Fateful Encounter with the Spirit Beast

As the dust settled in the sky, Tianxiang was nowhere to be found. Bing Qing asked the Blood Blade Commander, “Where’s that kid?”

The Blood Blade Commander replied nonchalantly, “He has already fallen into the Flying River!”

A look of disappointment crossed Bing Qing’s face as she sighed, “It would have been great if we could capture him alive. Not only could we use him to exchange for the treasure map, but if he were to join the Biren Alliance, with his skills, age, and intelligence, he would be a tremendous asset.” However, she couldn’t shake off the feeling that Tianxiang was not an ordinary person and likely wouldn’t die that easily. She turned to her subordinates and instructed, “Search along the Flying River again. There might be a miracle waiting to happen.” After saying that, she returned to the City of Exile with the Blood Blade Thirteen Riders.

On the way back, the Blood Blade Commander, lost in thought, kept pondering over the identity of that person. An unsettling sense of familiarity lingered in his mind, yet he couldn’t quite grasp why he felt that way. He simply couldn’t connect that person to Tianxiang. In the Blood Blade Commander’s confident mind, the Tianxiang he knew was already dead; fortunately, their contact had been brief. If they had spent more time together, the assassin’s keen observational skills and years of experience would surely have led him to recognize Tianxiang’s identity. Yet, no one anticipated that this overlooked detail would eventually lead to the downfall of the five dragon tower.

Meanwhile, with only his mind still functioning, Tianxiang sensed Youni and the familiar dark element rushing toward him just before he fell into the water. It wasn’t until he reached the bottom of the river that he realized he was in a closed space created by dark mist, where he felt no immediate danger. He couldn’t help but reach out telepathically to call for Youni.

Unaware of the outside world, Tianxiang asked through his consciousness, “Youni, can you connect with me telepathically?”

After a short while, he felt Youni’s response: “I can, but it might not last long. The force of the eddy at the riverbed is too strong. I need to concentrate fully to maintain this connection, or else this space could easily be crushed by the current.”

Hearing this, Tianxiang dared not disturb Youni. Instead, he chose to quietly gaze upward. Though the space was formed by dark mist, he could see through it without obstruction. With a bit of light filtering from the outside, he could take in the entire view of the riverbed, almost as if he were observing the sights from a submarine. He couldn’t help but marvel at the wonders of nature, which truly could not be replicated by humans.

Aside from Tianxiang, the unexpected guest, the bottom of the Flying River was occupied by native inhabitants. Various whirlpools were swirling and rushing about, sending waves surging up to the surface and splashing everywhere.

The suction created by the whirlpools seemed intent on drawing in and shredding everything on the riverbed, refusing to relent. This was why no other creatures could be found there. However, Tianxiang sensed that he was caught in the midst of these whirlpools. Strangely, there appeared to be an even more powerful suction that caused all the whirlpools to move in the same direction. Whenever a whirlpool was absorbed, miraculously, the riverbed would immediately create another whirlpool to fill the gap, cycling endlessly without interruption.

Although the protective barrier created by Youni blocked the small suction from the whirlpools, allowing her to swim safely among them, it couldn’t resist the powerful and deadly suction. It felt as if she was being drawn onto the whirlpools’ path, as if they were destined to accompany each other on a pilgrimage.

Drifting quietly along with the whirlpools, Tianxiang couldn’t help but self-deprecatingly think that if he weren’t seriously injured, this would be an eye-opening journey. Who would have guessed that such marvelous scenery lay beneath the Flying River?

Just as Tianxiang was lost in thought, he noticed that the whirlpool beside him suddenly accelerated away. Although he wasn’t drifting as quickly, his speed was gradually increasing. He realized it must be Youni unleashing a substantial amount of magic to control the dark element that had gathered before his fall into the Flying River, desperately resisting the powerful suction. Even so, the pressure created by the formidable suction was gradually causing the protective layer of dark mist surrounding Tianxiang to shrink.

Just as the dark mist was almost pressing against him, on the verge of overwhelming him, Tianxiang had no options left. He slowly closed his eyes, but his heart was in turmoil. Death was so close-perhaps the next time he opened his eyes, he would find himself face to face with death. What would that look like? Suddenly, an overwhelming sense of powerlessness filled him. Memories rushed through his mind like meteors streaking across the sky-brilliant and vivid but leaving no trace.

Confronted with the unbeatable force of nature, a thought suddenly flashed in his mind: “Just give up!” But this struck him like a thunderbolt on a clear day, awakening his will to survive. He let out an inward shout of “Ah!” and then screamed, “No! I will never give up! Even if I am going to die in the next moment, I cannot surrender!” This was his only promise to the peaceful villagers, and it was a commitment to Xiaoxue and everyone else who hoped to see him again. Even if the heavens were to destroy him, he would do everything in his power.

