In a burst of elation, Shu Han confided in Shangguan Ruolin, "Not only did we successfully stop your sister this time, but we also reaped an unexpected benefit. She's foolishly holding my avatar hostage, proclaiming she will wait for her opportunity, like one would wait for a rabbit by a tree stump. With this, we can pinpoint her whereabouts at any given moment. But why does she keep slapping my doppelganger? I kissed you, not her! Why does she harbor such deep resentment?"
A blush spread across Shangguan Ruolin's delicate face as she nestled into Shu Han's embrace, whispering, "I'm just relieved we escaped..."
Shu Han, observing the melancholy clouding Shangguan Ruolin's features, deduced something had distressed her after emerging from the Earth Goddess's divine light. As he aided her in dissipating the coldness enveloping her, he inquired, "Linlin, what ails you? Ever since you left the Earth Goddess's divine light, you've seemed despondent."
"I'm currently grappling with doubts about a decision I made long ago," she confided. "I never imagined she'd end up like this, especially knowing I played a pivotal role in her transformation."
Finding a secluded cave within the Sacred Mountain, Shu Han focused on purging the cold from Shangguan Ruolin and pressed, "Why does your sister harbor such intense animosity towards you? What transpired between the two of you?"
Shangguan Ruolin sighed and murmured, "It's time I shared our story with you."
Shu Han noticed a distinct change in Shangguan Ruolin's demeanor towards him since her emergence from the Earth Goddess's divine light—she no longer with royal decorum.
She began, "My sister and I are the cherished daughters of the Sky Palace Sect's sovereign, born of the same womb. The Sky Palace Sect possesses an arcane method that nourishes a fetus within the womb, molding an optimal spiritual root for the child. I was a testament to this method's success, having my water and wood twin roots transformed into a singular wind spiritual root. Yet, the might of the fetus poses a threat to the life of the expectant mother."
With a mournful tone, Shangguan Ruolin continued, "Legend has it, our mother bore us for three years. I was born first, draining a significant portion of her life essence. By the time it was her turn, our mother was utterly depleted, passing away before my sister could be born. It was our revered father who, through his mystical prowess, resurrected her. Alas, the lost essence resulted in a defect in her spiritual root."
"From a tender age, her flawed spiritual root rendered her nearly incapable of cultivation. Her cognitive development stagnated, remaining akin to a child of merely three or four."
...
Eight Hundred Years Prior.
Within the Long Sky Palace of the Silent Peak of Sky Palace Sect.
The early morning sun cast its golden rays, illuminating the tranquil expanse of Long Sky Palace. Seated on an open-air stargazing platform, a seven-year-old Shangguan Ruolin had just completed her nocturnal meditation, executing three grand celestial cycles, and gradually consolidating her energy, her realm stabilized at the ninth level of Qi Refining.
At that moment, a servant, adept at the twelfth level of Qi Refining, approached from the palace, whispering hesitantly, "Young mistress, the second young mistress refuses to rise. None of our persuasions seem effective. She's about to miss her medication."
Rising gracefully, Shangguan Ruolin, despite standing at half the height of the servant, emanated an air of frosty pride. She replied with a gentle smile, "Very well, I'll tend to her."
As she meandered across the Long Sky Palace's stargazing platform, Shangguan Ruolin could glimpse the distant Sky Palace Peak, shimmering in a myriad of celestial hues beneath the rising sun. With a sigh heavy with yearning, she mused, "Father hasn't visited us in three years. Has he forgotten about us?"
Little Ruolin wandered the palace grounds, with all who passed bowing in deep reverence. The Long Sky Palace was imbued with an ethereal boundary, rendering all within, save the two sisters, as mere mortals. As she traversed the grand hallways, reaching the living quarters, she spied a cluster of maids circling a bed, their urgent pleas echoing.
"Young Mistress, it's time to rise!"
"Yes, indeed! Should we miss the time for the medicine, we dare not bear the consequences!"
Several maids endeavored to unveil the covers, but the blanket animatedly scurried throughout the room, eluding their grasp. At last, the blanket came to rest at Shangguan Ruolin's feet. As if sensing a familiar presence, a corner of the blanket lifted to reveal Shangguan Ruotong's drowsy countenance. Upon recognizing Ruolin, a naive smile graced her lips.
With a graceful wave, Shangguan Ruolin declared, "Leave us. I shall attend to the Young Mistress."
Once alone, Ruolin knelt and gently caressed Ruotong's silky tresses. "Ruotong, it's time to wake. See how the sun now stands high."
Brushing her cheek against Shangguan Ruolin's hand, Shangguan Ruotong responded plaintively, "I'm weary and wish to sleep a bit longer." Ruolin, ever indulgent, conceded, "Very well, I shall join you for a brief repose."
The young Ruotong, smiling innocently, pulled Ruolin beneath the covers. The two identical children nestled together; Ruolin's tender touch sent Ruotong into a deeper slumber.
After a while, with Ruotong still lost in dreams and time ticking away, Ruolin grew wary of the nearing hour for the medicine. Gently, she lifted the sleeping Ruotong. Though they were of the same stature, Ruotong clung to her like a little monkey.
Ruolin carried her sister to the vanity. Gently patting Ruotong's face, she inquired, "What hairstyle shall we choose for today?"
Rubbing her sleepy eyes, nestled in Ruolin's embrace and gazing at their reflections, Ruotong murmured, "I wish to mirror you..."
With a mere snap from Ruolin, Ruotong's tousled locks seamlessly braided themselves. Now, save for their attires, they appeared as mirror images.
Resting her head on Ruolin's shoulder, Ruotong lamented, "Sister, when will Father visit? I've forgotten his visage."
"Soon," she assured, "very soon."
