The last traces of sunlight in the west gradually faded, while the clouds along the horizon still gleamed with golden edges. Seen from afar at Crescent Star Cave, the view was truly magnificent.
A few sparrows called out as they flew overhead, returning to their nests.
In front of Clara Heart's pavilion, Aiden Chen sat cross-legged, demonstrating the breathing exercises he had been practicing diligently these past few days.
Master Sage Subhuti entered slowly.
Clara hesitated briefly, then turned and bowed to him. "Disciple Clara Heart greets Master."
Aiden quickly scrambled off the stone bench, knelt down, and performed a formal kowtow to Master Sage Subhuti.
"Rise, no need for formalities." Shaking out his sleeves, Master Sage Subhuti sat on the stone bench and glanced at Clara Heart.
Clara lowered her eyes slightly, expressionless, as if she saw nothing at all.
Taking a deep breath, Master Sage Subhuti turned to Aiden. "Has your cultivation shown any progress these past days?"
Aiden pursed his lips and looked up at Clara Heart.
"Master is asking you a question. Answer as you should." Clara said.
Lowering his head, Aiden stammered, "In response to Master... your disciple... isn't sure if there's been any progress."
"You still can't sense spiritual energy?" Master Sage Subhuti stroked his long beard.
Aiden nodded silently.
"For mortals seeking the Way, unless gifted with extraordinary talent, sensing spiritual energy in such a short time would be truly remarkable." As he spoke, Master Sage Subhuti took a white bottle from his sleeve and handed it to Aiden. "Even your master used this elixir. Perhaps it will help you sense qi."
Once again, Aiden looked up at Clara Heart.
"Master Sage is giving you an elixir. Just accept it."
At Clara's words, Aiden respectfully accepted the bottle from Master Sage Subhuti and held it to his chest.
Master Sage Subhuti smiled faintly. "You're still young. Cultivation requires perseverance. Even on the Traveler's Path, only steady accumulation leads to achievement. There's no need to rush."
Aiden pursed his lips and nodded quietly.