An Autumn Morning in Liancheng

After informing the Sect Leader of their departure, Yao Huaijin and Jun Qiguang set out on their journey to the Eclipse Realm. The realm's opening was set to occur near Liancheng, a prosperous town that bustled with activity as it prepared for the arrival of the New Year. Liancheng was adorned with festive decorations, its streets alive with vibrant lanterns, joyful sounds, and the rich aroma of holiday delicacies.

Jun Qiguang, who had visited Liancheng in his previous life, led the way to an inn with a secluded courtyard. The courtyard was spacious and serene, with tall trees whose leaves, now a mix of gold and crimson, rustled softly in the autumn breeze. A stone table surrounded by chairs sat in the centre, offering a perfect place to relax or meditate. The ground was covered with smooth pebbles, and the air was fragrant with the scent of fallen leaves.

The rooms within the courtyard were simple yet elegant. Each room was furnished with a large bed draped in soft linens, a wooden desk, and a comfortable chair by the window. The decor was understated, with warm wooden tones and traditional artwork adorning the walls, creating a peaceful and calming atmosphere.

As the waiter led them into the courtyard, he bowed respectfully and asked, "Cultivators, is there anything else that you need?"

Jun Qiguang shook his head slightly, replying, "No, that will be all."

The waiter bowed once more before quietly exiting the courtyard. Yao Huaijin, as silent as ever, simply walked toward one of the rooms and entered without a word. Jun Qiguang, finding nothing else to do, chose the adjacent room and settled in to meditate. The night passed quietly, the stillness of the inn a stark contrast to the lively town beyond its walls.

The next morning, Jun Qiguang stepped out of his room to find Yao Huaijin already awake and practising his sword techniques in the courtyard. It was a bright and beautiful autumn morning. The sun filtered through the trees, casting a warm, golden light across the courtyard. The leaves, in shades of amber and red, fluttered gently to the ground, creating a picturesque scene that felt almost ethereal.

In the midst of this tranquil setting, Yao Huaijin moved with the grace of an immortal. Using a simple branch as a makeshift sword, his movements were fluid, each stroke calculated and refined. His techniques were as beautiful as they were powerful, the air around him seemed to hum with the force of his practised strikes. Even with just a branch, the weight of his swordsmanship was palpable, each movement carrying the precision and discipline of a true master.

Jun Qiguang watched, captivated by the sight before him. He had encountered many sword cultivators in his pat life, both demonic and righteous, but none had ever displayed such mastery. Yao Huaijin's reputation was well deserved—his swordsmanship was unparalleled, blending beauty and strength in a way that left Jun Qiguang in awe.

As Yao Huaijin continued his practice, the usually reserved cultivator's hair became slightly dishevelled, and a faint flush appeared on his normally pale cheeks. Jun Qiguang found himself thinking that this subtle change made Yao Huaijin even more attractive, though he couldn't quite explain why. He was so lost in his thoughts that he didn't realize he had been staring until Yao Huaijin finished his practice, discarded the branch, and walked directly in front of him.

Jun Qiguang quickly composed himself and offered a polite greeting, "Master."

Yao Huaijin nodded in acknowledgement. Standing before him, Jun Qiguang realized that he was still a head shorter than Yao Huaijin, who looked down slightly as he spoke.

"Liancheng town is celebrating New Year's Eve today," Yao Huaijin said slowly. "You should go out and enjoy yourself."

Jun Qiguang hesitated for a moment before asking, "Is Master not planning to go out today?"

Yao Huaijin did not respond immediately, his gaze steady on Jun Qiguang, giving the younger cultivator a chance to add, "I heard there is a restaurant in Liancheng town that is extremely famous for its delicacies and sweet dishes. If Master allows, I would like to accompany Master to the restaurant."

Yao Huaijin looked at Jun Qiguang, his expression unreadable. After a brief moment, he turned and walked back to his room without saying a word.