Peering into the mirror, Ruotong's grievance persisted, "Although I bear your likeness, why am I not as cherished? Everyone seems to favor you, Ruolin. I, too, yearn for such adoration."
Rendered mute for a moment, Ruolin couldn't find the words to offer solace. She tenderly caressed the face of her sister, who mentally was but three or four years old, and leaning close, she bestowed a gentle kiss on her rosy cheek, murmuring, "It matters not. As long as your sister cherishes TongTong, all is well. I shall always care for you, TongTong. Whatever your heart desires, I shall grant."
Tears previously spilling from little Ruotong's eyes transformed into radiant laughter. Her tiny hands clung to Ruolin's neck as she inquired, "Might I be spared the bitter taste of the spiritual elixir paste today? It's ever so distasteful."
"That shan't be," Ruolin asserted, "You'll consume it forthrightly."
A soft whimper escaped little Ruotong's lips as she weakly questioned, "Could you, perhaps, feed it to me?"
With an enchanting smile, Ruolin playfully patted her sister's petite posterior, lifting her from the dressing table. "Very well, such a grown child, yet still wishing her elder sister to feed her." With these words, she held little Ruotong close and departed from the living chamber, making their way to the Elixir Pavilion.
Upon completing their chores, the bevy of servants, as was the custom, withdrew from the vast expanse of Long Sky Palace.
Within the grand chambers of Long Sky Palace, only the two tender souls remained, nestled close for comfort.
The echo of Shangguan Ruolin's footsteps resonated hauntingly through the silent and desolate palace.
Upon reaching the Elixir Pavilion, she was met with two steaming bowls of spiritual elixir gel placed meticulously on a table.
The mere sight of these bowls made little Ruotong whimper once more, burying her face into the nape of Shangguan Ruolin's neck.
Positioning her on a stool, Ruolin, with the softest touch, stroked her hair and whispered, "This spiritual elixir gel was specially crafted by Father for you, TongTong. Should you wish to cultivate as I do, you must steadfastly consume it. Otherwise, the mending of your spiritual root will remain elusive, and TongTong... you might remain so for all your days."
Tilting her head, Xiao Ruo Tong gazed into Ruolin's wistful eyes, saying, "I find this state quite pleasant, so long as sister remains by my side."
"Such sweet words from tender lips!"
Gently, Ruolin took the spiritual elixir gel, feeding little Ruotong spoonful by spoonful.
With every spoonful she consumed, little Ruotong's face twisted as if she'd bitten into a sour fruit, yet she quickly forced it down, continuing to smile guilelessly at Ruolin. Her little feet swung from the high stool as she innocently inquired, "Sister, what shall we play later?"
Ruolin replied, "Master is coming from Sky Palace Peak today to review my current phase of cultivation. I fear I shan't have the time."
"Oh?" Little Ruotong's lips pouted exaggeratedly.
Wiping the lingering elixir from her sister's mouth, Ruolin tapped her forehead, advising, "Play by yourself in the palace; I must go cultivate."
Holding onto Ruolin's hand, the younger girl said, "I wish to cultivate with sister."
"Not yet," Ruolin responded. "Your spiritual roots are still growing. Persist in consuming the elixir daily, and soon you shall have the opportunity to cultivate alongside me and even fight at my side."
By daylight, a Core Formation elder arrived at the star platform of Long Sky Palace. He elucidated incantations for Shangguan Ruolin, guiding her cultivation. There was an almost imperceptible phoenix cry echoing around her.
Stroking his beard, the elder extolled that Shangguan Ruolin was a prodigious talent the Sky Palace Sect hadn't witnessed in a millennium. She had the potential to cultivate the "Sunrise Phoenix Art" to its utmost level.
"If I've performed so well," Ruolin queried, "why doesn't father visit my sister and me?"
The elder found himself momentarily at a loss for words. He answered, "The Sect Leader is inundated with affairs and cannot be in two places at once. Please understand, young miss."
As the elder expounded, Shangguan Ruolin's heart fluttered. Glancing to the side, she spotted little Ruotong shyly peeking out beneath the star platform, observing from a distance with caution.
While the elder continued his discourse, Shangguan Ruolin interjected, "Enough for today, Master. I'm weary. We shall continue on another day."
Taken aback but impressed by her exceptional progress, the elder assented to her request.
As he led Shangguan Ruolin away from the platform, little Ruotong, sucking on her finger, watched longingly. Just as she was about to surreptitiously follow, a pair of small hands suddenly covered her eyes.
"Guess who?"
Overwhelmed with joy, little Ruotong spun around, embracing and inadvertently toppling Shangguan Ruolin.
"Sister!"
Shangguan Ruolin gently ruffled her hair, asking, "All right, what would TongTong like to play now?"
"Hide and seek!"
A dumbfounded Shangguan Ruolin inquired, "Don't you ever tire of that game?"
Little Ruotong shook her head vigorously.
"Very well, stay here and count while I go hide!"
"Okay! One, two, three... seven, eight..."
Time ebbed swiftly, with eight years quietly passing over Long Sky Palace.
The two sisters had reached the age of fifteen, their statues willowy and graceful. What was once the potential for beauty had blossomed into breathtaking allure that could topple nations.
Shangguan Ruolin had already attained the twelfth level of Qi Refining and had remained in this realm for several years to solidify her foundation. Though Shangguan Ruotong had matured, her spiritual roots had yet to fully recover, retaining the mindset of a three or four-year-old.
Their lives bore little difference from eight years prior. Shangguan Ruotong was always clinging to her elder sister; without her presence, she would burst into inconsolable tears, leaving the servants floundering and anxious.
