Taking Leave

A steep cliff stood amid the unbroken green mountains. The cliff was covered in moss and vines, and without careful observation, it would have been difficult to discover the secret hidden within.

On one side of the cliff was a narrow entrance concealed by vines. Pushing aside layer after layer of vines revealed a cave mouth just wide enough for one person to pass through. Ancient runes covered the area around the entrance, radiating a faint glow as if recounting the vicissitudes of time.

Stepping into the Cave Estate, one was greeted by a warm and peaceful aura. The interior was spacious and bright, with luminous pearls embedded in the walls, their gentle radiance illuminating the entire Cave Estate as though it were broad daylight. The ceiling formed a domed vault, painted with exquisite scenes: dragons soaring through the heavens, Immortal Fairies dancing gracefully, and mysterious star charts. Every stroke was vivid and lifelike, as though it contained endless secrets.

At the center of the Cave Estate stood a massive jade platform. Complex Array Patterns covered its surface, radiating faint fluctuations of spiritual energy. This was presumably where cultivators absorbed spiritual energy and cultivated in seclusion. Several ancient meditation cushions were arranged around the platform, their fibers soft and delicate, as though waiting for someone destined to arrive.

On one side of the Cave Estate stood a natural stone table, with several stone stools beside it. A chessboard pattern was carved into the tabletop, suggesting that someone had once played here, leaving behind endless wisdom and strategy. In one corner of the table sat a small incense burner. Wisps of blue smoke rose from it, carrying an elegant fragrance that refreshed both body and mind.

The other side of the Cave Estate held a massive bookshelf. It was crammed with