Walking forward, they reached the Hazu Tai settlement, where a large number of youths stood ready to depart. Everyone was to travel on foot to the main education department of the Lianxiao Sect, known as Fukun Xueyuan. It was primarily under the direct supervision of Grandmaster Kang Jue.

  When Gu Zong and Hui Chi arrived at the settlement, Gu Zong’s Grandfather, Jun Wan, and Zhuang Hue were waiting, holding his belongings. The group of youths began to move forward.

  When Gu Zong reached his Grandfather, the elder observed his posture and gait with great precision. His eyes were fixed on Gu Zong’s slow, deliberate steps.

  Finally, when Gu Zong and Hui Chi stood before him, both bowed deeply, offering their profound respect. Gently, Jun Wan handed Gu Zong a small bundle of food. Her voice was so tender it felt as though she were speaking not just as a sister, but as a mother. She said:

  "Zao. Here is some food for the journey. I’ve included your favorite spicy fox nuts; you can eat them whenever you like."

  Jun Wan smiled faintly, placing her hand on Gu Zong’s cheek. Her tone remained affectionate, but Gu Zong remained silent, listening intently.

  "Zao. I am your sister; do you think I wouldn't know why you are reluctant to go? I know well, Zao... it is because of the Han Clan that you are refusing. Isn't it? But if that is truly the case, you must promise me one thing: you will not engage in any quarrels or fights there, especially with the Han Clan. Promise me you will stay away from them. Zao, it is for our own good to forget what happened. We lack the power to clash with them. You must live there peacefully and become a good disciple. Now go your future awaits you. Our blessings are with you."

  Jun Wan’s words left no room for further argument; she had voiced everything that Grandfather and Zhuang Hue had wished to say. Yet, Gu Zong’s eyes remained calm, filled with an unfathomable depth. He looked at Jun Wan and the others one last time and turned to leave. His eyes looked straight ahead, but the hand clutching the bundle of food gripped it so tightly that it began to tremble. Despite this, he followed the group of youths peacefully. Compared to the others, his steps were slower and more resolute.

  This tale has been unlawfully lifted from Royal Road. If you spot it on Amazon, please report it.

  Fukun Xueyuan Education Department

  This was a vast and bustling department, filled with large, open lecture halls. Fukun Xueyuan was built in a specialized region surrounded by towering mountain peaks on all sides, providing a secret and serene environment. The entrance to this place was through hidden caves, as this was where the very first principle of the Cultivation Path Knowledge and the Master began. Being a mountainous region, the atmosphere was perpetually damp and cool. Tall trees and dense forests stood in all four directions. One could say a world lived here, severed from the rest of the world.

  Suddenly, the main gate of Fukun Xueyuan was revealed, which had been hidden by secret talismans. As the spells were lifted, a gateway shrouded in mist appeared, carved with exquisite stonework. Standing beyond that gate was Grandmaster Kang Jue, accompanied by his four disciples.

  A group of youths emerged from the mouth of a cave. One by one, the large group from the Hazu Tai settlement stepped out, their eyes widening at the breathtaking natural beauty before them. Towering trees, high peaks, and the melodious chirping of birds filled the air. Everyone was mesmerized. Finally, Gu Zong emerged from the darkness of the cave. He felt the external bustle; everyone was looking around at the scenery. Gu Zong took in the entire place with a single glance and moved forward silently. While walking, he pulled the purple scroll from his robes and opened it, revealing his signature at the very end. Holding the scroll, he walked toward the main gate. This time, his face was calm and soft, as if the silence had offered him solace.

  Grandmaster Kang Jue stood perfectly still, looking past the threshold. He was so motionless that only the sound of his robes fluttering in the wind could be heard; not even the sound of his breathing reached the air. Then, through the light mist, someone emerged with slow, muffled footsteps. A young man came forward. It was Gu Zong.

  Seeing Grandmaster Kang Jue, Gu Zong bowed respectfully in salutation. His eyes were gentler than before, yet unwavering. Grandmaster Kang Jue looked at Gu Zong, who stood straight and silent, carrying a quiet confidence. The Grandmaster silently extended his hand. Gu Zong handed him the scroll. Opening it calmly, Grandmaster Kang Jue read the student’s signature at the bottom: Zao Gu Zong.

  He handed the scroll to his disciples. After reading the name, one disciple spoke with great respect:

  "Student Zao Gu Zong, hailing from the Hazu Tai settlement. We welcome you."

  With those words, they permitted Gu Zong to enter. Gu Zong bowed once more in a respectful thank you and, walking with calm steps, entered within.