7 - The Cannon Fodder is Prepared to Divorce

Time flew by, and Yue Bai had already spent over ten days at the foot of the mountain. During this period, she neither saw Ji Wunian again nor triggered any other missions. The mission "Join the Sanqing Sect" remained incomplete and seemingly would only change once she was formally accepted into the inner sect. Currently stationed at the foot of the mountain, Yue Bai dared not let her spiritual essence leave her body for too long or venture too far. Thus, she did not solidify her essence to observe Ji Wunian again. The newly inducted Daoist children, as Ji Wunian mentioned, had mostly already thoroughly studied the classics. During lessons, Yue Bai was not very active, and the Daoist who taught did not call on her to answer questions. Some would approach her after class to initiate conversations, using questions as a pretext. However, she only offered simple insights and did not engage much. Some viewed her reticence as humility, while others thought her to be arrogant. A few days ago, someone deliberately asked the teaching Daoist to question her during the lesson, but she skillfully handled it. When she later discussed this with Ji He Guang, the young man praised her for her approach—even though the mission progress on Ji Wunian's end showed no signs of advancement, Yue Bai had gotten closer to Ji He Guang personally. In their recent interactions, Ji He Guang had developed a new level of respect for Yue Bai, even though she still exhibited some naivety and shyness. He found her to be a principled person with a strong character. Ji He Guang knew that Yue Bai might not have had much exposure in the past, so he would occasionally share various worldly matters with her as a way to relieve some of Ji Wunian's burdens. "The Ji Immortal once said," Ji He Guang said with a look of longing, "Cultivating immortality and seeking the Dao is about asking the heavens and earth about the way of man. Standing between heaven and earth, whether one ascends or returns to the soil, it's merely a matter of choosing a path. Rather than fretting over the rise and fall of the mundane world, one should consider how they truly wish to act." Yue Bai feigned a look of understanding, inwardly thinking that if the former sect leader heard this, it would likely result in decades of confinement. There is a path for immortals and a path for mortals. If immortals meddle excessively in worldly affairs, it would be akin to Ji Wunian's past actions of taking heads amid thousands of soldiers, leaving the mortal realm helpless. "They say that since the rebellion of the third prince, the Ji Immortal has been confined to the mountain, forbidden to intervene in worldly affairs," Yue Bai tentatively inquired, feigning hesitation as if unsure whether to ask such a question. "What do you mean by this, heir?" Ji He Guang paused, waving his hand dismissively. "I only admire the Ji Immortal's concern for the world." He, being a few years older than Yue Bai, didn't really see her as an elder but rather as a younger sister. "If she one day ascends, she will undoubtedly be an immortal who protects the world. Since you're going to be under her tutelage, you too must have a heart like hers." Ji He Guang playfully bowed, smiling as he changed the topic. "I'll thank you in advance." Yue Bai, still wearing a somewhat awkward expression, waved her hand dismissively, and they quickly moved on from the topic. As for what mundane affairs Ji Wunian might have meddled in, Yue Bai connected the dots with the scenes she witnessed during her travels to Quren. There were tales of severe droughts here and breaches there. Not only were there natural disasters, but wildfires erupted on the plains, forcing the nomadic tribes to march inland, causing further conflict. It was a tumultuous time. From what Yue Bai saw, the body she's in now likely perished in these calamities. But as Yue Bai journeyed, she observed that although many towns had refugees, barring some remote villages, efforts were underway to resettle them. Grain depots in many major cities were unusually stocked, indicating prior preparation. Initial unrest gradually subsided. Word among the new Daoist children was that following the emperor's directive to reopen border trade and establish numerous camps a few years ago, the invading nomadic tribes were not as numerous as expected and were easily repelled by the stationed troops. Captured nomads were relocated to pre-designated areas. Though there remained a cultural rift, significant disruptions were unlikely. Despite the severe disasters this year, the government had already implemented measures with considerable success. Though the world suffered, the people's spirits were gradually stabilizing. Yue Bai practiced her calligraphy, writing "The Ji Immortal's Great Righteousness" on the plain paper. Revealing the divine plan, saving the people from fire and water. As she thought of Ji Wunian’s mission status of 5% completion, she wrote another phrase: "A heart for the world." Though the writing was crooked, it looked better than her own handwriting. "This is asking you to save the world…" Jiu Yi remarked as she observed her writing. "Why not just solve all those natural and human-made disasters, bring peace, and be done with it?" Yue Bai massaged her wrist. This body was still too weak; writing for long periods tired her out. "Don’t we still have to wait for her centennial? Let's