Dream by the river

As Xiao walked back to the elder's hut, the air grew cooler, and the village settled into a peaceful rhythm. The path meandered alongside the river, its gentle flow providing a soothing backdrop.

As he rounded a bend, he saw the same warrior he had noticed earlier, clad in ethereal armor that glowed faintly in the twilight. The warrior was practicing his swordsmanship with an elegance that seemed almost otherworldly.

Xiao stopped to watch, mesmerized by the display of skill and strength. The warrior's sword glinted in the fading light as it cut through the air with a soft whoosh.

His movements were fluid and precise, a perfect blend of power and control. Each strike and parry was executed with a grace that seemed to defy the very laws of nature.

The warrior transitioned seamlessly from sword techniques to hand-to-hand combat forms, his body twisting and turning with remarkable agility.

The scene was surreal, like something out of a dream, and Xiao couldn't tear his eyes away.

After a while, Xiao decided to head back to the elder's hut. The village was now cloaked in twilight, with lanterns casting soft pools of light on the cobblestone paths.

He entered the courtyard and paused when he saw Epiphany sitting on a wooden bench, gazing up at the stars.

Epiphany looked serene, his eyes reflecting the starlight. He noticed Xiao's presence and beckoned him over with a gentle smile.

Xiao approached and sat beside him, following Epiphany's gaze to the vast expanse of the night sky.

"The stars are beautiful tonight," Epiphany said softly. "They remind us of the countless souls in the universe, each on their own journey, each shining in their own way."

Xiao nodded, feeling the weight of the day's experiences. "I saw a warrior by the river," he said, his voice filled with wonder. "He was practicing his swordsmanship. It was... incredible."

Epiphany smiled knowingly. "Ah, yes. That warrior is just another wandering soul, passing through Fenglin Village on his own journey. Would you like to learn his techniques?"

Xiao's eyes lit up with excitement but he quickly got it under control. "Will learning those techniques help me get strong?"

Epiphany chuckled softly, his eyes twinkling. "Strength can be gained in many ways, Xiao. It's not just about muscle or power. It's about improving yourself, bit by bit, day by day. What matters most is that you become a stronger version of yourself each day."

Xiao considered this, nodding slowly. "I guess that makes sense. But... how do I start? I don't know anything about martial arts."

Epiphany placed a reassuring hand on Xiao's shoulder. "Don't worry. Everyone starts somewhere. The fact that you survived the river currents shows you have a strong will and good physical condition. That's a solid foundation."

He then glanced at Xiao's simple white tee and jeans. "Your clothes are quite different from what we usually see here. Elder!" he called out loudly.

The elder appeared promptly, bowing slightly. "Yes, Epiphany? How can I assist?"

"We need some different robes for this young man," Epiphany said, gesturing to Xiao. "Something suitable for training. He needs to move freely and comfortably."

The elder nodded, smiling warmly at Xiao. "Of course, Epiphany. I will see to it right away. Young man, I will have the robes ready for you by morning."

As the elder departed, Epiphany turned back to Xiao.

"Training will help you get stronger, and wearing the right attire will make it easier. The warrior you met isn't particularly strong—he's only at the middle stage of Foundation Forging. But learning his techniques will be a good start for you, especially since you seem to have no formal training yet."

Xiao felt a mix of excitement and determination. "Thank you, Epiphany. I really appreciate this. I'll do my best."

Epiphany sighed, his gaze returning to the stars. "That's all anyone can ask, Xiao."

He looked at the different people in the streets, the village still bustling with activity this late in the evening.

Lanterns swayed gently in the breeze, casting a warm, flickering light over the cobblestone paths.

Children ran laughing, their shadows dancing against the walls of the buildings, while vendors called out their last offers of the day.

Epiphany turned to Xiao and asked, "Do you feel anything different when you look at these souls?" He glanced at the sky, noting the stars beginning to twinkle. "And have you had dinner yet?"

Xiao smiled and shook his head. "I haven't had dinner yet. But I did meet a fisherman couple, Jianyu and Lianhua. They were very kind and offered me lunch. It was simple but delicious."

He then held up the little packed dinner Lianhua had given him. "And they gave me this for later."

Epiphany's eyes lit up with surprise and approval. "Oh, you seem to have made new friends. That's wonderful."

Xiao's mind wandered, curiosity bubbling up. He glanced around at the villagers, each seemingly aware of his presence.

"Why do the villagers, who are apparently all souls, seem to notice me so much? It's as if they are all actively aware of my presence."

Epiphany's eyes twinkled with understanding. "That's due to your Musok bloodline, Xiao. Even though it's in its dormant stage, the properties of this village have amplified its strength, causing the souls to perceive you more clearly."

Xiao's curiosity deepened. "What exactly does a Musok do? Why would that lead to me getting those kind gazes?"

Epiphany leaned back, looking up at the stars. "The Musok bloodline is unique. Musoks have an inherent ability to connect with souls, to understand and guide them. Even in its dormant state, your bloodline carries a presence that souls find comforting and familiar. They are drawn to you, sensing a kindred spirit, someone who can help them on their journey."

Xiao felt a mix of awe and responsibility. "So, they see me as someone who can help them?"

"Yes," Epiphany continued, a note of fatigue creeping into his voice.

"Musoks are rare, and their abilities are deeply connected with the stability of the river of fate. They were once revered as soul shepherds, guiding the lost and the weary toward peace and fulfillment. Your presence here is like a beacon to them, a reminder of that possible outcome."

Xiao stifled a yawn, the day's events weighing on him. He had woken up quite early today, and with last night's events keeping him awake, his sleep had not been great either.

He looked at Epiphany, who seemed to have noticed something. "You seem tired, Xiao. Go have your dinner and then rest. We can talk more about this tomorrow."

Xiao, upon hearing that he had permission to go and have some rest, promptly nodded and went inside.