Finally, after several days of arduous travel, Lin Ning arrived at the Misty Valley. The valley was shrouded in swirling clouds and mist, exuding an eerie and sinister atmosphere, as if it concealed countless dangers and secrets. Lin Ning took a deep breath and stepped into the valley. As soon as he entered, a massive python lunged at him, its gaping maw revealing sharp fangs. Unfazed, Lin Ning swiftly drew his sword to confront it. His swordsmanship was as fierce as a tempest, and he engaged in a breathtaking battle with the giant serpent. After an intense struggle, Lin Ning finally managed to repel the python with his exceptional skills. Wiping the sweat from his forehead, he continued searching for the essential herbs.
Within the Misty Valley, Lin Ning encountered various bizarre beasts and poisonous creatures, but he overcame each challenge with skill and courage. Undeterred by danger, he pressed on and eventually gathered all the necessary herbs. Lin Ning carefully stored the medicinal plants before hastily making his way back to Changbai Mountain.
When Siji saw the herbs Lin Ning brought back, a joyful smile spread across his face. He took the herbs and examined them closely; once he confirmed their authenticity, he immediately began to prepare an antidote for Yuan Yueming. Channeling his energy, he infused the medicinal properties into Yuan Yueming's body. Gradually, her complexion began to regain its rosy hue as the toxins were expelled bit by bit. Finally, Yuan Yueming slowly opened her eyes, and Lin Ning's anxious heart finally found peace.
Lin Ning tightly grasped Yuan Yueming's hand, tears streaming down his face like a flood breaking through a dam. It had been an entire month since Yuan Yueming had been poisoned. During this long month, every day felt like a year for Lin Ning, each moment overshadowed by endless pain and fear. His mind was filled with visions of the various dangers Yuan Yueming might have faced, which haunted him day and night. He could not eat or sleep peacefully; even the slightest noise would jolt him awake from nightmares. At last, heaven rewarded his perseverance; thanks to Siji's dedicated efforts, Yuan Yueming had finally escaped the brink of death! In that moment, joy erupted within Lin Ning like a volcano; he was nearly overwhelmed with emotion.
Yuan Yueming was deeply grateful to Siji; without hesitation, she knelt on the ground and bowed three times in thanks. Seeing this, Siji hurried over to help her up and said, "Saving a life is worth more than building a seven-story pagoda; besides, I have a close friendship with Leader Yuan." A hint of sadness flashed in Yuan Yueming's eyes as she replied mournfully, "Unfortunately, my father was killed by Yang Yan over twenty years ago; he is no longer in this world." Siji was taken aback by this revelation; he had never imagined that Yuan Qingtian had suffered such misfortune. Upon learning that Lin Ning had succeeded him as the current leader of the Sun Moon Gang, Siji praised Lin Ning highly: "Hero Lin is so young yet has achieved so much; you are destined to accomplish great things in the future. I would like to pass on my One Finger Zen technique to you; I hope it will be of help to you. What do you think?"
Lin Ning's eyes sparkled with eagerness and reverence as he gazed intently at Siji, as if he were looking at someone extraordinary. Overjoyed, he exclaimed, "To receive guidance from Hero Su is something I could only dream of!" Siji smiled slightly, looking at Lin Ning with a mix of scrutiny and expectation before slowly saying, "Since you are so eager for this skill, I will give you an opportunity." Trembling with excitement, Lin Ning dropped to his knees and sincerely said, "Senior above, please allow me to pay my respects!" Siji extended his hand to help Lin Ning up and led him to a tranquil spot nearby. This place was serene and silent; only the gentle breeze rustled through the snow-covered ground.
Siji extended his palm, signaling Lin Ning to observe closely. Gradually, warmth began to emanate from his palm; the heat intensified as if an invisible force was surging within it. Before long, the teacup placed on the stone table started to tremble slightly; steam began to rise from it until it boiled vigorously, filling the air with fragrant tea aroma. Lin Ning watched in awe, unable to express his shock.
Siji turned to Lin Ning and said earnestly: "This ultimate skill cannot be mastered overnight; you must endure loneliness and hardship." Lin Ning nodded vigorously with determination in his gaze: "Thank you, Hero Su! I will work hard to learn and not disappoint your teachings!"
The pristine white snow of Changbai Mountain sparkled under the sunlight as Lin Ning and Yuan Yueming stood before Xian Ke preparing to bid farewell to Siji. They had spent ten peaceful days in this tranquil place. Yuan Yueming's complexion had returned to its rosy glow from being pale due to poison; her eyes sparkled with vitality once more as all remnants of poison were completely cleared away—thanks to Siji's assistance.
Siji walked out from Xian Cave slowly; admiration filled his gaze as he looked at Lin Ning. After spending time together, Lin Ning's wisdom, bravery, and kindness left a deep impression on Siji's heart. Lin Ning respectfully clasped his fists together and said: "Senior Su Ji, we are immensely grateful for your care and assistance that allowed my junior sister to rid herself of poison. We are leaving today but will surely repay your kindness if given the chance in the future."
Siji nodded slightly with expectation in his eyes: "Lin Ning, you are a rare talent; I hope you remain true to yourself in your future endeavors. Yuan Yueming, your health is now stable; please take care on your journey." Yuan Yueming gratefully replied: "Thank you for your concern; we will remember it."
With that, Lin Ning and Yuan Yueming turned around and set off on their journey homeward. Their figures gradually faded into the distance against Changbai Mountain’s pristine snowy landscape; yet their brief but precious bond with Siji would forever be etched in their hearts like an unforgettable memory amidst the snowy scenery of Changbai Mountain.
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