A/N: All rights to the original content are reserved by the respective copyright owner.

Image Art Source: Pixiv Artist "SJAMKI" or "68005289 / Pixiv Art Code "109805728"

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Jingliu's strength was gradually returning, thanks to the combined efforts of Dan Feng's miraculous healing arts and Baiheng's nurturing presence. They prescribed her to take it easy, advising against any training. Initially, the pale-haired woman seemed on the verge of retorting, but she quickly realized the necessity of the break.

Ying Xing sat in a corner of the room; his gaze fixed on Jingliu with deep interest. He bombarded her with questions about the power she had manifested. However, the others quickly told him to be quiet and let her rest, emphasizing the importance of focusing on what had transpired during her mission.

"Ying Xing, she needs rest, not an interrogation," Baiheng scolded gently, and she lightly smacked the back of Ying Xing's head, chiding him about the situation.

Dan Feng's hands, adorned with intricate tattoos that pulsed with energy, hovered above Jingliu's form, his brow furrowed in concentration.

"She's right. Healing is as much about rest as it is about magic," Dan Feng added. Then, his curiosity getting the better of him, he turned to Jingliu and began firing questions like a child seeking to drink in all knowledge. "Tell me, Jingliu, what did Gogma look like? Did it have tree-like wings? Did it breathe acid?"

Jing Yuan deadpanned and looked at Dan Feng, saying, "Dan Feng, you're acting just like Ying Xing." This playful accusation made the blacksmith smirk in content, while Baiheng couldn't help but hold back a giggle.

Jingliu, sitting on her bed, observed the exchange with a small smile, grateful for the camaraderie and warmth of her friends.

"Cough Jingliu, we must know what happened during your mission before rumors spread," Dan Feng said, recognizing the urgency of the situation.

It was during this time that Jingliu decided to share her dreams and memories with her friends. She recounted her battle with Gogma and the vivid flashbacks that had haunted her. She also mentioned Gogma's connection to the abyss, a force that was shrouded in mystery.

"I faced Gogma, and I think I glimpsed the truth behind the abyss. Gogma's power is connected to it, and I'm not sure what it truly is," Jingliu explained.

Baiheng's expression grew serious as she considered Jingliu's words.

"If it's not something we know, then what could it be? And why did Gogma come here?" Baiheng pondered aloud.

Dan Feng, his brow furrowed in thought, chimed in.

"Perhaps these memories hold the key to understanding not only Gogma's power but also how to help Y/N," Dan Feng suggested.

As the group listened intently, they realized that these memories held crucial clues to understanding the ancient dragon's power and, perhaps, a way to save Y/N.

-Timeskip-

Six months had passed since Jingliu's recovery, and during this time, Dan Feng had become obsessed with unraveling the mysteries of the green gem. He consulted ancient texts, sought advice from wise elders within Xianzhou Luofu, and even embarked on a journey to a secluded monastery known for its profound wisdom.

Dan Feng's relentless pursuit of knowledge led him to experiment with the gem, initially startled by the sheer power it emanated when he used his healing abilities on it. The aura surrounding the gem was undeniably tinged with darkness, but he discovered that it held a surprising array of benefits. When exposed to his healing arts, it displayed the ability to mend not only wounds but also heal small animals, rejuvenate ailing plants, and more. Astonishingly, there seemed to be no drawbacks or consequences from these experiments. It filled him with hope that this gem could be the key to changing the fate of his race, potentially even saving them from the looming threat of the Denizens of Abundance.

However, as he delved deeper into his research, he realized that he couldn't keep the gem's existence and potential a secret. He needed to confront the Pontiff about it. In the secrecy of his chamber, Dan Feng whispered to the shadows, and the shadows responded. The room's lights extinguished, windows shut closed with a gentle breeze, and silence enveloped the space. It was then that the Pontiff spoke, his enigmatic voice emerging from the very shadows themselves.

"The gem holds great power, but it is not the only key. There is another," the Pontiff revealed cryptically.

Dan Feng leaned closer to the shadows, his curiosity and determination unwavering.

"What is the other key, Pontiff? What more must I uncover?" Dan Feng inquired.

The Pontiff's response was ominous and shrouded in mystery.

"War." 

Dan Feng's heart sank at the ominous word, and he knew that their journey was far from over.

-Timeskip-

In the secluded realm of the Denizens of Abundance, Shuhu, the enigmatic leader of the faction, had set their plans in motion. The chamber was shrouded in an eerie stillness as they discussed their strategy. Shuhu's intentions were clear—to sow chaos and discord within Xianzhou Luofu.

