Great Elder Zhi approached the group, a sense of approval radiating from him. "Well done, disciples, and Elara. Your performance in battle was commendable. You have shown great skill and resilience. Remember, your cultivation is not limited to the safety of our sect. It is through facing such challenges that you grow stronger and closer to reaching your full potential."
Elara, her eyes gleaming with pride, nodded in gratitude to Great Elder Zhi. She recognized the importance of these experiences, not only for her own growth but also for the cultivation journey of her companions. This encounter had solidified their bond and further instilled in them the confidence to face whatever lay ahead in the necropolis world.
With their spirits fortified, Elara and her disciples continued their exploration, ready to face any new challenges that awaited them. They moved forward, stronger and more united than ever, forging their path through the necropolis with unwavering determination.
------
While Elara and her group were walking, they suddenly heard the sound of clashing weapons in the distance. They exchanged glances, their curiosity piqued by the commotion. Without a word, they nodded to each other, silently agreeing to investigate the source of the fight.
As they approached the scene, they discovered Alix, a stranger to them, engaged in a fierce battle with a middle-stage Golden Core skeleton warrior. Alix's fists moved with lightning speed, his strikes precise and powerful. The skeleton warrior countered with its skeletal sword, its movements surprisingly agile for a skeleton.
Elara's group watched the fight unfold, impressed by Alix's skill and determination. They recognized the familiar signs of cultivation techniques in his movements and realized that he, too, possessed profound cultivation abilities.
Elara stepped forward, her voice carrying a hint of authority as she called out to Alix amidst the clash of steel and bone. "Impressive skills, stranger! Your fist strikes are like lightning, piercing through the defenses of your opponent. Allow us to lend you our support in this battle!"
Alix paused for a moment, his eyes meeting Elara's with a mix of surprise and gratitude. He acknowledged her offer with a nod, accepting the unexpected assistance from this group of strangers.
The top disciples, fueled by the desire to test their own cultivation and aid a fellow cultivator, joined the fray, except for one person, Rian.
Lyra summoned torrent of water to disrupt the skeleton warrior's balance, creating openings for Alix and the others to exploit. Lirien's sword danced with elegance, targeting the weak points in the skeleton warrior's armor. Rian conjured fireballs that exploded upon impact, engulfing the undead foe in flames. Tavian unleashed arcs of lightning, electrifying the air and momentarily stunning the enemy.
Together, their combined efforts overwhelmed the skeleton warrior. The group moved with fluid coordination, exploiting the creature's weaknesses and driving it into a corner. As the final blow landed, the skeleton warrior shattered into a pile of bones, its malevolent aura dissipating into the air.
Alix, his fists still crackling with residual energy, turned to face Elara and her disciples. His eyes gleamed with newfound respect and camaraderie. "I am grateful for your timely assistance," he said, his voice filled with genuine appreciation. "May I know the names of those who fought alongside me?"
Elara smiled warmly, recognizing the hint of familiarity in Alix's gaze. "I am Elara, and these are the top disciples of our sect: Lyra, Lirien, Rian, and Tavian," she introduced each member of her group with a gesture, purposefully omitting any mention of Rian's absence in the battle. "We are on a journey through this world, seeking knowledge and growth. May I know your name?"
Alix returned her smile, appreciating her straightforward introduction. "I am Alix," he replied, his voice steady and filled with a sense of determination. "It is a pleasure to meet you, Elara, and you, esteemed disciples."
Elara smiled warmly at Alix's introduction, her curiosity getting the better of her. She couldn't help but feel a bit shy as she asked, "Alix, may I ask why you are here alone? It can be dangerous to explore this place without companions."
Lyra, Lirien, and Tavian looked at Elara with genuine surprise. It was indeed a rare sight to see their usually composed future sect master engaging in a conversation with someone she had just met. They exchanged intrigued glances, silently acknowledging the significance of this moment.
Alix, seemingly unfazed by Elara's question, met her gaze with a solemn expression. "I don't have much of a choice," he replied, his voice tinged with a hint of resignation. "I can't teleport outside because I require a returner stone dropped by a monster in this floor."
Elara's eyes widened in realization, and she reached into her cultivation pouch. With a gentle smile, she retrieved a shining returner stone, holding it out for Alix to see. "Is this what you're looking for?" she asked, her voice filled with a mix of curiosity and anticipation.
Alix's eyes lit up with a mixture of astonishment and delight as he saw the returner stone in Elara's hand. His voice quivered with anticipation as he replied, "Yes! That's exactly what I need! But... what price are you willing to sell it for?"
Elara was taken aback by Alix's question. She blinked in surprise, her cheeks slightly flushed. "Oh, no, Alix," she said, her voice gentle yet firm. "You misunderstand. I didn't bring this returner stone to sell it. You can have it. It's a gift."
Alix's expression shifted from surprise to profound gratitude. He reached out and gently held Elara's hand, his voice filled with genuine appreciation. "Thank you. Your generosity and kindness are beyond words. I will cherish this gift and remember your noble gesture."
Elara felt a rush of embarrassment, her cheeks flushing slightly at the unexpected physical contact. She withdrew her hand and chuckled softly. "It's nothing, really. We cultivators should support each other whenever we can. I'm glad we could assist you."
Alix's eyes glistened with gratitude as he reached out to take the returner stone from Elara's hand. "Thank you," he said, his voice filled with genuine appreciation. "You have my deepest gratitude, Elara. I can't express how much this means to me."