Reincarnation of the Celestial Bastard

Chapter 21: The Quest for Rare Herbs

After spending his night with Xu Fang, Li Tian found that his daily life had changed quite a bit. Each day was filled with rigorous training sessions, whether he was practicing his swordsmanship alone or honing his cultivation techniques alongside his sister, Li Xue. Their bond had grown stronger, each pushing the other to improve, their laughter mingling with the sounds of clashing swords. They often took breaks to tease one another, their playful banter lightening the intensity of their training.

But it was the nights that truly set his heart racing. Under the veil of darkness, when the household settled into silence, Xu Fang would slip into his room, her presence electrifying. The moments they shared were both thrilling and tender, filled with stolen glances and whispered confessions. In those quiet hours, they explored the depth of their connection, a blend of passion and longing that transcended their complicated family ties.

Li Tian often found himself captivated by her alluring beauty—the way her hair cascaded down her shoulders, the soft curve of her smile, and the warmth of her laughter. Each meeting was a dance of intimacy, where their barriers crumbled and they became lost in each other. As they exchanged hushed words and gentle touches, Li Tian felt a mix of exhilaration and vulnerability, knowing that these nights were a secret they had to cherish.

Few days later,

Li Tian stood at the edge of the Li family estate, gazing out toward the vast expanse of the Darkwood Forest. Rumors swirled around this forest, whispered tales of dangerous creatures and hidden treasures. It was here that he needed to venture, for the system had assigned him a task that could significantly boost his cultivation speed.

With a deep breath, he recalled the system's words: ["Gather the rare herbs known as Moonblossom and Spiritroot, found deep within the Darkwood Forest. Complete this task to earn a Potion of Acceleration, and enhance your cultivation progress."]

"Time to get to work," he muttered, determination lighting his eyes. He tightened the grip on his sword, the cool steel a comfort against his side as he stepped forward.

As Li Tian entered the forest, a thick canopy blocked out much of the sunlight, casting everything in shadow. The air was damp and filled with the earthy scent of moss and decaying leaves. The atmosphere was heavy with the sounds of rustling leaves and distant animal calls.

Remembering the system's instructions, he focused on identifying the herbs he needed. Moonblossom, known for its delicate blue flowers that shimmered like the night sky, was said to bloom near water sources. Spiritroot, on the other hand, was a stout plant with vibrant green leaves, thriving in nutrient-rich soil.

He navigated deeper into the forest, staying alert for any potential dangers. As he walked, the system chimed in: ["Task progress: 10%. Keep moving, Li Tian! The herbs won't find themselves!"]

Li Tian smirked at the casual tone of the system, his confidence growing. "Alright, let's see what this forest has to offer."

After an hour of searching, Li Tian came upon a small clearing illuminated by a faint light. In the center, a shimmering pool of water reflected the moonlight, surrounded by lush greenery. He immediately recognized the blue flowers—Moonblossoms—growing at the water's edge.

"Jackpot," he whispered, kneeling down to collect the delicate flowers. He carefully plucked them, making sure to gather enough without damaging the plants. Just as he finished, a rustling sound broke the tranquility of the clearing.

Li Tian's senses heightened, and he instinctively reached for his sword. Out from the bushes emerged a Shadow Panther, its dark fur blending seamlessly with the shadows. The creature's glowing eyes fixed on him, exuding an aura of danger.

"Just what I needed," Li Tian muttered, adjusting his stance. The Shadow Panther growled, its muscles coiling like springs, ready to pounce.

The system's voice rang in his head: ["Defeat the Shadow Panther to complete your task. You can do this!"]

With a surge of adrenaline, Li Tian charged at the beast, his sword glinting in the dim light. The Panther lunged, and he rolled to the side, narrowly avoiding its claws. He quickly regained his footing and swung his sword, aiming for its flank.

The two danced a deadly ballet, each move calculated. Li Tian tapped into the techniques he had been cultivating, focusing on agility and speed. He dodged, struck, and parried, gradually wearing down the creature.

Finally, with a decisive blow, he pierced the Panther's side, and it collapsed to the ground, defeated. Breathing heavily, he stepped back, watching as the life faded from its eyes.

As the forest grew quiet again, Li Tian felt a rush of exhilaration. He had faced a real threat and emerged victorious. He knelt down beside the fallen creature, checking for any usable materials. Just then, the system chimed: ["Task progress: 70%. You've secured the Moonblossom. Now find the Spiritroot to complete your task."]

"Right," he said, standing up. He glanced around, searching for any sign of the stout plant. After a few more minutes of searching, he found a patch of Spiritroot thriving near an old tree stump, its vibrant green leaves a stark contrast against the earthy tones of the forest floor.

He quickly gathered the roots, feeling a sense of accomplishment wash over him. As he held the last root in his hand, the system's voice echoed in his mind: ["Task complete! Congratulations, Li Tian! You have gathered the necessary herbs!"]

With a grin, Li Tian felt a rush of energy surge through him as the reward materialized in front of him—a shimmering vial containing the Potion of Acceleration.

["This potion will enhance your cultivation speed significantly for the next month. Use it wisely!"]

the system added, a note of excitement in its tone.

Li Tian carefully tucked the vial into his satchel, ready to head back home.