Under the Stars: The Hermit's Path

Chapter 36: The Strategy of Hoping the Pig Eats the Tiger

As time went by, Lin Yi and Liya's lives on the continent of "Aesera" gradually fell into place. They were no longer confused newcomers, but had become part of this land. Through repeated adventures and challenges, their strengths continued to grow.

One day, at dawn, Lin Yi and Liya arrived at a quiet valley. Surrounded by lush trees, the air was filled with the faint fragrance of flowers, making it seem as if they were isolated from the world. Their purpose for this trip was to visit a legendary hermit—Yun Che.

Deep in the valley, a simple wooden house stood. Lin Yi and Liya knocked gently on the door, and an old man in a gray robe slowly opened it. He had a kind face and deep, gentle eyes, which inspired respect.

“You must be Lin Yi and Liya, right? I’ve been waiting for you for a long time.” Yun Che said with a smile.

Lin Yi and Liya exchanged a glance, a hint of surprise welling up in their hearts. It turned out that this hermit had already known about their arrival, which made them even more curious about Yun Che's abilities.

After entering the cabin, Yun Che invited Lin Yi and Liya to sit down and brewed a pot of hot tea for them. The aroma of tea and a warm atmosphere filled the entire room.

“I guess you came here this time to find the secret of power.” Yun Che said straight to the point.

Lin Yi and Liya nodded, indicating that this was exactly why they came. They hoped to receive some guidance and inspiration on how to improve their strength from Yun Che.

Yun Che smiled and said slowly, "Increasing your strength doesn't happen overnight; it requires effort and patience. Everyone has their own unique path; the key is to find the method that suits you."

Yun Che then shared many insights and experiences about cultivation with Lin Yi and Xue Yan. He explained how to increase their strength through meditation, combat, and understanding the power of nature. He also emphasized the importance of inner peace and determination in increasing one's strength.

Lin Yi and Liya listened intently, benefiting greatly from the lecture. They realized that to survive in this world, they must continue to learn and grow. Yun Che's teachings undoubtedly gave them a new direction.

During their conversation with Yun Che, Lin Yi and Liya felt an unprecedented sense of peace and tranquility. They seemed to have found spiritual sustenance and were full of confidence in the future.

Finally, Yun Che gave Lin Yi and Liya an ancient book containing some precious cultivation methods and techniques. He hoped that this book would help them better explore the mystery of power.

Lin Yi and Liya were in a particularly good mood when they left Yun Che's cabin. They knew that this visit would have a profound impact on their future. With a desire for power and a vision for the future, they embarked on a new journey...

Yun Che is an old man over fifty years old, with white hair but a glint of wisdom in his eyes. He was once one of the most outstanding mages on the continent of Aesera. Tired of power struggles, he chose to live in seclusion here, devoting himself to studying the secrets of magic.

"Welcome, young travelers." Yun Che's voice was gentle yet powerful. "I have heard of your deeds and sensed the immense potential within you."

Lin Yi and Liya bowed respectfully to Yun Che, expressing their respect and desire for knowledge. Yun Che smiled and nodded, then pulled out two yellowed books from his wide sleeves and handed them to them.

"This book, 'The Secrets of the Elements,' records the methods of controlling the four elements of fire, water, wind, and earth; and this book, 'The Secrets of the Spirit,' describes how to cultivate the power of the mind and achieve a state of tranquility like water." Yun Che explained, "I hope this knowledge can help you better master your own power."

In the days that followed, Lin Yi and Liya began rigorous training under Yun Che's guidance. They spent their days in the mountains and forests, practicing to manipulate elemental forces, and their nights meditating under the moonlight to cultivate their minds. Over time, they gradually mastered the various techniques and methods described in the book.

During a combat drill, Lin Yi successfully summoned a giant flaming dragon, and Leah instantly froze it with her frost power. Yun Che nodded in satisfaction, "Yes, you have already grasped the essence of elemental power. But remember, true strength does not come from external magic or weapons, but from inner determination and courage."

After a period of training and study, Lin Yi and Liya's strength has improved significantly. However, they know that in this world full of unknowns and dangers, strength alone is not enough to keep them safe. Therefore, they decided to adopt a more cautious strategy - playing the pig to eat the tiger.

The so-called "playing pig to eat the tiger" means deliberately hiding one's true strength and identity, appearing weak, and thus avoiding unnecessary attention and trouble. In the process of implementing this strategy, Lin Yi and Liya showed great wisdom and acting skills.

They mingled in the marketplace, impersonating ordinary vendors and peddlers. Lin Yi wore tattered cloth, his face thickly smeared with dust; Liya sported a simple bun and a plain long skirt. They hawked cheap wares in the market, bargaining with vendors and customers. Their performance was so convincing that even the most astute businessman couldn't spot a flaw.

However, just when they thought they could continue living in such a low-key manner, a sudden crisis shattered their peace. Late one night, a group of mysterious men in black broke into their residence, intending to steal a treasure said to possess great power. It turned out that this treasure was an ancient ring that Lin Yi had accidentally obtained during an adventure.

Faced with the sudden crisis, Lin Yi and Liya quickly launched a counterattack. Utilizing the skills and tactics they had previously learned, they cleverly lured the enemies into traps and defeated them one by one. Ultimately, they successfully secured the treasure.

This battle taught Lin Yi and Liya the importance of playing the pig and catching the tiger. They realized that in a world full of dangers and opportunities, only by maintaining a low profile and being cautious can one go further. They also understood a truth: a truly powerful person must possess not only immense strength but also wisdom and courage to face all challenges and difficulties.