The days passed like simmering broth—quiet, slow, and rich with transformation.
Within the mist-shrouded grounds of the Dim Sum Sect, Lin Feng found himself immersed in a new kind of cultivation. It wasn't just about power or energy anymore. It was precision. Discipline. Harmony.
Each morning began with Steam Meditation—a seated practice inside a bamboo steamer filled with scalding mist infused with medicinal herbs. As he breathed in, Lin Feng could feel the heat purifying his meridians, softening his stubborn Qi nodes like tough dough relaxing under expert kneading.
The Sect taught him the Five Sacred Techniques of Dumpling Preparation:
1. Folding of the Thousand Layers – A method to manipulate Qi into delicate spiritual barriers, taught by Master Bao, who claimed he could fold time into dough if he was in the right mood.
2. Pinch of Purpose – A strike technique where intent was everything. A single finger jab could seal an enemy's meridian—or a dumpling shut with perfect symmetry.
3. Steamed Awareness – The control of heat and internal flow. Not every battle could be won with fire—some required steam, silence, and timing.
4. Balance of Filling and Wrapper – A philosophy taught in combat and cooking alike. Never let force overpower form.
5. Soul of the Sauce – A rare art that allowed a cultivator to infuse their cooking with spiritual intent so strong it could evoke hallucinations or emotional collapse in those who consumed it.
Flame Duck, in the meantime, had discovered his spiritual affinity with chili oil, which he used both offensively and for personal grooming. Bai Xue trained alongside Lin Feng, her razor-sharp instincts adapting surprisingly well to the tactile world of the Dim Sum Sect. Though she complained often, Lin Feng noticed her dumplings were getting better—and her attacks more fluid.
One evening, as red lanterns swayed gently in the mist and the scent of lotus wine lingered in the air, Elder Zhou—the spring roll-bearded master—summoned Lin Feng alone.
They sat in the Lotus Pavilion overlooking the sea of mist. Zhou sipped from a cup carved from bamboo.
"You have talent," he said simply. "But talent means little when the Celestial Wok is involved."
Lin Feng sat straighter. "That's the location of the next Sacred Dish, right?"
Zhou nodded. "The Wok floats above the Thousand Flame Basin. Its heat comes not from firewood or spirit stones—but from an ancient being buried beneath the crust of the world. A Celestial Flame Dragon, sealed after the Great Culinary War."
Lin Feng blinked. "Wait… the what?"
"You think cultivation was always peaceful?" Zhou raised a bushy brow. "Once, chefs ruled empires. Gourmets controlled fate. The Sacred Dishes were not meant to feed—they were meant to conquer."
Lin Feng swallowed hard.
"Many seek the Wok for power. But only a few understand its danger. Its flames amplify not just cooking ability, but desire. Passion. Rage. Hunger. If your spirit wavers… you'll be consumed."
"And the next Sacred Dish?" Lin Feng asked.
Zhou took another sip. "It is the Dragon Bone Broth. A dish so potent it can heal mortal wounds, or if corrupted… rot a man from within."
---
Descent into the Flame Basin
Two days later, the Sect opened the Waygate to the Thousand Flame Basin.
Lin Feng stood at its edge, a steaming portal shaped like an iron wok suspended in mid-air. Bai Xue and Flame Duck flanked him, both wearing protective robes woven with fire-resistant threads.
"Ready?" Bai Xue asked, adjusting her grip on her twin blades.
Flame Duck clutched a pouch of chili oil grenades. "Born ready. Let's cook."
They stepped through the portal and emerged onto a floating platform above a vast sea of molten lava. In the center hovered the Celestial Wok—a massive iron vessel suspended by chains of light, its surface glowing with ancient runes.
As they approached, a voice echoed from within the Wok.
"Who dares seek the Dragon Bone Broth?"
Lin Feng stepped forward. "I am Lin Feng, disciple of the Dim Sum Sect. I seek the Sacred Dish to restore balance and honor."
The Wok trembled, and a fiery apparition of a dragon emerged, its eyes blazing with intensity.
"Then face the Trial of Flames. Only those pure of heart and intent may claim the broth."
---
Trial of Flames
The platform beneath them shifted, revealing three paths:
1. Path of Endurance – A narrow bridge over bubbling lava, testing physical resilience.
2. Path of Reflection – A hall of mirrors showing one's deepest fears and regrets.
3. Path of Sacrifice – A chamber requiring the offering of something precious.
"I'll take the Path of Endurance," Bai Xue declared, her determination unwavering.
Flame Duck waddled toward the Path of Reflection. "Time to face my inner demons… and maybe some spicy ones too."
Lin Feng approached the Path of Sacrifice, feeling the weight of his journey and the importance of his mission.
Inside the chamber, a pedestal awaited, glowing softly. A voice whispered, "Offer what you hold most dear."
Lin Feng hesitated, then placed the jade charm from the Dumpling Beast onto the pedestal. The chamber glowed brighter, acknowledging his sacrifice.
---
The Dragon Bone Broth
Reunited, the trio stood before the Celestial Wok. The fiery dragon reappeared.
"You have proven yourselves. The Dragon Bone Broth shall be yours."
The Wok emitted a harmonious hum as ingredients materialized: dragon bones, celestial herbs, and purified water. Lin Feng guided the process, his hands moving with precision and reverence.
As the broth simmered, its aroma filled the air, evoking memories and emotions. Lin Feng ladled the golden liquid into bowls, offering them to his companions.
They sipped, feeling warmth and clarity wash over them. The broth healed wounds, both physical and emotional, and strengthened their bond.
The fiery dragon nodded in approval. "You have honored the Sacred Dish. May its power guide you.