btth: crafting even heaven

The sun hung low in the sky as the village buzzed with an energy that had been absent for so long. The villagers, now full of hope, began to move with purpose, their heads held a little higher, their gazes a little clearer. Tianzun had transformed the village's very essence — from a place marked by illness and despair to one where new beginnings blossomed every day. But despite all that was changing, there was one critical part of his plan that needed careful tending, like a garden that required constant cultivation.

Tianzun moved swiftly through the village, his mind as sharp as a blade. There were plans to set into motion, and he had no time to waste. Zhen Mu, the head of the village, had already begun organizing the people, but there was still much to be done. Tianzun needed to ensure that the villagers could sustain themselves not just physically but also mentally, their hearts and minds attuned to the work ahead. He had created the foundation, but now, he needed to ensure the roots would grow deep.

The young alchemist had already established a timetable for cultivation — the villagers would train with Dou Zhe warriors, pushing their boundaries beyond what they thought possible. The older villagers would begin cultivating in their own way, their bodies no longer shackled by the poison that once cursed them. But Tianzun knew the most difficult task lay ahead: finding children with the right aptitude for cultivation.

As he entered his own quiet space, Tianzun's thoughts turned inward. He had been through a lot in the past few days, and though everything seemed to be falling into place, there was a lingering uncertainty in the back of his mind. What was the real purpose of his presence in the forest? Why had the events played out as they had? Yet, he found solace in the fact that it was all coming together. The village was thriving, and his mission — though it had started as an act of compassion — had evolved into something greater.

He exhaled, allowing the lingering tension to melt from his shoulders. His goal was to continue progressing, to reach Da Dou Shi and unlock more of the legendary powers within him. He had already established the groundwork for his sect, the Tian Shuan Sect, but he needed more disciples. To have a true sect, he needed loyal followers, capable warriors, and more than anything, the next generation of cultivators. He could see it now — his vision slowly taking form.

The door creaked open, and Yoru entered the room. Her eyes were determined, and there was a resolve in her posture that Tianzun admired. He had come to trust Yoru not only as a loyal subordinate but as a protector of his vision. She had proven herself time and again, and he knew this next task would be no different.

Tianzun gestured for Yoru to sit across from him. "There is much to be done," he began, his voice steady. "The villagers need more than just healing; they need direction. You will supervise them in their training. Zhen Mu has been organizing the basics, but we need someone who can hold them to a higher standard, someone who can see beyond their limitations and push them toward greatness. You are the one who will guide them."

Yoru nodded solemnly. "I understand, Master. What do you wish for me to do?"

Tianzun smiled faintly, a gesture of quiet approval. "The villagers will begin their training with the Dou Zhe warriors. But there is more to this than just that. Their cultivation is crucial, but it is their mindset that will determine whether they succeed or fail. You must instill discipline, focus, and unity. Do not be lenient. They will be the guardians of the Tian Shuan Sect, so they must be strong — physically, mentally, and spiritually."

Yoru's eyes gleamed with determination. She understood the gravity of what he was asking. "I will not let you down, Master."

Tianzun's gaze softened, but his tone remained firm. "In addition to this, I want you to focus on finding children with potential. We will recruit from the orphanages in Wu Tan City. The children must have the right character, the right aptitude. I've seen the villagers' potential, and it is encouraging. Even the older generation, who thought they had no future in cultivation, have begun showing progress. But for the future of our sect, we need to nurture the next generation."

Yoru's eyes narrowed thoughtfully. "And what of the village? Will I be leaving them for a time?"

Tianzun considered this for a moment. "You will be their manager. You will ensure that everything runs smoothly. You will supervise their cultivation, make sure they follow the training regimen, and keep me updated on their progress. As for your trip to Wu Tan City — I trust you to handle that on your own terms. But remember, you must not return until the village is stable, until the foundation we've laid here is strong enough to withstand any storm. These people will depend on you."

Yoru stood up, her heart swelling with a sense of duty. "I will see this through, Master. I promise."

Tianzun nodded approvingly. "Good. And before you leave, there is one more thing."

Yoru paused, awaiting his next instruction. Tianzun stepped forward, placing a small, ornate card in her hand. It was his personal black card — an item of great significance, which would grant her access to the resources she needed. "Take this," he said softly. "If you need anything, use it. It is yours to use, to purchase herbs, to acquire whatever resources are necessary for the task at hand. You are the one in charge now, and I trust you to make the right decisions."

Yoru's eyes softened, her gratitude evident. "Thank you, Master."

Tianzun nodded once again, before his expression grew more contemplative. "But before you leave, there is one final matter. You must say farewell to Xuner. She has been a valuable ally, and I know it will mean something to her that you take the time to say goodbye. Even though you'll be gone for only a short while, your absence will be felt. It is only right that she understands your resolve."

Yoru smiled gently, the corners of her mouth lifting in a soft, bittersweet expression. "I will see her before I leave. I will not forget."

Tianzun stood silently for a moment, watching as Yoru prepared herself for the journey ahead. This was another step in his plan, and while the path forward was uncertain, he knew that his choices were setting the stage for something monumental.

Yoru left the room to speak with Xuner, leaving Tianzun alone with his thoughts. He stood at the window, watching the village below. The people were working hard, training, cultivating, and slowly, very slowly, the seeds of greatness were being planted. He could feel it in the air — the promise of something more.

The night was approaching, and as the sun dipped below the horizon, Tianzun allowed himself a rare moment of peace. Tomorrow would bring more challenges, more decisions. But for now, he could breathe.

As Yoru made her way to Xuner, Tianzun turned his attention inward once more, reflecting on the journey that lay ahead. His vision for the Tian Shuan Sect was becoming a reality, and though the road was long, he knew one thing for certain: he would not walk it alone.

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