Within the Fang Clan's seclusion forest. A contingent of fifty cultivators, clad in uniform armor bearing the dignified insignia of the Fang Clan, advanced toward the heart of the disturbance. Moving in perfect unison, their auras—ranging from late Foundation Establishment to early Gold Core—radiated power and discipline. Dispatched under direct orders from Fang Lee's mother, they were not adversaries but devoted members of the clan, tasked with investigating the disturbance and, if necessary, retrieving Fang Lee's body.
Upon reaching the locus of destruction, the leader—a battle-hardened cultivator with keen eyes—gestured for silence. From within his robes, he retrieved an ancient relic, its surface etched with intricate runes pulsing faintly with residual energy. This artifact did not reverse time but instead reconstructed past events within the current moment, allowing them to witness echoes of what had transpired.
Holding the relic aloft, he channeled his Qi into it, activating its event-reconstruction properties. The chaotic remnants of the forest shimmered, and ethereal images materialized before their eyes.
The projection revealed a storm-wracked and fiery expanse, where towering pines had been reduced to charred husks beneath the wrath of heaven. Bolts of pure lightning Qi descended, intercepted mid-air by hundreds of flaming swords arranged in precise formations. The very heavens seemed to howl in defiance, their fractured bolts twisting unnaturally as if unwilling to let their target escape.
Amidst the storm, a blazing jade figure soared skyward, flames surging from its translucent body with otherworldly intensity. The leader's gaze sharpened.
"As we surmised, Young Master Fang Lee engaged in a tribulation here," he intoned. "The intensity suggests a significant breakthrough."
They watched as Fang Lee's swords split into disciplined formations, intercepting the relentless barrage. Each bolt scattered in dazzling arcs, yet the storm refused to relent. But before the lightning could pierce him, another wave of his Qi swords surged forth, forming an unyielding barrier against heaven's fury.
Then, the projection shifted. Lian Xue's burning jade form streaked through the storm like a celestial comet, she was destruction incarnate, a force of raw elemental fury racing toward the heart of the tribulation.
The leader's expression darkened. "Observe. The disruption to his abode's formation was not the work of an enemy but the direct consequence of his tribulation. Such devastation aligns with the power required for ascension."
Advancing the projection further, they witnessed Fang Lee, his aura now more refined, departing with Fang Xiu. Both appeared unscathed, their demeanors composed, their purpose clear.
"Young Master Fang Lee is unharmed," the leader reported, relief threading through his tone. "He has left alongside Fang Xiu."
With their primary concern alleviated, he gestured for the contingent to follow the residual energy trail left behind. Their movements were silent, their armor gleaming beneath the dappled moonlight filtering through the canopy. Each step was taken with the disciplined precision of those accustomed to both the physical and spiritual realms.
As they pressed forward, the scars of battle became increasingly evident. The air was thick with residual Qi, a testament to the immense forces unleashed. The leader's mind raced. Such a tribulation suggested a breakthrough of considerable magnitude—perhaps halfway through the Foundation Establishment stage. It was an achievement that would solidify Fang Lee's position within the clan, influencing the shifting tides of power.
The presence of Fang Xiu only deepened his thoughts. Her recent advancement to the middle stage of Foundation Establishment, paired with her growing closeness to Fang Lee, hinted at brewing alliances or rivalries within the younger generation. These subtle shifts in power could shape future missions, resource allocations, even succession plans.
Yet, despite the leader's analytical musings, a deeper instinct warned him—this tribulation was not the end of something but the beginning.
The contingent moved forward, ever watchful, ever loyal to the Fang Clan.
---
Unseen by the advancing cultivators, a solitary crow perched atop a charred branch, its beady eyes gleaming with quiet intelligence. Black as ink, its feathers shimmered in the moonlight, exuding an eerie sense of awareness.
After a long moment, the bird took flight, its wings cutting through the night air with silent precision. A thin thread of invisible Qi extended from its body, transmitting everything it had witnessed to a distant location—one hidden within the heart of the Fang Clan's domain.
