I am the Dao Ancestor

A week had passed since Ling Hao's journey to the Celestial Record Pavilion, but his curiosity about the past of the Azure Sky Sect lingered in his thoughts. Despite this, he knew that dwelling too much on ancient legends would not help his growth. His master, Yue Ling, had repeatedly stressed the importance of focusing on his cultivation and duties as a disciple. Determined to improve, Ling Hao returned to the Task Pavilion in search of a new mission.

Zhao Wu, the familiar task manager, greeted him with an amused smirk. "Back again, Junior Brother Ling? Did the Peach Blossom Peak master send you, or are you getting addicted to missions already?"

"I'm here for something challenging, Senior Brother," Ling Hao said confidently.

Zhao Wu raised an eyebrow and began flipping through a pile of mission scrolls. After a moment, he selected a dark green scroll marked with the seal of moderate danger. "Here you go. This should suit you. A demon's been causing trouble in Azure Spring Town, disguising itself as a beautiful woman at the Velvet Melody Pavilion. Several men have gone missing. We need someone to eliminate the threat."

Ling Hao unrolled the scroll and read the details carefully.

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Mission: Eliminate the demon preying on victims in Azure Spring Town.

Location: Velvet Melody Pavilion, Azure Spring Town.

Details: Reports indicate the demon takes the form of a beautiful woman and enchants her victims before draining their life force.

Reward: 100 Contribution Points.

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"I'll take it," Ling Hao said without hesitation, the thought of facing such a cunning opponent igniting his resolve.

Zhao Wu clapped him on the shoulder. "Good luck, Junior Brother Ling. But stay cautious—demons are unpredictable."

Journey to Azure Spring Town

Ling Hao set off on his flying sword, gliding through the skies toward Azure Spring Town. The scenery below shifted from mountainous terrain to bustling towns and farmlands. Seeing the lively mortal world again reminded him of his past, stirring a faint nostalgia for the simple life he once had.

When he arrived, night had fallen over Azure Spring Town. Lanterns illuminated the streets, and the cheerful chatter of townsfolk filled the air. At the center of the town stood the Velvet Melody Pavilion, a grand establishment adorned with colorful banners and silken decorations.

Ling Hao landed nearby and surveyed the bustling crowd entering and leaving the pavilion. Its popularity made it an ideal hunting ground for the demon.

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At the Velvet Melody Pavilion

The interior of the Velvet Melody Pavilion was lively and extravagant. Patrons filled the tables, enjoying fine wine and watching performers dance to elegant music. Ling Hao found a seat near the back, keeping his senses sharp. He knew the demon could be hiding in plain sight.

A server approached him, bowing politely. "Welcome, cultivator. May I bring you anything?"

"I'm here on sect business," Ling Hao said. "Have you noticed anything strange recently? Missing people? Unusual visitors?"

The server glanced around nervously before leaning closer. "There have been rumors about a performer named Mei Ling. They say men who leave with her never return."

"Where is she now?" Ling Hao asked.

The server pointed toward the central stage, where a stunningly beautiful woman in a flowing red gown began to sing. Her voice was enchanting, her movements hypnotic.

Ling Hao activated a protective charm to guard his mind from the alluring melody. He observed as the crowd became captivated, some even appearing entranced. When the performance ended, several patrons tried to approach Mei Ling, but she chose a wealthy merchant and led him toward a private corridor.

Ling Hao followed discreetly, keeping his presence hidden. Moments later, a scream echoed through the hallway. Ling Hao rushed forward, finding the merchant lifeless on the floor. Standing over him was Mei Ling, her once-beautiful form now twisted and monstrous.

"So, you're the one sent to kill me?" she sneered, her eyes glowing red.

Ling Hao unsheathed his sword, its blade shimmering with spiritual energy. "Your reign of terror ends here."

The battle began with the demon attacking at blinding speed, her claws slashing through the air. Ling Hao countered with a defensive stance, deflecting her strikes and retaliating with precise sword techniques. The corridor echoed with the clash of blades and the demon's enraged roars.

Despite her agility, Ling Hao's skill and spiritual energy overwhelmed her. With one final strike, he severed her demonic essence, reducing her body to black smoke that dissipated into the air.

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Ensuring the Town's Safety

After confirming the demon's death, Ling Hao spent the next day investigating the Velvet Melody Pavilion and speaking to the townsfolk. Although they were shaken by the incident, he assured them that the danger had passed. To make certain no other threats remained, Ling Hao decided to stay in Azure Spring Town for a few more days.

During his time in the town, Ling Hao interacted with the locals, gaining a deeper understanding of their struggles and way of life. His experiences further solidified his resolve to protect the innocent and grow stronger in his cultivation.

On the morning of the fourth day, a familiar sight appeared on the horizon: a small messenger bird bearing the colors of Peach Blossom Peak. The bird landed on his shoulder, chirping softly before speaking with Yue Ling's voice.

"Ling Hao, report back to Peach Blossom Peak immediately. This is urgent."

Ling Hao couldn't help but laugh. His master's summons were always dramatic, even though he was her only disciple.

"Master's probably drank too much wine and wants me to carry her again," he muttered to himself with a grin. Nevertheless, he leapt onto his flying sword and soared back toward the Azure Sky Sect, eager to discover what awaited him.

Return to Peach Blossom Peak

When Ling Hao arrived at the peak, he found Yue Ling lounging under the peach trees, a jug of wine in her hand. She looked as carefree as ever, but there was a sharpness in her gaze that suggested something serious.

"So, you've returned," Yue Ling said, her tone light but commanding. "Did you enjoy playing hero in Azure Spring Town?"

Ling Hao bowed respectfully. "The mission is complete, Master. The demon has been eliminated, and the town is safe."

Yue Ling's expression softened, and she nodded approvingly. "Good. You've done well, Ling Hao." She tossed him a wine cup, which he barely caught in time.

"But don't get too comfortable," she continued. "Your real challenges are yet to come."

Ling Hao felt a chill run down his spine. He knew that Yue Ling never spoke lightly of such matters. What could Master have in store for me this time? he wondered.