One evening, as Shangguan Ruolin sat meditating on the star platform, Shangguan Ruotong rested her head on her sister's thigh, gazing up at the myriad stars. Suddenly, a brilliant white beam emanated from the eastern Sky Palace Peak, illuminating the area as if it were day, making the stars vanish.
"Wow! Sister, what's happening?"
Observing the light, an elated Shangguan Ruolin pinched Ruotong's cheek, exclaiming, "That's the Sacred Light of Sky Palace's Welcome. Our sisters are returning to the Sky Palace Sect! They're coming to see us!"
Shangguan Ruotong, in her usual dazed manner, remarked, "Sisters? Isn't sister right here?"
Caressing Ruo Tong's face, she replied, "Silly girl, don't you remember Sister Ruoshui and Sister Ruoyu? Ten years ago, they led us through clouds and plunged deep into the ocean. Have you forgotten?"
"Ruoshui, Ruoyu..." Recognition sparkled in Shangguan Ruo Tong's eyes. "I remember! They were so kind to me. Apart from you, they were the other sisters who adored me!"
"Hurry! Let's freshen up and change into our formal attire. After paying respects to our father at Sky Palace Peak, they will certainly come to Long Sky Palace. I wonder where they've been these years and what wonders they've witnessed."
Thus, the two playfully dove into the Immortal Pool of Long Sky, changing into their formal attire afterward. Before dawn, they eagerly waited hand in hand at the entrance of Long Sky Palace.
After what seemed an eternity, a golden light approached from the distance towards Sky Palace Peak.
The sisters eagerly waited from midnight to dawn and from dawn to noon. Finally, a procession of golden carriages made their way from Sky Palace Peak. Stopping at Silent Peak, a stunning woman in a scarlet gown descended, a golden mark adorning her forehead. Her features bore a striking resemblance to the sisters'. Surrounded by attendants, she approached Long Sky Palace.
A tension gripped Shangguan Ruolin: It was Sister Ruoshui!
While Ruotong seemed ready to rush forward, she was swiftly held back by her elder sister, urging her to offer their salutations properly.
With a graceful gesture, Shangguan Ruoshui dismissed the entourage that accompanied the golden carriages. Radiating an aura of nobility, she approached and enveloped the two sisters in an embrace, reminiscent of a mother comforting her children. "My dear sisters have grown," she mused contentedly. "Such elegance; even surpassing our own beauty."
Holding their hands in turn, she remarked, "Linlin has already reached the twelfth level! And with such a solid foundation. Once Father uses the profound energy of Sky Palace for Foundation Establishment, your future potential will be boundless. I await that day eagerly."
Turning to Ruotong, her expression shifted slightly. "Ah... Still no improvement?"
Shangguan Ruotong, her finger in her mouth, looked up inquiringly. "Why do you sigh when you look at me, Sister Ruoshui?"
Shangguan Ruoshui, masking her initial response, replied with a smile, "Oh, I was merely thinking about how you remain as adorable as you were eight years ago."
Shangguan Ruolin, trying to divert the conversation, asked, "Where's Sister Ruoyu? Is she still paying her respects to Father?"
Ruo Shui's gaze turned distant. "I'm not sure. I haven't received any news from Ruoyu. Ideally, after a decade, she should have returned to pay her respects to Father."
The mention of this made both sisters slightly despondent. In their memories, Sister Ruoyu was even more amiable and spirited, taking them on numerous delightful adventures.
Guiding the two sisters inside Long Sky Palace, after exchanging pleasantries, Shangguan Ruoshui gently held Ruotong's hand and said, "TongTong, could you give your sister and me a moment alone? Just a short while."
Though visibly disheartened, Ruotong nodded obediently and walked away.
Once she was out of earshot, Shangguan Ruoshui, with a gleaming smile, said to Linlin, "Seeing you so accomplished and with your profound mastery of the 'Sunrise Phoenix Art' technique, you're destined for the Great Fortune Sect. We are half-sisters in the Sky Palace Sect, and it will remain the same in the Great Fortune Sect. I'll take care of you. I've brought you a gift to mark our reunion."
As she spoke, she presented a gleaming sword and a chant.
"This is the Eight-Direction Evil-Breaking Sword, a prized magic treasure for Foundation Establishment within the Great Fortune Sect. Keep it; it'll be of great significance post-Foundation Establishment. The chant is the Golden Light Divine Incantation of the Great Fortune Sect. Recite it, and you'll remain invulnerable to evil."
Holding the sword, Shangguan Ruolin inquired, "And what of TongTong?"
Shangguan Ruoshui sighed deeply, "Do not despair, but Ruotong might walk a different path from ours. If her spiritual roots are ever restored, and if Ruoyu is still around, she will inform TongTong."
Afterward, Shangguan Ruoshui spent half the day chatting with the sisters before departing the Sky Palace Sect in her golden carriage.
Watching the receding glimmer, Shangguan Ruolin felt a pang of melancholy. What did her sister mean? Why would Ruotong walk a different path?
Turning around abruptly, Shangguan Ruolin noticed that Ruotong had disappeared. Panic rising in her chest, she frantically searched through Long Sky Palace. Finally, at the palace's Star Terrace, she spotted Ruotong, nestled comfortably in the embrace of a woman dressed in black.
"Sister Ruoyu?"
The woman in black turned around, her indifferent gaze meeting Shangguan Ruolin's. "Linlin," she acknowledged coolly. The difference between this stern figure and the lively sister of her memories left Shangguan Ruolin reeling.
Ruotong, less perceptive than her elder sister, beamed up at Ruoyu, exclaiming, "Sister Ruoyu! I've missed you so much! I'm so glad you came to see me."
Ruoyu gently stroked Ruotong's hair, murmuring, "Could you let me talk to Linlin alone for a moment?"
