Chapter 12: The Trail of the Gray Mouse

Beneath the White Willow Tree's shelter, Yun felt a soothing stream coursing through him after a night of cultivation—the lingering power of the Serpent Immortal. Morning light filtered through the leaves, casting a divine glow on his new journey.

Guided by Lord Liu Bai Zhuang, Yun sought the Gray Mouse Immortal. He traversed towns, hills, until he reached the desolate Endless Sandland. Its reputation for vastness and treacherous sandstorms preceded it.

Standing at its edge, Yun gazed at the endless expanse, nerves tingling. With a deep breath and adjustments to his attire, he pressed on.

As he ventured deeper, winds whipped up sand, stinging like needles. Undeterred, Yun scanned for signs of the Gray Mouse Fairy.

Hours passed before Yun spotted peculiar paw prints beneath a weathered rock. Unlike ordinary rodents, these were sharp, imbued with Immortal power. Heart racing, he inspected them, sensing their faint spiritual essence.

Suddenly, a sandstorm engulfed him, limiting visibility. Relying on his senses, Yun felt a surge of killing intent.

Prepared, he conjured a spiritual ball, ready for combat. Within the sandstorm, gleaming eyes met his—a massive sand scorpion poised to strike.

Recognizing the trial, Yun dodged its assault, countering with a spiritual strike. The scorpion fell, defeated.

Ever vigilant, Yun pressed forward. Behind a dune, he unearthed a jade slip emitting a mystical glow—the Gray Mouse Immortal's clue.

With reverence, Yun examined it, feeling its potent energy. Seated, he immersed himself in its mysteries, absorbing the immortal's wisdom and resilience.

As he emerged from his trance, night had fallen. Tucking away the jade, Yun resumed his quest. Challenges awaited, but he was determined to face them head-on.