At that critical moment, a dazzling white light descended from the sky, enveloping Xuan Yang. The brilliance was as intense as the sun, as if it aimed to purify the very heavens and earth, causing the air around to tremble. Instinctively, Xuan Yang closed his eyes, the sound of the wind howling in his ears, as if he were at the center of a storm.
As the white light dissipated, an elderly man in a flowing white robe appeared before Xuan Yang. With hair as white as snow and a youthful face, he exuded an aura of ethereal grace, holding a whisk that made him look like a celestial being. He stood there quietly, yet radiated an imposing majesty that inspired awe.
“Who are you?” Xuan Yang asked warily, sensing the powerful aura emanating from the old man, deep and unfathomable like an ocean. This presence filled him with reverence but also a hint of unease.
“I am your master and your guardian,” the old man replied with a gentle smile, his voice warm and kind, like a spring breeze caressing one’s face. “The power within you has awakened; it is time for you to begin your training.”
Upon seeing the old man, the Lord of Shadows’ expression changed dramatically. The confident smile that had adorned his face froze instantly, replaced by disbelief and terror. “You are... Tian Ji Lao Ren?” His voice trembled as if he had encountered something horrifying.
Tian Ji Lao Ren? A jolt ran through Xuan Yang at this name; he had heard Lu Zhiyuan mention it before, describing him as an unfathomably powerful recluse. He had never imagined he would meet this legendary figure.
Ignoring the Lord of Shadows, Tian Ji Lao Ren turned his gaze to Xuan Yang, his eyes filled with compassion. “Child, come with me. I will teach you how to harness the power within you.”
Xuan Yang hesitated; he was unsure whether to trust this suddenly appearing elder. Although the old man claimed to be his master and protector, doubts still lingered in his heart.
“Trust me, child; only I can help you,” Tian Ji Lao Ren seemed to sense Xuan Yang's hesitation and spoke again. His tone was firm and sincere, carrying an almost magical quality that made Xuan Yang feel compelled to believe him.
Taking a deep breath, Xuan Yang finally nodded. “Alright, I will follow you.” Though uncertainties remained in his heart, his intuition told him that Tian Ji Lao Ren meant him no harm.
With a slight smile, Tian Ji Lao Ren lifted Xuan Yang into the air, transforming into a streak of light that vanished into the horizon. The speed was so swift that Xuan Yang barely had time to take in his surroundings.
The Lord of Shadows watched their disappearing figures with rage and resentment in his eyes but dared not pursue them. He knew he was no match for Tian Ji Lao Ren. To chase after them would only lead to humiliation or even death.
"How dare you ruin my plans, Tian Ji Lao Ren!" the Lord of Shadows roared, his voice booming like thunder, echoing through the heavens and the earth. His fists were clenched tightly, nails digging deep into his flesh, yet he felt no pain.
Xuan Yang followed Tian Ji Lao Ren into a hidden valley. The air was filled with the sounds of birds and the fragrance of flowers, rich in spiritual energy, resembling a paradise. Various exotic flowers and plants competed for attention, exuding a captivating aroma. A clear stream meandered through the landscape, producing a melodious tinkling sound.
"Where is this place?" Xuan Yang asked curiously, captivated by the beauty before him.
"This is your training ground," Tian Ji Lao Ren replied. "From today onward, you will learn how to harness the power within you."
Xuan Yang nodded, his eyes filled with anticipation and excitement. He could hardly wait to begin his training and master the immense power within him.
Tian Ji Lao Ren began to teach Xuan Yang the methods of cultivation and recounted the stories of the Puppet Master and the Lord of Shadows. He spoke eloquently, like a wise storyteller sharing ancient legends.
It turned out that the Puppet Master and the Lord of Shadows were twin brothers, both possessing immense power but with vastly different personalities. The Puppet Master was kind-hearted and helpful, warm like sunlight; while the Lord of Shadows was ruthless and ambitious, cold as darkness.
The two engaged in an earth-shattering battle for control over their powers. The mountains crumbled and the sun and moon were obscured; this battle raged for seven days and nights. In the end, the Puppet Master emerged victorious by a narrow margin and sealed away the Lord of Shadows.
However, the Lord of Shadows did not give up. He constantly sought opportunities to return, attempting to break free from his seal and regain control over the world.
And Xuan Yang was the reincarnation of the Puppet Master, bearing the heavy and sacred mission to stop the Lord of Shadows and save the world. This mission weighed heavily on him, filling him with an immense sense of responsibility.
After listening to Tian Ji Lao Ren's tale, Xuan Yang felt a surge of shock and determination within him. He finally understood his purpose and why he possessed such formidable power.
"Master, I will train diligently to defeat the Lord of Shadows and protect this world!" Xuan Yang declared firmly, his eyes filled with resolve. He knew that this path would be fraught with challenges, but he would not back down.
Tian Ji Lao Ren nodded with satisfaction. "Good child, I believe in you." He looked at Xuan Yang, his eyes filled with hope.
Xuan Yang began to train diligently. Every day, he practiced the techniques taught by Tian Ji Lao Ren, continuously enhancing his strength. He sweated profusely, tireless, as if he wanted to pour all his energy into his cultivation.
During his training, he gradually learned more about the stories of the Puppet Master and the Lord of Shadows, as well as the hidden secrets of this world. These revelations shocked him and further solidified his resolve.
Days passed, and Xuan Yang's strength continued to grow. He gradually mastered the ability to manipulate shadows and summon the Puppet Master, becoming proficient in using them in battle. His shadow moved with the agility of a serpent, while his Puppet Master was as solid as steel. He was no longer the helpless boy he once was.
He knew that he was getting closer to the day he would defeat the Lord of Shadows. His heart was filled with hope and anticipation for the challenges ahead.
As Xuan Yang trained, the Lord of Shadows was not idle either. He was amassing power, preparing to challenge Xuan Yang once more. Hiding in the dark corners like a coiled serpent, he awaited the perfect moment.
A more intense battle was about to unfold...
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