Beyond the bustling Fang Clan village and its myriad courtyards, a traditional dojo stood in quiet splendor. Its irimoya-style roof, adorned with sweeping ridge beams and elegant overhangs, reflected the harmony of martial and spiritual cultivation. Banners bearing the emblem of a lotus flower—symbolizing purity and mastery—fluttered in the night breeze, a silent testament to the dojo's legacy.
Within its grounds, mortals practiced martial arts in unison, their movements sharp and disciplined. Each wore Tang suits emblazoned with the lotus emblem, embodying the union of form and function. This dojo was more than a place of training—it was a bridge between the mundane and the mystical. Here, those with limited aptitude became loyal retainers, while those with potential were drawn into the clan's inner circle, strengthening its foundation for generations to come.
The crow's transmission passed unseen through the enclosing walls, slipping into the inner sanctum, where the air was thick with cultivated tranquility. Amidst carefully arranged flora and the soft trickle of a stone water feature, a woman sat in quiet meditation.
She was elegant and composed, yet her stillness belied a depth of strength. The sharpness of her gaze, when she finally opened her eyes, suggested nothing escaped her notice.
A faint smile touched her lips. "Since when has my disciple become so brazen as to neglect informing me of his breakthrough?" Her voice, though soft, carried the weight of quiet authority. "Hmm… Fang Meilin, go fetch your senior brother before that vixen drains him dry."
From the shadows, a young girl of sixteen or seventeen stepped forward, her striking resemblance to the woman revealing their shared bloodline. Her expression was a mixture of curiosity and determination, tempered by unwavering respect.
"Yes, Master," she said with a bow.
The woman retrieved a finely crafted teleportation talisman from her sleeve. The runes upon its surface pulsed with faint energy as she handed it to Fang Meilin.
"Use this wisely. It will take you directly to him. Ensure his safety—and remind him of his obligations here."
Fang Meilin accepted the talisman with careful hands, understanding the gravity of her task. With a final bow, she stepped back, preparing to embark on her mission.
The night stretched on, silent and watchful, as the pieces on the board began to shift.
—
Within an elegant abode built against the mountainside, partially hidden by a cascading waterfall that flowed into a serene lake below, an air of both luxury and mystery lingered. Amidst the dim glow of lanterns and the soft scent of sandalwood, two figures were entwined, utterly lost in each other as time slipped away like sand through an hourglass.
Fang Lee and Fang Xiu surrendered to their passion, their bodies moving in perfect harmony, oblivious to the world beyond their embrace.
Suddenly, Fang Lee flipped Fang Xiu onto her hands and knees on the bed. She gasped in surprise and excitement as he entered her from behind in one swift motion.
"Ah!" she cried out.
Fang Lee began moving with powerful thrusts, his hands gripping her hips tightly.
"You feel so good," he growled low in his throat.
Fang Xiu could only moan in response, her body arching to meet his. She felt like a puppet being controlled by the most skilled of masters as they moved together in perfect sync.
Their bodies slapped together in a rhythm that was both primal and beautiful,
"Lee!" Fang Xiu cried out.
"Come for me again," Fang Lee commanded,
And with one final thrust
Fang Xiu's body convulsed as she obeyed his command, her inner muscles clenching around him as waves of pleasure washed over her. Fang Lee followed soon after with a low groan, spilling himself inside her.
They collapsed onto the bed, their bodies slick with sweat, chests rising and falling in sync as their breaths remained uneven.
Fang Xiu turned her head, eyes smoldering with an unquenched hunger. Yet, instead of indulging her silent invitation, Fang Lee let his spiritual sense wash over her, his gaze steady and contemplative.
A low chuckle escaped his lips as he brushed away the damp strands of hair clinging to her flushed skin. "Your cultivation has improved."
Fang Xiu's lips curled into a satisfied smile. "Thanks to you."
Fang Lee smirked and pulled Fang Xiu into a deep kiss, his lips capturing hers with a slow, deliberate hunger.
