Fate's Closed Loop

The room reeked of damp and decay. Even the curtains looked soaked through. Lu Ban looked out the window. At some point, the sky had filled with gloom, as if a torrential downpour could break at any moment. The distant forest swayed in the wind, wave after wave spreading across the treetops and leaving him unsettled.

That was right. This was Rainstorm Villa, a place that should have been covered by an endless storm. Sunlight was a precious thing here; night and thunderstorms were its constant themes.

Rumble—

A bolt of Thunder fell from the dark clouds and exploded amid the swaying Sea of Trees. The lightning seemed to spark a fire, setting the lush forest aglow with dazzling red light. But soon, raindrops began to fall.

At first there were only one or two. Then the torrential rain poured down as if it meant to wash away every stain in the world. Before long, the fire sparked by the Thunder was extinguished, giving rise to wisps of gray-black smoke. But not long after that, even the smoke vanished from sight. The entire world was cut off behind a curtain of rain. Rainstorm Villa stood alone atop the cliff, like an old man abandoned by the world.

The cold rain pounded against the glass windows, making a noisy racket.

In the dining room just beyond the wall, bright yellow lamplight illuminated the profiles of the three Chosen of the Gods, yet offered not the slightest warmth.

"Legend has it that Daoist He Ming was originally just an unknown wanderer. Later, he obtained secret techniques taught by an immortal, secretly cultivated them, and then revealed his powers before the public, accomplishing several miracles. His reputation soared, and even the master of the Ruined City knew his name. Daoist He Ming took