Chapter 42: Tensions
In the City of Moonlit Grove
After days of travel, the silhouette of Moonlit Grove finally appeared on the horizon. For Shang Hua-Yen, this return brought a mix of nostalgia and anxiety. Although the city did not possess the splendor of the major cultivation centers, it was where her family resided.
—"We've arrived. If you'll allow me, I would like to invite you to stay at my house during your visit."
Shang Hua-Yen's voice was soft yet firm as she addressed the group and Elder Ki.
The disciples beside her looked at the city with curiosity. For them, accustomed to the Spirit Herbs Valley and its affluent regions, Moonlit Grove seemed modest. However, their initial interest soon faded as they took in the simplicity of the place.
Noticing the change in the group's mood, Hua-Yen smiled slightly and said,
—"Don't lose interest so quickly. Although the city isn't as prosperous as the great capitals, its specialty is its cuisine. The dishes prepared with the spiritual animals from the Clear Waters Mountains are unique. Once we're settled, I'll take you to try them."
Bai Xiaxia, the youngest of the group, widened her eyes, her curiosity rekindled.
—"Is that for real, senior sister?"
—"Of course. You are my fellow disciples, and as your host, it's the least I can do."
—"You're amazing, senior sister! I heard some people mentioning your name along the way... You're a famous cultivator, aren't you? In the sect, you've never mentioned your origins."
The question made Hua-Yen's smile falter for a moment, but she quickly recovered, replying in a calm yet slightly cool tone,
—"It isn't a good habit to boast."
She preferred not to recall her humble origins. Her presence there, among the internal disciples of the Valley, was an unforeseen accident. However, now that they were here, all that remained was to move forward.
The group continued their walk through the city, attracting curious glances. The delicate embroidery on Hua-Yen's garments revealed her affiliation with the Spirit Herbs Valley, and the locals whispered among themselves. Some recognized her from past visits, while others merely observed the group of cultivators.
Soon after, they arrived at the Shang family mansion. In the main courtyard, two imposing figures awaited: Shang Wei-Liang, the patriarch, and Elder Shang Zhi.
Hua-Yen stepped forward and greeted her father and the elder with respect. Both responded courteously before turning their attention to the group.
—"Welcome to my humble abode. It is a pleasure to finally meet you. My daughter has spoken at length about how Elder Ki is an excellent teacher. I am grateful for your guidance."
Shang Wei-Liang's voice was courteous, though his bearing exuded authority.
Elder Ki smiled slightly.
—"Your daughter is talented and disciplined. I see she has inherited her father's qualities."
Then the patriarch turned to the young disciples,
—"And these must be the talented disciples Hua-Yen mentioned."
The group thanked them for their hospitality and proceeded into the mansion. Outside, however, the onlookers did not disperse. Some slipped through the alleys of the city, hurrying to report the arrival of the disciples from the Spirit Herbs Valley to their respective employers.
That night, many would remain awake.
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The Li Mansion
Deep within the Li family mansion, a servant hurried across the courtyard. His breathing was rapid, yet he dared not slow his pace.
Upon reaching the young master, he knelt and announced,
—"Young Master Li, Miss Hua-Yen has arrived."
Li Feng-Yu lifted his gaze from his tea. His lips curved into a subtle smile.
—"After so much time... finally, I can see her again."
—"She did not come alone, young master. She brought along an elder from the Spirit Herbs Valley and four internal disciples."
Li Feng-Yu's expression hardened.
—"An elder? This is different from the information we received! Who?"
—"The informants heard Patriarch Shang refer to him as Ki."
For a moment, the young master Li's gaze was lost in thought.
'An internal elder—what is he doing here? Is it merely a coincidence, or is there something more he doesn't know?'
He slowly rose and walked to the window. The city shone under the light of the night lanterns, but what he saw was not merely a tranquil scene. It was like a lake that appeared calm on the surface yet concealed subterranean currents.
—"Is the Spirit Herbs Valley interested in the city? Or is there something more hidden?"
After a moment of silence, he turned to the servant and ordered,
—"Tell everyone to remain cautious until the end of the tournament. No taking sides."
The servant bowed and hurried off to carry out the orders.
Li Feng-Yu, meanwhile, let his gaze wander once again over the city. He couldn't say who would win the next fight, but his instincts told him that Patriarch Tang was not to be underestimated.
'The storm is brewing... It remains to be seen who will survive when the winds change.
Should I wake my father from retirement?'
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Behind the Scenes in the City
The arrival of Elder Ki and the disciples from the Valley did not go unnoticed. Unlike Li Feng-Yu, who maintained a cautious stance, others quickly concluded that the Tang family was doomed to defeat.
Messages were sent into the shadows. The balance of power in Moonlit Grove was about to change.