first become her disciple and take things slowly." *** No matter how detailed the teachings of those classics were, a month was about enough to cover them. The old teacher concluded the lessons this morning, granting them a half-day off in the afternoon. Some well-informed Daoist children hinted that those entering the inner sect would be fetched by the immortal elders this afternoon. Yue Bai had already scanned some of the Daoists' sea of consciousness, so she knew this well in advance. She even embedded markers in some minds to stay informed about matters at the foot of the mountain. She paid special attention to Ji He Guang, not only reading his sea of consciousness at midnight and confirming Ji Wunian's communication with the emperor but also leaving a small mark on his back. This mark would keep her updated on his location and could even create a rapid pathway for her to reach him quickly. Jiu Yi watched her actions with serene detachment. You know what it feels like to have a host with built-in hacks? Even if you're just a mission-reporting system, the host can accomplish all tasks impeccably through their own strength. Having completed everything intermittently, Yue Bai was leisurely today. Since someone was coming to fetch her, she decided to enjoy a stroll. Ji He Guang and Yu Mi had no plans to enter the inner sect. They would return to the Prince of Duan's estate after three months of studying Dao here. From Ji Wunian’s and the others' attitudes, he knew they might part ways with Yue Bai today. Feeling a sense of camaraderie, he invited her to join him and Yu Mi for a walk around Quren. Yue Bai readily agreed. Finding the Daoist robes cumbersome, they changed into civilian clothing and ventured into the town together. When Yue Bai arrived, it was Ji Wunian who whisked her away before she could explore Quren city. Now, it was her first time actually entering. Many vendors lined both sides of the main road, selling wooden swords and charms, calling out to the three youthful figures passing by. Yue Bai picked up a short wooden sword, clearly a child’s toy, devoid of spiritual energy but somewhat cute. "Miss Yue Bai is interested in this?" Ji He Guang saw her examining it and immediately handed over some silver to buy it for her. "If you like it, keep it." Yue Bai didn't expect him to act so swiftly, living up to his princely upbringing. She accepted it with thanks and tied it to her waist with a string from the shopkeeper. The three continued their stroll. Yu Mi, with a fondness for snacks, bought quite a few, sharing some with Yue Bai and Ji He Guang. By the time it was mealtime, they weren't very hungry. Yu Mi suggested they keep sampling street food, clearly eager for more. Despite his strict upbringing as the heir, Ji He Guang seldom had such carefree outings and, after some light-hearted banter with Yue Bai, agreed. They heard about a famous tofu pudding stall renowned even beyond the town. After a short wait, they got seated. Several others around recognized their companions but refrained from chatting, choosing instead to enjoy their meal. Yue Bai's tofu pudding arrived. Just as she savored the sweetness at the bowl's edge, Ji He Guang abruptly called out behind her, "The Ji Immortal." Caught off guard, Yue Bai choked and coughed. Thankfully, she managed to move the bowl away just in time to avoid a major mishap. Someone took the bowl from her hands as Ji Wunian gently patted her back, helping her catch her breath. "Am I that scary?" Nearby classmates attempted to rise and salute Ji Wunian but were halted by her, encouraging them to eat without formality. The stall owner greeted Ji Wunian, and she responded with a smile. Yue Bai, teary-eyed from coughing, turned to look at her. Today, Ji Wunian was dressed more casually in a set of light purple combat attire, adorned with cloud patterns different from before. For an immortal, she seemed to have quite a varied wardrobe. Sitting next to Yue Bai, Yu Mi was stunned. Ji He Guang’s light cough brought her back to reality, and she hastily stood up, "Ji Immortal, please have a seat..." The bustling stall used long benches. Keeping some distance, Yue Bai had sat slightly apart. As Yu Mi suddenly stood up, one end of the bench lost balance, causing Yue Bai to tumble directly into Ji Wunian’s arms. The whistling sound in Jiu Yi's head was something Yue Bai chose to ignore. Regaining her composure, Yue Bai stood and, together with Yu Mi, addressed Ji Wunian, "Ji Immortal, why are you here?" The young girl, having been both startled and choked, had red eyes and a flushed face. Though only a month apart, she seemed far more composed. "You don't know why I'm here?" Ji Wunian smiled at her. Onlookers, familiar or not with Ji Wunian's reputation, subtly or overtly glanced her way. Yue Bai’s lips tightened slightly once more. Evidently pleased, Ji Wunian did not press her, merely addressing Ji He Guang and those nearby, "Enjoy yourselves; we need to leave." After speaking, Ji Wunian turned and walked a couple of steps, noticing that the young girl behind her hadn't followed. Tilting her head, she asked, "What's wrong? Do you want to be carried?" Yue Bai quickly silenced Jiu Yi's whistling with a shout and hurried to catch up. *** With her hands behind her back, Ji Wunian led Yue Bai out of the town. Finding a secluded spot and ignoring Yue Bai's surprised expression and pursed lips, she lifted the girl and whisked her away