A soft sigh escaped her as she melted against him, her body still thrumming with the remnants of their shared pleasure. Yet, beneath the lingering warmth, she could already feel his desire reigniting, a familiar heat stirring between them.
"Mmm…" she murmured against his lips, amusement laced in her voice. "You really are insatiable."
Fang Lee chuckled, his breath warm against her skin. "Should I stop, then?" he teased, though the look in her eyes told him he already knew the answer.
Fang Xiu pulled back just enough to meet his gaze, her lips curling into a knowing smile. "I never said anything about stopping."
Her hand drifted downward, fingers wrapping around his hardening length once more.
"In fact," she whispered, her breath hot against his ear, "I was thinking we could try something new this time."
"Oh? Like what?" Fang Lee asked with a bit of intrigue.
Fang Xiu's hand moved slowly, teasingly up and down Fang Lee's shaft. Have you ever heard of the 'Nine Heavenly Bends'? she asked innocently.
"What? " Fang Lee asked with a raised eyebrow.
Fang Xiu chuckled softly at his confusion. "It's a technique, dear cousin," she explained, her voice dropping to a sultry whisper. "One that requires... flexibility."
"Oh~ now you've got my attention~" A lustful smile appeared as he hugged her tightly.
Fang Xiu grinned wickedly at Fang Lee's reaction.
"The let's keep your attention and begin, after all showings much better than telling" she purred as she pointed towards the bedside table, before a set of silken ropes flew out of the drower.
"But don't worry," she said with an amused smile, "I promise not to tie you up too tightly."
Fang Lee's smirk faltered as he watched the silken ropes coil in the air. In an instant, he pushed Fang Xiu back, creating space between them, and swiftly rolled off the bed. His bare feet hit the floor with a quiet *thud* as he straightened, running a hand through his disheveled hair.
"Yeah, no," he said, shaking his head. "I didn't think you were going in *that* direction."
Fang Xiu blinked, caught off guard. "What?"
He gestured toward the floating ropes with a wry chuckle. "I'm all for trying new things, but *that*?" He shook his head again, a lopsided grin tugging at his lips. "Not really my thing."
For a moment, there was silence. Then, Fang Xiu let out a soft, melodious laugh, flopping back against the bed with an amused glint in her eyes. "Hah~ So even *you* have limits."
Fang Lee folded his arms, giving her a playful look. "Of course I do. What, did you think I was *completely* insatiable?"
Fang Xiu smirked. "I was starting to." She flicked a finger, and the ropes drifted back into the drawer with a faint whisper of silk. "Shame, though. I *really* think you would've enjoyed it."
Fang Lee exhaled, running a hand down his face. "Let's just… stick to what we're already good at, yeah?"
Fang Xiu propped herself up on her elbows, her smirk turning sultry once more. "Fine~ But don't think you're getting off that easily."
Fang Lee chuckled. "Wouldn't dream of it—"
But before he could finish, a sudden ripple in the air sent a jolt of alarm through his senses. The distinct fluctuation of spatial energy crackled behind him, and without hesitation, his instincts took over.
He spun, fingers already forming a sword seal as a blade of condensed Qi materialized in his palm. At the same time, Fang Xiu reacted just as swiftly—her body twisting as she lashed out with a flicker of fiery-red Qi, her killing intent sharp and immediate.
A startled yelp rang out.
"W-Wait! It's me—!"
A golden talisman flared in the dim light, forming a barrier just in time to deflect their attacks. Sparks scattered as Fang Lee's sword energy dissipated against the protective layer, and Fang Xiu's flames flickered before vanishing harmlessly.
Standing at the center of the golden light was a young girl, her chest rising and falling from the shock of nearly being attacked. Her long black hair, tied into a neat ponytail, swayed as she caught her breath, and her white robes bore the distinct lotus emblem of their dojo.
Fang Meilin.
She lowered the talisman, her eyes wide with a mixture of irritation and lingering panic. "Senior Brother! You almost killed me!"
