One month had passed since the intense sparring session atop the jagged peaks of the Azure Cloud Sect's outer mountains. Lingxuan and Wei Tianyu had spent every waking hour refining their movements, strengthening their muscles, and mastering the flow of qi within their bodies. The early excitement of discovery had matured into disciplined dedication, each step, each strike, each breath now measured and purposeful.
The morning air was crisp and still, as if the mountains themselves were holding their breath. Lingxuan stretched lightly, feeling the familiar hum of qi coursing through his body. His muscles were stronger, his movements more fluid, and his mind sharper. He glanced at Tianyu, who sat cross-legged, eyes closed, focusing intently on the currents of energy inside him.
"Today," Lingxuan said quietly, "we attempt to break through."
Tianyu opened one eye, a flicker of nervousness mixed with determination in his gaze. "You really think we're ready? What if… what if we fail?"
Lingxuan shook his head, a calm smile on his lips. "The breakthrough is not just about raw strength. It's about focus, patience, and understanding your own qi. We've trained for this moment. We just need to let our energy guide us."
From the edge of the training plateau, their master observed silently, the corners of his lips curving into a faint smile. "Lingxuan, Tianyu… the time has come to advance to the Foundation Establishment Realm. This step will solidify your cultivation and mark your entry into true martial potential. Focus your mind, feel the qi in your body, and allow it to harmonize completely."
The master's words carried authority, but also reassurance. Lingxuan nodded and closed his eyes, allowing his mind to quiet. He began by sensing the qi in his body—the subtle vibrations of energy that had become second nature to him after months of rigorous training.
The Foundation Establishment Realm, or 'Foundation Establishment', was the first true step beyond basic cultivation. It was not merely physical strength or technique—it was the consolidation of one's energy into a stable, self-sustaining foundation. In this realm, a cultivator's qi became dense and focused, forming the core of their future potential. The stronger and purer the foundation, the higher the realms one could eventually reach.
Lingxuan drew in a slow, deep breath, visualizing the flow of energy within him. From the tips of his fingers to the soles of his feet, qi surged, moving in perfect circles, harmonizing with every muscle, bone, and nerve. He felt it pooling in his dantian, a concentrated sphere of energy that radiated warmth and power.
Tianyu mirrored his actions, eyes closed, focusing on the inner currents. "Flow… circulate… balance…" he whispered to himself, repeating the instructions the master had given countless times.
The master's voice broke the silence, calm yet commanding. "Foundation Establishment is not a passive state. Your energy must become like a river: steady, unbroken, adaptable. Do not force it, but do not hesitate. Let it flow, let it consolidate, and let it form the foundation of your body and spirit."
Lingxuan's mind entered a state of profound concentration. Months of training, sparring, and physical conditioning converged into this moment. He visualized his qi as molten light, swirling, coiling, and compressing in his core. He felt the currents respond, strengthening, thickening, yet remaining supple. Each pulse of energy was measured, deliberate, a heartbeat of raw potential.
Tianyu's qi began to vibrate visibly, a faint aura of golden light surrounding him as he focused. He struggled at first, his breaths ragged, his mind wavering under the weight of concentrated energy. Lingxuan felt the subtle tremor in his companion, but a reassuring hand on Tianyu's shoulder helped ground him. "Focus," Lingxuan whispered. "Your qi is your ally. Let it guide you, don't fight it."
Minutes stretched into an hour. The mountain winds howled softly, stirring the leaves, echoing the inner turbulence of the two disciples' cultivation. Qi flowed faster, more densely, coiling like a living thing within their bodies. Lingxuan felt it surging upward through his limbs, then folding back into his core. Each contraction and expansion felt like waves of power reshaping his very being.
The master watched silently, his eyes sharp, analyzing every fluctuation in their qi. Lingxuan's energy was unusual—resonant, adaptive, almost instinctive. Tianyu's flow, though strong, remained slightly rigid, requiring Lingxuan's guidance and his own perseverance to stabilize.
