Forge of Destiny Threads 516-Homecoming 4

~12 minute read · 2,889 words
Previously on Forge of Destiny...
Ling Qi returns to her beautiful hometown by the lake, finding it has grown significantly. She reunites joyfully with her younger sister Biyu and shares a poignant conversation with her mother about her romantic prospects. Ling Qi reveals she is pursuing a relationship with Xuan Shi, finds Bao Qian a reliable business partner, and admits to her mother that she is also attracted to Meng Dan.
It was a pleasant sensation to once again traverse the streets of Shenglu, which were now proper streets, nestled within the protective walls. The rough, beaten earth gradually transitioned into smoothly cut stone, subtly enhanced by the touch of a cultivator’s hand for improved pathways. Between these were waterways and verdant spaces, all meticulously arranged and tended. The canals, lined with tiled bottoms, shimmered with the occasional brilliance of purifying formations, diligently cleansing the water of impurities. This urban design shifted at the waterfront, where the ground became softer. Steps descended to streets paved with lighter brick and a wooden dockside walkway, its supports anchored deeply into the lakebed. The Snowblossom Temple, a grand structure, towered majestically over the surrounding humble dwellings. While most of the fisheries and warehouses remained unpainted, they shared a common feature: the same cool blue tiles adorning the temple's roof, at least on the more permanent buildings. The temple, broad rather than tall, stood as a single story, opening directly onto the serene lake. The wooden walkway that skirted the lakeside gracefully curved into the dock within. Here, the temple’s makeshift offering ship was moored, and here, the junior priests she had appointed diligently performed their rites and blessings upon the vessels, inspecting the day's catch for any signs of divine favor or displeasure. This proximity to the lake meant the temple carried a faint, fishy aroma, a scent the Snowblossom Lake likely appreciated. The morning mist that clung to the water near the ship provided a comfortably cool embrace, rather than a harsh chill, bolstering her confidence in this assumption. An increase in the populace was noticeable; it felt as though more people inhabited the area. This might be attributed to a significant portion of the manor staff relocating to residences within the city center, departing from their former accommodations at the manor. This arrangement offered a sense of ease and comfort, a feeling of their newfound security. Perfection remained elusive. Nothing was ever truly perfect. She overheard hushed conversations about a young man whose ambition outstripped his capabilities, leading him too far out onto the water. His vessel had been overturned by a colossal jadehelm. Whispers also spoke of an internal family conflict, prompting disapproving shakes of heads and tuts of concern, yet no decisive action. A daughter from one of the distant farms, having strayed too far in pursuit of lost sheep, was ensnared by spirits in the woods. Though another child had returned, the spirits' dance had left them profoundly shaken and deeply scarred. This news pricked at her conscience, yet she understood the impossibility of preventing every misfortune. Nevertheless, she resolved to ensure the protective wards were diligently re-examined. The road leading toward the outskirts of Shenglu was well-maintained, albeit somewhat winding. The agricultural lands were undergoing a slow, steady transformation. Investment in additional tools and materials was evident, but Cai Renxiang's staff had apparently opted to grant individual farmers considerable discretion in how they utilized these resources. Some yards featured chicken coops, others accommodated the space needed for a mountain ox to power new plows, and most possessed a hand quern. The once uniform grid of farmlands was beginning to exhibit distinct characteristics. However, the most striking change was the magnificent structure crowning the hilltop. Its vibrant red shingles glistened with residual moisture as the geyser erupting into the sky subsided, the setting sun’s light catching thousands of shimmering droplets. It was a low, expansive, arch-shaped edifice that embraced the crest of the hill, its rear opening towards the western mountains – an architectural choice presumably made with Zhengui’s comfort in mind. Smaller shrines and spaces for prayer were scattered across the gentle incline of the hillside. Some still awaited their idols, but several already housed dark green jade sculptures of her younger brother, each set atop a small mound of fertile soil from which vibrant flowers bloomed. While she was gradually adapting to the notion of people revering Zhengui, the sentiment still evoked a somewhat conflicted emotional response within her. The natural springs and the central geyser had been largely preserved in their original state. Only a few strategically placed stone meditation benches, already adorned with soft, mossy patches as if they had rested there for decades, subtly altered the landscape. "Big Sister!" Zhengui’s jubilant cry echoed as he toddled out to greet her, the gentle clinking of the planters secured to his harness harmonizing with the delicate crystal chimes now suspended from them. Zhen, it seemed, had ultimately refrained from adopting a full-fledged bell. In the garden behind him, her gaze fell upon Meng Duyi, who stood facing the geyser, the horns of his headdress glistening with stray droplets. "Hello, little brother," Ling Qi responded warmly. She opened her arms, embracing him as he approached, Zhen’s snout nuzzling affectionately into her shoulder. The comforting aroma of wood ash and blossoms filled her senses, a familiar reminder of home. "How have you been?" "Gui has been very busy, but everything has turned out wonderfully. The temple-like place has many chambers for Gui’s companions to engage in scholarly pursuits, and thanks to the reinforced steps and road wards, more people have come to visit the shrine!"

