BXBX NOVEL Chapter 147: Chapter 147: Mei Xian
Aric nodded, meeting her gaze with a slight smile. "Thank you, Elder Sharon. I will give my all."
As the crowd of elders dispersed, each elder offering a parting nod or word of advice, Elder Ming gave Aric a long, measuring look. "Do not let that talent go to waste, Adolf," he said with a trace of reluctance. "You have chosen well, but remember, we will be watching."
Elder Kaien, too, offered a parting glance. "May you succeed, young man. And remember, should you seek further guidance in the Mystic Arts, my pavilion\'s doors will always be open."
[Ding! Congratulations, Host! You gained +10,000 Villain Halo and 100,000 Villain Points for subduing the protagonist Xu Mevan and stopping his ascent in the sect.]
Aric\'s satisfaction was palpable, though it was tinged with a hint of irritation. Being crowned as a Core Disciple was a significant achievement, but Elder Sharon taking both Xu Mevan and Xu Amber as core disciples reminded him that the heavens still heavily favored them.
He had expected them to become core disciples, but seeing it confirmed only intensified his resolve to manage and control their paths closely.
Soon, they were escorted to Qinlong Palace, located at the top of Qinlong Peak, one of the 108 sacred peaks in the Holy Sect.
Each peak had its own guardian elder, and Qinlong belonged exclusively to Elder Sharon. As they ascended, the towering height of the mountain and the serene beauty of Qinlong Peak were breathtaking; lush greenery and ethereal mist enveloped the landscape, giving it a mystical aura. It was clear this peak was reserved for only the most talented disciples and their esteemed mentor.
Upon reaching the palace entrance, Aric, along with the siblings, was greeted by a line of servants and handmaidens, all adorned in elegant sect robes.
The welcoming disciples, known as handymaiden disciples, had warm smiles and respectful postures as they bowed to Elder Sharon and her new core disciples. Their respectful demeanor showed how highly they revered Elder Sharon and her core disciples.
Aric\'s attention shifted as he observed his surroundings, noting every detail, every face, and every potential ally or obstacle. His mind was already formulating plans as he registered the power and influence Elder Sharon commanded within this place. But his thoughts were interrupted when Elder Sharon called out, her voice gentle yet carrying an unmistakable authority.
"Disciples, gather here," Elder Sharon commanded. "I would like you to meet the newest additions to our family."
Aric and the siblings stood in line, waiting for the rest of Elder Sharon\'s core disciples to arrive. Moments later, six disciples emerged, each carrying an air of confidence and talent. As they assembled, Aric\'s sharp gaze took in their appearances and mannerisms, noting every detail.
The first was Jian Wu, a tall, stoic young man with short-cropped black hair and piercing eyes that seemed to evaluate everyone he looked at. Next to him stood Lin Rui, a woman with flowing silver hair and an elegant posture, her eyes cold and calculating. Beside her was Tian Feng, a muscular man with a scar running down his cheek, his presence exuding raw strength.
The fourth disciple was Mei Xian, a petite woman with soft, warm features and a gentle demeanor. Her eyes sparkled with kindness, but Aric could sense the power she concealed. Beside her was Ren Kai, a wiry, quick-footed young man with a mischievous grin, giving off the impression that he enjoyed testing limits.
Finally, the sixth disciple, Yin Hua, a graceful beauty with an ethereal charm, stood quietly, her gaze serene as if she was untouched by worldly matters.
Aric barely had a chance to study them when the familiar chime of his system echoed in his mind.
[Ding! A daughter of destiny detected.]
Aric\'s eyes shifted subtly, landing on Mei Xian, the petite woman who had just smiled kindly at him. The system continued providing information.
[Name: Mei Xian]
[Age: 24]
[Cultivation Level: Immortal Ascension Realm (1st Stage)]
[Strength: 410]
[Agility: 420]
[Intelligence: 440]
[Charm: 460]
[Physique: Heavenly Blossom Physique]
[Bloodline: Moonshadow Lotus Bloodline]
[Cultivation Techniques: Lotus Bloom Art, Celestial Blossom Path]
[Skills: Blossom Shield, Lotus Petal Strike, Essence Rejuvenation]
[Destiny Halo: 400,000]
A glimmer of interest lit up in Aric\'s eyes. Mei Xian\'s status was indeed impressive, and the Heavenly Blossom Physique along with the Moonshadow Lotus Bloodline marked her as someone truly special.