A sharp exhalation escaped Lingxuan as he felt the first tremor of the breakthrough—a subtle yet undeniable sensation of energy solidifying within his dantian. "It's starting," he murmured, eyes still closed. "The foundation is forming."
Tianyu's eyes widened. "I… I feel it too!" The energy surged within him, a wave of heat and power that left him momentarily breathless. His body shook slightly as his qi began to stabilize, forming a coherent sphere of concentrated energy at the core of his being.
The master's voice carried across the plateau once more. "Do not panic. Let the energy settle naturally. The breakthrough is a test of patience as much as strength. Control, balance, and understanding must guide you."
Lingxuan opened his eyes slightly, feeling the dense core of qi within him. The sensation was unlike anything he had experienced in the previous realms of training. It was heavy, yet flexible; forceful, yet controlled. His muscles no longer strained—they responded instinctively to his mind, each movement guided by the concentrated energy at his core.
Tianyu's aura flared brightly, his energy stabilizing after a moment of chaotic surges. "I… I did it!" he exclaimed, a mix of exhaustion and exhilaration in his voice.
Lingxuan smiled faintly, a quiet sense of pride swelling within him. "Good… you've done well. Keep it steady now. Let the foundation solidify completely."
The master descended to stand beside them, observing the transformation. "Lingxuan, Tianyu… congratulations. You have successfully entered the Foundation Establishment Realm. Lingxuan, your progress is remarkable—you have formed a stable, dense core of qi in such a short period. Tianyu, your perseverance and adaptation are equally commendable."
Lingxuan's body felt invigorated, the energy inside him humming like a living entity. He flexed his fingers, feeling the qi respond instantly, radiating through his arms and legs with precise, controlled force. Every muscle, tendon, and nerve was enhanced by the concentrated energy within.
"The Foundation Establishment Realm," the master continued, "is the first true step toward higher cultivation. Here, your body becomes a vessel, your qi a foundation for future techniques. A strong foundation allows faster absorption of techniques, greater control of energy, and resilience in the face of adversity. It is the cornerstone of all martial potential."
Tianyu nodded, wiping sweat from his brow, his chest rising and falling rapidly as he adjusted to the dense energy inside him. "It's… overwhelming, but I can feel my body responding… stronger, faster, sharper."
Lingxuan's eyes glinted with excitement. "Yes… this is incredible. I never imagined that consolidating qi could feel like this. It's… as if every cell in my body is awake, every fiber of my being humming in tune with the world around me."
The master placed a hand on Lingxuan's shoulder, his expression softening. "Lingxuan, you've done well. But remember—Foundation Establishment is only the beginning. Your qi is stabilized, your foundation formed, but it will require continuous cultivation, refinement, and testing. Do not grow complacent. The true measure of your potential will come from how you utilize this foundation in combat, training, and the challenges ahead."
Lingxuan nodded, a serene determination settling over him. "I understand, Master. I will continue to refine my foundation, deepen my understanding of qi, and prepare for the next step."
Tianyu sat beside him, his own energy glowing faintly as it stabilized fully within his body. "Lingxuan… it's amazing. I feel like I can push further now, stronger than before. I… I want to see how far we can go."
The master's gaze softened, a rare smile forming. "That desire to push forward is commendable, Tianyu. It will serve you well. But never forget—strength without control leads to ruin. Foundation Establishment gives you power, but wisdom and patience will guide its proper use."
As the sun climbed higher, bathing the mountains in warm light, Lingxuan and Tianyu practiced further, testing their new foundation, moving through martial forms with a newfound ease. Each strike, block, and step was smoother, more responsive, powered by the dense, stable qi that now formed the heart of their cultivation.
Lingxuan glanced at Tianyu. "We've come far in just one month. But I can feel there's so much more waiting for us… techniques, challenges, even power we haven't imagined yet."
Tianyu grinned, exhaustion mixed with exhilaration. "Then let's face it together. Now that we've broken through, nothing can stop us."
The master observed silently, his eyes reflecting both pride and anticipation. The two disciples had achieved a milestone that few could reach in such a short time. Yet he knew this was only the beginning—the Foundation Establishment Realm was the stepping stone to greater mastery, greater power, and challenges that would test every ounce of their determination.
