Demi-Gods and Semi-Devils: The Successor of Bodhidharma

Page 11

Chapter 35 Tai Chi

The lingering echo of Wu Yazi's praise slowly dissipated in the stone chamber, and the shock in his eyes gradually settled into a deep scrutiny. He gazed at Qiao Tian for a long time before letting out a long, meaningful sigh:

"I never imagined that after waiting for more than ten years, I would finally find a successor with superior internal strength, physical constitution, and temperament... It's a pity that your pure foundation actually originated from Shaolin."

His eyes were sharp, and he had already discerned that although Qiao Tian's inner strength had its own mysteries, its extremely yang and powerful, abundant and profound origin clearly bore the deep imprint of the orthodox Shaolin martial arts.

Upon hearing this, Qiao Tian remained unmoved. He calmly straightened his robes and sat down on the futon opposite Wu Yazi, his posture composed, as if he were conversing with an old friend rather than facing a senior master.

He hesitated for a moment, then calmly met Wuyazi's gaze:

"Senior has insightful eyes, and I admire you. Indeed, as you said, I once practiced with my hair still intact at Shaolin, and my internal strength is deeply rooted in Shaolin."

He continued in a calm tone, “However, Buddhism is to me like one of the thousands of subjects of knowledge; it is a reference, a resource, but not the foundation of my life. My mind is made up, and I will leave Shaolin, not because of its evil, but because my ambition lies elsewhere.”

His voice was not loud, but every word was clear: "I often think that our land of China has a long and rich civilization with a profound and extensive tradition. However, looking at the martial arts world today, it is the Shaolin Temple, a Buddhist lineage from India, that is revered by the world and holds the reins of the martial arts world. Although this shows the inclusiveness of our land, our orthodox Taoist sect is declining and scattered, and its lineage is not prominent. Is this not a regrettable thing?"

Wu Yazi listened silently, a glint of light flickering in his deep eyes, without uttering a word.

Qiao Tian's tone turned solemn and firm: "Therefore, I am determined to integrate the origins of Taoism and, in this lifetime, re-establish the orthodoxy of Taoism. I not only want to rival Shaolin, but also to make the essence of Taoism in our native China shine throughout the world."

Wu Yazi finally spoke, his voice calm yet cutting to the heart of the matter: "Your ambition is extraordinary. However, Shaolin's prosperity has its reasons. The Buddhist concept of universal salvation is easy to spread and deeply penetrates people's hearts. Its martial arts system, accumulated over hundreds of years, is well-structured and suitable for recruiting disciples and progressing step by step. On the other hand, the various sects of Taoism either live in seclusion or keep their secret techniques to themselves, their philosophies are diverse and difficult to unify. What makes you think you can succeed? And why abandon the easy path of Shaolin and choose this thorny one?"

Qiao Tian had already considered this and calmly replied, "Senior is wise. Buddhist teachings are compassionate and can indeed guide people towards goodness. However, the Taoist principles of 'following the natural way' and 'harmony between heaven and man' are in harmony with the workings of the universe. Their realm is lofty and profound. If they can be properly explained, how can they not resonate with people's hearts?" He paused slightly, "As for the martial arts system, I deeply admire the Shaolin system. However, this is the path of Bodhidharma, the path of Shaolin. What I seek is not to follow in the footsteps of others, but to forge my own Taoist path to heaven. This path may be difficult, but only in this way can I truly establish a school and achieve unprecedented success. The Shaolin internal energy within me is, to me, a tool, a mirror, a stone to hone my path, not a shackle to bind my heart."

His gaze was calm, and his words conveyed an undeniable certainty: "A system can be created, and its inheritance can be planned. As long as the concept is brilliant enough and the foundation is solid enough, why worry about not being able to establish a Taoist martial arts system that is no less than Shaolin, or even more profound and mysterious?"

These words, with their grand vision and extraordinary spirit, clearly demonstrate Qiao Tian's fundamental stance of "learning from others without being dependent on them" and "aspiring to create a new system."