Once his resolve was set, he kept calling out in his heart, “Dark element! Can you feel me calling you? My dear friend, come and help me! Your dear friend needs your assistance!”

At that moment, as Tianxiang focused entirely on summoning the dark element, unexpectedly, a strange phenomenon occurred. From both the riverbed and the surface of the Flying River, a dense fluctuation of dark element surged, breaking through the relentless grip of the mysterious whirlpool’s suction. It continuously flowed into the dark mist surrounding Tianxiang, who watched as the once withered mist slowly rejuvenated, as if it had received a powerful tonic. Although Tianxiang was now safe for the time being, the immense pressure had drained his mental power, leaving him in a hazy state of connection with the dark element. Nevertheless, fueled by an unwavering determination, he conveyed a request to the dark element, urging it to lend its full strength to assist him.

No matter how long the journey, there will always be an end, and this trip through the depths of the Flying River was no exception.

However, in his current state, Tianxiang was unable to see the breathtaking endpoint of the riverbed-a marvel crafted by nature itself. The layers of the riverbed had opened a narrow crack, and above it, a column of water continuously spiraled upwards, akin to a ferocious tornado embraced by dozens of people. This water column relentlessly drew in small whirlpools from all directions, amplifying its presence and range. Yet, as with all things, there were limits; the water column was contained within a specific radius, moving continuously.

Fortunately, Tianxiang had fallen into a state of unconsciousness, all his senses shut off, leaving only his awareness to communicate with the dark element. He remained oblivious to sensations of cold, heat, or pain, and he was unaware of the changes occurring around him. He was completely ignorant of being swept up into the great water column. It was a difficult situation for Youni and the dark element; even when faced with the terrible power of this massive shredding machine, the water column, they had to boldly fight against it. Although they didn’t expect to turn the tide, it was their fundamental responsibility to ensure Tianxiang’s safety.

Time passed without Tianxiang’s awareness. The dark mist surrounding him began to thin as he was drawn upward with the swirling water column, drawing closer to the river’s surface. However, the rotation speed only increased, while the rate at which the dark element was drawn away far exceeded how fast it was replenished. Just as the last vestiges of the dark mist were about to be shredded, suddenly, with a loud pop, a stroke of fortune came; the centrifugal force of the water column hurled Tianxiang out of the Flying River and onto a patch of grass near the riverbank. This fall caused the final thin layer of dark mist to dissipate completely.

Oblivious to everything, Tianxiang continued to call out for the dark element. After he landed on the ground, Youni felt drained from the rapid loss of dark element energy within her body. Yet, she breathed a sigh of relief, grateful for the outcome; otherwise, she might have met her end alongside Tianxiang at the bottom of the Flying River, a tragic fate comparable to ancient tales of love and sacrifice.

With a weary expression, Youni looked around and realized that they had been brought to an unknown valley, desolate and devoid of human presence. Weeds and wildflowers grew freely, while towering ancient trees almost completely blocked the sunlight beaming down from the valley entrance, casting a pleasant shade. Feeling no hint of danger, her loyal heart could no longer bear the weight of exhaustion. Sending a message to Tianxiang, “Tianxiang, wake up! You’re safe now!” she then merged back into his body, starting to replenish his energy.

Just as Youni vanished, a sudden rush of wind swept through the valley, pressing down the branches so much that one could barely lift their head. Two massive figures swooped down toward the bottom of the valley. Upon closer inspection, they turned out to be Dream Eagles, known on the Xuanwu Continent as Sky Blue Butterflies. With their robust muscles and soft, golden feathers, they were the epitome of physical perfection. Their outstretched wings effortlessly glided through the air, while their sharp eyes focused intently on Tianxiang, who was still shrouded in dark mist on the ground. Yet, in the eyes of the female eagle, there lingered an inexplicable hint of anxiety…

Sky Blue Butterfly-Dream Eagle.

Under different lighting, their feathers shimmered with varied hues, creating a dreamy and ethereal appearance. Many admired the unwavering loyalty they symbolized; thus, they were named Dream Eagles, representing the highest spirituality among mystical eagles.

In their lifetime, a Dream Eagle will only have one mate. If that mate dies, the eagle will choose to follow them in death. The process by which they select their partners remains a mystery to this day.

It is said that when a Dream Eagle encounters its destined partner, the male eagle’s deep blue eyes radiate with a vibrant blue light, while the female eagle’s light red gaze responds with a gentle red glow. When the blue and red lights meet, they resonate harmoniously until there is a powerful explosion-a burst that sends blue-tinged red gases swirling around the two Dream Eagles. Immediately afterward, just like when cultivating Qi and absorbing the elements of nature, the male and female Dream Eagles begin to draw in this blue-tinged red gas until it is completely consumed. This marks the completion of their wedding ceremony, allowing them to soar together for eternity, never to part.

