In the vast and mystical world of Renegade Immortal (仙逆), a tale of ambition and betrayal unfolds, centered on a young prodigy whose brilliance is overshadowed by his inner demons. This story delves into the complexities of mentorship, loyalty, and the fragile nature of talent when pitted against one's own weaknesses. It is a narrative that resonates deeply, exploring how potential can be both a gift and a curse in a realm where power and perception dictate fate.
Prodigy's Ascent
Hu Pao (虎咆) emerged from a small, obscure tribe, where his innate abilities set him apart from an early age. Possessing a two-star demonic power as a youth, he quickly caught the attention of larger forces. When the Soul Refining Tribe absorbed his community, he was captured by Ouyang Hua (欧阳华) and forced to drink the Demon-Severing Elixir, binding him to his new faction. This marked the beginning of his rapid rise, as he adapted swiftly to the tribe's rigorous practices.
Within just four years, Hu Pao mastered the creation of ninety-three ten-soul banners, with thirty-one primary souls, a feat that placed him on par with core formation stage cultivators. His progress was nothing short of astonishing, drawing comparisons to legendary figures like Hong Die, who achieved divinity in a century. Wang Lin, upon witnessing this raw talent, saw a spark that could be nurtured into greatness. He decided to take Hu Pao under his wing, offering guidance in the hopes of shaping a future ally.
Hu Pao's eagerness to please was evident when he knelt without hesitation, declaring Wang Lin his master. In the Soul Refining Tribe, only another exceptional individual, Thirteen, could rival his skills. This environment of competition and admiration fueled his confidence, yet it also sowed the seeds of arrogance. As he basked in the spotlight, Hu Pao's focus shifted from growth to outperforming others, setting the stage for his eventual unraveling.
Descent Into Darkness
The journey to the Ancient Demon City in Tianyao County (天妖郡) was intended as a test of character for Hu Pao and Thirteen. However, the pressures of this new environment exposed Hu Pao's vulnerabilities. His jealousy toward Thirteen grew palpable, manifesting in petty rivalries and a constant need to prove his superiority. Wang Lin observed these tendencies but believed they could be corrected with time and patience, hoping to steer Hu Pao toward a brighter path.
When Wang Lin departed for the fourth immortal abode at Yao Xixue's (姚惜雪) invitation, his prolonged absence created a void. Hu Pao, lacking resilience, felt ostracized by the Black Armor Army and proposed returning to the tribe. Thirteen's steadfast loyalty in awaiting Wang Lin's return only deepened Hu Pao's frustration. In a fit of anger, Hu Pao abandoned his post, a decision that led to his capture by Sima Yan (司马炎), who accused him of desertion and subjected him to brutal punishment.
Imprisoned in a dark dungeon with broken bones, Hu Pao's spirit shattered. He blamed Wang Lin for his suffering, convinced he had been abandoned. This resentment festered, twisting his gratitude into hatred. It was at this low point that the ancient demon forces intervened, presenting themselves as saviors. They rescued Hu Pao, amplifying his rage and pushing him toward outright betrayal, as he vowed to destroy the one he once called master.
Inevitable Downfall
Empowered by the ancient demons, Hu Pao sacrificed his potential and lifespan to cultivate a massive soul banner with hundreds of millions of spirits in the ancient battlefield. When he confronted Wang Lin years later, his boasts of vengeance were met not with anger, but with pity. Wang Lin recognized the tragedy of a gifted soul led astray, reflecting on how his own intentions to mentor had gone awry in the face of Hu Pao's choices.
In their final encounter, Hu Pao hurled accusations, claiming Wang Lin was unworthy of leadership. Yet, Wang Lin responded with a heavy heart, unleashing the ten billion soul banner to absorb Hu Pao's hard-won spirits. With a single, decisive blow from a fused primary soul, Hu Pao was obliterated, his existence erased in an instant. This act, though painful for Wang Lin, was a necessary end to a cycle of betrayal that began with misplaced trust.
Hu Pao's story serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of unchecked ambition and weak will. His brilliance shone brightly but briefly, like a comet streaking across the sky, only to burn out in isolation. In the end, he failed to grasp the true meaning of Wang Lin's mentorship or see through the manipulations of darker forces, leaving a legacy of what might have been in the world of Renegade Immortal.
