Heart of the White-haired Demon

Morning dawned, casting a warm glow over the tranquil courtyard. Lian stood, holding a small bundle of supplies, as Ling Xiao meticulously checked his luggage.

"Master, everything will remain unchanged," Lian said, rolling his eyes good-naturedly.

Ling Xiao's gaze narrowed, his eyes sparkling with amusement. "Are you hiding something, Lian?"

Lian shook his head, feigning innocence. Ling Xiao chuckled, his expression relaxing.

"Remember, Lian: practice diligently, no alcohol for the chickens, and avoid dusk outings," Ling Xiao instructed, his voice firm.

Lian nodded vigorously. "Yes, Master!"

With a final nod, Ling Xiao departed. Lian watched, a mix of relief and freedom washing over him.

He retreated to his chamber, sword in hand, and flopped onto his bed. "Finally, Master's gone. I can sleep as much as I want!"

However, sleep eluded him. His mind wandered to the previous night's dream – the forest, the Jade Mountain, and the eerie feeling lingering within.

Lian sat up, adopting a meditative pose. "That forest...I must explore it."

The urge grew stronger, his curiosity piqued. Why did the forest feel so familiar? What secrets lay hidden within its depths?

With a determined glint in his eye, Lian rose, his heart set on uncovering the mysteries of the forest.

Lian gathered his supplies, eager to explore the forest leading to Jade Mountain, or the Jade forest as the villagers called it. As he strolled through the marketplace, his stomach growled, reminding him to breakfast. He spotted a tavern, but before entering, he noticed Mrs. Zhu waving him over.

"Lian, come join me for a meal!" she called out, her smile warm.

Lian couldn't resist. He sat with Mrs. Zhu, savoring the delicious food and her company.

"What brings you out today, Lian?" Mrs. Zhu asked, curiosity sparkling in her eyes.

"I'm headed to the forest, near Jade Mountain," Lian replied, his enthusiasm evident.

Mrs. Zhu's expression turned serious. "The forest? What for?"

Lian shrugged. "Just exploration and practice in the woods."

Mrs. Zhu nodded, her concern easing. "Good luck, then." She ruffled Lian's hair, her touch affectionate.

Lian thanked her, finishing his meal. As he departed, he checked his pouch, ensuring the money Ling Xiao had left him was still there.

The marketplace bustled around him, merchants hawking their wares. Lian's gaze wandered, taking in the vibrant scene.

As he approached the forest entrance, an eerie feeling didn't settle over him. Instead, the trees stood tall, their leaves rustling gently.

Suddenly, a figure burst from the forest, terror etched on their face. Lian's curiosity piqued.

The fleeing person collided with Lian, almost knocking him off balance.

"Please...help me..." they stammered, eyes wide with fear.

Lian's grip on his sword tightened, instincts on high alert. "What's wrong?"

The person's frantic gaze darted back toward the forest. "It's...inside...Run!"

Lian's curiosity consumed him. What was this person fleeing from? Wild animals? Cultivators? His thoughts swirled.

The fleeing person's fear seemed genuine, but Lian's confidence grew. He had trained under Ling Xiao; he could protect himself.

With a deep breath, Lian entered the Jade Forest. The trees towered above, their leaves shimmering like jade. Flowers bloomed, filling the air with sweet fragrance.

Legend had it that the Jade Emperor once relaxed within these woods, hence its name. Lian felt tiny amidst nature's splendor.

Hours passed, the sun climbing higher. Lian's stomach growled, reminding him of his oversight. He had eaten Mrs. Zhu's meal, but neglected to pack provisions.

Regret washed over him. How could he forget? Ling Xiao would scold him.

As noon approached, Lian searched for shelter and food. His training emphasized adaptability, but hunger weakened even the strongest.

Lian's search for sustenance proved futile. Weary, he sat beneath a tree, attempting to meditate using Nizia's technique. Cultivating inner energy might alleviate his hunger.

As he focused, his nightmare resurfaced, shattering concentration. Frustration boiled over.

"What is this damned White-haired Demon's obsession with me?" Lian groaned, hunger and exasperation mingling. "Can't it provide food instead of haunting my dreams?"

Renewing his quest, Lian ventured deeper into Jade Forest. The landscape transformed, becoming more enchanting. Sunlight filtered through the canopy, casting dappled shadows.

Suddenly, a clearing emerged, and Lian spotted a hut. His heart skipped a beat.

"A hut, in the middle of nowhere? This isn't normal," Lian thought, curiosity piqued. "Maybe they have food."

Approaching the hut, Lian's steps lightened, hope reviving his spirits.

Lian approached the hut, his stomach growling in anticipation. He knocked on the door, but silence greeted him. Perhaps the hut was abandoned?

Undeterred, Lian tried the door, and it creaked open. A savory aroma wafted out, making his mouth water.

Inside, a beautifully set table beckoned. Lian's eyes widened at the spread before him - steaming dishes, fragrant rice, and succulent vegetables. His hunger roared, tempting him to indulge.

However, his conscience whispered caution. This food wasn't his to take.

Torn, Lian hesitated. His stomach growled louder, urging him to eat. His principles resisted, insisting he leave.

The battle raged within until Lian's hunger won. He devoured the meal, savoring each bite.

After eating, he cleaned the dishes and left a note:

"Dear owner,

I apologize for eating your food. I was famished and couldn't resist. I owe you one.

Thank you,

Lian"

As he exited, he collided with a stranger. The person's long, black hair cascaded down their back like a waterfall. Their white attire, adorned with intricate embroidery, seemed to shimmer in the fading light.

Lian's instincts stirred, sensing something unusual about this encounter.

The stranger's face was a masterpiece of elegance, with high cheekbones, a slender nose, and full lips that curved into a subtle smile. His eyes, an arresting shade of deep brown, sparkled with warmth and kindness. His raven-black hair framed his face, falling in soft waves down his back. His skin, smooth and unblemished, glowed with a radiant complexion, as if infused with an inner light.

His features were finely chiseled, yet gentle, conveying a sense of serenity and wisdom beyond his years. His slender physique, draped in flowing white robes, exuded an ethereal grace, as if he were a celestial being descended upon the mortal realm.

Lian's breath caught in his throat as he beheld this vision of beauty, his heart skipping a beat in awe.

'Oh my goodness! The Jade emperor!'