Wu Yazi was deeply moved. He gazed at Qiao Tian, ​​as if trying to see through his surface and penetrate his soul. What he saw was not the arrogant words of a youth, but a grand blueprint built on strong self-confidence and clear understanding. Such ambition, such courage, such clarity that was not blinded by unparalleled martial arts, even made this worldly-wise man feel shocked and impressed.

A long silence fell over the stone chamber, with only the radiance of the luminous pearl flowing quietly.

Finally, Wu Yazi slowly raised his hand, his movement heavy, and gently removed a seemingly ancient yet subtly luminous jade ring from his thumb. He caressed the token that had accompanied him for most of his life, his eyes flashing with countless memories of the past.

“Well… well, what a ‘forging one’ path! Well, what a ‘glorification of the Dao’!” Wu Yazi’s voice carried a subtle fluctuation, yet contained a resolute tone. “I have waited for more than ten years, thinking that I would be waiting for someone to inherit my mantle… but I never expected that I would be waiting for a future… pillar of the Daoist sect.”

He handed the ring to Qiao Tian with an extremely solemn expression: "Young friend Qiao Tian, ​​this is the Seven Treasures Ring, the token of the leader of my Xiaoyao Sect. Today, I pass it on to you. From this moment on, you are the new leader of my Xiaoyao Sect. You may use all the martial arts manuals, resources, and connections of the sect as you see fit. I only hope that in the future... you can find a suitable successor for my Xiaoyao Sect, so that this lineage of knowledge will not be lost."

He paused briefly, then added, "Take this token and go to Lingjiu Palace on Misty Peak of Tianshan Mountain to find my senior sister, Tianshan Tonglao. When she sees this ring, she will give you some help out of consideration for my friendship."

Qiao Tian's mind stirred slightly, but he did not immediately accept it. Instead, he solemnly said, "Senior, this matter is of great importance, you..."

Wu Yazi raised his hand to stop him from speaking: "My mind is made up. Your ambition has transcended the boundaries of the Free and Unfettered School. Entrusting this school to you may be... its best destiny. Accept it."

Qiao Tian said no more, respectfully accepting the Seven Treasures Ring with both hands—a ring that felt warm to the touch and seemed to bear the weight of a century of history—and carefully putting it away. He then looked up at Wu Yazi and said sincerely, "Senior, there is no need to be too discouraged. Your injuries may not be entirely hopeless. If you trust me, I may know a way to help you regain your mobility."

"Is this really true?" Wu Yazi and Su Xinghe, who was standing next to him, were both shocked, their eyes flashing with disbelief!

Qiao Tian nodded solemnly: "However, this method requires many favorable conditions and depends on your own strong vitality. It cannot be forced. But I will do my best to find the necessary medicine and method." He did not elaborate, leaving room for further discussion.

Wu Yazi stared at him blankly, his heart, which had been dormant for many years, suddenly stirred by this glimmer of hope.

Taking advantage of the situation, Qiao Tian continued, "Furthermore, I have made some progress in Taoist cultivation techniques and have come to understand the basic form of a school. I feel that its principles are related to the fundamental changes of Yin and Yang in the world. However, many of its key points still need to be explored and perfected. I wonder if you would be willing to spare some time to discuss and explore it with me?"

Wu Yazi was now filled with curiosity about Qiao Tian, ​​and upon hearing this, he immediately asked, "What kind of technique is it?"

Qiao Tian's eyes were clear as he slowly uttered the name: "His name is—Tai! Ji!"

