A Fox’s Bargain

The nine-tailed fox stood silently, her crimson eyes narrowed as she studied Lin Yuan. Her silvery hair shimmered like moonlit mist, and behind her, the faint illusion of nine elegant tails swayed like smoke.

"I must admit," she said softly, "your disguise is nearly perfect. But illusion cannot deceive illusion."

Lin Yuan lowered his head slightly. "You saw through it while I slept."

Lady Yuexian stepped forward, her tone steady. "He is under my protection. I hope you understand what that means."

The fox woman tilted her head. "Relax, Sect Leader. I'm not here to expose him. On the contrary… I'm intrigued."

Lin Yuan frowned. "What do you mean?"

She smiled, playful and sharp. "This sect has grown dull. Rules like iron, hearts like stone. But a boy… hiding as a maiden… that stirs things. I want to see where your path leads, Lin Yuan."

"You won't report him?" Yuexian asked, her fingers resting lightly on her sword hilt.

The fox waved her hand. "No need for threats. Let's make a deal."

Lin Yuan hesitated. "What kind of deal?"

"In exchange for my silence," she said, "you must grant me one request in the future. I won't ask now. But someday, I'll call on you."

Lin Yuan's instincts bristled. Deals with foxes were never simple. But his situation allowed no room for pride.

"…Alright. I agree."

"Wonderful." She turned to leave, then looked back. "Oh, and Lin Yuan… don't fall in love with me. That would be tragic."

Then she vanished into mist.

---

Later that evening, Lin Yuan sat beneath one of the newly planted soul trees. The silver leaves shimmered faintly under the moon, drawing in spiritual energy. Qingxue and Xiao Hu curled beside him—one snoring softly, the other chewing on roasted boar jerky.

Lady Yuexian arrived, her expression unreadable. "That was dangerous."

"She already knew," Lin Yuan replied. "At least now we have her word."

Yuexian nodded. "Keep a close eye on her. Foxes speak truths like riddles. Her interest may protect you… or doom you."

"I understand but who is she?."

Lady Yuexian "she is a spiritual pet of previous sect leader.Dont worry.I will take care of this." She give him a scroll,"This is the mission registry. Tomorrow you will start earning contribution points. Complete tasks, train quietly, and avoid attention."

Lin Yuan accepted the scroll. "Yes, Grandmaster."

She paused, then added softly, "If you ever feel lost, come to me. You're not walking this road alone."

The next morning, the Taiyin Sect buzzed with activity. Disciples gathered at the mission hall courtyard, each bearing the insignia of a master or elder.

Lin Yuan—now Lin Yue—stood quietly in pale robes, his face calm but eyes alert.

Some girls looked his way, whispering behind their sleeves.

"She's beautiful."

"She came with Elder Qingxuan, right?"

"I heard she lives alone near the old mines. So strange…"

The hall doors opened with a soft boom, and a silver-robed elder stepped out.

"Disciple,Choose your first missions. Let your actions earn your place."

As cultivators surged forward, Lin Yuan held back, scanning the list calmly.Only 6 left. 

**Low-risk options:**

* Gather moon herbs from the east forest.

* Feed the spiritual cranes.

* Assist in cleaning the Array Hall.

**High-risk missions:**

* Hunt dusk spiders near the ravine.

* Escort spirit ores from outer mines.

* Patrol the edge of the beast forest.

He tapped his chin. "I want something balanced…"

A voice behind him murmured, "Go for the cranes. It's boring, but you'll meet interesting people."

He turned. The fox woman stood beside him, already choosing a scroll.

She winked. "We'll meet again, Lin Yuan."