Not only did her presence represent a potential threat, but it also signaled a new opportunity. Her high Destiny Halo intrigued him, suggesting she could be a formidable ally or a valuable pawn if handled correctly.
Elder Sharon, who had noticed Aric\'s lingering gaze, gave a slight smile. "I see you\'re already becoming acquainted with your fellow disciples, Adolf," she said, addressing him directly. "Mei Xian, Jian Wu, Lin Rui, Tian Feng, Ren Kai, and Yin Hua are all my valued core disciples, each chosen for their unique abilities and exemplary talents."
Aric inclined his head respectfully. "It\'s an honor to meet my senior disciples," he replied smoothly, concealing his growing interest behind a polite smile. "I look forward to learning from each of you."
The disciples exchanged glances, each sizing up the newcomer. Lin Rui\'s calculating eyes narrowed slightly, while Ren Kai raised an eyebrow with an amused grin.
"Fresh talent, huh?" Ren Kai chuckled, crossing his arms. "I wonder if you\'ll be able to keep up with us."
Lin Rui\'s tone was cool. "Joining Qinlong Peak isn\'t just about talent; it\'s about proving that you belong."
Aric met her gaze with unwavering calm. "I wouldn\'t be here if I didn\'t belong," he replied confidently. "But I\'m sure time will show us all where each of us stands."
Yin Hua, who had remained silent, gave him a slight nod, her gaze unfathomable. "A fair answer," she murmured, her voice soft but perceptive.
Elder Sharon observed the interaction with a slight smile, seemingly pleased by the exchanges. She then addressed the group. "You are all my chosen disciples, selected for your abilities and potential. Remember that we are all family on Qinlong Peak. I expect you to support each other and grow together, pushing one another toward greatness."
The disciples all nodded, but Aric could sense the subtle tension. Each disciple had their pride, and the arrival of a new "genius talent" would inevitably stir competition. But Aric thrived in such environments, knowing he could use these dynamics to his advantage.
Elder Sharon looked at him with a thoughtful smile before turning to the other disciples. "Mei Xian, Jian Wu, please show Adolf around the peak. Familiarize him with his duties and the areas he\'ll be training in. He is now one of you, and I expect you to support each other." powered-by-NovelFire
Mei Xian inclined her head gracefully. "As you wish, Master," she replied, her voice soft yet authoritative.
Aric\'s gaze lingered on Mei Xian, taking in her serene beauty and quiet strength. The subtle allure of her Heavenly Blossom Physique, coupled with her natural charm, was undeniable, and it sparked a desire in him. He wanted her—not just as a pawn but as something more personal, someone to conquer and make his own.
If he could win her favor, it would elevate his standing among Elder Sharon\'s disciples and allow him access to more resources.
"A tempting target," he thought, his eyes gleaming. "Heavens might have intended her for Xu Mevan, but she\'s going to be mine. One step at a time."
As the disciples dispersed, Mei Xian approached him. "Adolf, would you like to begin the tour now?" she asked, her voice gentle yet composed. Her gaze, calm and unreadable, only intrigued him more.
Aric nodded, feigning an innocent smile. "Thank you, Senior Sister Mei Xian. I\'d appreciate it."
They walked through the corridors of Qinlong Palace, a vast and opulent space filled with rich tapestries and intricate designs. Mei Xian pointed out various training rooms and meditation chambers as they moved, occasionally glancing at him.
"This is the Sacred Lotus Hall," she explained, gesturing to an open courtyard surrounded by tall, delicate trees and blossoming flowers. "We practice some of our more refined techniques here, focusing on energy control and precision."
Aric looked around, nodding thoughtfully. "It\'s beautiful. Elder Sharon has created a space that cultivates not only strength but balance."
Mei Xian\'s lips curved into a faint smile. "Yes, balance is essential. Cultivation isn\'t just about raw power; it\'s about harmony between mind and body."
Aric saw an opening and seized it. "I couldn\'t agree more. A cultivator who only seeks brute strength limits their potential. Wisdom and insight are as essential as technique."
She looked at him, slightly surprised but pleased by his words. "Few people understand that."