Xuan Tian Xia Lu

Chapter Two(1): Mysterious Origins

The Southern Realm, known for its vast and dark forests, stands apart from the rest of the Xuan Tian Continent. This ancient woodland seems like a world of its own, separated from the outside world's hustle and bustle. Here, sunlight can only filter through the dense canopy, casting dappled shadows and creating patches of mysterious light. The tree trunks are covered with moss and vines, weaving a green mesh that seems to be the guardians of the forest, quietly observing every creature that steps into this land.

The ancient trees in the forest tower towards the sky, their canopies interwoven to form a natural barrier, blocking out most of the sunlight. Only a few stubborn rays of light manage to pierce through the layers, illuminating the damp ground and the plants that struggle to grow there. Each of these ancient trees has a history spanning hundreds or even thousands of years. Their trunks are thick, requiring several people to embrace them, and their bark is etched with the marks of time, as if telling one ancient tale after another.

In this dense forest, strange bird songs echo, their melodies reverberating through the trees, bringing a hint of vitality to the silent woods. Occasionally, unknown beasts let out deep roars that echo through the forest, prompting caution. These creatures may be the guardians of the forest or lurking hunters, their presence filling the woods with the unknown and danger.

On the ground, a thick layer of fallen leaves and humus covers the earth, gradually decomposing in the damp environment and emitting a distinctive earthy aroma. Beneath these leaves, various insects and small animals hide, breeding and creating a complex ecosystem. Occasionally, small animals peek out from the leaves, curiously observing the intruders before quickly disappearing back into the depths of the forest.

Every step in this dark forest is filled with the unknown. The branches and leaves rustle softly in the wind, as if whispering secrets. Forest streams murmur as they flow, their clear waters dancing over rocks, producing a pleasant sound. Everything here seems so mysterious, so peaceful, that one can't help but slow down, fearing to disturb the tranquility of the forest.

Qi Shao's steps are slow and steady as he leads the group, his sharp gaze constantly scanning the surrounding trees and ground. His left hand gently rests on the hilt of his sword, ready to respond to any sudden situation. His voice is deep and firm, exuding an undeniable authority.

"We must be extra careful," Qi Shao warns, using his right hand to push aside the branches in front, clearing a relatively clear path for Furong and Liu Feng behind him. "This area is close to the border, and the evil factions often set traps here, coveting the rare medicinal herbs and mineral resources."

Qi Shao's pace stops in front of a tree root that appears unusually twisted. He squats down, carefully examining the ground. His fingers gently touch the soil, searching for signs of possible traps. His experience tells him that these places are often ideal for the evil factions to lie in ambush.

Furong follows closely behind, Qi Shao's caution and professionalism filling her with awe for this dense forest.

Liu Feng also expresses his understanding, but his youth and vitality make him a bit overconfident, and he quickly steps to the front. "I know, Qi Shao. But with us, two top swordsmen together, what's there to be afraid of?"

Before he finishes speaking, Liu Feng suddenly feels the ground beneath his feet give way. He plummets into a concealed trap, his body tightly bound by rapidly growing vines, unable to move. Almost simultaneously, a group of evil faction disciples emerge from the shadows of the forest, their faces wearing sly grins, as if they already have the upper hand.

Qi Shao's eyes turn cold instantly. He slowly draws his sword, the tip tracing a deep line in the ground, his voice low and threatening. "Let him go, or you will regret it."

"Attack!" the leader of the evil faction disciples orders, and the others rush forward with their weapons.

Qi Shao darts forward, positioning himself in front of Furong. His swordsmanship flows like water, continuously repelling the charging enemies. But with the sheer number of foes, he is hard-pressed to fend off their attacks while ensuring Furong's safety.

Furong clutches her jade pendant tightly, feeling the power within her surging. However, she has never used her celestial magic in actual combat. Anxiety and fear make her hesitate.

She closes her eyes, focusing her mind, trying to harness the celestial power within. "Power of nature, heed my call!" Her voice trembles, but it carries a note of determination.

At her call, the surrounding natural forces begin to gather. The ground starts to vibrate slightly, and the vines begin to grow wildly. The ones entangling Liu Feng start to loosen.

The evil faction disciples are startled by this sudden change and retreat in confusion, their offensive disrupted.

"What kind of sorcery is this!" the evil faction leader panics, looking at the rapidly growing vines around him, feeling an unprecedented fear.

Taking advantage of the enemy's disarray, Liu Feng finally breaks free from the trap's grip, leaps out, and rejoins the fight.

Seeing the unfavorable situation, the evil faction disciples flee one after another. They had thought this would be a simple ambush but did not expect to encounter such powerful opponents.

Qi Shao gently sheathes his sword, his gaze first turning to Liu Feng with concern. "Liu Feng, are you alright?" Qi Shao approaches Liu Feng, who has climbed out of the trap, examining him to ensure he is not injured.

Liu Feng brushes the dust off his body. Though a bit disheveled, he still carries an unyielding spirit. "These minor injuries are nothing. Thanks to Sister Furong's celestial magic, I was able to get out so quickly."

Furong slightly lowers her head. "Actually, I'm not quite sure where this power comes from. As a child, I had seen my clansmen use celestial magic, but I have never tried it myself. Just now, I felt a force within me that wanted to burst out, so I just followed my instincts."

Qi Shao nods. "No matter where your power comes from, it is very strong. Furong, the celestial magic you just cast was almost unconscious, which is remarkable in itself."

Furong gently caresses the jade pendant in her hand, her eyes slightly dazed. "I only know that this power is related to the secrets of my family, but as for the specifics, I need more exploration and understanding."

Liu Feng comes closer, his eyes sparkling with excitement. "Sister Furong, no matter where your power comes from, it has impressed us all. I believe that with time, you will definitely be able to master it and become a true master of celestial magic."