Finally awakened… Master."
Chapter 2: The Crippled Phoenix Rises
The voice was ancient, filled with an otherworldly calm and power.
"Who… are you?" Lin Moyan asked inwardly, her gaze locked on the hovering black cauldron.
"I am the Spirit of the Ninefold Netherflame Cauldron," the voice replied, "bound to your soul since you refined me in your previous life. When your spiritual flame perished, I drew your soul into the void, waiting for a new vessel. This body is weak, but your soul… remains formidable."
Lin Moyan's eyes flickered. So it wasn't mere fate—this rebirth was orchestrated by the very artifact she once forged in secret.
She sat up slowly, ignoring the stabbing pain. The courtyard was barren, overgrown with weeds. The original owner of this body had lived in neglect and disgrace. Even the servants didn't bother checking in anymore.
She staggered to a cracked mirror. The face staring back was hers now—young, pale, bruised. But in those phoenix-like eyes burned a cold, calculating fire.
"Tell me," she asked the cauldron spirit, "can I refine pills again?"
The spirit hesitated. "This body's root is crippled… but with the Ninefold Cauldron and my guidance, we can rebuild your cultivation from the ashes. And more… we can evolve."
Moyan clenched her fists.
"Good," she whispered. "Then let's begin. First, I'll need herbs. Then… blood."
The cauldron hummed in approval.
"But beware," it said gravely. "Your enemies will soon learn of your awakening. And they fear what a true alchemist can become."
A rustle at the gate.
"Trash girl! Get out here! You dare eat from the clan stores again?!"
A voice rang out, shrill with arrogance. Lin Moyan turned. A smirk played on her lips.
Perfect. The first insect arrives.