This comment upset Ruotong, who retorted, "Why does everyone want to speak to Sister privately? Everyone likes her more than they like me!" In a huff, she stormed off.
Shangguan Ruolin, deeply concerned, questioned, "Why is everyone sidelining Ruotong?"
Shangguan Ruoyu, however, remained evasive, merely stating, "Sooner or later, she'll restore her spiritual roots and embark on her cultivation journey."
...
Descending from the Star Terrace, a disgruntled Ruotong cocooned herself in blankets. When Shangguan Ruolin returned, Ruotong poked her head out, voicing her grievance, "Why does everyone favor you and not me? What did I do wrong?"
Shangguan Ruolin crawled into the blankets, embracing Ruotong tightly. "Ignore them. I've always adored you. How about I skip my cultivate tonight, and we sleep together?"
Ruotong nuzzled against Ruolin's face, noticing something amiss. "Sister... why are you crying?"
"Am I?"
The next day, a harrowing piece of news echoed from Slient Peak: Shangguan Ruoyu, a Core Formation cultivator, had taken her own life by severing her Golden Core and leaping off a cliff. The remains at the bottom were so mangled that it was hard to believe this was once the distinguished prodigious talent.
Hearing this, Shangguan Ruotong cried incessantly for three days and nights, often collapsing in Shangguan Ruolin's embrace. Yet, Shangguan Ruolin didn't shed a tear, continually comforting Ruotong and seemingly herself.
Seven days later, they attended Shangguan Ruoyu's funeral.
Having lived on Slient Peak for fifteen years, they finally stepped out to meet their enigmatic father, a Nascent Soul powerhouse of Sky Palace Sect. As they stood by his side, gazing at his impassive face – a face they had yearned for almost a decade – they felt an overwhelming sense of estrangement.
After the ceremony, the Sect Master of Sky Palace Sect kept them behind. Standing in front of Shangguan Ruoyu's grave, he simply said, "Give me your hands."
Neither dared to refuse, extending their hands towards him.
With a wave of the Sky Palace Sect Master's hand, a white mark appeared on each of their right hands. Another wave and red and black marks landed on the left wrists of Shangguan Ruolin and Ruotong, respectively.
Noticing the black mark on Ruotong's wrist, Shangguan Ruolin trembled with fear, hugging her sister tightly.
The Sect Master looked at his two daughters and calmly stated, "Linlin, you possess remarkable talent. There's hope for you to become the second Nascent Soul cultivator of Sky Palace Sect. As for Ruotong... continue diligently restoring your spiritual roots. There's still a chance for you in the future."
After the funeral, the two sisters returned to Long Sky Palace.
Ruotong was haunted by the recent events for days before finding solace in Ruolin's comforting presence. However, Ruolin became increasingly melancholic. Every time she saw the vivacious Ruotong, a sense of unease overwhelmed her.
One day, she took Ruotong's hand and suggested, "TongTong, how about we play hide and seek?"
Ruotong clapped her hands in excitement, "Yes!"
"You search for me, no peeking!"
"Okay!"
Covering her eyes, Ruotong began counting, "One, two... nine, ten! Ready or not, here I come, Sister!"
The vast Long Sky Palace echoed with silence.
After what seemed like hours, Ruotong called out, "Sister, you're too good at this game! I can't find you. Please come out; I'm scared alone."
"Sister?"
"Sister, where are you?"
Her voice grew increasingly anxious and tearful.
"Don't play tricks on me, Sister. I'm so scared..."
Days turned into weeks, and weeks turned into months.
Eventually, a mocking servant sneered, "Miss Ruotong, stop searching. Your elder sister has successfully initiated the Foundation Establishment. She won't be returning to Long Sky Palace. From now on, we'll serve only you. Please, don't make things difficult for us servants with your whims."
Pale and horrified, Shangguan Ruotong stumbled down the mountain, but she was repelled by the mountain's protective array, leaving her bloodied and injured.
"Sobbing... Sister, you lied to me..."
...
Thirty years later.
Step by step, Shangguan Ruolin painstakingly climbed the sacred steps of Sky Palace, eventually reaching the top, drenched in sweat. At the end of these steps awaited the ancestral land where the Sky Palace Sect Master had been patiently waiting.
He looked at his daughter with pride and said, "Very good. After hundreds, if not thousands of years, we finally have a descendant who can climb the sacred steps to the ancestral land. Linlin, you've done exceptionally well. As per our ancestors' rules, you may choose any treasure for yourself."
With unwavering eyes, Shangguan Ruolin replied, "Father, I desire the 'Sky Palace Six Harmony Secrets'."
"Why do you need the 'Sky Palace Six Harmony Secrets' when you have already practiced the 'Sunrise Phoenix Art'?"
She declared, "I want to ascend to the Nascent Soul level as a disciple of the Sky Palace Sect, not the Great Fortune Sect!"
The Sky Palace Sect Master's eyes narrowed, "Practicing multiple techniques can be more harmful than beneficial. You have notable talent. However, aspiring to reach the Nascent Soul with the 'Sky Palace Six Harmony Secrets' is a fool's dream. You risk severe repercussions, even death. Choose something else."
"Father, according to the ancestral rules, I only want the 'Sky Palace Six Harmony Secrets'."
Five years later, Shangguan Ruolin took over as the master of the Jade Sky Palace, becoming the youngest in its history.
That same year, on the secluded Slient Peak, Shangguan Ruotong, after years of gathering strength and repairing her spiritual roots, successfully initiated her Foundation Establishment. In a swift motion, she slaughtered all eighteen maids of Long Sky Palace.
Meeting Shangguan Ruolin in Jade Sky Palace marked the beginning of an 800-year-long standoff between the two sisters.