"We must settle some chaos within the city," Shuhu began, their voice dripping with a sinister undertone. "Members of our faction will infiltrate the council, acting as spies to gather knowledge and spread false information."

As Shuhu spoke, the new characters emerged from the shadows, their presence striking fear into the hearts of those who dared to oppose them.

Xiulan, a formidable woman armored from head to toe, her form adorned with patterns that seemed to writhe with Abundance's essence, stepped forward. Wrapped bandages concealed parts of her head and limbs, hinting at concealed power or the scars of her unwavering loyalty. Dual daggers hung at her sides, ready to strike down any who crossed her path.

"I shall infiltrate the council, and chaos shall follow," Xiulan declared with a steely resolve.

Beside her, Zhaohui, a man who appeared as though death itself had touched him, stood with an emaciated form. His sunken eyes burned with an eerie intensity, and he gripped a crude spear with deadly proficiency.

"I will spread discord among their ranks, like a specter from the abyss," Zhaohui hissed, his voice a mere whisper that sent shivers down the spines of those present.

And then there was Yexian, a woman of regal bearing, her armor attire exuding an air of authority. A finely crafted sword hung at her side, its blade polished to a mirror-like sheen. Her long, red hair added an air of mystique to her presence. She proclaimed Jingliu as her rival and expressed a deep-seated hatred for her, blaming her for the demise of Y/N.

"Jingliu is the source of my suffering," Yexian seethed, her eyes ablaze with fury. "It is because of her that Y/N had to die."

Her fixation on Y/N's fate bordered on obsession, and it was clear that Yexian's involvement in the council's affairs would be marked by a dangerous and unpredictable zeal.

As the Denizens of Abundance continued to plan their infiltration and chaos-spreading mission, it became evident that their loyalty to the faction was unshakeable, their minds tampered by the Abundance itself. Their actions would set in motion a series of events that would test the resolve of Xianzhou Luofu's leaders and citizens.

-POV change-

After six months of recovery and reflection, Jingliu's determination to harness her newfound powers burned brighter than ever. She knew that she had a crucial role to play in the looming conflict with the Denizens of Abundance. It was time to take the next step in her journey.

The training chamber, nestled deep within Xianzhou Luofu, became her sanctuary once more. Here, she faced challenges that pushed her to her limits and forced her to confront her deepest fears. The journey to mastering her abilities was fraught with trials, both physical and mental.

Under the guidance of Baiheng, her faithful friend, Jingliu honed her combat skills.

"Your movements are improving, Jingliu, but remember, true strength comes from balance and control," Baiheng advised as she watched Jingliu's every move.

Jingliu's breath was steady as she executed a series of precise strikes. Her movements were fluid and graceful, a testament to the countless hours of training.

But it wasn't just about physical prowess. Jingliu also delved into the spiritual aspects of her power.

"Meditation helps me find clarity, Baiheng. I can sense the power within me, but I need to understand it better," Jingliu explained.

She spent hours in meditation, seeking to unlock the full potential of her abilities. Her mind became a battlefield of its own, as she grappled with the memories of her encounter with Gogma and the enigmatic abyss.

Baiheng watched over her with a watchful eye, offering guidance and wisdom when needed.

"The path to mastery is not just about strength, but also about understanding. The power you wield is a part of you; you must learn to harness it," Baiheng reminded her.

Inspired by Jingliu's determination, Baiheng proposed that she, too, should take up the sword.

"Jingliu, having another skill, one that can enhance my survivability, will be invaluable in the battles to come," Baiheng explained.

Jingliu felt a surge of pride for her friend. The foxian had naturally grasped the art of swords during her voyages through the galaxy, which now served as an extra benefit in their training. With Baiheng's guidance, their sessions became a fusion of combat and camaraderie.

"Your skills with the sword are impressive, Baiheng. I'm honored to have you by my side," Jingliu said with a genuine smile.

The training was grueling, but Jingliu and Baiheng embraced it with determination and a shared sense of purpose.

As weeks turned into months, Jingliu's progress became evident. Her control over her abilities grew, and the once erratic manifestations of power became more focused and precise.

"I can feel it, Baiheng. The energy inside me is becoming more manageable, more... responsive," Jingliu said with a sense of accomplishment.

But with power came responsibility, and Jingliu was acutely aware of the weight of her role in the impending conflict.

"I know the Denizens of Abundance won't wait. I must be ready for whatever they throw at us," she declared.