His voice was calm, yet it seemed to carry a strange rhythm: "This method does not rely on brute force or dodge to deflect attacks. Its core lies in the two words 'Tai Chi.'" "Tai Chi arises from Wuji, the mechanism of movement and stillness, the mother of Yin and Yang. When it moves, it separates; when it is still, it unites. Neither excessive nor deficient, it yields to the curves." "Those who practice this skill must understand the principles of Yin and Yang complementing each other, and the mutual transformation of hardness and softness. When the opponent is hard, I am soft—this is called 'yielding'; when I follow the opponent's movement, I am compliant—this is called 'adhering.' Respond quickly to rapid movements, and follow slowly to slow movements. Though the variations are myriad, the principle remains consistent." "From familiarity with the movements, one gradually understands the force; from understanding the force, one ascends to the realm of enlightenment. At the pinnacle of practice, one can yield to the opponent, using intention rather than force, using stillness to control movement, softness to overcome hardness, slowness to defeat speed, and weakness to overcome strength. Using four ounces to deflect a thousand pounds is not an empty phrase." "This is not a method of killing, but a way close to the Dao. By cultivating it, one can comprehend the Yin and Yang of Heaven and Earth, harmonize one's own Qi and blood, prolong life, and even... glimpse the mechanism of the creation and transformation of all things."

Qiao Tian, ​​having grasped the principles of Tai Chi, combined them with the context of this world, and spoke them eloquently in a calm yet powerful tone. Each word was like a heavy stone falling into a pool, stirring up ripples in Wu Yazi's heart.

Wu Yazi was stunned, his eyes focusing as if he had heard a profound truth he had never heard before. He had devoted his life to studying martial arts and believed he had grasped its essence, but Qiao Tian's explanation of the "Tai Chi" concept completely overturned his understanding of "martial arts"! This was no ordinary martial art, but a philosophy that pointed directly to the origin of the Great Dao, a completely new and boundless path of martial arts!

His mind and spirit were shaken. Many of his past doubts about martial arts and confusions about Yin and Yang seemed to have a new interpretation and breakthrough opportunity under the reflection of this "Tai Chi" concept! This shock was far stronger and more profound than when he had tested Qiao Tian's martial arts earlier.

After an unknown amount of time, Wu Yazi slowly recovered from the immense mental shock. When he looked at Qiao Tian again, his gaze was completely different; it was the look of someone who looked at a fellow practitioner, even someone who saw hope. Qiao Tian's words seemed to infuse his soul, which had gradually become dormant due to severe injuries and years of confinement, with new vitality and expectation.

He took a deep breath, a strange light returning to his eyes, and looked at Qiao Tian, ​​his tone gentle yet earnest:

"Young friend Qiao Tian...would you please play another piece for this old man...that 'The Smiling, Proud Wanderer'?"

He wanted to savor the profound principles of "Tai Chi" that the young man brought, which were enough to overturn his understanding of martial arts, and the glimmer of hope that rekindled his standing in that carefree rhythm.

Qiao Tian nodded slightly and took out his jade flute: "This junior obeys."

The clear and expansive sound of the flute once again lingered in this quiet stone chamber, as if carrying new insights and hopes, and drifting far and wide.

Chapter 36 Ascending Mount Tian

As the song "The Smiling, Proud Wanderer" ended, its lingering melody echoed in the stone chamber, seemingly washing away some of the accumulated melancholy. Wu Yazi closed his eyes and concentrated for a long time before slowly opening them. A clear and bright look returned to his eyes, and a slight smile appeared on his lips, revealing a long-lost serene expression.

"What a delightful melody, so soothing to the soul." He looked at Qiao Tian, ​​his tone calm yet inquisitive, "Since you have such ambition and have taken on the responsibility of the Free and Unfettered Sect, what are your specific plans? Great aspirations are important, but you must be down-to-earth in the end."

Qiao Tian remained calm, showing no signs of youthful arrogance. He shifted his gaze slightly, landing on Su Xinghe, who stood to the side. His eyes were steady and profound, filled with careful consideration.

"Since Master has entrusted the Xiaoyao Sect to me, I will do my utmost to ensure that the lineage is not tarnished," Qiao Tian said calmly. "I have considered that in the future, we can choose a secluded place outside the main Wudang Mountain lineage to establish the Xiaoyao Villa. In this way, we can both preserve the Xiaoyao Sect's independent lineage and allow it to focus on the study of its unique skills, and also provide mutual support with the main Wudang lineage. What does Master think?"

