you as Yue Xuan. It seemed fitting, given the divine presence you emanate."

Yue Xuan paused, a flicker of recognition crossing his face. "Yue Xuan... It resonates with me. It was the name my father had wanted to give me. If it is the name you chose to introduce me by, then I shall embrace it as my own."

Xue Mingyu's smile grew, relieved that he accepted the name and the connection it held. "Yue Xuan, it suits you well. It is a name that carries a sense of grace and strength, befitting your extraordinary presence."

Yue Xuan's gaze met hers, a newfound determination glimmering in his eyes. "Thank you, Xue Mingyu. I shall honor the name Yue Xuan and strive to understand the path that has brought me here.

Xue Mingyu took a deep breath, her gaze unwavering as she prepared to share a weighty revelation. "Yue Xuan, there is something I must tell you. It is a prophecy that has been passed down through generations within the Forbidden Lotus Sect. According to the ancient texts, it foretells the arrival of a celestial being from another realm, bearing a divine aura and destined to bring about great change."

Yue Xuan's interest was piqued, and he listened attentively, sensing the gravity of her words. "What does the prophecy say, Xue Mingyu? How does it relate to me?"

"The prophecy speaks of a chosen one, known as the Moon Prince, who possesses a celestial aura and a power that surpasses mortal limits," Xue Mingyu explained. "It is believed that this Moon Prince will bring balance and harmony to our realm, and his arrival coincides with a time of great turmoil and upheaval."

Yue Xuan's brows furrowed as he processed the significance of the prophecy. "So, you believe that I am the one foretold in this prophecy? The Moon Prince?"

Xue Mingyu nodded solemnly. "Yes, Yue Xuan. Your arrival in this realm, your divine presence, and the circumstances surrounding it all align with the ancient prophecy. I cannot ignore the signs and the resonating power within you. You are the one we have been waiting for."

Yue Xuan took a deep breath, his gaze steady and determined. "Xue Mingyu, there is something I must confess to you. I am not from this mortal realm. I am a celestial being from the Nine Heavens, and my true home is the Moon Palace."

Xue Mingyu's eyes widened in astonishment, her mind trying to comprehend the magnitude of his revelation. "The Moon Palace... I have never heard of such a place. Yue Xuan, how did you end up here in the mortal realm?"

"I-I do not remember," Yue Xuan confessed, his voice tinged with a hint of frustration. It was not entirely true, for he did retain his memories and knowledge of being a celestial from the Moon Palace. But revealing his true origins could complicate matters and potentially put both him and Xue Mingyu at risk.

Xue Mingyu regarded him with a mixture of curiosity and concern. "Are you certain, Yue Xuan? You seemed so certain before. You spoke of the Moon Palace with such familiarity and conviction."

Yue Xuan hesitated for a moment, his eyes searching Xue Mingyu's face. He had to make a decision, one that would shape the path they would tread together. Taking a deep breath, he decided to trust her. "Xue Mingyu, I apologize for my earlier statement. The truth is, I am a celestial being from the Moon Palace. My memories remain intact, and I have knowledge that surpasses the mortal realm. The Moon Palace exists in a celestial realm, far removed from the mortal realm. It is a place of immense power and ancient wisdom. But I implore you, keep this knowledge a secret. Revealing my true nature could attract unwanted attention and endanger both of us.

"I must confess, Xue Mingyu," Yue Xuan began, his voice filled with a tinge of sorrow, "my dantians were crushed by a malevolent figure. It was an act of cruelty intended to cripple me and sever my connection to the celestial realm. However, through a miraculous turn of events, my dantians were restored, albeit at a much lower cultivation realm than before."

Xue Mingyu gasped, her eyes widening in disbelief. "To think that someone would commit such an atrocious act. How can I help you, Yue Xuan? Is there anything I can do to aid in your recovery?"

Yue Xuan's cheeks flushed slightly, a mix of gratitude and shyness coursing through him. "Xue Mingyu, your offer is truly touching. But for now, all I ask is for your continued support and companionship. The path to regaining my former strength is arduous and filled with challenges, but with you by my side, I know I can overcome them."

Xue Mingyu nodded, her eyes gleaming with determination. "You can count on me, Yue Xuan. I will stand by your side every step of the way. Together, we will find a way to restore your cultivation and bring justice to those who harmed you."

Yue Xuan smiled gratefully at her unwavering loyalty. "Thank you, Xue Mingyu. Your unwavering faith in me gives me strength. When the time is right, I promise to share with you the details of how you can assist me."

"Yue Xuan, now that you have awakened and our secrets are shared, it is time for you to be introduced to the sect," Xue Mingyu said with determination. "Come with me, and I will present you as a valued member of the Forbidden Lotus Sect."

Yue Xuan nodded, gratitude evident in his eyes. He followed Xue Mingyu as they made their way through the sect, attracting curious gazes from disciples along the way. Their whispers filled the air, speculating about the mysterious newcomer who had captured the Matriarch's attention.

In the grand hall of the sect, disciples gathered, awaiting the Matriarch's arrival. Xue Mingyu stepped forward.

"Attention, everyone. I am pleased to introduce Yue Xuan," Xue Mingyu announced, her voice resonating with authority. The disciples' murmurs quieted, their eyes fixed upon the Matriarch and the enigmatic newcomer by her side. "Yue Xuan is not only a remarkable individual, but he will also be assuming the role of an Elder within our sect."

The grand hall fell into a stunned silence. The disciples exchanged bewildered glances, unable to comprehend the magnitude of the announcement. The mention of an Elder position for Yue Xuan sent shockwaves through their ranks.

As the news sank in, the atmosphere in the hall shifted. The boys' eyes narrowed with envy and suspicion, their egos bruised by the sudden rise of this unknown outsider. Some of the girls couldn't help but swoon at Yue Xuan's captivating presence, his aura of mystery and strength stirring their hearts. However, a few girls, their expressions tinged with reluctance, glanced at him with caution and unease.

Meanwhile, among the sect's elders, astonishment and hostility brewed. They had expected to witness the introduction of a new disciple or a junior member, not the ascension of an outsider to the esteemed position of an Elder. Whispers and disapproving glances were exchanged among the elders, their status and influence challenged by this unforeseen development.

Yue Xuan, aware of the mixed reactions, maintained his composure, though a flicker of determination gleamed in his eyes. He understood the challenges that lay ahead and the resistance he would face. It was crucial for him to prove his worth and dispel any doubts surrounding his qualifications.

With a measured voice, he addressed the disciples and elders alike. "I am humbled to be bestowed with the responsibility of an Elder within the Forbidden Lotus Sect. I assure you all that I will uphold the sect's values and work tirelessly to contribute to its growth and prosperity. I seek your guidance and support as we embark on this journey together."

His words resonated with earnestness, but he knew that winning the trust and acceptance of the disciples and elders would not be an easy task. However, he was determined to prove himself through his actions, demonstrating his dedication and unwavering resolve.

As the hall erupted into a mixture of whispers, skeptical glances, and subdued applause, Yue Xuan stood tall, ready to face the challenges that awaited him. The path ahead was treacherous, but he was prepared to navigate the intricate web of politics, earn the respect of his peers, and rise above the hostility that simmered beneath the surface.