The path up the Alchemy Peak was cleanly paved but surprisingly steep. Han Yu's robe fluttered behind him as he made his way upward, occasionally catching a glimpse of the sprawling sect behind him whenever he paused for breath.
The early morning mist had already faded from the lower valleys, leaving behind crisp air infused with the faint scent of spirit herbs and the ever-present warmth of medicinal fires.
It was Han Yu's first time climbing this high on the Alchemy Peak. He was only about a quarter of the way up the mountain, and yet he could already tell that the atmosphere was different.
Everything was quieter. Sharper. More refined.
This wasn't the public square, where sect errands were conducted or mission boards put up. Nor was it like the Herb Pavilion he'd visited before for ingredients. The outer court of the Alchemy Peak had an air of stern diligence.
