Jiang Wusheng led Li Yun through several courtyards to a quiet, secluded residence.
The courtyard was small but exquisitely arranged.
Bluestone paved the ground, bamboo shadows swayed, and several plum trees by the wall were heavy with buds.
A stone table stood in the courtyard, set with tea utensils. Beside it grew an old pine, its gnarled branches sturdy and vigorous.
Inside, the furnishings were simple yet tasteful: a wooden bed, a table and chairs, and a landscape painting on the wall, its brushwork free and its artistic vision profound.
"Young Master Li, the headquarters arranged this residence for you. The courtyard is private and quiet, so no one will disturb you. If you need anything, just tell the disciples on duty outside."
Jiang Wusheng stood in the courtyard and cupped his hands.
Li Yun looked around and nodded with satisfaction. "Sorry for the trouble, Martial King Jiang."
Jiang Wusheng waved a hand. "Not at all, Mr. Li. The vice master said he'd notify you as soon as he heard anything. Please rest. I won't disturb you further."
Li Yun saw him to the gate, and Jiang Wusheng left.
Silence returned to the courtyard.
Li Yun stood beneath the old pine with his hands behind his back and looked up at the sky. It was still early. Sunlight filtered through the bamboo leaves, casting dappled shadows across the ground.
Rather than rest, he sat cross-legged beside the stone table and closed his eyes.
Myriad Wonders Points balance: 240 million.
That fortune was enough to raise his strength further.
Since he had time to spare, he might as well cultivate.
Li Yun sank his awareness into his sea of consciousness and gently touched the invisible Heavenly Ladder with Heaven's Will.
With one step, he stood upon the Heavenly Ladder. The pressure