In a burst of elation, Shu Han confided in Shangguan Ruolin, "Not only did we successfully stop your sister this time, but we also reaped an unexpected benefit. She's foolishly holding my avatar hostage, proclaiming she will wait for her opportunity, like one would wait for a rabbit by a tree stump. With this, we can pinpoint her whereabouts at any given moment. But why does she keep slapping my doppelganger? I kissed you, not her! Why does she harbor such deep resentment?"
A blush spread across Shangguan Ruolin's delicate face as she nestled into Shu Han's embrace, whispering, "I'm just relieved we escaped..."
Shu Han, observing the melancholy clouding Shangguan Ruolin's features, deduced something had distressed her after emerging from the Earth Goddess's divine light. As he aided her in dissipating the coldness enveloping her, he inquired, "Linlin, what ails you? Ever since you left the Earth Goddess's divine light, you've seemed despondent."
"I'm currently grappling with doubts about a decision I made long ago," she confided. "I never imagined she'd end up like this, especially knowing I played a pivotal role in her transformation."
Finding a secluded cave within the Sacred Mountain, Shu Han focused on purging the cold from Shangguan Ruolin and pressed, "Why does your sister harbor such intense animosity towards you? What transpired between the two of you?"
Shangguan Ruolin sighed and murmured, "It's time I shared our story with you."
Shu Han noticed a distinct change in Shangguan Ruolin's demeanor towards him since her emergence from the Earth Goddess's divine light—she no longer with royal decorum.
She began, "My sister and I are the cherished daughters of the Sky Palace Sect's sovereign, born of the same womb. The Sky Palace Sect possesses an arcane method that nourishes a fetus within the womb, molding an optimal spiritual root for the child. I was a testament to this method's success, having my water and wood twin roots transformed into a singular wind spiritual root. Yet, the might of the fetus poses a threat to the life of the expectant mother."
With a mournful tone, Shangguan Ruolin continued, "Legend has it, our mother bore us for three years. I was born first, draining a significant portion of her life essence. By the time it was her turn, our mother was utterly depleted, passing away before my sister could be born. It was our revered father who, through his mystical prowess, resurrected her. Alas, the lost essence resulted in a defect in her spiritual root."
"From a tender age, her flawed spiritual root rendered her nearly incapable of cultivation. Her cognitive development stagnated, remaining akin to a child of merely three or four."
...
Eight Hundred Years Prior.
Within the Long Sky Palace of the Silent Peak of Sky Palace Sect.
The early morning sun cast its golden rays, illuminating the tranquil expanse of Long Sky Palace. Seated on an open-air stargazing platform, a seven-year-old Shangguan Ruolin had just completed her nocturnal meditation, executing three grand celestial cycles, and gradually consolidating her energy, her realm stabilized at the ninth level of Qi Refining.
At that moment, a servant, adept at the twelfth level of Qi Refining, approached from the palace, whispering hesitantly, "Young mistress, the second young mistress refuses to rise. None of our persuasions seem effective. She's about to miss her medication."
Rising gracefully, Shangguan Ruolin, despite standing at half the height of the servant, emanated an air of frosty pride. She replied with a gentle smile, "Very well, I'll tend to her."
As she meandered across the Long Sky Palace's stargazing platform, Shangguan Ruolin could glimpse the distant Sky Palace Peak, shimmering in a myriad of celestial hues beneath the rising sun. With a sigh heavy with yearning, she mused, "Father hasn't visited us in three years. Has he forgotten about us?"
Little Ruolin wandered the palace grounds, with all who passed bowing in deep reverence. The Long Sky Palace was imbued with an ethereal boundary, rendering all within, save the two sisters, as mere mortals. As she traversed the grand hallways, reaching the living quarters, she spied a cluster of maids circling a bed, their urgent pleas echoing.
"Young Mistress, it's time to rise!"
"Yes, indeed! Should we miss the time for the medicine, we dare not bear the consequences!"
Several maids endeavored to unveil the covers, but the blanket animatedly scurried throughout the room, eluding their grasp. At last, the blanket came to rest at Shangguan Ruolin's feet. As if sensing a familiar presence, a corner of the blanket lifted to reveal Shangguan Ruotong's drowsy countenance. Upon recognizing Ruolin, a naive smile graced her lips.
With a graceful wave, Shangguan Ruolin declared, "Leave us. I shall attend to the Young Mistress."
Once alone, Ruolin knelt and gently caressed Ruotong's silky tresses. "Ruotong, it's time to wake. See how the sun now stands high."
Brushing her cheek against Shangguan Ruolin's hand, Shangguan Ruotong responded plaintively, "I'm weary and wish to sleep a bit longer." Ruolin, ever indulgent, conceded, "Very well, I shall join you for a brief repose."
The young Ruotong, smiling innocently, pulled Ruolin beneath the covers. The two identical children nestled together; Ruolin's tender touch sent Ruotong into a deeper slumber.
After a while, with Ruotong still lost in dreams and time ticking away, Ruolin grew wary of the nearing hour for the medicine. Gently, she lifted the sleeping Ruotong. Though they were of the same stature, Ruotong clung to her like a little monkey.
Ruolin carried her sister to the vanity. Gently patting Ruotong's face, she inquired, "What hairstyle shall we choose for today?"
Rubbing her sleepy eyes, nestled in Ruolin's embrace and gazing at their reflections, Ruotong murmured, "I wish to mirror you..."
With a mere snap from Ruolin, Ruotong's tousled locks seamlessly braided themselves. Now, save for their attires, they appeared as mirror images.
Resting her head on Ruolin's shoulder, Ruotong lamented, "Sister, when will Father visit? I've forgotten his visage."
"Soon," she assured, "very soon."
