THREADS OF FATE AND LOVE

CONNECTED BY STRINGS

In the gentle morning hours, a heartwarming scene unfolded as a father and his son took to the corridor for a playful run, their laughter and camaraderie echoing through the quiet neighbourhood. The cool breeze ruffled their hair and the world seemed to slow down as they shared this simple yet profound moment of togetherness. Each step expressed pure joy, their bond reinforced through smiles and shared enthusiasm. As they raced side by side, the world bore witness to a sacred sect of familial affection, where the exhilaration of the present moment illuminated the path of their shared adventure, reminding them that love, and laughter are the ties that truly bind generations.

Mingyun led the way to the dinner area, with his father, Wuzhi Qi, and mother, Zi Hu, following closely. Upon entering the room, Mingyun extended his arms and gracefully bowed, demonstrating his deep respect for everyone in attendance. Both Wuzhi Qi and Zi Hu exchanged smiles, recognising that some things can't be rushed, and sometimes, it's best to let things unfold naturally. Mingyun was eager to dedicate more time to practice, but his physical limitations made it challenging to endure extended hours of training.

Sifeng rose from his seat and approached Mingyun, a sense of regret weighing on him for his previous actions. A faint smile appeared on Mingyun's face as he began to bow in response, but before he could reach a ninety-degree angle, Sifeng gently halted his movement by placing both of his hands on Mingyun's arms. Sifeng's smile grew warmer as he looked at the young boy, guiding Mingyun to a seat next to Yichen.

The Sect leader occupied their prominent position on the raised platform, while the respected elders sat on the right side of the room. On the left side, the young, aspiring cultivators took their seats. Mingyun found himself seated beside Yichen, and as he glanced at his fellow young cultivator, he noticed a friendly smile gracing Yichen's face.

Yichen rose from his seat, executing a perfect ninety-degree bow before Mingyun. After he straightened up, he observed the bewildered expression on Mingyun's face.

"I sincerely apologise for any inconvenience or offence my father has caused," Yichen calmly explained the reason behind his father's actions. In response, Mingyun smiled, stood up, and executed a respectful bow. He straightened himself and then turned his gaze to the right, where he noticed a trace of guilt in Sifeng's eyes. Returning his attention to Yichen, Mingyun found Yichen still smiling warmly at him.

"No need to worry, it truly wasn't a big deal," Mingyun reassured with a warm smile. Yichen returned the smile, shifting his gaze to his proud father. Deep down, Yichen realized that his actions weren't driven by a desire to make his parents proud; instead, it was an unknown emotion stirring within him, a sense that life was on the brink of significant change, and new adventures awaited. Zi Hu then rose from her seat and approached Mingyun.

"This is our son, Mingyun," Zi Hu announced proudly to everyone present. As Mingyun glanced at his father, he noticed a subtle glimmer of pride in his father's eyes. Suddenly, Mingyun turned his head towards the door, as though he anticipated the arrival of someone he had longed to meet. With a soft smile directed at his mother, it was a smile that didn't quite reach the eyes of those gathered around.

"Sorry, we are late," a voice suddenly announced their arrival in the hall. All eyes turned toward the door, but Mingyun felt an unexpected unease as someone emerged from the door's shadows. His heart seemed to recognize this person, but who could it be? Mingyun turned his head and spotted two cultivators standing just beyond the door frame.

One of the cultivators was adorned in a pristine white robe, accented with subtle hints of crimson, while the other wore a resplendent green robe layered over delicate shades of pale green. The individual in the green attire, sensing the weight of an observing gaze upon them, turned their head and cast a discerning look toward Mingyun.