Chương 98: Chapter 96 – Karmic Sequelae

In the weeks that followed, Ren often thought of the strange seer. Against expectations, the fortune he had been told wasn't some convoluted riddle or an ambiguous, mystical poem. In fact, after eliminating the least likely possibilities, it was unexpectedly straightforward.

'How can that monk even create a mysterious prestige around himself if he simply tells people exactly what he divined? It also makes it so much harder to believe if the fortunes are phrased so simply.' The disparaging comments failed to dismiss the fortune from repeatedly echoing in his thoughts. It forced Ren to face an unwelcome truth that he had subconsciously been ignoring for a while.

Ever since Elder Yun Peng had warned him of the impending calamity that the Heavenly Sword Sect was soon to face, Ren had had doubts. Why were none of the outer sect disciples told of this? Even if their goal was to avoid a panic, shouldn't they at least be given a choice? It also reminded Ren that the elder hadn't told him when the calamity would be arriving, only that it was inevitable. He had promised that the sect leadership had a plan but did not reveal the contents.

All these doubts combined with the recent revelation had led Ren to turn a critical, unbiased eye toward his own sect. And the more he thought about it, the more likely one option seemed. A ruthless and cost-effective option. Like a lizard sacrificing its own tail, the sect too might be abandoning its disciples to save a select few. Considering what Ren knew of karma, he knew that one way to avoid the sin or merit from a connection was to sever it.

And since this entire disaster was directed at the sect because of their karmic bonds, his theory gained significant weight. He knew that abandoning the disciples to sever the bond might be the sect doing what was best for them in the short term, but it certainly wasn't easy to come to terms with. However, it shook Ren's faith in the sect. They had always behaved with honor, never abusing nor oppressing others with their might that he had seen.

But even if it were done to save their lives, this one move would cut off the futures of so many promising young cultivators. Ren knew that where there was life, there was a chance, but he also knew that without the backing of a mighty sect, their chances weren't good. When he consulted Bao Hua on the matter, Ren couldn't bring himself to hide things any more. He had already hinted to Hua earlier when the elder first revealed it to him, but his brother hadn't given it much thought.

Ren knew that telling Hua everything would involve his brother more deeply in this calamity, like the elder had done to him, but at this point, it felt like things couldn't get much worse. Hua's calm and reliable demeanor had helped center Ren. They discussed things and Ren's new theory, and Hua managed to connect his own experiences to provide further support. His expedition must have been to test a defensive mechanism against the lightning tribulation, but it had clearly failed.

It meant an evacuation was more plausible. Hua's master had also mentioned something about taking everything precious he owned with him for this journey to the Golden Light Monastery. Since he always did so, he hadn't paid it any attention earlier, but seen in this light, it was also sound advice for someone leaving their home behind. Ren had felt terribly guilty for causing his brother such sadness, but this matter was simply too important to ignore.

He was suddenly glad he had brought Yu Ran and the tortoises with him. The thought of losing his wonderful mountain abode and the powerful treasures that were the backbone of his formation made Ren unbearably sad. He was also worried for all his friends and acquaintances back home. Unsurprisingly, Hua was able to shake off the worst of his listlessness with the same pragmatic attitude that let him progress so swiftly with his sword cultivation.

He found fellow sect members to spar with and spent his time honing himself. Ren, on the other hand, was dealt another blow. Around 10 days after they had arrived at the monastery, Ren heard news from home. The personal disciple of Elder Jiao Yue, who was also one of the competitors, had shared with his fellow sect members a few details that his master had received from a communication talisman. Among the various interesting scraps of gossip, there was one that concerned Ren.

Apparently 3 of the challenges created by 'The Challenger' in the outer sect had been plundered or destroyed. A part of Ren had always expected this outcome because he was realistic about cultivators' attitudes in general, but it still disturbed him more than he expected. That the challenges had had such an immense impact on the sect as a whole was the real marvel.

They had already lasted far longer than he had dreamed of, and the benefits he had reaped were clearly reflected in his astonishingly rapid advancement in cultivation. Ren had also formed many positive karmic connections through them, especially after he had refined his methods in later challenges. It still left him distraught because it was yet another reminder of the callousness and individualistic thinking of cultivators.

That one's personal benefits should be secured even if all the others who come after suffer from it. A firm reminder of just how vexing a dao he had chosen for himself to go against tradition. Stolen from its rightful place, this narrative is not meant to be on Amazon; report any sightings. The more suspicious side of him that had recently awakened also wondered if Cheng Lei had somehow connected the challenges to Ren. Was this just plain greed, or was it directed at him?

Divination was very uncommon but not unheard of, and Ren only had one weakened Elder Yun protecting him.

'He said he had already turned away some of fate's blows, but could he defend against everything? Or did this have something to do with my actions and the mystery behind my ultimate move, Fated Fall, that I lost control over?' Even Ren, who could usually shake off such distressing events to focus on what was in front of him, was floundering. Mainly because apart from cultivating and exploring the monastery, there wasn't much he could do.