Peering into the mirror, Ruotong's grievance persisted, "Although I bear your likeness, why am I not as cherished? Everyone seems to favor you, Ruolin. I, too, yearn for such adoration."
Rendered mute for a moment, Ruolin couldn't find the words to offer solace. She tenderly caressed the face of her sister, who mentally was but three or four years old, and leaning close, she bestowed a gentle kiss on her rosy cheek, murmuring, "It matters not. As long as your sister cherishes TongTong, all is well. I shall always care for you, TongTong. Whatever your heart desires, I shall grant."
Tears previously spilling from little Ruotong's eyes transformed into radiant laughter. Her tiny hands clung to Ruolin's neck as she inquired, "Might I be spared the bitter taste of the spiritual elixir paste today? It's ever so distasteful."
"That shan't be," Ruolin asserted, "You'll consume it forthrightly."
A soft whimper escaped little Ruotong's lips as she weakly questioned, "Could you, perhaps, feed it to me?"
With an enchanting smile, Ruolin playfully patted her sister's petite posterior, lifting her from the dressing table. "Very well, such a grown child, yet still wishing her elder sister to feed her." With these words, she held little Ruotong close and departed from the living chamber, making their way to the Elixir Pavilion.
Upon completing their chores, the bevy of servants, as was the custom, withdrew from the vast expanse of Long Sky Palace.
Within the grand chambers of Long Sky Palace, only the two tender souls remained, nestled close for comfort.
The echo of Shangguan Ruolin's footsteps resonated hauntingly through the silent and desolate palace.
Upon reaching the Elixir Pavilion, she was met with two steaming bowls of spiritual elixir gel placed meticulously on a table.
The mere sight of these bowls made little Ruotong whimper once more, burying her face into the nape of Shangguan Ruolin's neck.
Positioning her on a stool, Ruolin, with the softest touch, stroked her hair and whispered, "This spiritual elixir gel was specially crafted by Father for you, TongTong. Should you wish to cultivate as I do, you must steadfastly consume it. Otherwise, the mending of your spiritual root will remain elusive, and TongTong... you might remain so for all your days."
Tilting her head, Xiao Ruo Tong gazed into Ruolin's wistful eyes, saying, "I find this state quite pleasant, so long as sister remains by my side."
"Such sweet words from tender lips!"
Gently, Ruolin took the spiritual elixir gel, feeding little Ruotong spoonful by spoonful.
With every spoonful she consumed, little Ruotong's face twisted as if she'd bitten into a sour fruit, yet she quickly forced it down, continuing to smile guilelessly at Ruolin. Her little feet swung from the high stool as she innocently inquired, "Sister, what shall we play later?"
Ruolin replied, "Master is coming from Sky Palace Peak today to review my current phase of cultivation. I fear I shan't have the time."
"Oh?" Little Ruotong's lips pouted exaggeratedly.
Wiping the lingering elixir from her sister's mouth, Ruolin tapped her forehead, advising, "Play by yourself in the palace; I must go cultivate."
Holding onto Ruolin's hand, the younger girl said, "I wish to cultivate with sister."
"Not yet," Ruolin responded. "Your spiritual roots are still growing. Persist in consuming the elixir daily, and soon you shall have the opportunity to cultivate alongside me and even fight at my side."
By daylight, a Core Formation elder arrived at the star platform of Long Sky Palace. He elucidated incantations for Shangguan Ruolin, guiding her cultivation. There was an almost imperceptible phoenix cry echoing around her.
Stroking his beard, the elder extolled that Shangguan Ruolin was a prodigious talent the Sky Palace Sect hadn't witnessed in a millennium. She had the potential to cultivate the "Sunrise Phoenix Art" to its utmost level.
"If I've performed so well," Ruolin queried, "why doesn't father visit my sister and me?"
The elder found himself momentarily at a loss for words. He answered, "The Sect Leader is inundated with affairs and cannot be in two places at once. Please understand, young miss."
As the elder expounded, Shangguan Ruolin's heart fluttered. Glancing to the side, she spotted little Ruotong shyly peeking out beneath the star platform, observing from a distance with caution.
While the elder continued his discourse, Shangguan Ruolin interjected, "Enough for today, Master. I'm weary. We shall continue on another day."
Taken aback but impressed by her exceptional progress, the elder assented to her request.
As he led Shangguan Ruolin away from the platform, little Ruotong, sucking on her finger, watched longingly. Just as she was about to surreptitiously follow, a pair of small hands suddenly covered her eyes.
"Guess who?"
Overwhelmed with joy, little Ruotong spun around, embracing and inadvertently toppling Shangguan Ruolin.
"Sister!"
Shangguan Ruolin gently ruffled her hair, asking, "All right, what would TongTong like to play now?"
"Hide and seek!"
A dumbfounded Shangguan Ruolin inquired, "Don't you ever tire of that game?"
Little Ruotong shook her head vigorously.
"Very well, stay here and count while I go hide!"
"Okay! One, two, three... seven, eight..."
Time ebbed swiftly, with eight years quietly passing over Long Sky Palace.
The two sisters had reached the age of fifteen, their statues willowy and graceful. What was once the potential for beauty had blossomed into breathtaking allure that could topple nations.
Shangguan Ruolin had already attained the twelfth level of Qi Refining and had remained in this realm for several years to solidify her foundation. Though Shangguan Ruotong had matured, her spiritual roots had yet to fully recover, retaining the mindset of a three or four-year-old.
Their lives bore little difference from eight years prior. Shangguan Ruotong was always clinging to her elder sister; without her presence, she would burst into inconsolable tears, leaving the servants floundering and anxious.