Lingxuan's hair fluttered in the breeze as he inhaled deeply, feeling the energy within him pulse with life. The path of cultivation stretched endlessly before him, a journey of strength, discipline, and discovery. And with his foundation solidified, he was ready to walk it—one step, one breath, one technique at a time.
The master's voice echoed softly across the training grounds as the sun rose high over the Azure Cloud Sect's mountains. "Lingxuan, Tianyu… you have performed admirably. The breakthrough to Foundation Establishment is a significant milestone. For the next few days, I will give you time to rest and enjoy yourselves. You have earned it."
Lingxuan's body relaxed instinctively, a rare smile gracing his face. Months of rigorous training, countless hours of physical and qi refinement, had culminated in this moment. A few days of rest felt like a treasure.
Tianyu's eyes lit up with excitement. He turned to Lingxuan, nudging him playfully. "Hey, Lingxuan! Let's go explore the city! We've been stuck in training for so long, it'll be nice to see the town's festival and street markets."
Lingxuan chuckled softly, brushing his hair back. "You're right. It's been a while since we've had a proper break. A little walk won't hurt."
The journey to the city was filled with a rare sense of freedom. The streets were bustling with activity, the air fragrant with the scent of street food, incense, and freshly baked goods. Children ran through the alleyways chasing colorful lanterns, merchants shouted to advertise their wares, and the melodic notes of street performers drifted through the air.
Tianyu clasped Lingxuan's shoulder enthusiastically. "Look at all of this! I've missed it. Come on, let's wander through the market. We can sample the food, check out the artifacts, maybe even buy something fun."
Lingxuan followed with a smile, letting the sights, sounds, and smells envelop him. The city's energy was infectious; the people's laughter and joy reminded him of simpler times before the rigorous discipline of cultivation had consumed his every day. It was liberating—an unexpected luxury after months of hardship.
Soon, they arrived at a quaint street lined with wooden stalls. Steam rose from clay pots, and the aroma of roasting meats and freshly cooked dumplings filled the air. Tianyu's eyes sparkled with excitement. "Lingxuan, come on! Let's get something to eat. There's a famous eatery here that serves all sorts of delicacies."
Lingxuan nodded, following his friend into the warm interior of the eatery. The chatter of patrons, the clatter of utensils, and the savory scents of cooking surrounded them.
As Lingxuan scanned the room, his eyes caught a familiar figure sitting across the hall. A young man with striking features—sharp jawline, piercing eyes, and an aura of confidence that made him seem almost otherworldly. Lingxuan's heart skipped a beat. He froze momentarily, recognizing the figure immediately.
It was none other than Xuan Yue, the protagonist of the very novel he had been reading—the legendary cultivator whose deeds had inspired awe in countless readers. His hair, a cascade of jet-black strands, shimmered in the soft light of the room, and his posture exuded effortless elegance. Lingxuan blinked, momentarily forgetting where he was.
He muttered under his breath, shaking his head slightly. "Xuan Yue… but he's the protagonist. He's not a problem for me… I'm Lingxuan. I have my own path. His existence doesn't matter."
Tianyu, oblivious to Lingxuan's inner thoughts, tugged at his sleeve. "Hey! Come on, sit here. Let's grab a table before it gets crowded."
Lingxuan followed, taking a seat at a wooden table near the window. Tianyu leaned over the menu, scanning it eagerly. "There's so much to choose from… dumplings, roasted meat skewers, braised fish, stir-fried vegetables. Ah, and they even have those honey-glazed buns you love!"
Lingxuan nodded, his appetite stirred after the months of strict discipline and limited meals. "Alright… let's get a little of everything."
The waiter arrived promptly, a middle-aged man with a warm smile. Tianyu began ordering with enthusiasm. "Two portions of dumplings, three skewers of roasted lamb, a whole braised fish, stir-fried seasonal vegetables, and two honey-glazed buns. And… two bowls of hot rice, please!"
