As the simple tea cooled and the conversation naturally wound down, Gù Tiānháo turned his thoughts back to his immediate priority: refining the Meridian Opening Pill. Lin Xiao Yue's humble cottage, secluded and quiet, seemed increasingly suitable for the task, far preferable to the risks of an inn or the exposure of the wilderness. He needed to secure permission to stay and use a space undisturbed.
He cleared his throat slightly, drawing her attention. "Lin Xiao Yue," he began, his tone polite but direct, "I find myself in need of a quiet location for a period of secluded cultivation. A form of deep meditation that requires absolute concentration for several days, perhaps up to a week. Would it be possible for me to impose upon your hospitality and rent a room here during that time? I require complete privacy and would prefer not to be disturbed. "He reached into his pouch, retrieving several low-grade spirit stones – far more than the cost of lodging in a simple village cottage, a deliberate gesture to show his seriousness and ability to compensate her fairly. "I can offer these for your trouble and any inconvenience caused.
"Lin Xiao Yue looked startled, first by the request and then by the sight of the gleaming spirit stones in his hand. She quickly waved her hands in refusal, shaking her head vigorously. "Young Master, please! Put those away! You saved my life – twice! How could I possibly accept payment for offering you shelter? It would be my honor to have you stay. We… I have a small storage room at the back. It's not much, but it's clean and quiet. You are welcome to use it for as long as you need, free of charge. Please, consider it a small repayment for your kindness.
"Her refusal of payment was firm and genuine, stemming from simple gratitude rather than any hidden motive. Tiānháo didn't insist, recognizing her sincerity. He retracted the spirit stones with a slight nod. "Thank you, Lin Xiao Yue. Your generosity is appreciated.
"He then added, choosing his words carefully, "This meditation technique is somewhat… unusual. It might involve strange energy fluctuations, perhaps even some odd smells or sounds as I work to purify my Qi. I assure you there is no danger, but I wished to warn you so you would not be alarmed. The most crucial thing is that I remain completely undisturbed during the process.
"He was subtly preparing her for the potential side effects of alchemy – the heat, the smell of burning herbs during failures, the pulse of Qi during refinement – without revealing the true nature of his activity. Lin Xiao Yue, whose understanding of cultivation was limited to hearsay, simply nodded seriously, accepting his explanation without question. Cultivators were mysterious figures, after all; strange meditation practices seemed entirely plausible.
"Of course, Young Master," she assured him earnestly. "I understand completely. I will ensure no one disturbs you. The room is at the back, facing the woods, very quiet. I will bring meals and leave them outside the door at regular times so as not to interrupt. Please, make yourself comfortable.
" She led him to the small, simple room – little more than four walls, a packed earth floor, and a single small, high window – but it was clean, dry, and most importantly, private. It was perfect. The stage was set for his first attempt at alchemy.