One evening, as Shangguan Ruolin sat meditating on the star platform, Shangguan Ruotong rested her head on her sister's thigh, gazing up at the myriad stars. Suddenly, a brilliant white beam emanated from the eastern Sky Palace Peak, illuminating the area as if it were day, making the stars vanish.
"Wow! Sister, what's happening?"
Observing the light, an elated Shangguan Ruolin pinched Ruotong's cheek, exclaiming, "That's the Sacred Light of Sky Palace's Welcome. Our sisters are returning to the Sky Palace Sect! They're coming to see us!"
Shangguan Ruotong, in her usual dazed manner, remarked, "Sisters? Isn't sister right here?"
Caressing Ruo Tong's face, she replied, "Silly girl, don't you remember Sister Ruoshui and Sister Ruoyu? Ten years ago, they led us through clouds and plunged deep into the ocean. Have you forgotten?"
"Ruoshui, Ruoyu..." Recognition sparkled in Shangguan Ruo Tong's eyes. "I remember! They were so kind to me. Apart from you, they were the other sisters who adored me!"
"Hurry! Let's freshen up and change into our formal attire. After paying respects to our father at Sky Palace Peak, they will certainly come to Long Sky Palace. I wonder where they've been these years and what wonders they've witnessed."
Thus, the two playfully dove into the Immortal Pool of Long Sky, changing into their formal attire afterward. Before dawn, they eagerly waited hand in hand at the entrance of Long Sky Palace.
After what seemed an eternity, a golden light approached from the distance towards Sky Palace Peak.
The sisters eagerly waited from midnight to dawn and from dawn to noon. Finally, a procession of golden carriages made their way from Sky Palace Peak. Stopping at Silent Peak, a stunning woman in a scarlet gown descended, a golden mark adorning her forehead. Her features bore a striking resemblance to the sisters'. Surrounded by attendants, she approached Long Sky Palace.
A tension gripped Shangguan Ruolin: It was Sister Ruoshui!
While Ruotong seemed ready to rush forward, she was swiftly held back by her elder sister, urging her to offer their salutations properly.
With a graceful gesture, Shangguan Ruoshui dismissed the entourage that accompanied the golden carriages. Radiating an aura of nobility, she approached and enveloped the two sisters in an embrace, reminiscent of a mother comforting her children. "My dear sisters have grown," she mused contentedly. "Such elegance; even surpassing our own beauty."
Holding their hands in turn, she remarked, "Linlin has already reached the twelfth level! And with such a solid foundation. Once Father uses the profound energy of Sky Palace for Foundation Establishment, your future potential will be boundless. I await that day eagerly."
Turning to Ruotong, her expression shifted slightly. "Ah... Still no improvement?"
Shangguan Ruotong, her finger in her mouth, looked up inquiringly. "Why do you sigh when you look at me, Sister Ruoshui?"
Shangguan Ruoshui, masking her initial response, replied with a smile, "Oh, I was merely thinking about how you remain as adorable as you were eight years ago."
Shangguan Ruolin, trying to divert the conversation, asked, "Where's Sister Ruoyu? Is she still paying her respects to Father?"
Ruo Shui's gaze turned distant. "I'm not sure. I haven't received any news from Ruoyu. Ideally, after a decade, she should have returned to pay her respects to Father."
The mention of this made both sisters slightly despondent. In their memories, Sister Ruoyu was even more amiable and spirited, taking them on numerous delightful adventures.
Guiding the two sisters inside Long Sky Palace, after exchanging pleasantries, Shangguan Ruoshui gently held Ruotong's hand and said, "TongTong, could you give your sister and me a moment alone? Just a short while."
Though visibly disheartened, Ruotong nodded obediently and walked away.
Once she was out of earshot, Shangguan Ruoshui, with a gleaming smile, said to Linlin, "Seeing you so accomplished and with your profound mastery of the 'Sunrise Phoenix Art' technique, you're destined for the Great Fortune Sect. We are half-sisters in the Sky Palace Sect, and it will remain the same in the Great Fortune Sect. I'll take care of you. I've brought you a gift to mark our reunion."
As she spoke, she presented a gleaming sword and a chant.
"This is the Eight-Direction Evil-Breaking Sword, a prized magic treasure for Foundation Establishment within the Great Fortune Sect. Keep it; it'll be of great significance post-Foundation Establishment. The chant is the Golden Light Divine Incantation of the Great Fortune Sect. Recite it, and you'll remain invulnerable to evil."
Holding the sword, Shangguan Ruolin inquired, "And what of TongTong?"
Shangguan Ruoshui sighed deeply, "Do not despair, but Ruotong might walk a different path from ours. If her spiritual roots are ever restored, and if Ruoyu is still around, she will inform TongTong."
Afterward, Shangguan Ruoshui spent half the day chatting with the sisters before departing the Sky Palace Sect in her golden carriage.
Watching the receding glimmer, Shangguan Ruolin felt a pang of melancholy. What did her sister mean? Why would Ruotong walk a different path?
Turning around abruptly, Shangguan Ruolin noticed that Ruotong had disappeared. Panic rising in her chest, she frantically searched through Long Sky Palace. Finally, at the palace's Star Terrace, she spotted Ruotong, nestled comfortably in the embrace of a woman dressed in black.
"Sister Ruoyu?"
The woman in black turned around, her indifferent gaze meeting Shangguan Ruolin's. "Linlin," she acknowledged coolly. The difference between this stern figure and the lively sister of her memories left Shangguan Ruolin reeling.
Ruotong, less perceptive than her elder sister, beamed up at Ruoyu, exclaiming, "Sister Ruoyu! I've missed you so much! I'm so glad you came to see me."
Ruoyu gently stroked Ruotong's hair, murmuring, "Could you let me talk to Linlin alone for a moment?"
