He finished reciting the incantation, and lustrous spiritual light scattered everywhere, nourishing the soil.
In an instant, plants spread and flourished, grasses wove themselves into a hut, and slender bamboo formed a fence. Branches stretched into view, with beautiful peaks visible beyond.
With a single spell from Bi Xingjian, the earth's vitality surged and grass stems grew wildly, bringing a small fenced Courtyard into being before Jiang Yang's very eyes.
It closely resembled the one Bi Xingjian currently lived in: simple in appearance, with the charm of an ancient ascetic's retreat.
Bi Xingjian lowered his hands and smiled.
"This is the best I can do. You'll have to make do for now, junior brother."
Jiang Yang hurriedly cupped his hands in praise.
"You're too modest, fourth senior brother. This is hardly making do. Your miraculous skill has truly opened my eyes."
"Oh..."
Bi Xingjian waved a hand.
"A mere trifling art. Come, let's take a look inside."
The dew dried toward evening, a gentle breeze stirred the curtains, and quiet daylight lingered in the Courtyard. Verdant paths spread like embroidery—a truly tranquil scene.
Jiang Yang and Bi Xingjian walked around the little Courtyard. With his hands behind his back, Bi Xingjian surveyed it.
“The Courtyard is empty. It still lacks a spirit tree. In a few days, I'll find a Spirit Seed and bring it over.”
Jiang Yang tried to decline.
"Sorry for all the trouble already, senior brother. There's no need to spend more on me."
"That hardly counts as an expense. A spirit tree draws in qi and shelters the wind, gathering Spirit Vigor. It benefits cultivation and advances one's attainments in the Dao. It's indispensable."
Bi Xingjian was a Yi Wood cultivator, particularly skilled in preserving one's nature and nourishing life. He pointed out the Courtyard's layout.