Chapter 7: A Test of Courage

Xi Shen's POV

As Elder Zhong led me, I heard many whispers around me.

In a hushed tone, two male disciples in light pink robes talked to each other, "So this is the new disciple everyone's been talking about. He doesn't look that special."

However, the second one replied in a certain tone, "It's said he made Elder Zhong smile. He hasn't done that in more than ten years, even when you know who came to the sect." 

In a quieter voice, he continued, "Rumor has it, he's her son. Can you believe it? Son of Sword Maiden is going to join our sect, it'll tip over the balance of the sect."

Their words echoed in my mind. The reference to the Sword Maiden sent a shiver down my spine. My mother's legacy was a double-edged sword. It garnered respect and fear, but it also set incredibly high expectations.

Expectations I was ready to fulfill, as the previous illusion had shown me what my potential was capable of. It also showed me that many people need to work twice as hard but get the same if not worse results.

That was eye-opening as I learned a valuable lesson, not to slack off. Also with the knowledge I have, I could use it more wisely. 'I could start learning one of the cultivation arts besides sword I'm going to. But which…'

Elder Zhong's voice pulled me out of my thoughts. "Pay no heed to gossip. As a person of your caliber, you should focus on people who are stronger and more important to you."

Understanding the message I clasped my hands and bowed, "Thank you for your guidance, Elder Zhong."

He waved his sleeves, looking rather pleased, "Don't mention it, now is the time for the second test. It's held by Senior Brother Zhou Hang, or Elder Zhou for you. He likes tradition so act like this and you will be marked high in his book"

I nodded, absorbing Elder Zhong's advice. "Thank you for the tip, Elder Zhong. I will keep that in mind."

Elder Zhong led me through the tranquil pathways of the sect, the serene environment contrasting with the tension I felt inside. The beauty of the Harmony Blossom Sect was a constant reminder of the peace and power I sought to attain.

Soon, we approached a grand building where Elder Zhou stood waiting. His imposing presence and traditional robes reflected his deep respect for the old ways. I took a deep breath, reminding myself to follow the traditions as Elder Zhong had suggested.

Elder Zhong wore a simple blue robe, his long gray hair flowing down his back. Despite looking to be in his 80s, he was still full of vigor, his presence commanding respect and authority.

As I stepped forward, I clasped my hands and bowed respectfully. "Elder Zhou, I am Xi Shen, here to undertake the second test. Thank you for this opportunity."

Elder Zhou gave a slight nod, his expression stern but not unkind. "Welcome, Xi Shen. The second test will measure your courage. Prepare yourself, for what lies ahead will challenge your resolve."

I steeled myself, ready to face whatever Elder Zhou had in store. This was another step in proving my worth and fulfilling the legacy of the Sword Maiden.

Elder Zhou glanced at Elder Zhong before saying, "Junior Brother, you can leave things to me. Go back to your post." His words were neither domineering nor obnoxious but carried an unmistakable air of authority.

Elder Zhong gave a respectful nod. "Of course, Senior Brother. I trust Xi Shen is in good hands." With that, he turned and left

Elder Zhou turned his full attention to me, his eyes sharp and probing. "Xi Shen, the second test is one of courage. Prepare yourself, for this test will reveal the true measure of your resolve to join our sect."

I nodded eagerly, "I'm ready Elder, what are your instructions."

He smiled slightly at my enthusiasm. "That's how the young generation should be. That's good. We will begin the test right away, " he responded, taking out a small mirror made from jade.

It shone its light on me, and I felt like I'd fallen asleep again. Drowsiness filled my mind as everything went black.

#In the illusion#

Opening my eyes, I felt different. Instead of feeling weaker, I had never felt stronger. The feeling was impeccable like everything was under my control.

I was in a lotus position, my body and mind perfectly aligned. The world around me seemed more vivid, every detail crisp and clear. The surge of power coursing through me was exhilarating, a stark contrast to the limitations I had experienced before.

The memories of the person I took over awoke me from my power trip. It felt a bit overwhelming as memories of more than 400 years of experience flooded my mind.

Weng Mingyuan was an Inner Elder of the Harmony Blossom Sect in the illusion. He had high status and talent in Sword Dao making him one of the few that has grasped the inheritance of the founder Zi Hua, The Harmonic Flower Musician, 'Let's check his status, it must be impressive.'

