Time slipped by unnoticed in the mountains.
The Emerald Bamboo Grove was tranquil and beautiful, an excellent place for secluded cultivation.
Having been added to the ranks of Inner Peaks disciples and successfully avoided being caught between the opposing camps of Fate-Watching Peak and Sun-Watching Peak, Jiang Yi finally enjoyed a stretch of peace.
Over these two or three days, he rose in the morning to breathe and gather Qi, slept at midday, and practiced at midnight during the Zi Hour.
He also set aside four hours to refine the Black Shadow Robe, leading a full and regular life.
Almost without realizing it, he had come to enjoy a little of a cultivator's "carefree bliss."
"Tension and relaxation in turn-that is the way of civil and martial pursuits. Back in the Outer Sect, my nerves were always stretched taut. I constantly feared a misstep would bring disaster, and inevitably grew impatient in my cultivation. Now I can finally settle down somewhat."
Jiang Yi sat in the pavilion in the cottage's rear courtyard. He could tell that the hermitage's previous owner, Senior Brother Zhao Yue, must have put considerable thought into tending it.
A clear pond had been dug in the courtyard and fed with running water, with orchids, angelica, wild ginger, and other fragrant herbs planted beside it.
It perfectly embodied the nurturing cycle of water nourishing plants, and plants giving back clear Qi.
Over time, this little courtyard had acquired a measure of spiritual grace, leaving one refreshed and at ease.
Several layers of fine sand covered the surrounding ground, interspersed with unusual stones. Left uncarved and lying at natural angles, they added a touch of rustic charm.
"A fine place indeed."
Jiang Yi withdrew his gaze. The thatched pavilion he occupied had four round timber pillars, a straw