Above the Martial Training Ground, a row of natural recesses lined the cliff face. Shen Hui casually widened them and shaped them into a row of Monks' Quarters.
The quarters were small, each holding only a bed and a table, but all had doors and windows to let in air and light.
Spring water seeping from the cliff was channeled into a stone trough outside the quarters, trickling steadily day and night.
"Monks' Quarters and Quiet Rooms."
As he walked, Shen Hui said, "Choose whichever you like. If you would rather build a hut on the summit, just let me know."
Farther up, the mountainside grew gentler, and a gradual slope appeared before them.
Wildflowers covered the slope, and colorful butterflies fluttered overhead.
Shen Hui stood at the top of the slope and looked back the way they had come. Then he waved a hand, and a pavilion rose from the ground.
Its pillars were raw timber, its roof thatch.
Several long tables and benches stood inside. A stove had been built along one side, with a large pot set over it.
"This will be the Dining Hall."
Fifth Senior Brother went over and lifted the lid to look inside, then felt the stove and nodded in satisfaction.
Beyond the Dining Hall, the stone steps grew steeper and the trees sparser.
When they reached the summit, the view suddenly opened up.
A platform several dozen feet across appeared before them, facing the vault of heaven without any obstruction. Sunlight slanted down from the edge of the Azure Veil, bathing the entire platform in light.
Shen Hui stood at its center, surveyed his surroundings, and slowly raised both hands.
The ground heaved, more violently than on any previous occasion.
Earth and stone surged like waves, while plants and vines grew wildly.