Myth Beyond Heaven

Yun Lintian and his companions traveled for two days, the landscape unfolding before them like a scroll painting.

They passed through verdant forests, crossed crystal-clear rivers, and traversed rolling hills. Finally, they arrived at the entrance to the Plum Blossom Valley, a hidden paradise nestled amidst towering mountains.

As they stepped through the entrance, Yun Lintian was met with a breathtaking sight. The valley was a secluded realm, independent and self-contained, a unique existence within the vast God Realm. It was a world of its own, untouched by the chaos and conflict that plagued the outside world.

The valley was filled with plum blossoms, their delicate petals creating a sea of pink and white. The air was filled with their sweet fragrance, a gentle breeze rustling through the branches, causing the petals to dance and swirl. Crystal-clear streams meandered through the valley, their waters reflecting the vibrant colors of the blossoms.

“Welcome to the Plum Blossom Valley, Brother Yun,” Tang Jian said, his voice filled with pride. “Isn’t it beautiful?”

Yun Lintian gazed upon the valley and nodded slightly. “Indeed.”

The valley was not only beautiful but also filled with a tranquil energy, a sense of peace that permeated the air. It was a place where cultivators could find solace, a sanctuary from the turmoil of the outside world.

Tang Jian led Yun Lintian deeper into the valley, the path winding through the sea of plum blossoms. They passed by quaint cottages, their roofs covered in petals, their gardens filled with blooming flowers. They saw cultivators meditating beneath the plum trees, their faces serene, their auras calm.

“This is where my master resides,” Tang Jian said, his voice filled with reverence, as they approached a secluded clearing.

In the center of the clearing stood a small pavilion, its roof adorned with plum blossoms, its walls made of bamboo. An old man in white robes sat within, leisurely sipping tea, his expression calm and serene.

“Master,” Tang Jian called out, his voice respectful.

The old man looked up, his eyes gentle and wise. A faint smile graced his lips as he saw Yun Lintian.

“You have returned,” he said, his voice low and soothing. “And you have brought a guest.”

Tang Jian bowed respectfully. “Master, this is Yun Lintian.”

The old man nodded, his gaze shifting towards Yun Lintian. “Welcome, young friend,” he said, his voice warm and inviting. “I am the Tao Hong. Please, join me for tea.”

Yun Lintian stepped forward, his expression calm and composed. He cupped his fists. “It is an honor to meet you, Senior,”

He sat down opposite the old man, his eyes scanning the pavilion, his mind absorbing the tranquil energy that permeated the air.

Tao Hong poured a cup of tea for Yun Lintian, his movements fluid and graceful. “This tea is made from the blossoms of our valley. It has calming properties.”

Yun Lintian took a sip of the tea, his senses immediately soothed by the warm liquid. The delicate flavor was a blend of sweetness and bitterness, a unique taste that lingered on his tongue.

“It is indeed a calming tea,” Yun Lintian remarked, his voice appreciative.

The old man smiled. “I am glad you enjoy it. Please, tell me, young friend, what brings you to my humble valley?”

“I brought Brother Yun here just to meet you, Master. There’s nothing special,” Tang Jian quickly said. He was afraid that his master would misunderstand Yun Lintian and think he had a hidden motive.

Tao Hong chuckled softly, his eyes filled with amusement. “Tang Jian,” he said, his voice gentle, “how did you manage to befriend such an interesting young man?”

Tang Jian, slightly flustered, explained briefly their encounter in Iron Will City, the incident with the Iron Will Sect disciples, and Yun Lintian’s subsequent display of power.

“Brother Yun is very strong, Master,” Tang Jian concluded, his voice filled with admiration. “I believe he is at least at the God Ascension Realm.”

Tao Hong smiled, a knowing glint in his eyes. “God Ascension Realm?” he repeated, his voice laced with amusement. “It seems you still have much to learn about discerning true strength.”

He paused, his gaze shifting towards Yun Lintian, his expression thoughtful. “Young friend. You are not honest at all.”

Yun Lintian smiled faintly and said nothing.

Tao Hong turned back to Tang Jian, his smile widening. “You will return to your room and reflect on your lack of perception later. You have no idea the friend you brought here.”

Tang Jian’s eyes widened, his jaw dropping in disbelief. “Master… what do you mean?” he stammered, his gaze shifting towards Yun Lintian. “Is… is Brother Yun stronger than a God Ascension Realm expert?”

Tao Hong chuckled again, a warm, gentle sound. “Stronger? He is beyond your imagination. He is a True God.”

Tang Jian’s eyes nearly popped out of his head. He stared at Yun Lintian, his mind reeling, his world turned upside down. He had been casually chatting with a True God, treating him like an equal, even inviting him to his master’s valley.

“A… a True God?” Tang Jian stammered, his voice barely a whisper. He quickly slid off his chair, his body trembling, and bowed deeply before Yun Lintian. “Young… Young Master Yun! Please forgive my ignorance! I had no idea of your true identity! I have been so rude!”

Yun Lintian remained calm, his expression unchanged. He raised a hand, his voice gentle. “There is no need for such formality, Brother Tang. You were merely being friendly.”

He paused, his gaze shifting towards Tao Hong. “Senior Tao, I appreciate your honesty. But I do not wish to be treated differently because of my strength. To me, friendship is not decided by individual strength.”

Tao Hong smiled, his eyes filled with understanding. “As you wish, Young Friend Yun. But you must understand, your presence is a great honor. You are a guest in my valley, and I will treat you with the respect you deserve.”

He turned back to Tang Jian, his expression stern. “You will still reflect on your lack of perception. But do not trouble Young Friend Yun with your apologies. He is a generous man, but even he has his limits.”

Tang Jian, still trembling slightly, nodded quickly. “Yes, Master! I understand!”

Yun Lintian sighed inwardly. He had hoped to avoid such a situation, but it seemed his true strength was too easily perceived by those with enough experience.

He looked at Tao Hong and said, “Then, I shall be frank with you, Senior Tao. I am here to learn more about the Primordial Gods.”