He had already sold off all his goods for spectacular profits in those initial days. Trading across sects was incredibly lucrative. Ren had earned nearly 60 mid-grade spirit stones, an almost unbelievable sum! Yet even that immense wealth wasn't enough to cheer him up. He recalled back during the inter-sect auction how Xi Yuan's brother, Xi Yao, had casually spent nearly the same amount just to save face.

There were heavens beyond heavens, and his new wealth was just small change for someone from a true cultivator family with deep pockets. Ren acknowledged he was feeling low without having anything else to do, so once he sold his goods, he began to walk around and explore the sect every day. He particularly enjoyed their zen gardens where monks would meditate through toil. A kind nun showed him how it was done, but without the corresponding manuals, the practice had a diminished effect.

Still the mere act could bring peace to Ren's tumultuous thoughts. He also enjoyed discovering small patches of wild gardens left atypically untended. He would bring out his tortoises and play with them. They also loved the broken bell he had bought for them and would have fun knocking it around with little bumps of their heads, reminding Ren of the game local kids like to play with a ball. Slowly, in the days leading up to the trial opening, Ren regained much of his lost calm.

He focused on his cultivation and tried making new acquaintances, but most monks followed strict schedules and adhered to them rigorously. They meditated and attended lectures for half the day before dispersing to their various assigned chores. Only a part of their day was left to their choice. Ren also wondered about Subo, who had completely vanished after that first day. Even inquiries about his master didn't lead anywhere, as Ren didn't know their name.

When he tried to describe the portly and furious-looking appearance, most monks were ignorant, and a few showed scared faces before hurriedly departing. So Ren remained in self-imposed isolation for the most part and improved his mental state. It was also why he completely missed out on the rumors and gossip that the younger monks indulged in.

Like how a mad sword cultivator would try and pick fights if they locked eyes with him, how certain gardens suddenly had slightly improved qi flows, or how there had been a few scuffles between the feuding guest sects. With only two days left to the trial opening, tensions were indeed high. Their elders had already warned them against antagonizing the Celestial Instruments Sect and to focus on their cultivation. Ren still risked getting caught alone just to keep exploring the beautiful and vast monastery.

It was when he was leaving for one of his explorations that Subo finally reappeared, looking unusually grave.

"Amitabha, Brother Ren. Forgive me for not being able to return promptly, but things have taken a strange turn. However, it is no excuse for my behavior, so I extend my sincerest apologies." Ren was rather surprised, but he was more glad to see his friend was well. He remained chagrined at the possibility that his irresponsible actions with Fated Blow had negatively impacted his companion. But then he realized what Subo had just said.

"You need not concern yourself over such small matters, brother. But what do you mean by strange turn?" Subo hesitated briefly and then invited Ren to talk in more privacy. Ren suggested his favorite garden, which was never disturbed by others. They walked there while Subo made small talk, but Ren could see it was just to hide his anxious state of mind. Ren breathed deeply of the refreshing air as they entered the small garden and sat. He further set up a small array for additional privacy.

After a moment, he also brought out his tortoises. They had proven themselves many times as extremely proficient at consoling disturbed cultivators. Only afterwards did he remember Subo's attitude towards pets, but he wasn't a savage who would harm his brother in this manner. Ren's hesitation was still warranted as he saw Subo discretely wipe away some drool from the corner of his mouth. He began talking as the tortoises around him began scaling this new mountain.

"I've always gone on many demon subjugating missions partly because I'm good at it and partly because… ahem… because of the relaxed dietary restrictions. Apparently master had been arguing for a reward for my meritorious service, but the other senior monks would argue it was too soon." Ren listened silently. He wouldn't dare pry into the workings of the monastery and would only accept whatever Subo offered voluntarily.

"Yet this recent mission seems to have tipped the scales. Apparently one of the alchemists wants to study the core from the demon pig we found. You recall how it could absorb the demonic qi to multiply its numbers, and you stopped us from killing it too soon? When I reported that, they grew interested. Even if they can't replicate it, the effect is still worth more research. If it comes to fruition, then we won't have to exert so much time and effort through the purification teams.

We can make huge strides in reclaiming territory lost to demonic influences! It's especially vital considering the increased demonic activity recently. And that was the achievement that decided things. I have been informed that after the Golden Dharma trial concludes, I will be accompanying Master to the higher monastery that backs this one. Apparently it's a life-changing reward to be able to become a disciple there! Amitabha, I'm truly blessed, for it is all thanks to you accompanying me!

If it was my attack that brought down that pig, then I doubt I could have preserved the core in such excellent condition. So I have brother Ren to thank for this matter. This debt I shall owe you, brother Ren!" Even as a tortoise covered Subo said those words, Ren felt a change in his dantian. The karmic strand that represented his connection to Subo was shining brilliantly. And Ren finally had his answer.

'This is it! This is what Fated Fall changed!'