on her sword. As Yue Bai glanced around from Ji Wunian’s embrace, she saw the green mountains recede into the distance, gradually enveloped in mist, then suddenly clear again. Beyond the wind and snow spread the white waves, bringing the Azure Peak's Qingtian Hall closer with each passing moment. Ji Wunian landed directly in the front courtyard. Yue Bai noticed a reclining chair in the courtyard and, surprisingly, some pink buds blooming on the nearby tree. Is it the season for flowers to bloom? "Come." Ji Wunian led her into the main hall, taking her seat at the center while smiling at Yue Bai. The young girl seemed a bit anxious, glancing around the main hall before staring at the floor for a while. Finally, as if she had made a decision, she looked at Ji Wunian and said, "Ji Immortal, I have a question." "Ask." Most of the time, Ji Wunian appeared amiable, even a bit mischievous, but when those smiling eyes focused on you, it was clear why she was considered a prodigy—she had her own sharpness. "Yue Bai doesn't believe she has extraordinary talent…" Yue Bai paused, "I don't understand why the Immortal would favor me…" "This…" Ji Wunian supported her head with one hand, her finger touching the tear mole as she smiled ambiguously, "My sword has never missed its mark, so I believe we are destined." Never missed its mark? Was this the pride of a genius? "If it's just about that incident…" Yue Bai didn’t know whether to blame Jiu Yi, but the situation was already as it was, and she couldn't tell if it was good or bad. Seeing the girl pursing her lips again, Ji Wunian softened her demeanor and smiled, "Moreover, you have good bones. It's easy to find someone with great physical potential, but it's hard to find someone with such smooth meridians like yours." She stood and walked over to Yue Bai, squatting slightly to meet her eyes, "Since I encountered you, I'll take it as a gift from the heavens and accept it." "Rest assured, since I accept you as my disciple, as long as your heart is righteous, I will fulfill my duty as a teacher—teaching you and protecting you." Having said that, she returned to her seat, smiling as she watched the girl wrestle with her thoughts. Yue Bai didn’t struggle for long; Ji Wunian provided a good bridge for her, and after stubbornly holding out, it was time to humbly accept it. With that, Yue Bai knelt, her forehead touching the ground respectfully, "Then… Yue Bai greets Master." "Good." Ji Wunian smiled, raising her chin slightly, "Come here." Yue Bai approached her. Ji Wunian lifted her hand. Her hand was significantly larger than Yue Bai's, revealing long, slender fingers under Yue Bai’s palm. Suddenly, she felt something cold and metallic pressed into her palm—a longsword had appeared there. The longsword was light; even without drawing it, the sharpness was apparent. The icy touch of the scabbard indicated it was no ordinary weapon. Yue Bai looked at her. "The day we met, my senior brother and I were fighting over a piece of spiritual iron," Ji Wunian gazed at the dazed girl with satisfaction, "So I decided to forge a sword for you as my gift for accepting you as my disciple." Even Yue Bai, who had limited knowledge, knew how crucial a celestial sword was for an immortal. The indication was that it was forged just for her. So she was busy with this recently? Yue Bai was skeptical, but outwardly Yue Bai appeared stunned, stepping back as she tried to kneel again, her voice trembling, "Thank you, Master, for the sword." "No need to keep kneeling," Ji Wunian helped her up, "A longsword should have a spirit. Name your sword." Yue Bai thought for a moment, "Since it's a gift from Master, I’d like to ask Master to name it." She had too many swords of her own already and wasn’t too fond of naming them anymore. "My sword is called 'Xi Feng' (Learning Wind), yours…" Ji Wunian pondered, "How about 'Feng Yu' (Sealing Rain)?" The sword carried a chill, so the name "Feng Yu" seemed fitting. Ji Wunian didn't let her kneel, and Yue Bai wasn’t fond of it either. She held the sword and bowed respectfully, lowering her head with demure. "Thank you, Master, for the name." *** The next day, the formal apprenticeship ceremony was held in the main hall of Azure Peak. The immortals stood at the forefront, while the disciples protected them with their swords. Twenty-five new disciples selected for the inner sect donned their new Sanqing inner sect uniforms—elegant white attire, hair neatly tied, cleanly ascending the steps to kneel before the hall. The Sanqing Sect Leader Zhao Zi Chen spoke sparingly, a single word "kneel" compelling them to bow. Worship the heavens and earth, worship the Sanqing, worship the master. When Yue Bai raised her head, Ji Wunian was smiling at her. The beauty arched her brows and eyes, looking at her then gazing at the distant mountains. The vast world lay within her eyes. "Ceremony complete!" Yue Bai stood up, and Jiu Yi reported the mission progress to her. "The mission 'Join the Sanqing Sect' is completed." Jiu Yi announced, "Mission status updated, 'Fulfill Ji Wunian’s wish,' Progress: 6%; New mission triggered, 'Assist Ji Wunian in improving her cultivation,' Current progress: 0." So, she had become a disciple, and now she had to help her master improve her cultivation. Yue Bai looked at Ji Wunian. The other was beaming, as if accepting a disciple was a significant event. Yet, it was merely one percent of her goal being achieved.