THE CELESTIAL PATH

Chapter 2: THE MYSTERIOUS STRANGER

Chapter 2: "The Mysterious Stranger"

Qián Chén's eyes seemed to bore into Liè Rén's very soul, as if searching for something. Liè Rén felt a shiver run down his spine, but he stood tall, meeting the stranger's gaze.

"What do you mean by 'prove myself worthy'?" Liè Rén asked, his voice firm but curious.

Qián Chén chuckled, the sound like a gentle breeze rustling through leaves. "Ah, young one, the Celestial Path is not for the faint of heart. You must demonstrate your resolve, your courage, and your willingness to learn. Come, let us begin your training."

Without waiting for a response, Qián Chén turned and walked away, his white robes billowing behind him like a cloud. Liè Rén followed, his heart pounding with excitement and a hint of trepidation.

As they walked, the misty mountain peak gave way to a lush forest, the trees towering above them like sentinels. Qián Chén led Liè Rén through the forest, pointing out hidden landmarks and sharing stories of ancient cultivators who had once walked this path.

The sun began to set, casting a golden glow over the forest. Qián Chén stopped at a clearing, where a small cottage stood, surrounded by a garden filled with strange and exotic herbs.

"Welcome to my humble abode," Qián Chén said, his eyes twinkling with warmth. "Here, you will learn the fundamentals of cultivation, and begin your journey on the Celestial Path."

Liè Rén's eyes widened as he took in the cottage and its surroundings. He had never seen anything like it before. The air was thick with the scent of herbs and the hum of inner energy, and he could feel the weight of history and knowledge bearing down upon him.

"Come, let us begin," Qián Chén said, his voice low and urgent. "The path ahead of you is long and treacherous, but with dedication and courage, you will reach greatness beyond your wildest dreams."

And with that, Liè Rén's training began, under the guidance of the mysterious Qián Chén.