unbreakable bond

In a place where even the most powerful of cultivators would have to bow their heads, there stood the majestic Celestial Void Hall. The structure was otherworldly, as if not tethered to any plane, suspended in the endless expanse of space itself. The hall seemed to merge with the very fabric of the stars, its foundations made from a pristine, translucent material that shimmered like diamond dust under the celestial light. Massive statues of ancient warriors and legendary beasts lined the interior, their stone visages etched with intricate, swirling designs that glowed faintly with spiritual energy. Above, the vaulted ceiling was an ever-shifting canvas of constellations, galaxies, and nebulas, as though the very cosmos had been trapped within the hall. Spirals of powerful Qi surged throughout the space, amplifying the divine atmosphere that made even the strongest cultivators feel small in its presence.

In the center of this awe-inspiring hall, a young man stood with an aura of confidence and bravery that matched the grandeur of his surroundings. Tiān Shén, with his purple hair and ancient, ambitious gaze, faced the assembled elders and his father. The silence that filled the hall was deafening, as the weight of the moment pressed down on all present.

Behind Tiān Shén stood Xiao Li, a maid filled with grandeur and beauty, though her face now reflected shock and disbelief at the current situation. Her delicate hands trembled slightly, but she maintained her composure in the presence of so many esteemed cultivators.

The elders sat in their respective places, their expressions calm and unreadable—except for Elder Long, whose sharp gaze seemed to narrow, and Elder Fei, whose graceful yet stern demeanor showed a hint of disapproval.

Breaking the silence, Elder Yun spoke up with a voice tinged with disbelief, "Young master, this has to be a joke."

Elder Fei, whose nurturing aura rarely wavered, added with a slight frown, "How could someone of such... limited talent be chosen as your right hand?"

All the while, Tiān Shén's father, the **Sect Master Tiān Zhì**, sat on his intricately designed throne at the head of the hall. His throne, carved from heavenly jade and embedded with celestial stones, seemed to radiate an aura of sovereignty. The sect master's blue robe flowed like water, and his eyes, filled with boundless wisdom and power, watched his son with a mixture of curiosity and silent judgment.

The tension in the hall was palpable, with many waiting to see how the young prodigy would respond. The elders turned to Tiān Zhì, hoping he would intervene.

Elder Yan, whose gruff voice usually carried authority, stood and addressed the sect master directly. "Sect Master, this matter requires deeper consideration. Though Xiao Li possesses an innate Dao bone, that alone does not make her worthy of such an important position. She lacks the training, the experience, and the aptitude to stand by the young master's side in this capacity."

**Elder Kai**, with his ever-stern expression, nodded in agreement. "Young master, a right hand must be more than a loyal servant. You need someone who can face the challenges of cultivation alongside you, someone who can stand by your side in battle and strategize with wisdom. You must not allow personal feelings to cloud your judgment."

Xiao Li, overwhelmed by the scrutiny, finally stepped forward, her voice soft but steady. "Young master, the elders are right. I am not worthy of this post. Though I work hard, my talent cannot match what is required to serve you in this capacity. You deserve someone far more talented and wise."

Tiān Shén, however, remained resolute. His voice was firm as he replied, "Elders, I understand your concerns, but my decision is made. Talent alone does not define one's worth. Trust, loyalty, and a deep understanding of one's master are invaluable qualities. I believe in Xiao Li's potential, and I will personally see to it that her talent grows. I will help her cultivate a new physique, one that will allow her to stand by my side."

There was a ripple of surprise among the elders at Tiān Shén's declaration.

Elder Kai interjected, "But young—"

Before he could finish, Tiān Zhì raised his hand, silencing the room. His voice was calm, yet filled with authority. "It is enough. I trust my son's judgment and his ability to manage this matter."

The elders exchanged uncertain glances, but they could not defy the sect master's decree.

Tiān Zhì nodded once, his voice resonating through the hall. "Then it is settled. Tiān Shén, you shall make Xiao Li your right hand, and you will aid her in forging a new physique so that she may grow into a great talent. From this day onward, you will both train diligently until you break through to the Martial Soul Realm."

Tiān Shén bowed his head respectfully. "Yes, father."

Tiān Zhì continued, "You must also continue your learning and growth. In five years, you are to participate in the Tournament of Universal Conquest. It will be a test of your abilities and a proving ground for your future."

"Yes, father," Tiān Shén responded with determination. "I will not disappoint you. I will choose the right path and forge my destiny."

Tiān Zhì nodded approvingly, his expression softening slightly. "Good. Now return to your courtyard and begin your preparations. Cultivate, train, and ensure that both you and Xiao Li are ready for the challenges ahead."

With that, Tiān Shén and Xiao Li bowed and left the Celestial Void Hall, their footsteps echoing in the vast silence that once again filled the majestic space.

Outside the hall, as they walked back to their quarters, Xiao Li glanced at Tiān Shén, her expression a mixture of gratitude and uncertainty. "Young master... thank you for believing in me."

Tiān Shén smiled softly, his gaze filled with confidence. "I trust you, Xiao Li. We will both become stronger together."