Wu Yazi nodded slightly. This move not only preserved the lineage of the Xiaoyao Sect, but also did not contradict Qiao Tian's ambition to integrate the Daoist sects. It was indeed a well-thought-out strategy.

Qiao Tian continued, "However, I am young and inexperienced, and my knowledge of sect affairs and interpersonal relationships is limited. I fear I cannot shoulder such a heavy responsibility alone." He turned to Su Xinghe, his tone sincere, "Senior Brother Congbian is well-versed in worldly affairs, has profound experience, and is also the foremost disciple of our master, with a reputation for virtue and prestige. I earnestly request that Senior Brother spare no effort to help me manage the affairs of the sect and oversee all matters at Xiaoyao Villa."

Upon hearing this, Su Xinghe's expression hardened slightly, but he saw that Qiao Tian's eyes were clear and his words were sincere, not feigned.

Qiao Tian continued, "I have also heard that my senior brother has the 'Eight Friends of Hangu Pass,' all of whom possess extraordinary skills and are renowned throughout the region. Now that our master is well and the Xiaoyao Sect is about to be revitalized, it is the perfect time to recruit talented individuals. If we can summon them back to our sect, it will not only comfort our master's longing for his disciples but also contribute to the revival of the Daoist sect."

When the "Eight Friends of Hangu" were mentioned, Wu Yazi's expression changed slightly. Although he had always had some reservations about these disciples and grand-disciples being obsessed with miscellaneous studies, a trace of barely perceptible concern flashed in his eyes.

Therefore,” Qiao Tian’s tone turned serious, “the first thing is to ask Senior Brother to find a way to contact the eight junior disciples and summon them back. Secondly…” He paused slightly, his expression calm, “purchasing mountain land, building temples, and recruiting disciples all require funds. As a junior who has just started out, my savings are limited, so I will have to rely on Senior Brother to raise the funds for this matter.”

Su Xinghe's mind raced. Seeing his master nod slightly in acknowledgment, he knew the matter was settled. He bowed respectfully: "Since the sect leader has made arrangements, Xinghe will do his utmost."

Qiao Tian returned the greeting solemnly: "Thank you for your trouble, Senior Brother. Once the villa is completed, I hope Master will move there to Wudang. The spiritual energy there is abundant, making it more suitable for recuperation, and it will also be convenient for me to serve Master and treat his injuries."

A hint of relief flashed in Wu Yazi's eyes, and he said gently, "Since you have this intention, then so be it."

With everything settled, Qiao Tian straightened his clothes and stood up, his expression solemn: "Since that's the case, I will set off for Tianshan today to pay my respects to my senior uncle, Tong Lao. Firstly, to inform my master of his recent situation, and secondly, to convey my succession."

Wu Yazi gave him a deep look and said calmly, "Go. My senior sister has a fiery temper, so you must be careful with your words and actions."

Qiao Tian bowed and replied, "Disciple understands and will certainly handle it properly." After speaking, he bowed to Su Xinghe to say goodbye and turned to walk into the passage.

Upon reaching the entrance, he suddenly stopped, turned back, and bowed respectfully to the two people inside:

"Master, Senior Brother, see you again at Wudang Mountain."

The voice was clear and bright, and before the echo had faded, the figure had quietly disappeared into the depths of the passage.

Inside the stone chamber, Wu Yazi and Su Xinghe looked at each other in silence, both seeing a new expectation in each other's eyes.

Chapter 37 Soaring Through the Sky

After bidding farewell to Wuyazi and Su Xinghe, Qiao Tian did not delay at all. After leaving the Valley of the Deaf and Mute, he headed straight west, his goal being the Lingjiu Palace on the Misty Peak of Tianshan Mountain.

