The First Ally
Chapter 3: The First Ally
Jian Yu awoke to the gentle sounds of the forest coming to life. She stretched and took a deep breath of the fresh morning air, feeling a surge of energy from her recent cultivation breakthrough. The Royal Ascension System had proven invaluable so far, and she was eager to tackle her next quest.
Quest 3: Gather Allies
Objective: Find and recruit at least one loyal ally to aid you in your journey.
Reward: 400 Experience Points, Intermediate Cultivation Technique.
She knew that in a world filled with powerful cultivators and treacherous enemies, having trusted allies would be crucial. With the Ancestral Sword at her side, she set out to explore the surrounding area in search of potential allies.
The forest was dense and teeming with life. Jian Yu moved cautiously, her senses heightened, ready to react to any threat. After several hours of traversing the rugged terrain, she reached the edge of a small village nestled in a valley. The village seemed peaceful, a stark contrast to the turmoil she had experienced.
As she approached, she noticed a commotion near the center of the village. A group of villagers had gathered, their anxious voices carrying through the air. Jian Yu edged closer, curious about the source of the disturbance.
In the midst of the crowd, a young man with a lean build and determined expression stood facing off against a group of rough-looking men. The young man's clothes were simple but well-kept, and there was a fire in his eyes that spoke of inner strength.
"Leave us alone!" the young man shouted, standing his ground. "We have nothing more to give you!"
The leader of the rough-looking men, a burly figure with a sneer on his face, stepped forward. "You villagers owe us for protection. Pay up, or things will get ugly."
Jian Yu's eyes narrowed. It was clear these men were nothing more than bullies exploiting the villagers. She couldn't stand by and watch such injustice. With a swift movement, she stepped forward, placing herself between the young man and the bullies.
"That's enough," she said firmly, her voice carrying an authority that made the men pause. "Leave these people in peace."
The leader looked her up and down, a mocking smile on his lips. "And who might you be, little girl? Think you can stop us?"
Jian Yu's hand moved to the hilt of her Ancestral Sword. "Leave now, or face the consequences."
The leader laughed, but it was cut short as Jian Yu drew her sword. The blade gleamed with a radiant light, the runes glowing ominously. The sight of the sword and the power emanating from it made the men hesitate.
"Get her!" the leader barked, trying to maintain his bravado.
Two of the thugs lunged at Jian Yu, but she moved with the speed and grace of a seasoned warrior. With precise, controlled strikes, she disarmed them effortlessly. The crowd watched in awe as she dispatched the remaining bullies with similar ease, her movements fluid and deadly.
Seeing their comrades defeated, the leader and the remaining thugs fled in fear. Jian Yu sheathed her sword, turning to the young man and the gathered villagers.
"Are you all right?" she asked, her tone gentle now.
The young man nodded, his eyes wide with admiration. "Thank you, stranger. We owe you our lives."
"My name is Jian Yu," she said, offering a smile. "I'm just passing through, but I couldn't stand by and watch."
"I'm Li Wei," the young man replied, bowing slightly. "We're grateful for your help. Those men have been terrorizing our village for months."
An idea formed in Jian Yu's mind. Li Wei seemed brave and determined—qualities she needed in an ally. "Li Wei, I'm on a journey to reclaim my family's honor and rise to power in this world. I could use someone with your courage and resolve. Would you consider joining me?"
Li Wei's eyes widened in surprise, but after a moment's thought, he nodded resolutely. "I would be honored, Jian Yu. This village is my home, but I can't turn down the opportunity to make a difference."
The villagers gathered around them, offering their thanks and blessings. Jian Yu and Li Wei spent the rest of the day helping the villagers repair the damage caused by the thugs and preparing for their departure.
As night fell, Jian Yu and Li Wei sat by the fire, discussing their plans. The Royal Ascension System chimed softly, indicating the completion of her quest.
Quest Completed: Gather Allies.
Reward: 400 Experience Points, Intermediate Cultivation Technique.
Experience Points: 1200/2000
Cultivation Level: Qi Condensation Stage 2 (Progress: 60%)
Jian Yu accessed the new technique granted by the system. It was an Intermediate Cultivation Technique designed to enhance her combat abilities and energy control. She shared it with Li Wei, who was eager to learn and improve his own skills.
"We'll train together," Jian Yu said, determination in her eyes. "With each step, we'll grow stronger and closer to our goals."
Li Wei nodded, his resolve matching hers. "I'll follow you, Jian Yu. Together, we'll overcome any obstacles."
With a newfound ally by her side and the Royal Ascension System guiding her, Jian Yu felt more confident than ever. The journey ahead was long and filled with challenges, but she was ready to face them head-on.
The fire crackled, casting a warm glow on their determined faces. The Nine-Day Queen had begun to gather her forces, and her path to greatness was now firmly underway.