This comment upset Ruotong, who retorted, "Why does everyone want to speak to Sister privately? Everyone likes her more than they like me!" In a huff, she stormed off.
Shangguan Ruolin, deeply concerned, questioned, "Why is everyone sidelining Ruotong?"
Shangguan Ruoyu, however, remained evasive, merely stating, "Sooner or later, she'll restore her spiritual roots and embark on her cultivation journey."
...
Descending from the Star Terrace, a disgruntled Ruotong cocooned herself in blankets. When Shangguan Ruolin returned, Ruotong poked her head out, voicing her grievance, "Why does everyone favor you and not me? What did I do wrong?"
Shangguan Ruolin crawled into the blankets, embracing Ruotong tightly. "Ignore them. I've always adored you. How about I skip my cultivate tonight, and we sleep together?"
Ruotong nuzzled against Ruolin's face, noticing something amiss. "Sister... why are you crying?"
"Am I?"
The next day, a harrowing piece of news echoed from Slient Peak: Shangguan Ruoyu, a Core Formation cultivator, had taken her own life by severing her Golden Core and leaping off a cliff. The remains at the bottom were so mangled that it was hard to believe this was once the distinguished prodigious talent.
Hearing this, Shangguan Ruotong cried incessantly for three days and nights, often collapsing in Shangguan Ruolin's embrace. Yet, Shangguan Ruolin didn't shed a tear, continually comforting Ruotong and seemingly herself.
Seven days later, they attended Shangguan Ruoyu's funeral.
Having lived on Slient Peak for fifteen years, they finally stepped out to meet their enigmatic father, a Nascent Soul powerhouse of Sky Palace Sect. As they stood by his side, gazing at his impassive face – a face they had yearned for almost a decade – they felt an overwhelming sense of estrangement.
After the ceremony, the Sect Master of Sky Palace Sect kept them behind. Standing in front of Shangguan Ruoyu's grave, he simply said, "Give me your hands."
Neither dared to refuse, extending their hands towards him.
With a wave of the Sky Palace Sect Master's hand, a white mark appeared on each of their right hands. Another wave and red and black marks landed on the left wrists of Shangguan Ruolin and Ruotong, respectively.
Noticing the black mark on Ruotong's wrist, Shangguan Ruolin trembled with fear, hugging her sister tightly.
The Sect Master looked at his two daughters and calmly stated, "Linlin, you possess remarkable talent. There's hope for you to become the second Nascent Soul cultivator of Sky Palace Sect. As for Ruotong... continue diligently restoring your spiritual roots. There's still a chance for you in the future."
After the funeral, the two sisters returned to Long Sky Palace.
Ruotong was haunted by the recent events for days before finding solace in Ruolin's comforting presence. However, Ruolin became increasingly melancholic. Every time she saw the vivacious Ruotong, a sense of unease overwhelmed her.
One day, she took Ruotong's hand and suggested, "TongTong, how about we play hide and seek?"
Ruotong clapped her hands in excitement, "Yes!"
"You search for me, no peeking!"
"Okay!"
Covering her eyes, Ruotong began counting, "One, two... nine, ten! Ready or not, here I come, Sister!"
The vast Long Sky Palace echoed with silence.
After what seemed like hours, Ruotong called out, "Sister, you're too good at this game! I can't find you. Please come out; I'm scared alone."
"Sister?"
"Sister, where are you?"
Her voice grew increasingly anxious and tearful.
"Don't play tricks on me, Sister. I'm so scared..."
Days turned into weeks, and weeks turned into months.
Eventually, a mocking servant sneered, "Miss Ruotong, stop searching. Your elder sister has successfully initiated the Foundation Establishment. She won't be returning to Long Sky Palace. From now on, we'll serve only you. Please, don't make things difficult for us servants with your whims."
Pale and horrified, Shangguan Ruotong stumbled down the mountain, but she was repelled by the mountain's protective array, leaving her bloodied and injured.
"Sobbing... Sister, you lied to me..."
...
Thirty years later.
Step by step, Shangguan Ruolin painstakingly climbed the sacred steps of Sky Palace, eventually reaching the top, drenched in sweat. At the end of these steps awaited the ancestral land where the Sky Palace Sect Master had been patiently waiting.
He looked at his daughter with pride and said, "Very good. After hundreds, if not thousands of years, we finally have a descendant who can climb the sacred steps to the ancestral land. Linlin, you've done exceptionally well. As per our ancestors' rules, you may choose any treasure for yourself."
With unwavering eyes, Shangguan Ruolin replied, "Father, I desire the 'Sky Palace Six Harmony Secrets'."
"Why do you need the 'Sky Palace Six Harmony Secrets' when you have already practiced the 'Sunrise Phoenix Art'?"
She declared, "I want to ascend to the Nascent Soul level as a disciple of the Sky Palace Sect, not the Great Fortune Sect!"
The Sky Palace Sect Master's eyes narrowed, "Practicing multiple techniques can be more harmful than beneficial. You have notable talent. However, aspiring to reach the Nascent Soul with the 'Sky Palace Six Harmony Secrets' is a fool's dream. You risk severe repercussions, even death. Choose something else."
"Father, according to the ancestral rules, I only want the 'Sky Palace Six Harmony Secrets'."
Five years later, Shangguan Ruolin took over as the master of the Jade Sky Palace, becoming the youngest in its history.
That same year, on the secluded Slient Peak, Shangguan Ruotong, after years of gathering strength and repairing her spiritual roots, successfully initiated her Foundation Establishment. In a swift motion, she slaughtered all eighteen maids of Long Sky Palace.
Meeting Shangguan Ruolin in Jade Sky Palace marked the beginning of an 800-year-long standoff between the two sisters.