"Zhen has eradicated numerous bothersome pests that attempted to infest this area, ensuring the paths remain clear and the fields are left undisturbed, ready for the upcoming planting season," Zhen declared with a flourish. "Vile vermin will not be permitted to prey upon the winter harvests of Zhen's devoted followers!"

"It was a situation that could have escalated into a widespread blight had it not been addressed promptly," Meng Duyi explained, turning away from the steaming geyser and ambling towards the group.

"I am relieved that you managed the situation so effectively," Ling Qi expressed. "While I may not possess an achievement of equivalent scale, my time in Xiangmen was exceptionally enjoyable and imbued me with very strengthening Qi. I shall endeavor to bring you along next time, should the opportunity arise."

"Gui would greatly appreciate that! The pillar sap has proven remarkably beneficial for Gui's mental clarity and overall cultivation."

"Although its sweetness is somewhat excessive, it undeniably aids in building Zhen's foundation," his other half chimed in. "However, Zhen desires to spend time amongst the roots."

"I have no doubt that can be arranged. Did the construction of the temple proceed without issue?"

Zhengui paused, his two heads exchanging glances, his feet shuffling uncertainly and stirring up clouds of dust.

"Certain complications have arisen, though they are not of immediate concern. The final consecration has been postponed until these matters can be satisfactorily resolved," Meng Duyi responded with his characteristic calm demeanor.

Ling Qi straightened her posture, keeping one hand gently resting on Gui's head. "What manner of problems are we facing?"

"A belligerent fire spirit resides beneath the earth. The localized pocket that was breached prior to your departure was merely a minor manifestation of its power. Its appeasement now falls under your purview," Meng Duyi elucidated, drawing his fingers through his beard.

“Zhen has already attempted to reason with it. The audacity! This young king should utterly crush the insolent gasbag!”

“Gui believes that striking it might cause all the underground veins to rupture or become impure, leading to widespread sorrow among many people. Miss Snowblossom would be displeased, and Gui would be deemed an unworthy king,” his other half wisely interjected.

“I, Zhen, am known for both my magnanimity and my sense of responsibility.”

"Indeed, you are," Ling Qi affirmed indulgently, giving his head a gentle rub. "Do we understand the root cause of this conflict?"

You could be reading stolen content. Head to the original site for the genuine story.

"It is a territorial dispute. The subterranean realms, comprised of those pockets of fiery essence over which this entity presides, have long maintained a distinct separation from the verdant and open expanse of the sky where we dwell," Meng Duyi elaborated. "While minor, incidental fissures have existed for ages, this geyser, coupled with the burgeoning development of the fiery channels, has repeatedly breached what was once an impenetrable barrier."

