Phoenix Power: The True Colors of the Empress - Chapter 25. A mess.

Elder Ming Zhe watched the fawning expressions around him, relief washing over him. Wu’er, a young girl with exceptional talent for cultivation, should thrive here at the Lishan Sword Sect. He knew her potential – the future of the declining sect might rest on her shoulders. Regardless, Wu’er was destined for greatness, bringing glory to both herself and the sect.

“We’ve prepared a room for Wu’er, Elder Ming Zhe,” the Sect Master assured him, his voice brimming with eagerness. “New clothes are being tailored as we speak. We want her to feel welcome and adjust quickly.”

The Sect Master’s meticulous preparations put Elder Ming Zhe at ease. It was clear the man was finally taking things seriously.  “With such arrangements,” Elder Ming Zhe replied thoughtfully, offering a subtle mix of praise and critique, “I have no worries.”

The Sect Master visibly swelled with pride. Elder Ming Zhe’s approval, something he’d long craved, finally felt within reach. A wave of complex emotions washed over him.

Following Elder Ming Zhe’s instructions, the sect bustled with activity. Wu’er’s room, though not as grand as Luo Yue’s quarters, was undeniably luxurious. After showing her the room, Elder Ming Zhe felt a flicker of satisfaction. The Sect Master was finally showing some diligence.

Wu’er, used to her simple cave dwelling, was awestruck. The past few days had been overwhelming. Leaving the Dark Moon Forest exposed her to a world far vaster than she ever imagined. It was a universe her tiny forest home was just a speck of.

Excitement bubbled within her. This expansive world offered endless possibilities. This, she felt, was where she truly belonged, a place to carve her own path. Her eyes shone with anticipation and a deep appreciation for the beauty around her. A life filled with wonder awaited, and she knew it was all thanks to Elder Ming Zhe’s kindness.

With a deep bow of gratitude, Wu’er knelt before him. Elder Ming Zhe, who saw her as his own daughter, felt a pang in his chest. He gently raised her, a sincere look in his eyes. “From this day on,” he said, “you are a disciple of the Lishan Sword Sect. Remember your goals, cultivate diligently with your master, and never slack off. Do you understand?”

Wu’er nodded vigorously, her eyes filled with gratitude and determination. She was content.

Elder Ming Zhe felt a wave of relief. He’d always felt a special connection to Wu’er, a paternal bond that began back in the Dark Moon Forest.

Meanwhile, spurred by a desperate urgency, Cang Ling Ye raced on horseback towards the Dark Moon Forest. Six years had passed since he last visited. The forest itself seemed unchanged, the trees even more lush. But a faint scent of blood hung heavy in the air, hinting at a recent tragedy.

Dismounting in a flurry, Cang Ling Ye rushed into the forest, his heart pounding with worry. The thought of something happening to Wu’er filled him with dread.

He pressed on, heading straight for the cave etched in his memory from countless dreams. The wolves, familiar with his scent from years ago, showed no hostility.

As he neared the cave, a growing sense of dread filled him.  The scattered mess around the entrance spoke of a struggle.  A few wolves, those who recognized him, began to gather behind, their mournful howls echoing through the trees.

Reaching the cave, Cang Ling Ye found bloodstains, evidence of a fierce battle. The wolf pack’s numbers had dwindled significantly. Fear tightened his grip as he envisioned the worst.

Stepping inside the cave, he found only chaos, but no sign of Wu’er. It was a strange kind of relief. Her absence, though unsettling, offered a flicker of hope. Perhaps she was safe, somewhere else.