Fang Lee blinked, his body still tense before he exhaled, dispersing his Qi blade with a flick of his wrist. "You were the one who teleported straight into the room without warning."
Fang Xiu's gaze flickered between them before she clicked her tongue in annoyance. "If you didn't want to get attacked, maybe don't barge in while we're busy." She crossed her arms, her voice dripping with clear displeasure.
Fang Meilin's face turned scarlet as she took in their state—both Fang Lee and Fang Xiu were still undressed, their bodies covered in the lingering heat of their earlier activities.
"Oh heavens—" She quickly spun around, her hands clenching at her sides. "I-I didn't mean to interrupt that!"
Fang Lee sighed, rubbing his temples. His memories of Fang Meilin surfacing to the front of his head "I assume you have a very good reason for using a teleportation talisman to appear in my room?"
Fang Meilin, still facing away from them, took a deep breath to compose herself before straightening her back. "Master has summoned you," she stated firmly, though her voice still held the slightest tremor. "She insists you come to see her immediately."
Fang Lee raised a brow. "Master?"
Fang Meilin nodded. "She said, and I quote, 'Go fetch your Senior Brother before that vixen drains him dry.'"
Fang Xiu snorted, clearly amused, while Fang Meilin groaned as if she regretted having to repeat the words aloud.
Fang Lee sighed again, running a hand through his hair. Trying to recall his master, and from Fang Lee's memories he'd have to say she's a beauty that far surpassed Fang Xiu.
Straightening, he exchanged a glance with Fang Xiu, who arched an eyebrow at him. "Looks like your fun's over for now," she said playfully.
Fang Lee smirked. "I'll be back before you miss me."
Fang Xiu chuckled. "then come back soon, dear cousin."
Fang Meilin, still flustered, cleared her throat. "C-Can we go now?"
Fang Lee didn't answer and instead look at his bare body "Hey Fang Xiu do you have anything for me to wear in your abode? "
Fang Xiu chuckled as she stretched lazily, casting an amused glance at Fang Meilin before turning her attention back to Fang Lee. "Oh? Now you want me to dress you, dear cousin? How bold."
Fang Lee rolled his eyes. "Just give me something before Meilin combusts."
Fang Meilin stiffened, her ears burning. "I—I'm not—!"
Ignoring her, Fang Xiu flicked her fingers, and the air in the room stirred as silk and fabric responded to her command. The deep crimson curtains at the entrance rustled before unraveling, the golden lotus embroidery shimmering as the material reshaped itself into a fitted inner robe, its smooth texture settling over Fang Lee's skin like a second layer.
Next, the pristine sheets from the grand bed lifted, the embroidered phoenix designs flickering with residual warmth as they twisted into a flowing outer garment, dyed in rich shades of wine-red and midnight black. The sleeves draped elegantly, befitting someone of his status, while the fine embroidery shimmered subtly under the lantern light.
For the final touch, the silken canopy that had once framed the bed coiled in the air, twisting into a long, regal sash, its fabric still carrying traces of their lingering scent. With a flick of her wrist, it wound around Fang Lee's waist, securing his robes in place with an almost possessive grace.
"And of course," Fang Xiu murmured, striding toward the wall, "you'll need a proper accessory." She plucked her sheathed sword from its resting place and, with a teasing smirk, slid it into his sash. "There. Now you look dangerous enough to match me."
Fang Lee adjusted his robes, glancing down at the ensemble. "So my outfit is made of your room?"
Fang Xiu laughed, stepping close as she traced a finger down his chest. "I'd say it suits you. Now you carry a piece of me wherever you go."
Fang Meilin, still visibly flustered, exhaled sharply. "Are we done here?"
Fang Lee smirked. "Yeah, yeah, let's go."
With an impatient flick of her wrist, Meilin activated the teleportation talisman, and the world around them twisted as they vanished—leaving Fang Xiu behind, smirking at the lingering warmth in the air.