Abyss Walker

Chapter 117 The Ancient Netherworld

"You understand now, so even though you know this is an illusion, would you still be willing to stay in it?" An ancient voice came, both aged and authoritative.

"I'm willing. Whether it's an illusion or reality, the meaning of life is simply to live," Yun Muhan said firmly.

Dugu Jianling: "...This kid! He's becoming more and more like me. He truly lives up to his master's reputation."

"Congratulations, Yun Muhan, you no longer need to participate in the test."

"No, Senior Youming, this junior needs to be tested."

The voice of the Netherworld carried a hint of admiration, but also an undeniable determination: "Yun Muhan, you have already proven your resolve and courage. Between illusion and reality, you chose to stay true to yourself, and that is enough. You do not need any more trials."

Yun Muhan shook his head, his eyes revealing an indomitable light: "Senior Youming, I understand your good intentions, but I believe that a true strong person should not shirk any challenge. Whether it is an illusion or reality, it is all a test for me. I need these trials to grow and become stronger."

Dugu Jianling listened quietly from the side, a hint of satisfaction flashing in his eyes: This kid has unlimited potential, and this persistence and courage are exactly what he needs and is necessary.

"Alright, since you insist, I'll give you a test." The voice of the Netherworld rang out again, this time with a hint of seriousness. "You will face your own inner demons. Only by overcoming them can you truly understand the meaning of life."

Yun Muhan took a deep breath and nodded: "I'm ready, Senior Youming."

As Youming finished speaking, the surrounding environment began to change.

Yun Muhan stood in the mist, the trees around him seemed to be whispering, each leaf seemingly telling of his fear and doubt.

He took a deep breath, trying to calm his turmoil. The sword in his hand, though cold, gave him a sense of warmth and strength. He knew that this sword was not just a weapon, but an extension of his will, a sharp blade to fight against his inner fears.

His steps were heavy, but each one was firm and powerful, as if telling the forest that no matter how thick the fog, he would not lose his way. Yun Muhan's eyes shone with an indomitable light—a firm belief in himself and a yearning for the future.

Dugu Jianling stood quietly behind Yun Muhan, his gaze piercing through the mist to see the light emanating from Yun Muhan. He neither spoke nor acted, simply offering silent support. He knew this was Yun Muhan's battle, his trial, which he had to face alone.

In the mist, Yun Muhan's shadow—Long Muhan—gradually became clear.

The version of himself who once struggled with failure has now become his greatest enemy. Long Muhan's mockery and doubt pierced Yun Muhan's heart like a sharp blade.

But Yun Muhan was not defeated; his gaze became even more resolute, and his voice even more powerful.

"I don't believe in fate, I only believe in myself." Yun Muhan's voice echoed in the forest, his words devoid of any hesitation or fear. "Every decision I make, every fall I take, is a path I've chosen. Even if I fail, it's still part of my growth."

Long Muhan's shadow seemed to be shocked by Yun Muhan's words; its mocking laughter gradually disappeared, replaced by silence.

“I have stood on the mountaintop and fallen to the bottom of the valley. I only hope that… Yun Muhan will not look back at the past and will not lament the road he has traveled.”

Yun Muhan knew that he had begun to overcome his inner fears and take control of his own destiny. "I have reached the peak and fallen into the abyss, and now... I have only boundless gratitude and faith."

Yun Muhan continued forward, each step more resolute than the last. The mist began to dissipate, and sunlight filtered through the treetops, falling upon Yun Muhan.

He knew that this forest, this mist, were witnesses to his spiritual growth. He was no longer the Long Muhan struggling in defeat; he was Yun Muhan, a warrior who bravely faced his inner fears and continued to grow.