readitwithme

In the heart of a martial arts sect, Zhihui Xianjian, a character from a beloved novel, finds himself thrust into the role of a villainous master. Determined to rewrite his fate and that of his beloved disciple, Zhi Yong di Jun, Zhihui navigates a world where power and deception lurk in every shadow.

Faced with the humiliation of his disciple, Zhihui must tread carefully to maintain his authority without violating the sect's rules. As he confronts the healer and seeks out his wayward disciple, Zhi Yong, he must balance his desire for justice with the need to avoid drawing unwanted attention.

With tensions rising among the Peak Lords and the Sect Master, Zhihui seizes the opportunity to address the injustice done to his disciple. His calculated words and unwavering determination to uphold justice send shockwaves through the sect, challenging the status quo and laying the groundwork for a dramatic confrontation that will test loyalties and reshape the fate of all involved.

Once and twice

Later the two of them enter the next big chamber of the temple

Their first trial involves deciphering an ancient puzzle inscribed on the temple wall. The puzzle depicts the four classical elements:

Earth, Water, Fire, and Air, each represented by a distinct symbol. Intricate carvings surround each symbol, hinting at their interconnectedness and the balance they must achieve.

The symbols are arranged in a square pattern, each one glowing faintly. Surrounding the symbols are cryptic runes and images of nature: mountains for Earth, rivers for Water, flames for Fire, and clouds for Air. Zhi Yong and Ming Cheng examine the wall, noting the inscriptions that provide cryptic hints about the elements' relationships.

"We need to align these symbols in the correct order to unlock the path ahead," Zhi Yong says, studying the inscriptions closely. "The key lies in understanding how these elements interact with each other."

Ming Cheng nods, tracing the symbols with his fingers. "The inscriptions suggest that we must balance the elements according to their natural harmony," he observes. "Look here this carving shows a river nourishing the earth, while this one depicts wind fanning the flames."

Zhi Yong examines another section of the wall. "And here, the mountain stands tall against the wind, and fire transforms the land. We need to consider how each element supports or counters the others."

They work together, carefully rearranging the symbols based on their observations. They start with Earth, placing it in a position where it can be nourished by Water. Next, they position Water so that it flows towards Earth, indicating its nurturing role. Fire is placed in a way that it is both fanned by Air and transforming Earth. Finally, they align Air so that it both fuels Fire and is resisted by Earth.

After several attempts, the symbols align perfectly, and the runes surrounding them light up, glowing brighter with each correct placement. The ground beneath them rumbles, revealing a hidden staircase leading deeper into the temple.

As the staircase emerges, it reveals steps carved from ancient stone, leading down into a darkened passage. The air is cooler here, carrying a faint scent of damp earth and old stone. Torches along the walls ignite spontaneously, casting flickering light and guiding their way.

"We did it," Ming Cheng says, a note of satisfaction in his voice. "The path is open."

Zhi Yong nods, feeling a sense of accomplishment. "Let's proceed. We must be prepared for whatever comes next. The trials will only get harder from here."

They descend the staircase cautiously, the echoes of their footsteps mingling with the distant sounds of the temple. Each step takes them deeper into the heart of the ancient structure, closer to uncovering the secrets it holds and facing the challenges that lie ahead.

The success in solving the puzzle strengthens their resolve, and they brace themselves for the trials yet to come, knowing that their journey through the ancient temple is far from over.

ch 11 the puzzle of four elements