THE CELESTIAL PATH

Chapter 3: THE SHADOW IN THE MIST

Chapter 3: "The Shadow in the Mist"

Liè Rén spent the next few days learning the fundamentals of cultivation from Qián Chén. He practiced breathing techniques, meditation, and inner energy control, his progress rapid and astonishing. Qián Chén watched him with a keen eye, nodding in approval.

But on the fourth day, as they walked through the forest, a sudden chill ran down Liè Rén's spine. He sensed a dark presence lurking just beyond the treeline, its gaze fixed on him like a cold shadow.

Qián Chén's expression turned grave, his eyes scanning the surroundings. "A Yīn entity," he whispered, his voice low and urgent. "Drawn by your awakening. We must leave, now!"

Liè Rén felt a shiver run down his spine as he followed Qián Chén through the forest, the darkness closing in behind them like a shroud. They walked in silence, their footsteps quiet on the damp earth.

As they emerged from the forest, Liè Rén saw a figure waiting for them, its presence like a dark hole in the fabric of the world. Qián Chén's hand shot out, grasping Liè Rén's arm, and he pulled him aside just as the figure vanished into thin air.

"That was a Yīn wraith," Qián Chén explained, his voice low and serious. "A creature of darkness, drawn to the light of your inner energy. You must be careful, Liè Rén. The balance between Yīn and Yáng is fragile, and the forces of darkness seek to disrupt it."

Liè Rén nodded, his mind racing with questions and fears. But Qián Chén's expression reassured him, and he knew that he was in good hands.

"Come," Qián Chén said, his eyes glinting with determination. "We have much to learn, and little time to waste. The Celestial Path is not for the faint of heart."

And with that, they continued their journey, the misty mountains looming before them like a challenge, the forces of darkness lurking in the shadows, waiting to strike.