Lingxuan leaned back, letting the aroma of food envelop him. The warmth of the room, combined with the bustling energy of the city and the tantalizing scent of freshly cooked dishes, created a rare sense of peace. He felt his shoulders loosen, the tension from months of training melting away.
As the food arrived, Tianyu's excitement was palpable. He grabbed a skewer of roasted lamb, taking a big bite and letting out a satisfied hum. "Ah… this is amazing! You've got to try it, Lingxuan."
Lingxuan picked up a dumpling, steam rising from the delicate wrapper. He took a careful bite, the savory filling exploding with flavor. A small smile formed on his lips. "This… is really good."
Tianyu laughed, clapping him on the back. "See? I told you! After all that training, you deserve a little indulgence. Eat up, Lingxuan. We've earned this."
Lingxuan's gaze wandered briefly toward Xuan Yue again, who was now laughing with companions at another table. His expression was thoughtful, almost detached. "He's handsome… impressive, as expected of the protagonist. But he's not my concern. My path… my cultivation… that's what matters."
Tianyu, noticing Lingxuan's lingering gaze, nudged him lightly. "Hey, stop spacing out! Focus on the food—look at this fish, perfectly braised, and these buns… come on, enjoy it!"
Lingxuan chuckled softly, returning his attention to the dishes in front of him. The dumplings, skewers, vegetables, and fish were arranged artfully, steam rising in delicate curls. He took a bite of the braised fish, savoring the tender meat and savory sauce, then a skewer of lamb, each bite filling him with warmth and satisfaction.
Tianyu, ever enthusiastic, recounted stories from his own past as they ate. "Remember that time we tried climbing the western cliff? I thought we'd never make it, and now look at us—we've broken through Foundation Establishment, and we're sitting here eating like kings!"
Lingxuan laughed, nodding. "Yes… it's been a long journey. I can hardly believe how far we've come in just a few months."
The two friends ate leisurely, savoring not just the food but the simple joy of being away from training, from mountains, from the weight of constant cultivation. The city outside continued its lively rhythm, merchants calling out, children laughing, and the aroma of street food wafting through the air.
As Lingxuan finished his honey-glazed bun, he leaned back, letting out a contented sigh. "Tianyu… this… this is the kind of life I've been missing. Peaceful moments like this… they remind me why we cultivate. Not just for power, but for moments like these."
Tianyu grinned, leaning back in his chair. "Exactly! And just think—we have a few days of this. We can walk around, explore, taste everything, and relax. After this… training will resume, but for now, let's just enjoy ourselves."
Lingxuan nodded, his thoughts momentarily drifting to his unique abilities, the potential within his qi, and the path ahead. But for now, he allowed himself to be fully present—in the warmth of the eatery, the flavor of the dishes, and the simple joy of companionship.
Xuan Yue remained at his distant table, the protagonist of the novel Lingxuan had once read, a fleeting reminder of the world he had entered. Lingxuan allowed the thought to pass without attachment. His path was his own, built on perseverance, discipline, and the lessons he had learned through training and breakthrough.
Tianyu clapped his hands together. "Alright, Lingxuan, one last bite of those buns, and then we can explore the festival! There are lanterns, street performers, and… oh, I heard there's a contest to test one's reflexes with a wooden dummy. You have to try it!"
Lingxuan chuckled, finishing the last of his bun. "Lead the way. I'm ready."
The two friends rose from their table, bellies full, hearts light, and spirits high. They stepped back into the lively streets of the city, the chatter, laughter, and clamor enveloping them. Lanterns swayed gently in the breeze, music drifted from nearby performers, and the scents of countless delicacies lingered in the air.
For the first time in months, Lingxuan felt not just powerful, but free. The Foundation Establishment breakthrough had strengthened his body, his qi, and his resolve. But moments like this—simple, joyful, and fleeting—reminded him why the journey mattered. Cultivation was not just about strength, but also about living fully, appreciating the peace that could be carved out even in a turbulent world.
And as they walked side by side through the city, laughing and sharing stories, Lingxuan allowed himself a rare moment of contentment. For now, the future could wait. Today, they were simply two friends enjoying a well-deserved respite.