According to unreliable rumors, the appearance of Dream Eagles signals that one is about to encounter a soulmate. Many believe this will lead to a partnership that lasts until old age. Thus, search and rescue teams in mountain areas often find passionate tourists who refuse to leave, shouting, “Dream Eagle, grant me love!” in their fervor.

-Excerpted from the Chronology of Rare and Exotic Beasts of the Xuanwu Continent.

Youni’s gentle call before she left roused Tianxiang, who had been deeply immersed in the dark element. Weak and disoriented, he slowly opened his eyes. As soon as his gaze met the sharp eyes of the two Dream Eagles before him, an inexplicable resonance stirred within the depths of their hearts, vibrating through their entire emotional lake, making their calm faces conceal a turmoil within. A sense of deep kinship, rich in unspoken understanding, spread among them, but before they could express it, Tianxiang fainted from the immense drain on his spirit.

In the midst of this beautifully woven dream of family bliss that had taken so long to cultivate, it unfolded even as Tianxiang lay unconscious. The grass was lush, and the lake mirrored the blue sky and fluffy white clouds, with a gentle breeze moving the colorful petals in a graceful dance. Amidst this swirling dance of wind and flowers stood a small child holding a Wooden Sword. Sweat trickled down his face, and his small eyes remained fixed ahead. He could be described as a perfect embodiment of a young warrior, exuding outstanding and resolute charisma. With the Wooden Sword in hand, he seemed like a war god surveying the world, yet there was no trace of arrogance about him. Strangely, the boy’s face was completely blank.

In the background, smoke curled up from a thatched cottage. A gentle and virtuous woman was busy cooking in the kitchen. Through the window, she gazed at the two most important men in her life, who were not far away, and a feeling of happiness and satisfaction surged within her heart. Yet, similar to the boy, the woman’s face was also devoid of any features.

The man, with a concerned expression, said, “Xianger, you’ve made so much progress since the last time!”

Wiping the sweat from his forehead, the child known as Xianger replied with a note of frustration, “I’m still far behind you, Father.”

The man chuckled, “Silly child, back when I was your age, I might not have even achieved what you have! Don’t underestimate yourself. Strength is built upon relentless effort. To surpass others, you must put in more than they do-that’s an unchanging truth throughout history.”

Just as Xianger was about to say more, the woman stepped out of the cottage and said softly, “You two should stop for today. Xianger, go take a bath first; dinner will be ready soon. We’re having your favorite roasted deer legs tonight.”

Xianger affectionately hugged the woman and said, “Thank you, Mom,” before dashing inside.

At dinner, the three of them chatted and laughed, mixing moments of conversation with hearty laughter. The woman reminded Xianger to eat slowly and encouraged him to take bigger bites, worried that he might choke or go hungry.

As the family enjoyed their warm and happy gathering, the entire scene of their dream suddenly began to distort. In the blink of an eye, only Xianger remained, left alone in the dark abyss of loneliness. Fearful, he cried out, “Father, Mother!” But no matter how loudly he shouted, only darkness and solitude surrounded him. He fought back the tears welling in his eyes, remembering his father’s words: “A man should not shed tears lightly!”

Exhausted, Xianger sat on the ground, hugging his knees and gazing vacantly at the sky, hoping for a miracle. Just before he succumbed to unconsciousness, he suddenly noticed two sharp yet warm pairs of eyes watching him with concern, and then he lost consciousness.

Time passed, and eventually, a cool night breeze gently brushed across Tianxiang’s sleeping face. The two Dream Eagles stood guard beside him, shielding him from the wind and rain. If it weren’t for their bright eyes, which resembled twinkling stars yet were filled with worry, one might easily mistake them for two statues of Dream Eagles.

With a low grunt, Tianxiang, still in slumber, stretched and rubbed his sleepy eyes. To his surprise, he found the Dream Eagles standing motionless at his sides. A warm wave of emotion surged through him, but he was also filled with a familiar sensation that mingled with his awe. The concern reflected in the Dream Eagles’ eyes gave him an overwhelming sense of familial affection.

As Tianxiang woke up, the two Dream Eagles exchanged glances and smiled at one another, revealing their joy. Unlike the human smiles characterized by upward curving lips, Tianxiang saw genuine delight in their eyes, which came simply from his awakening.

With a head full of questions, Tianxiang blurted out, “Who are you?” As soon as the words left his mouth, he smacked his forehead and mumbled, “Have I lost my mind? How could they speak human language?” At that moment, two faint waves of mental fluctuation emanated from the Dream Eagles, so subtle that they nearly escaped Tianxiang’s notice. He realized they were sending out mental waves he could actually receive. Quickly, he focused his mind and activated the beast heart technique to capture their mental fluctuations; a long-buried secret about his identity was about to be unveiled.