The journey was long and arduous. Even with Qiao Tian's exceptional lightness skills, traveling day and night from the heart of the Central Plains to the Tianshan Mountains in the northwest took nearly a month. The scenery along the way gradually changed from lush greenery to desolate Gobi Desert, and finally to majestic, snow-capped mountains that pierced the clouds. The closer they got to the Tianshan Mountains, the thinner and more frigid the air became, yet it also became purer, as if it could cleanse their lungs.

On this day, Qiao Tian finally followed the map and arrived at an extremely precipitous cliff. The cliff face was steep and sheer, with a bottomless abyss of clouds and mist below. Only a thick, cold iron chain, as thick as a child's arm, stretched across the two banks, swaying slightly in the howling mountain wind. This was the only path leading to Lingjiu Palace.

Across from the iron chain, the outline of magnificent palaces and pavilions could be vaguely seen, hidden among the clouds and snow-capped peaks, like a fairyland, yet exuding an air of strict vigilance.

On the other side of the cliff, four women dressed in white, with cold expressions and holding long swords, were already waiting. When they saw Qiao Tian appear silently like a ghost, they were all startled. One of them immediately took out a signal arrow from her bosom and flicked it into the air.

"Whoosh—crack!" The sharp whistling sound echoed through the high mountains and valleys, sounding particularly jarring.

Qiao Tian knew this was a warning from Lingjiu Palace, and he expected more people to arrive soon. He knew that his grandmaster, Tianshan Tonglao, was unpredictable and valued rules and face above all else. In front of her, he could neither be weak and submissive and lose his integrity, nor be too forceful and provoke her. The line of "etiquette" was absolutely off-limits.

He straightened his slightly dusty robes, worn from the long journey, and slowly stepped forward. He stopped about three zhang away from the female disciples, his posture composed, and bowed with his hands clasped in greeting. His voice was clear and resonant, neither humble nor arrogant.

"My name is Qiao Tian. I am a junior brother of Tianshan Tonglao, the master of Lingjiu Palace, and a disciple of Wuyazi, the head of the Xiaoyao Sect. I have come today to pay my respects to my senior master, as I have important matters to report. I would be grateful if you could do me a favor and inform him of my arrival. Whether my senior master sees me or not, I will wait here and would never dare to trespass."

His words not only revealed his identity and purpose but also showed the other party sufficient respect and observed proper etiquette.

Upon hearing this, the female disciples exchanged bewildered glances, their eyes filled with surprise and uncertainty. They had guarded this place for many years and had never heard of the Child Granny having any junior brothers or sisters, let alone any junior nephews or grandnieces.

Just then, a whooshing sound came, and seven or eight more women flew in, their movements light and graceful, clearly indicating they were even more skilled in martial arts. The leader, about thirty years old, had a beautiful face, but her brows carried an imposing air of heroism and menace. She wore clothing slightly different from the other women, with cloud and phoenix patterns embroidered on the hem of her garments, clearly indicating she was a leader among the Nine Heavens and Nine Departments.

Her gaze was like lightning as she scanned Qiao Tian from head to toe. She spoke in a cold voice, as icy as the mountains: "You're Granny Tong's junior disciple? Words are no proof! We've served Granny Tong for decades, and we've never heard her mention any junior brothers or sisters, let alone any junior disciples visiting us. Who exactly are you? How dare you trespass into the forbidden area of ​​Lingjiu Palace? Do you know what your fate will be?"

The pressure increased sharply, and a chilling atmosphere filled the air.

Qiao Tian remained expressionless, having already anticipated this question. He hesitated for a moment, then slowly removed the Seven Treasures Ring given to him by Wu Yazi from his thumb. The jade ring shimmered with a warm and mysterious luster under the snow's reflection.

