The path of the betrayed sky

### ** Chapter 9: The Tribulation of the Heart **

The morning arrived with a dense mist that covered the mountains, creating a mysterious and silent atmosphere. Liang Feng was in a clearing near the mansion, practicing his cultivation techniques. The spiritual crystal had already been completely absorbed, and he felt his Qi core more stable than ever.

However, something bothered him. Mei Lin's words echoed in his mind as a constant reminder that he could not follow alone. He knew he needed to face his own insecurities, but I didn't know where to start.

"Liang Feng," he called a familiar voice.

He turned and saw Mei Lin approaching, wearing a simple but elegant costume, which contrasted with the fog around him. She carried a small fabric bag, which seemed to contain something important.

- "What are you doing here?" Asked Liang Feng, trying to look indifferent.

Mei Lin smiled, but this time there was a determination in his eyes.

- "I came to help you. Old Master Hong told me that you are about to face your first tribulation."

Liang Feng frowned, surprised.

- "Tribulation? I'm not ready for it."

Mei Lin opened the bag and took a small scroll, which she handed over to Liang Feng.

- "This is an IQ purification technique. It can help strengthen your core before tribulation."

Liang Feng looked at the parchment, feeling a wave of gratitude, but also of distrust.

- "Why are you doing this?" He asked finally.

Mei Lin looked at him, his amber eyes shining with sincerity.

- "Because I believe you. And because I know what it's like to be alone."

Liang Feng didn't answer, but felt something inside him start changing. He knew he couldn't keep suspicious of everyone, especially someone who was trying to help him.

"Okay," he said finally. - "What do I need to do?"

Mei Lin explained the technique, showing Liang Feng how to circulate Qi differently, purifying it before condensing it in the nucleus. He followed his instructions, feeling a new wave of energy flowing through his body.

However, before he could consolidate Qi, a wave of pain hit him. It was as if his heart was being crushed, and he fell to his knees, panting.

- "What ... what is going on?" He asked, trying to get up.

Mei Lin knelt beside him, placing a hand on his shoulder.

"This is the tribulation of the heart. It tests your emotions, your scars. You need to face them, or your core will break."

Liang Feng closed his eyes, feeling the memories of his past life flooded his mind. The betrayal, the pain, the loneliness-all came back as a wave, trying to drown it.

"I ... I can't," he murmured, feeling the tears run down his face.

Mei Lin squeezed his shoulder, his voice soft, but firm.

- "You can. I'm here. Trust me."

Liang Feng looked at her, feeling a spark of hope amid pain. He knew he couldn't do it alone, but he also knew he was no longer alone.

"Okay," he said finally. - "I trust you."

With these words, the pain began to decrease, and he felt his core of qi to strengthen himself, as if he had overcome an invisible barrier.

Mei Lin smiled, but this time there was a glow of pride in his eyes.

- "You did well, Liang Feng. This is just the beginning."