"And it is no longer feasible to simply seal these breaches, is it?"

"Not without undertaking a substantial overhaul of your settlement's foundational infrastructure, no."

Ling Qi gave a thoughtful nod. "You indicated that this situation is not critical?"

"Gui is monitoring the situation, but does not foresee any immediate dangers. Big Sis need not fret."

"If the threat were imminent, I, Zhen, would have already taken decisive action!"

"I shall offer guidance on your potential courses of action when the time comes for you to resume your studies, alongside detailed reports on my activities during your absence. For the present moment, I encourage you to savor your reunion and homecoming." Meng Duyi turned and began to walk back towards the edge of the geyser.

She offered a brief inclination of her head to the geomancer, allowing him to resume his contemplative state. "Then, perhaps you would accompany me back to the village, Zhengui? We can share our experiences, little brother."

"Yes!"

As they descended the hill, Zhengui walking beside her, the faint chiming of bells from his altar harness accompanying their steps and the subtle vibration of his movement felt underfoot, Ling Qi, for perhaps the first time in a long while, felt no compulsion to ascend into the heavens and soar. The solid earth beneath her feet was more than sufficient.

Her journey, by deliberate design, had attracted minimal notice. With her Qi carefully retracted, her presence on the road was almost non-existent. To the mortals she encountered, she was little more than a fleeting shadow, easily mistaken for a distant bird or a trick of the light caused by the rustling leaves in the breeze.

Zhengui, conversely, was the embodiment of attention. Wherever he passed, mortals were compelled to notice. Men, women, and children ceased their activities to offer him bows of respect, some from where they stood, others hurrying to the edges of their properties to pay homage to him.

A smile graced her lips as she conversed with Zhengui, exchanging accounts of her sojourn in Xiangmen for his experiences in Shenglu. Given that ill tidings seemed to travel faster than good, she found great solace in hearing the more positive aspects of recent events. He recounted the story of a farmer whose wife had safely delivered a healthy son, and of the swift response from the outriders who had rescued a young woodcutter before he could sustain injuries beyond mere scratches from brambles and a degree of exhaustion.

He also imparted tales of the domain: of the dormant spirits of the earth gradually solidifying within lands that had weathered countless harvests, of the unhurried and peaceful dialogues held with the trees lining the paths, who would shift their roots away in exchange for offerings of nourishing fertilizer, and of a farm graced by a cheerful fairy residing in their well, who had essentially become a familiar household spirit.

She opted not to enter the main village with Zhengui. Instead, their route followed the gentle curve of the lake, the lapping waves occasionally touching his feet as they conversed. Her gaze fell upon the recently bolstered and widened track that stretched from the initial makeshift lumber camp towards a more distant one, nestled deeper within the sparse woods bordering this side of the lake. Wagons laden with freshly cut timber rumbled past them, bound for the town to undergo processing. Alongside the lumber were crates filled with herbs exuding an earthy aroma, dried and bundled, alongside various berries and other natural treasures harvested from the forest.

"Thank you for safeguarding this place during my absence, Little Brother."

"Gui is content to tend to his home while Sister handles the human affairs," he replied with a sense of satisfaction.

"And I, Zhen, will accompany you when you depart again," his other self stated with simple finality.

They paused by the lakeside for a brief moment, both coming to a standstill, their eyes fixed on the water bathed in the hues of the setting sun.

"I suppose the Sect and Lady Snowblossom can manage the fief for the time being. I would have no justification to decline, even if I harbored a desire to be hypocritical about it, would I?"

"None."

Their speech intertwined in such a manner became more frequent in these recent days.

"I shall welcome you there then, Little Brother. Watch my back, just as I shall watch yours. Let us head home now. A gathering for dinner is planned for everyone tonight."

***​

"Haha, those are some rather vibrant colors, little one!" Sixiang chuckled, leaning over the table to get a closer look.