If Tianxiang weren’t a Six Spiritual Senses body, if he hadn’t learned the beast heart technique from Yates, and if he hadn’t fallen into the Flying River, arriving instead in this secluded valley, he would have no idea how long it would take to uncover the truth about his heritage. Perhaps he would never understand it in his lifetime! However, nothing in this world operates on “what ifs,” nor does it offer second chances. It is the unforeseen connections and coincidences that make life seem more wondrous and exciting. Isn’t the beauty of life found in these unexpected surprises?

As the mental fluctuations intertwined among the three of them, Tianxiang asked, “Why do you want to protect me?” The question stemmed from his belief that they were simply two sentient beasts and that he had no knowledge of their deeper identities.

The female Dream Eagle replied, “Actually, as I flew over the mountaintop, I suddenly experienced waves of heart fluttering, as if something was about to happen. My husband then noticed a dark mist in the valley, and soon after, we discovered you. For some reason, I felt an indescribable connection to you, as if we shared an extraordinarily close bond.”

Although her words were enigmatic, Tianxiang believed them without doubt and responded, “Hearing you say that, I feel the same way. But this is our first meeting.”

Just as the three were trying to make sense of it all, the male Dream Eagle suddenly asked, “How did you end up here, unconscious?”

Perhaps due to the natural bond of blood, Tianxiang did not hesitate to share everything about how he had infiltrated the Hurricane Band of Thieves and what happened after he fell into the Flying River. As he recounted his story, the female Dream Eagle’s mental fluctuations varied, reflecting her emotions-sometimes filled with worry, other times with joy. When he reached the part about falling into the Flying River, her mental waves surged with tension, rising and falling unpredictably. The authenticity of her mental signals revealed her feelings, creating an indescribable stir in Tianxiang’s heart.

The male Dream Eagle listened quietly, his astonishment at Tianxiang’s detailed thoughts and intricate schemes far surpassing his concern for him. Knowing his wife’s personality well, he could only shake his head at her behavior, thinking to himself, “Concern can lead to confusion!”

Once Tianxiang finished, the female Dream Eagle let out a slow breath and then asked, “Where are your relatives? How could they let you wander alone?”

With sadness in his voice, Tianxiang replied, “I’m an orphan. I’ve never known who my parents are. My grandfather found me in the forest, but he has already passed away.”

The female Dream Eagle, feeling sorrow for him, said, “What a poor child!” Suddenly recalling something, she asked with a hint of excitement, “What’s your name?”

Without hesitation, Tianxiang answered, “My name is Tianxiang.”

The female Dream Eagle mumbled to herself, “Tianxiang, Tianxiang,” then asked with disappointment, “Do you hate your parents?”

A wave of confusion washed over Tianxiang, and he said, “Actually, I don’t know if I should hate them, but I really want to find them and ask them directly why they left me all alone.” Then his tone shifted as he affirmed, “But I believe they must have had their reasons for leaving me. Regardless, I will find them.” His words carried an unshakeable confidence.

Touched by her innate maternal instinct, the female Dream Eagle asked with concern, “Do you have any clues?”

Tianxiang replied, “According to my grandfather, when he found me, there was a magic circle drawn in blood on my chest, and I also had a silver bracelet.”

Just as Tianxiang was about to say more, he suddenly felt the mental fluctuations from the two Dream Eagles surge toward him like crashing waves in a stormy sea. A mix of anticipation, tension, fear, and complex emotions flowed through their mental waves.

Perhaps overwhelmed by nervous expectation, the female Dream Eagle stammered, “So… does the Silver Bracelet have any words engraved on it?”

Tianxiang felt a flicker of suspicion-how did she know there were engravings on the Silver Bracelet? Nevertheless, he answered, “It has the words Tianyu Longxiang engraved on it. My grandfather said that’s my name.”

Everything that had happened before felt like a rising firework, ready to burst into brilliance, and when the name Tianyu Longxiang finally left his lips, it was like a thunderous explosion in the sky, unleashing dazzling fireworks that resonated deeply within the two Dream Eagles. It exploded the hardships of their years of wandering, and their long-held wish finally came true.

The female Dream Eagle, unable to articulate her emotions for a long time, found tears streaming down her face. With misty eyes, she looked at Tianxiang, suddenly overwhelmed with an urge to rush forward and embrace him-her own biological son, born after ten months of carrying, but lost for over a decade! Yet, when she spread her wings to move, she hesitated, feeling despondent. How could she face Xianger and hold him like this? A thick, unresolvable sorrow emanated from the female Dream Eagle, instantly affecting Tianxiang and the male Dream Eagle’s emotions.

The unpredictable emotions of the female Dream Eagle, especially when she heard the name Tianyu Longxiang, piqued Tianxiang’s curiosity. Suddenly, the clever Tianxiang asserted in surprise, “You know my background!” Upon saying this, he looked at the Dream Eagles with a mix of doubt and excitement.