He held up the ring with both hands and presented it to the female leader, speaking solemnly: "Senior Sister, please be aware. This is the token of our Xiaoyao Sect's leader—the Seven Treasures Ring. It was personally passed down by my master, Wuyazi, and serves as proof of my identity. Please present this to our Grand Master Uncle; he will immediately recognize its authenticity. After the Grand Master Uncle has examined it, please be sure to return it to me. This item is of great importance to our sect and cannot be lost; it is also the token by which we meet our Grand Master Uncle below."

The female leader's gaze fell on the Seven Treasures Ring, her pupils contracting slightly. Although she didn't recognize the item, she could tell it was of extraordinary quality, radiating a precious light, and the other party's words seemed sincere, not feigned.

She hesitated for a moment, then finally reached out and took the ring. It felt warm and smooth to the touch, clearly not an ordinary item. She gave Qiao Tian a deep look and said, "You wait here. Do not act rashly! If your words are false, do not blame the Lingjiu Palace for its ruthless swords!"

After saying that, she turned around and whispered a few words to a subordinate behind her. The subordinate immediately nodded, and with a swift movement, he leaped onto the iron chain like a swallow. He lightly and quickly glided across to the other side, his movements quite skillful.

Qiao Tian nodded, said no more, and walked to a large rock smoothed by wind and snow. He sat down cross-legged, closed his eyes and regulated his breathing, and actually waited patiently. The mountain wind was fierce, making his robes flutter, but he remained as steady as a rock, as if he had become one with the snow mountain.

Time passed slowly, and the atmosphere at the cliff edge was heavy. The female disciples of Lingjiu Palace did not sheath their swords and kept their eyes fixed on Qiao Tian, ​​not daring to relax their guard in the slightest.

About half an hour later, there was finally movement on the other side.

A red figure shot across the iron chain like an arrow, several times faster than the messenger woman who had brought the message. In the blink of an eye, she had already covered most of the chain and landed steadily on the edge of the cliff. It was the female leader who had returned.

She looked at Qiao Tian with a complex expression, her previous cold wariness now replaced by surprise and inquiry. She raised her voice and said, "Grandma Tong has ordered you to cross the cliff and come to see me immediately! Come with me!"

Qiao Tian opened his eyes, a glint of light flashing in them. He stood up, brushed the ice shards off his robes, and smiled, "Thank you for leading the way, Senior Sister."

The female leader said no more and turned to step onto the iron chains again.

However, Qiao Tian did not follow her onto the lock. Instead, he took a deep breath, his Nine Yang True Qi flowing freely within him. With a slight movement, he did not rush towards the iron lock, but instead leaped directly into the bottomless abyss!

"Ah!" "What is he doing?!" "Is he looking for death?!"

This scene immediately caused all the women of Lingjiu Palace on the cliff to gasp in shock! Even the female leader turned around in horror, her face pale! This cliff was over twenty feet wide, with clouds and mist swirling below, its depth unfathomable. Even the old woman Tonglao needed to use iron chains to lightly gain leverage to cross it. How dare this person jump down directly? Isn't this courting death?

Just when everyone thought they would hear screams of agony as they fell into the deep valley, a miraculous scene unfolded!

Qiao Tian's body plummeted several feet before his momentum suddenly slowed, as if an invisible force had caught him. He didn't panic; instead, using the momentum of his fall, he spread his arms, his body twisting in mid-air in a miraculous motion, his toes touching each other!

A soft popping sound rang out in the air.

Using the force of his push, he abruptly stopped his descent. As if weightless, he not only stopped falling but also spiraled upwards like a crane soaring through the clouds! This ascent was more than ten feet higher than the iron lock!

The mountain wind billowed his robes, making them flutter and rustle. Against the backdrop of the snow-capped mountains and blue sky, his figure was as ethereal as a fairy, elegant and unparalleled!

After reaching the highest point, his body stretched out gracefully, like a willow catkin or a celestial being descending to earth, and he glided forward in the air with a beautiful and composed posture, as if the ground beneath his feet was not a bottomless abyss, but a flat road!

