Chapter 4 Mirage

"Wow! Would you look at that? It's none other than John fucking Smith, the renowned loser and laughingstock of our sect. Legends have it that he's been diligently toiling away in the outer disciples' court for a good ten years now, and the journey continues."

"I've heard whispers that if he doesn't come out victorious in today's outer disciples' competition, he'll be shown the door, sent back to his clan with the dreaded 'trash and loser' tag."

"Hush now... Do you really want to risk expulsion from the sect? Have you forgotten the sheer power and influence wielded by the Smith clan? If any of their esteemed members catch wind of your loose talk today, don't expect me to vouch for you. I want no part in your reckless chatter." With that, a third disciple swiftly made his exit, leaving behind no trace of his presence. 

Those who overheard his cautionary words dispersed like startled birds, fleeing as if pursued by unseen forces. 

It was abundantly clear that the Smith cultivation clan commanded respect and held sway that was not to be trifled with.

John Smith, undeterred by the murmurs and disparaging remarks swirling around him, maintained his composure as he advanced in his green sect uniform, his gaze fixed ahead, ignoring the petty distractions like a seasoned practitioner accustomed to the ebb and flow of lesser discourse. 

He navigated through the throngs of disciples with an air of tranquility, his focus unwavering.

Yet, his serene journey was abruptly halted by the unexpected appearance of a lady, accompanied by her formidable flying sword, an elegant yet lethal companion that seemed to possess a life of its own.

"DING!" The unmistakable sound rang out as the peerless beauty landed gracefully, her presence commanding attention. 

At twenty-eight years old, she exuded a captivating allure, her every movement a symphony of grace and power. 

Her lustrous locks cascaded down her back like liquid silk, framing a visage of breathtaking beauty adorned with eyes that sparkled with wisdom beyond her years. 

Her lithe figure was accentuated by the form-fitting attire of a seasoned martial artist, each curve a testament to both strength and femininity.

Radiating an aura of confidence and allure, she seemed to effortlessly captivate all who beheld her, her magnetic presence drawing gazes like moths to a flame. 

The subtle sway of her hips hinted at a potent combination of sensuality and power, a force to be reckoned with in both martial prowess and allure.

As she stood before John Smith, a look of concern flickered in her eyes, a subtle furrow of her brow betraying a hint of worry beneath her composed exterior. 

With a tilt of her head, she regarded John Smith with a mix of curiosity and concern, her penetrating gaze seeming to pierce through the veils of his wall of silence. 

"Look! That's Fairy Elena!" exclaimed a disciple, his voice carrying a mixture of awe and disbelief. 

"So, the gossip is true! A celestial beauty and a lowly mortal actually share a close bond!"

"How could such a peerless prodigy like Fairy Elena possibly associate with a nobody like John fucking Smith?!" Another disciple chimed in, his tone incredulous.

"It defies all logic!" murmured the crowd, their murmurs blending into a cacophony of disbelief. 

Among them, the male spectators couldn't help but voice their frustrations, lamenting their own fates and the stark contrast between their mundane existences and the ethereal presence of Fairy Elena. 

Even if they were to sell all their possessions and those of their families, the gap between them and Fairy Elena seemed insurmountable.

Yet, amidst the whispers and murmurs, few knew the truth. Elena Brooks, known to many as Fairy Elena, was indeed a core disciple of the sect, revered for her unparalleled talent in cultivation. 

But what most didn't realize was that her origins were intertwined with those of John Smith, the seemingly trash cultivator from Golden Sun City.

Their connection ran deep, stemming from childhood bonds forged amidst the bustling streets of their hometown. 

From innocent adventures to shared dreams of grandeur, Elena and John's relationship transcended the boundaries of social status and cultivation prowess.

Their story, however, was shrouded in secrecy, a hidden narrative that defied the norms of xianxia society. 

"Big Brother John, I have something for you," Fairy Elena's melodic voice cut through the tranquil air of the training grounds, her delicate fingers holding out a small, intricately carved talisman. 

"Please accept this token for the upcoming competition. It holds a fountain of spiritual essence that can be used to either defend or attack and will surely bring you luck. With it, you'll not only secure victory but also earn a distinguished place among the sect's outer disciples."

Elena's expression softened with genuine concern, her eyes pleading silently as she offered the treasure to John. 

However, her hopeful anticipation was met with a steely resolve in John Smith's gaze as he regarded her with a mixture of defiance and determination.

"You're here. Stubborn as always," John's voice echoed with a hint of bitterness, his rugged features set in a firm expression. 

"I appreciate the gesture, but I have no need for your assistance. Our paths diverged long ago, the moment we set foot in this sect. Go back to your own pursuits. I have my own methods, and I will pave my own way. I am confident that I will enter the inner court after this competition, on my own merit."

Despite Elena's disappointment, she couldn't help but admire John's unwavering resolve. 

His refusal to accept her help spoke volumes about his pride and determination to succeed on his own terms. It reminded her of the man he once was – strong-willed and fiercely independent. 

John Smith gracefully sidestepped the radiant figure of Fairy Elena, his movements imbued with a sense of purpose and determination as he strode confidently into the distance, leaving behind a trail of unresolved tension in the tranquil air. 

Elena's gaze lingered on his retreating form, her heart torn between conflicting emotions of pride and longing, her ethereal beauty illuminated by the soft glow of the rising sun.

As the fresh hues of daylight enveloped the surroundings, Elena stood rooted to the spot, her thoughts a tumultuous whirlwind of memories and unspoken words. 

She watched silently until the silhouette of John disappeared into the horizon, his departure marking the beginning of an uncertain journey fraught with challenges and trials.

Yet, despite the distance that now separated them, Elena found solace in the unwavering trust she held in John's integrity. 

For amidst the complexities of their relationship and the intricate web of emotions that bound them together, she knew one undeniable truth – John Smith may be many things, but he was never a liar.

With a wistful smile playing on her lips, Elena whispered softly to the gentle breeze that caressed her delicate features, her words a tender vow of faith and support. 

"I will await your triumphant return, big brother," she murmured, her voice carrying the weight of unspoken promises and unspoken dreams.

With a graceful flourish, Elena summoned her flying sword, its ethereal glow casting a radiant aura around her as she prepared to embark on her own journey of self-discovery and enlightenment. 

With a single leap, she soared into the vast expanse of the heavens above, her spirit ablaze with the fire of determination and resolve.