{Status}

[Name: Weng Mingyuan (Xi Shen 喜神)]

[Age: 420/600 (12/110)]

[Inheritance: 1/3 Zi Hua's Sword Inheritance (Master of Devine Palace(Immortal Emperor) #Mortal Part)]

[Cultivation: 7th level of Golden Core (6th level of Qi Gathering)]

[Root: Five Element Root - Earth Grade (Six Element Root - Heavenly Grade)]

[Spells: Sword Manual of Harmonic Nature - Celestial Slash, Flowing Water, Spirit Blossom Invocation,…]

[Arts: Sword - 70% Mastery]

[Looks: Average (Above Average)]

Seeing his status made me gasp in awe, 'Truly worthy of the Inner Elder. Now about the test, I wonder when will Demonic Cultivators attack.'

As I don't know when they will attack I should be prepared, 'I need to get comfortable with my strength, this is a rare opportunity to experience this level of strength.'

The first thing I tried was Spiritual Sense, which was exclusive to Foundation Establishment and above. However, the Spiritual Sense of Golden Core cultivator was on another level, it covered 70 kilometers.

At first, I was overwhelmed by the information I was receiving, but it quickly became like second nature. I 'saw' everything, from small ants crawling on the earth's surface, to the disciples that chatted together.

As I adjusted to this newfound perception, I began to understand the true extent of Weng Mingyuan's abilities. The sheer clarity and range of my Spiritual Sense allowed me to perceive the world in a way I never could before. It was both exhilarating and humbling.

I decided to test this ability further. Focusing my mind, I extended my Spiritual Sense toward the training grounds, where several disciples were practicing their techniques. I could feel their movements, the flow of their qi, and even the subtle shifts in their emotions. It was as if I was there among them, observing every detail.

Unbeknownst to me, someone noticed my prying, and the person quickly arrived in front of my courtyard and made a small announcement, "Disciple Gu Yong pays respect to Master!"

As I heard that name I tried to remember how he was and quickly found out. He was one of Weng Mingyuan's three disciples, Gu Yong. He was at the 3rd level of the Foundation Establishment.

I waved my sleeve and the door opened, "Enter." I needed to play my part as Weng Mingyun, so as not to be suspicious. 'I need to die by Demon Cultivator's hand, I think I'll probably fail if I try anything other than that.'

A man entered. He appeared to be in his 20s, with a small bun holding his hair, broad features, and an above-average body constitution. His presence exuded confidence and respect, characteristic of a promising disciple.

"Master," He bowed slightly clasping his hands, "I've come to pay my respects and congratulate Master on achieving Sword Intent"

Looking at the man at the Foundation Establishment bowing so sincerely was truly shocking; it left me stunned for a second. But I quickly composed myself, so as not to lose the demeanor of an expert.

"Thank you, Yong'er," I responded, maintaining a calm and authoritative tone. "Your progress has been commendable as well. Continue to cultivate diligently, and you too will reach great heights."

Gu Yong straightened up, his eyes shining with determination. "I will, Master. Your achievements inspire us all, especially Junior Sister."

A pleased smile spread on my face, as I again waved my hand, "You can leave now." I tried to sound more authoritative. 

Administration filled Gu Yong's eyes as he quickly left after saying, "Understood." Looking at his departing figure I began to think about my next steps.

I am beginning to adapt to my new abilities and techniques, especially the Sword Manual of Harmonic Nature, which is one of the ultimate techniques of the Harmony Blossom Sect.

"I need to practice, and according to my memory, there should be a training ground Weng Mingyuan used." Spreading my Spiritual Sense I quickly found the training ground, thick walls surrounded it so no one could notice my techniques, or lack of them.

"It's perfect." I quickly got up and walked toward it, spreading my Spiritual Sense to see if there were others on my way. Luck was on my side, no one could be seen in a three-hundred-meter radius, which was perfect.

As I arrived I began to search through my memories to see which technique to try out first. There were too many to count, palm arts, sword arts, and even one music art.

'It seems Weng Mingyuan tried to be more proficient in music arts, especially guzheng, which was Founder Zhi Hua's main weapon. But I'm most eager to try Sword Manual of Harmonic Nature, it sounds cool. However, the Celestial Slash requires immense Qi control, which I don't have currently.'