The streets of the city were alive with color and sound. Lanterns swayed gently in the morning breeze, casting a soft, golden glow over the cobblestones. The air was filled with laughter, the rhythmic beats of drums, and the faint scent of roasted meats and sweet pastries. It was a festival day—a rare occasion where townspeople celebrated the changing seasons and honored local deities with music, games, and food.
Lingxuan and Wei Tianyu walked side by side, their expressions relaxed and content. For months, their lives had revolved around training, refinement, and cultivation. Now, for the first time in weeks, they could simply enjoy themselves.
"Look at that!" Tianyu exclaimed, pointing toward a crowd gathered around a small wooden stage. Performers in colorful attire twirled flaming batons and performed acrobatics, eliciting gasps and applause from the onlookers. "This is incredible. I haven't seen anything like this in ages."
Lingxuan nodded, his sharp eyes taking in every detail. The performers moved with precision, their movements perfectly timed to the rhythm of drums. He felt a subtle thrill as he watched, noticing the flow of energy within their motions, the way their steps resonated with balance and momentum. Even in leisure, his mind analyzed patterns instinctively.
Tianyu's excitement was infectious. "Come on! Let's try some of the festival games. There's one over there—a reflex challenge with a wooden dummy. Whoever hits the target fastest wins a prize."
Lingxuan allowed himself a small smile. "Alright… let's see how well you've trained your reflexes."
They approached the wooden dummy, a tall figure mounted on a rotating base, with colored targets attached to its limbs. A cheerful attendant greeted them. "Welcome! Test your speed and precision! Strike the targets accurately and quickly, and you might win a prize!"
Tianyu's eyes gleamed. "You ready, Lingxuan? Let's see who's faster!"
Lingxuan shrugged lightly, taking a proper stance. "Don't underestimate me. I've been training my body and qi; even a simple test like this shouldn't be too difficult."
The attendant clapped his hands. "On my mark… three… two… one… begin!"
Tianyu struck first, his hands moving in a blur, hitting target after target with speed and force. Each strike was precise, his movements honed from months of sparring and qi cultivation. Lingxuan followed, letting his energy flow naturally into his strikes.
At first glance, it appeared even—both moving swiftly, both hitting targets cleanly. But Lingxuan's movements carried something more subtle: the flow of qi enhancing his reflexes, anticipating the rotation of the dummy before it occurred. He adjusted each strike mid-motion, energy channeling through his arms and legs seamlessly, turning the simple game into an elegant dance of precision.
Tianyu's strikes were strong, impressive, but Lingxuan's technique felt effortless, smooth, almost as if the wooden dummy anticipated his attacks. Each target clicked with perfect timing as Lingxuan's final strike landed. The crowd gasped.
"You… completed it faster than anyone I've seen!" the attendant exclaimed, bowing respectfully. "You win the prize!"
Lingxuan raised an eyebrow, a small smirk forming on his lips. "It was just a game."
Tianyu laughed, clapping him on the shoulder. "Just a game? Lingxuan, you made it look like you were performing a full martial form! I can barely keep up with you!"
Lingxuan shrugged, feeling a quiet thrill. Even in moments of leisure, his body and qi responded instinctively. This realization stirred a mix of excitement and contemplation within him. Perhaps his cultivation was advancing faster than he realized—his body now responding naturally to even casual challenges.
After the reflex contest, they wandered further into the festival. Stalls lined the streets, offering everything from hand-crafted trinkets to steaming bowls of spicy noodles. Children ran about with painted faces, vendors called out in cheerful tones, and the faint scent of incense lingered in the air.
Tianyu pointed to a stall laden with vibrant pastries. "Lingxuan! Look at these! Sweetened bean buns, honey-glazed buns, fried sesame pastries… I vote we try one of everything!"
Lingxuan chuckled, nodding. "Lead the way. After all, we've earned it."
They sampled pastries and snacks, laughing as they compared flavors. Lingxuan noticed how the simple act of eating, savoring, and walking freely allowed his qi to flow more evenly. The foundation established during the recent breakthrough felt more integrated—his energy moving smoothly through every limb, his body reacting instinctively to balance and motion.
