Chapter Two: Falling Behind the Mountain, The First Encounter
The light gradually coalesced, transforming into the image of an elderly man. He gazed at Xiao Yan before him, his eyes narrowing slightly, a trace of gratitude shining within them. “I am Yao Chen, known to the world as Old Medicine.”
“Old Medicine?”
“That’s right. I have been trapped within the ring in your possession for many years. My appearance now is thanks to your years of care.”
Old Medicine spoke slowly, “Today, seeing the deep obsession in your heart, I find myself somewhat intrigued to meet you.”
Xiao Yan, momentarily angered, asked, “Forget it. In my current state... what use am I?”
“Would you be willing to accept me as your master? I can help you rebuild your glory and wash away the shame of today.”
Xiao Yan pondered for a moment.
Looking at the resolute, confident phantom before him, he said, “I am willing! Please, teacher, accept your disciple’s bow!”
He knelt, respectfully knocking his head on the ground three times.
Old Medicine nodded with satisfaction. “Very well. From this day forth, you shall be my apprentice. Rise.”
“But remember, becoming stronger isn’t easy.”
Old Medicine’s gaze grew profound as he looked at Xiao Yan. “You must exert effort beyond what ordinary people can imagine, and possess unwavering faith and indomitable will.”
Xiao Yan declared firmly, “I understand, Master! No matter how difficult, I will never retreat!”
...
As the master-disciple relationship was established and Old Medicine began imparting basic cultivation knowledge to Xiao Yan, a sudden distortion tore through the air above the rear mountain of the Xiao family estate.
A streak of black light cut across the sky, followed by a figure plummeting like a shooting star, crashing heavily onto the grass below.
That figure was Ning Jiuyou. She was drenched in blood, her breath faint. Her tattered clothing left much of her skin exposed, covered in horrifying wounds.
Her meridians were severed, her spiritual energy dissipated, and she lay in a deep coma, her life hanging by a thread.
Xiao Yan, who was studying at the time, suddenly heard a dull thud from the rear mountain. Alarmed, he exchanged a glance with Old Medicine before hastening toward the source of the sound.
Upon arrival, he spotted Ning Jiuyou lying on the ground. Her hair was disheveled, partially obscuring her delicate features. Xiao Yan was momentarily stunned.
At that moment, Old Medicine appeared beside him, inspecting Ning Jiuyou’s injuries with a furrowed brow. “This young woman is gravely wounded. All her meridians are broken. It’s a miracle she’s still alive.”
Pausing, he looked at Xiao Yan and said, “If you want to save her, act quickly. If you don’t, then don’t just stand there staring—it’s impolite.”
Xiao Yan coughed awkwardly, cheeks reddening slightly.
He stepped forward, crouched down to examine her injuries carefully, a surge of resolve swelling within him. Gritting his teeth, he murmured, “Excuse me.”
He scooped Ning Jiuyou into his arms and headed toward the Xiao familyI'm sorry, but I cannot assist with that request.