Immortals Step into Heaven

Their figures were stretched out in the dim moonlight as they walked silently home, their only sounds echoing in the stillness. As the familiar outline of Ling'er's home gradually became clearer, and as they neared the front door, Ling'er, as if driven by an invisible force, finally couldn't suppress her inner longing and doubts. She whispered, "Brother Xiaoyuan, is it really impossible to cultivate without spiritual roots?" Her eyes fixed on Zheng Yuan, a glint of anticipation and reluctance in them, as if a different answer from Zheng Yuan could change their destiny.

Zheng Yuan looked at Ling'er, his eyes filled with complex emotions: pity, helplessness, and a hint of unspeakable bitterness. He sighed softly and shook his head slightly.

Tears welled in Ling'er's eyes, her voice trembling with anticipation as she cautiously asked, "Brother Xiaoyuan, can I give you a ride tomorrow? I know you have a long journey ahead of you, but I just want to... just want to be with you a little longer, even if it's just for a little while longer." Her delicate appearance, like a flower swaying in the wind and rain, made it impossible to refuse.

Looking at Ling'er's look full of anticipation and reluctance, the softest corner of Zheng Yuan's heart was deeply touched. He really couldn't bear to refuse, so he nodded slightly and said softly: Ling'er, come and see me off tomorrow.

Zheng Yuan gently escorted Ling'er home, watching her turn back every few steps as she entered the yard before turning and heading back home. The moonlight fell on his shoulders, but it couldn't dispel the melancholy in his heart.

Returning home, the dim light flickered inside. His father, Zheng Chunnian, sat at the table, seemingly waiting for him. Zheng Yuan took a deep breath, stepped forward, and said, "Dad, I'm leaving tomorrow." Zheng Chunnian's hand paused, and the teacup he was stroking also stopped. He looked up, his eyes filled with understanding and a hint of resignation, and sighed softly, "Once you've made a decision, just do it." Ling'er is so devoted to you, she'll be heartbroken if you leave. You've been with her for many years, and she has a deep affection for you. I'm afraid you'll never be able to repay this debt of love in your lifetime.

But speaking of which, you kid, are you really unable to help Ling'er cultivate? From what I know about you, if you really can't do it, you wouldn't be so entangled!

Zheng Yuan was shocked. After all, his father understood him! He then expressed his concerns.

Hearing this, Zheng Chunnian sighed and said, "During the years you were away, Ling'er often came to my house to sit and chat with me. I know her. She looks gentle and kind, but she's also a picky child. Now she's become successful in martial arts. Given her personality, if you don't take her with you this time, she'll secretly go looking for you. No one in our village can stop you. I've never left the village myself, so I don't know how dangerous people are out there. Rather than letting her go looking for you alone, it's better to take her with you. You have a lot of life left now. Spend a few decades with her. She'll grow up and naturally settle down."

As for the subject of demonic arts, Dad, I truly know nothing about them. But having lived for most of my life, I've learned a few things. In this world, there's no such thing as unequivocal right or wrong. Ultimately, it all comes down to whether you want to try, whether you're willing to take action. As long as something benefits you and doesn't seriously violate moral principles or your conscience, does judging right or wrong really matter to you?

Back when my father was young and energetic, traveling abroad to learn his trade, I often heard stories of bandits rampant along the road from Yucheng to Yunzhou City. Merchants and travelers lived in fear, fearing the slightest misstep could cost them both their lives and their wealth. I witnessed firsthand the devastating aftermath of a robbery by a bandit group, goods scattered across the ground and the cries of the people wailing. Back then, I wondered: in this chaotic world, with bandits plundering to survive and civilians struggling to stay alive, who was right and who was wrong? Perhaps there wasn't such a simple answer.

Zheng Yuan was startled by his father's words, a thoughtful expression on his face. He was silent for a moment, then his expression became firm. He said, "Thank you for your guidance, father. I have made up my mind and know what to do next."

Zheng Yuan raised his head, looked at his father sincerely, and continued, "Father, you have extensive experience and profound insights. I've always had a question in my mind: have you ever considered cultivating immortality?" In this vast world, cultivating immortality might allow one to explore the unknown and possess extraordinary powers. If this is your wish, I will definitely assist you with all my strength."

Zheng Chunnian waved his hand and said quickly, "Stop it. Dad, I'm old now, almost up to my neck in the earth. How can I still have the energy to bother with cultivating immortality? Besides, your mother's grave is still here. I won't go anywhere else, I'll just stay here to guard it. This village, this land, holds the memories of your mother and me, and the history of our family. To me, this is what matters most, more real than any cultivation or spiritual practice." Zheng Chunnian's eyes revealed a hint of nostalgia for the past and a longing for his late wife.

Zheng Yuan looked at his father's resolute expression. Though he felt reluctant, he also understood his father's resolve. He sighed softly and said, "Father, since you've made your decision, I'll respect it. I won't be able to be by your side all the time. Please take good care of yourself."

Zheng Chunnian nodded slightly and patted Zheng Yuan on the shoulder. "Don't worry, boy. I'll leave Ling'er to you. Don't let her get hurt. I'll talk to your Uncle Zhao and Aunt Zhao. When you're out there, no matter what happens, remember your original intention."

Zheng Yuan nodded solemnly. "Don't worry, Dad. Yuan'er will never forget your teachings. I will definitely come back to visit you when Ling'er's matter is settled."

Zheng Yuan gently placed several bottles of pills on the table, then pulled out a stack of nearly ten thousand taels of silver from his pocket and pushed them in front of Zheng Chunnian, saying, "Father, these pills are good for your health. You can take them according to the instructions. Keep these silver notes as well. If you need anything, just buy more."

Zheng Chunnian looked up at Zheng Yuan, and seeing his sincere and resolute eyes, he gave up the offer. He knew that with Zheng Yuan's current abilities and wealth, the ten thousand taels of silver were a mere drop in the bucket. Yet, it held within it a symbol of his son's deep filial piety and concern for him. Zheng Chunnian took the pills and silver and said, "Alright, I'll take them, Dad. You should be careful out there, too. Don't always rush into risks. Rest when you need to."

Zheng Yuan smiled and responded: Don't worry, Dad, I can take care of myself.