Infinite_Peace

Cheng Ming and Liu Wei are known to be rivals. Cheng Ming is known to be rude and abuses his disciples often, while Liu Wei is known to be cold, indifferent, and talented. As the world knows Cheng Ming as a merciless person, he secretly adores his younger brother, Cheng Ming. One day, Cheng Ning's condition worsened and began to deteriorate. Cheng Ming began to worry and made a deal with the Demon Lord. Give up his soul for the cure. Cheng Ning begged his brother to not make the deal when he found out but it was too late, his brother was gone. With the world thinking that Cheng Ning is his brother, he will need to act like his cold brother and not get caught.

Substitute Rival

Jiang Tian let out an exaggerated yawn as they finally made it back to the sect grounds after the mission, his shoulders slumping with feigned exhaustion. He shot Meng Qingshan a weary look, a half-smile tugging at the corner of his lips.

"You're a real monster, Meng," Tian teased, wiping the sweat off his brow. "You wiped out that entire rebellious sect like they were nothing. I'm starting to wonder if you're even human."

Meng Qingshan chuckled, though there was an underlying darkness in his laughter. "You don't give yourself enough credit. You weren't too bad yourself."

Jiang Tian shook his head, still smiling. "Yeah, yeah. Anyway, I'm starving after all that. How about we grab some noodles? My treat."

Meng Qingshan glanced at Sua Quan, who nodded in agreement, before replying, "Sounds good. Let's go."

As they made their way to a small tavern tucked away in a quiet corner of the city, the atmosphere gradually lightened. The tavern was warm and cozy, a stark contrast to the cold, ruthless world outside. The three of them settled at a wooden table, the comforting scent of broth and noodles wafting through the air.

After placing their orders, Jiang Tian leaned back in his chair, stretching his arms above his head with a satisfied sigh. "You know, Meng, you've really made a name for yourself around here. But there's one more thing you'll need if you really want to rise in this sect."

Meng Qingshan raised an eyebrow, curiosity piqued. "And what's that?"

Jiang Tian's playful demeanor shifted slightly, his eyes gleaming with a mix of seriousness and intrigue. "The spiritual demon summoning ritual," he began, his voice dropping to a conspiratorial whisper. "It's a rite of passage for all demonic cultivators. You see, each of us is connected to a demon in the underworld. If the demon responds to our call, it becomes our partner in battle, our source of power. But the bond is sealed with a sword, crafted specifically for you."

Meng Qingshan leaned in, listening intently. "A sword? How does it work?"

Jiang Tian smirked, leaning closer as well. "The sword is forged with your essence—your blood, your spirit. It's more than just a weapon; it's a conduit between you and your demon. Once the bond is made, you can summon the demon with a mere thought. But beware, not everyone is successful. Some demons refuse to answer, and those who fail... well, let's just say they don't live to tell the tale."

Sua Quan, who had been silently listening, nodded slowly. "It's a dangerous ritual, but it's essential if you want to survive and thrive in this world."

Meng Qingshan's mind raced with the possibilities. He had already embraced his new identity, leaving Chen Ning behind. But the idea of forging a bond with a demon, of wielding such power, was both thrilling and terrifying.

"How do I begin?" he asked, determination steeling his voice.

Jiang Tian grinned, pleased with Meng's resolve. "First, you need to find a master blacksmith who can forge your sword. The process is painful—your blood must be infused into the blade, and your spirit must endure the forging flames. Once the sword is complete, the ritual can begin. If you're ready, I can introduce you to someone."

Meng Qingshan nodded, a sense of resolve settling over him. "I'm ready."

Jiang Tian raised his cup in a mock toast. "Then let's drink to your future, Meng Qingshan. May your demon be as ruthless as you are."

They clinked their cups together, the sound echoing in the small tavern. As Meng Qingshan drank, he couldn't help but wonder what kind of demon would answer his call, and whether he was truly prepared for the path he was about to take.

The Demon's Call