As he glided to the point of near-landing, he lightly touched the air with his toes, as if stepping on invisible stairs, using this momentum to propel himself forward several more feet. He repeated this several times, his movements fluid and effortless, yet lightning-fast, landing steadily on the opposite cliff face in just a few leaps and bounds!

Throughout the entire process, he didn't touch the iron lock at all!

On this side of the cliff, all was deathly silent.

All the female disciples of Lingjiu Palace stared in disbelief at the figure standing with hands behind her back on the opposite bank, her robes fluttering in the wind, as if they had seen a ghost. They had practiced martial arts since childhood and had witnessed the unpredictable and miraculous skills of the Child Granny, but they had never seen such an incredible, almost flying, lightness technique!

This...this is really Tong Lao's junior disciple? Or just...a junior disciple?!

The female leader, now completely stunned, looked at Qiao Tian with a completely different expression, filled with shock and disbelief. Recalling how the Old Woman, upon seeing the ring, hadn't said much but immediately ordered him to be summoned, she felt an even greater curiosity about this man.

This person is no ordinary individual!

Suppressing her shock, she took a deep breath and used her lightness skill to leap over the iron chains, landing beside Qiao Tian. Her tone unconsciously carried a hint of respect: "Young Master... please come with me. Granny Tong is already waiting in the hall."

Qiao Tian smiled slightly and nodded, saying, "Thank you for your trouble, Senior Sister."

This time, no one dared to underestimate him in the slightest.

Chapter 38 Who exactly are you?

The female leader led Qiao Tian through the many imposing halls and pavilions of Lingjiu Palace, the path becoming increasingly secluded and tranquil. Finally, they arrived at a wide stone platform suspended above a sea of ​​clouds. From this place, the view was extremely expansive, overlooking thousands of peaks. The rising sun gilded the clouds with a dazzling golden edge, creating a magnificent scene.

At the end of the stone platform, a short figure dressed in bright red sat cross-legged, her back to the newcomer and facing the rising sun in the east. Her hands formed mysterious hand seals, and her aura mingled with the rising sun, as she practiced the crucial "Eight Desolations and Six Directions, I Alone Am Supreme Technique," a daily ritual. Though she resembled a young girl, her unwavering steadiness and the overwhelming aura she exuded, drawing upon the purple energy of the rising sun, inspired awe and fear.

It was none other than the Heavenly Child Granny, Wu Xingyun.

The woman leading the way bowed respectfully and silently, then quietly retreated, leaving Qiao Tian alone.

Qiao Tian knew that he must not be disturbed at this moment, so he immediately focused his mind and stood quietly to the side like an ancient pine tree, calmly looking at the rising sun and the back of the old woman, waiting patiently.

Time passed slowly until the sun fully emerged from the sea of ​​clouds, its golden rays spreading everywhere. Only then did the boundless aura surrounding the Child Granny slowly recede, returning to her dantian. She exhaled a long, condensed breath, as sharp as a white arrow, completing her practice.

Qiao Tian then took three steps forward, stopped three zhang away, bowed deeply and performed a very respectful salute, his voice clear and respectful: "Junior Qiao Tian, ​​on the orders of my master Wu Yazi, has come to pay my respects to my senior uncle and wish him good health."

The old woman didn't turn around immediately. She gently stroked the thumb ring in her hand, and her petite figure seemed to tremble almost imperceptibly. A clear voice, yet containing endless majesty and vicissitudes, rang out. It was impossible to tell whether she was happy or angry, but it concealed a very deep fluctuation: "Wu Yazi...where is he now? Why...why doesn't he come to see me himself?" Deep in her words, there seemed to be complex emotions accumulated over countless years.

Qiao Tian did not answer directly, but instead cupped his hands again, his tone becoming even more respectful, yet his words were resolute and left no room for doubt: "Since you, my senior uncle, have inquired about the whereabouts of our sect elders, I will naturally report the truth without any concealment. However, before reporting back, I humbly request that you first return the sect leader's token—the Seven Treasures Ring—to your nephew."