"Please refrain from encouraging her," Ling Qingge chided gently.

Biyu scrunched her face in a display of playful defiance, the vivid red, yellow, and pink lines adorning her cheeks standing out starkly. "Pretty kitty!"

Ling Qi did her utmost to suppress a smile, meeting her mother's gaze. It turned out Biyu had recently developed a fascination with one of the clerks' pet cats. She had mentioned her intention to paint it.

She neglected to specify what surface she intended to paint upon.

"She possesses a remarkably steady hand," Ling Qi commented with deliberate neutrality. The painted whiskers were rendered in surprisingly straight lines, and her younger sister had managed this feat without even a mirror. "Biyu, you are permitted to paint on surfaces other than paper only after you seek your Mother's permission first. You gave your word, didn't you?"

"Yeeahh…"

"So, what do we say?" she prompted further.

"Apologies, Momma."

Her mother sighed softly, placing a comforting hand on Biyu's head. "You are forgiven, but you will need to wash it all off before you go to bed. Now, take your seat."

"I have procured soaps that will easily remove it, along with the new paint," she said quietly to her mother, before turning her head and addressing the room more audibly. "Zhengui, over here. We have prepared this section for you."

"Yes, Big Sister!" His voice, even now, at a size comparable to a large dog to navigate the halls, lacked the adorable squeak of its former days. He ambled into the space that had been cleared for him.

"Brother Turtle!" Biyu exclaimed with delight.

"I, Zhen, extend my greetings to my youngest sister," he declared haughtily.

Zhengui's short legs carried him up the specially installed ramp positioned behind the large dinner trough. This trough had been set up to allow him to dine at a level roughly equivalent to the others at the table. It was filled generously with fruits and greens, though several platters of heavily charred fish were also included for Zhen.

He used to detest fish, Ling Qi mused with amusement. One's palate could certainly evolve with time and new experiences.

"Ah, do you require anything specific? I had overlooked asking," Ling Qingge inquired from the opposite side of the table, as Sixiang settled into a seat beside Ling Qi.

"Nah, nah, no need to worry. I can savor anything you guys enjoy, flavor-wise at least. It won't disrupt any critical functions, I promise!" Sixiang chirped in a cheerful tone. "Thanks, though!"

"It is rather unfortunate that Hanyi and Nuan are away on their business, but this gathering is quite pleasant nonetheless." Ling Qi slid into her seat. "You prepared most of this yourself, didn't you, Mother?"

She recalled the immense banquet tables within Xiangmen, laden with delicacies from every corner of the empire. This current spread could not even remotely compare to that, yet paradoxically, the simple aromas emanating from it made her stomach rumble, something the former had failed to do. Wasn't this an interesting quirk of her cultivation? Experiencing a faint echo of actual hunger was certainly a novel sensation.

She had been delighted to have banished it permanently, or so she had believed. However, this subtle edge of eager anticipation was not entirely unwelcome.

"Most of them," Mother responded, her gaze drifting towards Zhengui's serving area. "My proficiency in these culinary arts isn't the highest, but I felt it would be fitting for this evening." "Mother is already wonderful, and she has the freedom to become as adept as she desires now," Ling Qi playfully remarked. "Mama's dumplings are delicious!" Biyu chimed in with agreement. "It's all unfamiliar territory for me, but the aroma is fantastic," Sixiang offered his praise. "I suppose I won't object to your consensus," Mother conceded, a faint smile gracing her lips. "Please, everyone, help yourselves." Ling Qi commenced filling her plate from the available dishes. With no dedicated servers present and only the most basic of customs, conversation flowed freely, interspersed with laughter and the enjoyment of food. There was no necessity for any pretense or prolonged contemplation on the choice of words. She cherished these moments deeply. Excluding those who were absent, this assembly represented the core of her personal world – her family. Beyond this intimate group lay her dearest companions. It was in the space beyond these concentric circles that the complexities of classification began to emerge.