As they moved past a crowd gathering near a large fountain, Lingxuan caught sight of a familiar figure once more: Xuan Yue, the protagonist of the novel Lingxuan had read. Xuan Yue was surrounded by admirers, his presence commanding attention without effort. His sharp gaze seemed to sweep the crowd effortlessly, and his aura radiated a natural confidence that drew everyone's eyes.
Lingxuan's initial reaction was a flicker of surprise, quickly replaced by calm acceptance. "It doesn't matter," he muttered under his breath. "He's from the story I read. My path is my own. His existence won't interfere with mine."
Tianyu, unaware of Lingxuan's thoughts, tugged at his sleeve. "Hey! Don't just stand there staring—come see this! There's a game where you throw rings onto small figurines. Whoever lands the most wins a prize!"
Lingxuan smiled faintly and followed. "Alright… let's give it a try."
The ring toss proved challenging, yet Lingxuan's movements were precise. His eyes calculated angles and distances instinctively, his qi subtly enhancing his coordination and focus. With each toss, a satisfying clink echoed as the rings landed perfectly around the figurines. Tianyu, trying to match him, missed several throws despite his strength, earning a playful grin from Lingxuan.
"See? Even in fun, practice pays off," Lingxuan said, laughing softly.
After the ring toss, they wandered toward a stall selling fresh fruit and delicacies. Tianyu's enthusiasm was infectious as he pointed to a steaming tray of skewered roasted meat. "Lingxuan, I'm telling you, we HAVE to try these. The aroma alone is irresistible!"
Lingxuan nodded, allowing the tantalizing scent to guide him. They purchased several skewers, along with small bowls of seasoned rice and vegetables. Sitting on a nearby bench, they began to eat, letting the flavors linger and savoring each bite.
Lingxuan's mind wandered briefly. He thought about how different this was from the rigors of cultivation—the freedom, the joy, the simplicity. And yet, even here, he could feel the subtle rhythm of his qi, flowing effortlessly through his body, enhancing his balance, reflexes, and even the way he handled the skewers in his hands.
"Lingxuan," Tianyu said softly, breaking him from his reverie. "I'm glad we came here. Training is important, but… these moments, this happiness… it's just as important."
Lingxuan nodded, a serene smile spreading across his face. "I know. After all we've endured, it's nice to simply live and enjoy life, even for a little while."
The sun began to dip lower in the sky, painting the city in warm hues of gold and orange. Lanterns flickered to life, casting soft glows along the streets. The festival's energy seemed to grow with the evening, music and laughter filling every corner. Lingxuan felt a rare sense of peace—one that resonated not just with his body or qi, but with his very spirit.
Tianyu leaned back, eyes sparkling with excitement. "Tomorrow, we can try the archery contest! Or maybe the boat race on the river. There's so much to do, Lingxuan. We can't waste a single moment."
Lingxuan chuckled, watching the lanterns sway in the evening breeze. "Agreed… let's make the most of it. Foundation Establishment is just the beginning, but for now, I'll enjoy this moment fully."
And so, as night fell and lanterns flickered, the two friends wandered deeper into the festival, their laughter mingling with the city's sounds. For the first time in months, Lingxuan felt completely alive—not just as a cultivator, but as a young man discovering joy in the world around him.
Even amidst the bustling crowd, the taste of roasted meats and sweets, and the flickering lanterns, Lingxuan's mind remained sharp, his body attuned, his qi flowing smoothly—a subtle reminder that even in leisure, his cultivation journey continued, quietly strengthening him for the challenges yet to come.
Lingxuan and Wei Tianyu continued walking along the bustling city streets, the sun beginning to sink, painting the sky with shades of golden orange. The festival was in full swing, music, laughter, and cheers filling the air.
Suddenly, Lingxuan noticed a group of women approaching a figure who stood out in the crowd—the MC from the novel he had read. They smiled sweetly, their gazes filled with admiration and fascination. Lingxuan observed briefly, his expression calm.