Taking a deep breath, I arrived at the training ground, 'First up, I should test Sect Techniques. One that comes to mind is Spirit Blossom Invocation.'

Searching through my memories for the hand gestures, I quickly found them. I started slow but quickly got used to them. Like with a Spiritual Sense, I felt like it was also my second nature, it kinda reminded me of sign language from Earth.

As I weaved through the needed hand gestures, my Qi began to move in an organized manner. The air that already had scents of different kinds of flowers became overwhelmingly potent in the cherry blossom scent.

Shortly after, my Qi began to leave my body, being transformed into cherry blossom petals—a stream of them, nonetheless. The sight was mesmerizing, a cascade of delicate petals swirling around me. I felt a sense of accomplishment and power, knowing each petal could be used for healing, offense, or defense.

'This technique is truly versatile,' I thought, feeling the weight of each petal's potential. 'It can heal wounds, unleash devastating bursts of energy, or form impenetrable barriers. Truly worthy of being one of the ultimate techniques of Harmony Blossom Sect.'

Without my control, the petals fell to the floor, dissipating, leaving only the lingering scent of cherry blossom, 'I guess I just have to use the technique once for it to be in my mind. As Weng Mingyuan was at perfection level for almost all the techniques.'

As I absorbed more memories I hadn't before, techniques filled my mind. But most important was Harmony Blossom Swordsmanship. It was essential for every disciple to know because it was fundamental.

It consists of thirty-six different movements and of course, Weng Mingyuan mastered the technique after 30 years. And he's considered a genius, while my mother was considered a prodigy.

'What am I then? Although I haven't started learning anything in the real world, this swordsmanship, by my guess, would take me at most 10 years.' Shaking my head, I dismissed that thought, 'Yeah right I'm more genius than my mother.'

A small laugh escaped my mouth but was quickly interrupted by the sudden appearance of someone before the door. By the aura, it was a female around 170cm in height.

As my Spiritual Sense hovered around her, she clasped her hands and said in a melodious voice, "Gu Quixuan, greets Master." As if waiting for my response she just stood there. 

With my Spiritual Sense, I opened the door, "Enter."

She quickly entered and not seeing me on the mat, she connected the dots and went toward the training ground, 'She seems smart.' I couldn't help but praise her.

Gu Quixuan rushed in, her dark pink dress billowing around her, symbolizing her status as the sect's Inner Disciple. Her long brown hair, adorned with delicate ornaments, swayed with each step as she hurried to deliver urgent news.

Looking at her hurried appearance, I got a bad feeling. As she arrived she bowed and quickly said, "Master, I bring urgent news. Junior Brother, Wei Hao, was attacked three days ago, and hasn't been heard ever since."

Bad feeling intensified, as an idea popped into my head, 'Jade slip!' Frantically searching in my storage ring, 'Weng Mingyuan had given every disciple a jade slip that indicated if they were alive.'

Seeing me in such a state Gu Quixuan, mumbled, "Master…"

Finally finding the jade slip, I took it out. But what came out was just broken pieces of jade. And that's when something in me snapped, 'Why am I so angry for the death of someone I didn't know?' 

A single tear ran down my cheek, 'Who am I kidding, I'm Weng Mingyuan now.' 

After the tear fell, rage exploded. My aura, from the 7th level of Golden Core cultivation, filled the surrounding area. Gu Quixuan fell on her knees, feeling suffocated by my aura.

Taking out a small mirror, which was decorated with jasmine flowers. 'This is a one-time use treasure. It shows karma, but the price…' Holding the mirror for a second, I become determined, 'I don't care about it.' 

The mirror shone with white light, overshadowing my aura. 'It is ranked as Top tier Earth Grade Treasure for a reason.'

An old man's voice came out from the mirror, "Who?" It was filled with authority and power. 

I quickly responded, "Wei Hao!"

A sigh was heard from the mirror, "Karma is big, stranger. Crimson Vail Cult, Tao Jing, 5th level Foundation Establishment. Yin-Yang Range." After telling me the location of the killer, the mirror shattered, leaving only broken glass. Even the jasmine flowers dried up.