Liu Yan was determined. She knew that she had to fight for her children's future, even if it meant facing the unknown. The sun was just beginning to rise, casting a warm glow over the horizon, and with it came a sense of hope. Liu Cheng and Liu Erlong clutched her hands tightly, their innocent eyes full of trust and curiosity.
As they made their way through the bustling streets of the city, Liu Yan felt a mix of anxiety and resolve. The marketplace was alive with vendors shouting their wares, children playing, and townsfolk going about their daily routines. Yet, to Liu Yan, every face was a reminder of her struggles, of the judgment that awaited her and her children.
"Mother, where are we going?" Liu Cheng asked, his young voice breaking through her thoughts.
"To a place where we can find help," she replied, trying to sound reassuring. "A place where you will be recognized for who you are."
The journey to the Blue Electric Sect was long and arduous. They traveled on foot, the road winding through hills and forests, each step heavy with uncertainty. Liu Yan often found herself glancing back at her children, their small figures a beacon of strength and determination. She remembered the nights spent worrying about their future, the sacrifices she had made, and the dreams she had for them.
After days of travel, they finally approached the gates of the Blue Electric Sect, which loomed large and imposing. The architecture was grand, with intricate designs and symbols that spoke of power and prestige. Liu Yan's heart raced as she stood before the entrance, the weight of her decision crashing down upon her.
"Mother, it looks beautiful!" Liu Erlong exclaimed, her eyes wide with wonder.
"Yes, it is," Liu Yan replied softly, though her heart was heavy. "But beauty can hide many secrets."
As they stepped through the gates, Liu Yan felt a chill run down her spine. The atmosphere was different here; it was charged with energy and expectation. The sect members moved with purpose, their expressions serious as they went about their duties. Liu Yan knew that they were outsiders, and the path to acceptance would not be easy.
They were soon approached by a tall man with an air of authority. His robes marked him as a member of the sect, and his piercing gaze seemed to assess Liu Yan and her children with scrutiny. "State your purpose," he commanded, his voice deep and unwavering.
Liu Yan took a deep breath, summoning her courage. "I am Liu Yan, and these are my children, Liu Cheng and Liu Erlong. I seek recognition for them as members of the Blue Electric Sect."
The man's eyes narrowed, and Liu Yan felt a surge of fear. "And what proof do you have of their lineage?"
Liu Yan hesitated, her heart racing. She had no physical proof, only the truth of her circumstances. "Their father is Yu Luomian, a member of this sect," she said, her voice steady despite the tremor in her heart.
At the mention of Yu Luomian's name, the man's expression shifted slightly, but he remained stern. "You will need to present your case to the sect leader. Follow me."
As they walked through the sect's grounds, Liu Yan couldn't help but notice the stark contrast between the beauty of the surroundings and the weight of her situation. The gardens were meticulously maintained, and the training grounds were filled with young disciples honing their skills. Yet, she felt like an intruder, an unwelcome guest in a world that seemed so far removed from her own.
When they reached the grand hall, the man gestured for Liu Yan to wait outside. "You will be called in shortly," he said before disappearing into the chamber.
Liu Yan knelt beside her children, their faces a mixture of excitement and fear. "What will happen now, Mother?" Liu Cheng asked, his voice trembling slightly.
"I don't know, my son," she replied, brushing a hand through his hair. "But we must be brave. No matter what happens, I will always love you both."
Moments later, the man returned, gesturing for them to enter. Liu Yan stood, her heart pounding as they stepped into the hall. The room was vast, with high ceilings and ornate decorations. At the far end, seated on a raised platform, was the sect leader—a formidable figure with an aura of authority.
"State your case," the leader commanded, his voice echoing in the chamber.