"MC will always be MC," he murmured to himself. He didn't mention the name, because for Lingxuan, it had no impact whatsoever on his own path. That figure was merely a character from an old story, while his life now was entirely his own.
Wei Tianyu, noticing Lingxuan's momentary distraction, smiled and patted his shoulder. "Come on, enough staring. Let's take a break and get something to drink. Our bodies need some refreshment after all this walking and festival excitement."
Lingxuan nodded lightly, following Tianyu through the crowd to a small, cozy teahouse. The place wasn't crowded; the aroma of herbal tea and traditional pastries filled the air, creating a warm and relaxing atmosphere.
They sat at a wooden table in the corner, where the soft glow of lanterns illuminated their faces. Tianyu quickly ordered two cups of warm tea and a few small, delicious-looking sweets.
Lingxuan sipped his tea slowly, feeling the warmth spread through his body. His qi felt more balanced, flowing evenly through his limbs, stabilizing his body and mind. He relished the moment, far removed from the heavy training and the pressure to constantly improve.
Tianyu smiled, enjoying his own tea. "Lingxuan, sometimes we need moments like this. It's not just training and breakthroughs that matter—our mind and body need rest too. If we're exhausted, qi can't flow properly."
Lingxuan nodded, gazing into his cup. "I understand… although I always want to get stronger, there are times to simply enjoy life. Especially after all the training and breakthroughs we've achieved."
Tianyu laughed lightly. "See, even you are starting to appreciate the simple things. That means you've truly changed—not just in strength, but in perspective."
Lingxuan gave a faint smile, taking another sip of tea. Outside, the sounds of the festival continued, yet inside the teahouse, time seemed to slow. He could feel his heartbeat, sense the flow of qi in his body, and for a moment, there was no pressure, no battles—only simple peace.
The two friends sat, enjoying their drinks while sharing stories of their training, past experiences, and small plans for the few days of rest. Lingxuan felt a warm sense of companionship with Tianyu—a genuine friendship that was rare in the harsh world of cultivation.
"Tomorrow," Tianyu said with a bright smile, "we can try all the other festival games. I heard there's an archery contest, boat races, even a precision strike challenge. I'm curious how well you'll do."
Lingxuan smiled faintly, looking out the teahouse window toward the lantern-lit street. "Perhaps. But for now… I just want to enjoy this moment. Just for a while, without thinking about training or power."
Tianyu nodded, realizing that his friend was truly learning to balance ambition with life. "Alright… just for a while. After that, training can resume, but now, let's enjoy this tea."
Lingxuan finished his tea, feeling the rare sense of calm he rarely experienced in the cultivation world. He knew the journey had just begun, challenges awaited, and greater power still needed to be earned. But for these few hours, he was simply Lingxuan—no pressure, no MC from the novel looming over him, only simple peace and warm friendship.
With a faint smile, Lingxuan looked at Tianyu. "Thank you, Tianyu. I'm glad you're here. This world may be harsh and full of battles, but there are still moments like this."
Tianyu chuckled lightly. "That's only the beginning. This festival is just a small part of what we can enjoy. You'll learn, Lingxuan, that strength is important… but the ability to enjoy life is just as vital."
They drank the last of their tea, letting the warmth spread, while the festival outside continued in full swing. Night deepened, and Lingxuan felt his body more refreshed, his mind calmer, and his heart lighter.
That day reminded Lingxuan: although the cultivation world was filled with danger, rivalry, and ambition, there was still space for peace, friendship, and simple happiness. Something that couldn't be gained through power or fame alone, but had to be sought and cherished wisely.
As night fell and lanterns flickered, the two friends wandered deeper into the festival, their laughter mingling with the sounds of the city. For the first time in months, Lingxuan felt fully alive—not just as a cultivator, but as a young man discovering joy in the world around him.
Even amidst the bustling crowd, the aromas, and the flickering lanterns, Lingxuan's mind remained sharp, his body attuned, his qi flowing smoothly—a subtle reminder that even in leisure, his cultivation journey continued, quietly strengthening him for the challenges yet to come.