During her training, Jingliu realized a peculiar limitation – she could no longer summon the greatsword that had been her constant companion. Instead, she could only manifest the lightsword form. This restriction frustrated her, but she couldn't discern its cause.

Ying Xing, who had been observing their training, couldn't contain his curiosity any longer. He decided to join them in the sparring session.

"Mind if I join, Jingliu?" he asked with a grin. "I've been itching for a good fight."

Jingliu welcomed his presence with a nod. "Of course, Ying Xing. Let's make this training session even more challenging."

Baiheng and Ying Xing were there to support Jingliu in her journey. Baiheng served as the medic, ensuring that Jingliu's physical well-being was taken care of. She also occasionally joined in Jingliu's training, using her bow to shoot from various angles, enhancing Jingliu's instincts and awareness of her surroundings.

"Your reflexes are improving, Jingliu. Keep your guard up," Baiheng encouraged her.

Ying Xing, on the other hand, was in awe of Jingliu's lightsword. He saw its potential to surpass even the Shard Sword he had crafted for her. He observed Jingliu's powers with keen interest, realizing that her abilities could serve as inspiration for his future weapon creations.

"Your lightsword is a marvel, Jingliu. It surpasses even my own creations. I'm honored to witness its potential," Ying Xing admitted.

Ying Xing took the opportunity to engage in sparring sessions with Jingliu, not only to test his weapons but also to refine his swordsmanship. Although his skills were impressive, they were still realms below Jingliu's expertise.

"You're a formidable opponent. You push me to become better," Ying Xing acknowledged.

Jingliu's training was grueling, both mentally and physically, but she faced it with unwavering determination. Her path to mastery was far from over, and the challenges ahead would be even greater. Yet, she embraced the future with the knowledge that her powers were growing, and she was one step closer to confronting whatever darkness lay in wait.

-Xianzhou Alliance Council-

In the heart of Xianzhou Luofu, the city's council convened to address the looming threat posed by the Denizens of Abundance. The leaders, representing various factions within the city, gathered in a grand chamber adorned with ancient tapestries and illuminated by softly glowing crystals.

Lord Zhenren, the venerable sage who chaired the council, began the meeting with a heavy heart. He was a wise and seasoned leader, known for his shrewd diplomacy and unyielding dedication to the city's well-being.

"Esteemed council members," Lord Zhenren began, his voice carrying the weight of the impending crisis. "We stand at a crossroads, where the shadows of the Denizens of Abundance threaten to engulf our realm. Our city faces a danger unlike any we have encountered before."

As he spoke, the council members exchanged uneasy glances. Among them were representatives of the Cloud Knights, the Enigmatic Scholars, and the Elemental Guardians, each with their own perspectives and concerns.

Lady Jinhua, the Marshal of the Cloud Knights, was the first to voice her thoughts. She stood tall, her azure armor glistening in the chamber's soft light.

"We cannot underestimate the Denizens," Lady Jinhua asserted. "Their powers are unlike anything we've faced. We must bolster our defenses and train our knights rigorously."

Master Shen, a venerable scholar with a penchant for ancient texts and hidden knowledge, offered a different perspective.

"Knowledge is power," Master Shen stated, his eyes gleaming with intelligence. "We must seek insights from our archives and consult ancient scrolls for any information about the Denizens. Understanding our enemy is paramount."

The council members engaged in a spirited debate, their voices echoing through the chamber. Some argued for forming alliances with neighboring factions, while others believed that fortifying the city's defenses should be the top priority.

As the discussions continued, Lord Zhenren listened attentively, his brows furrowed in thought. He knew that a delicate balance had to be struck between offense and defense, alliances and isolation. The fate of Xianzhou Luofu hung in the balance.

Finally, Lord Zhenren raised his hand, signaling for silence.

"My fellow council members," he began, his voice firm and resolute. "It is clear that we face an unprecedented threat. To protect our city, we must combine our strengths. We shall bolster our defenses, seeking the aid of the Cloud Knights, and at the same time, we shall reach out to neighboring factions, offering our support in return for theirs."

The council members nodded in agreement, recognizing the wisdom in Lord Zhenren's words. It was a compromise that balanced caution with the need for unity.

With their course of action decided, the council members dispersed, each tasked with their own responsibilities. Tensions remained high, but a glimmer of hope emerged. The city of Xianzhou Luofu would stand united against the looming darkness, ready to face the Denizens of Abundance and protect their realm.

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Author's Note:

Yandere enemy let's go!!!