"Young lady." She didn't glance at the staff who suddenly changed the way they addressed her with a lowered head, taking her guqin from their hands silently. From start to finish the girl didn't speak a word. Passing the halls back towards her seat, she was aware of ever more eyes upon her person. Some carrying wonder, some with jealousy, and even more with filthy desire. Lan Biyu never lowered her head under or acknowledged their wonton stares, keeping her chin lifted with undeterred loftiness.
No one dared to stop her as she made her way back up the staircase toward her master's side. The first to meet her eyes once entering the stands were a dozen curious and envious eyeballs. She paused after lifting the curtain for a second after being met with their strange gazes before carrying on to take her seat beside Minglan again as if she merely went for a stroll. "Master, this disciple has returned." Dipping her head to Minglan casually instead of bowing as she should have, the martial artists all furrowed their brows at her.
At first, not many of them paid attention to these Azure inner disciples who Minglan favored, after all, beauty was everywhere in a place where thousands of cultivators gathered. And they had all lived long enough to not be surprised by the faces of beauties anymore unlike their young disciples. But seeing her casual greeting, they were even more surprised when Minglan did not discipline her or give her advice. Instead, the man gave her a wide smile his entire being suddenly overflowing with favoritism and doting when he addressed her. The Azure sect elders used to such a scene turn a blind eye and pay attention to the fighting below instead. Wang Lan Biyu winning was already a given in their eyes "Mmn. Good work, as expected of my daughter."
Lan Biyu showed neither arrogance nor pleasure after his praise gaining a few more points of respect from the masters watching their every move with faint interest now. She simply lifted her sleeve and saluted Minglan from her seat before solemnly turning her attention to the area again. Also ignoring the sharpened ears of his fellow martial artists, Minglan reminds her lightly. "In a few matches your senior brother will have his turn, though it is unknown if he will take this match seriously it is still a good idea to learn from him." Because he was deliberately ignoring Zhang Wei, he didn't notice the subtle tightening fingers the sect leader had around his armrests. Though the man's expression was the same as the rest she guessed he had some knots in his own heart.
Feigning ignorance as a junior should Lan Biyu too responds calmly not too worried whether Da Chuanli won or lost as it was of no interest to her. "Understood." The expectations on Da Chuanli's shoulders were much higher than her own, as the younger brother of the patriarch if Da Chuanli lost wouldn't it also mean their Azure Patriarch loss? To prove their sect was still one that deserved their lofting prestige Da Chuanli NEEDED to win. And it had to be a flawless victory at that. It's the only way to remain untouched by earthly sects who sought to find a weakness in their aloof ways. Otherwise, what excuses could the elders use to continuously deny cooperation with other sects without offending them?
As she was aware of this, no matter how much she detested the teen she still had to reluctantly accept he was more worthy and important than her to her master. Swallowing her resentment Lan Biyu continued observing the matches below with disregard. No matter who won or lost as others would gloat and brag around her about their so-and-so disciples Lan Biyu remained unphased. Minglan also had no interest in this, however, whenever an inner disciple of theirs lost their match he would smile grimly. The elders although didn't openly show their discontent, on closer look their eyes grew colder. It was only when a familiar girl with white robes and a red sash sashayed onto the stage and won did some of them felt comforted in their hearts.
"As expect of Shao Lin's favorite disciple." Shao Lin didn't gloat but he did nod approvingly at his arrogant disciple who wore a bright grin after winning. Her cheeks flushed red with success as she did her best to remain calm and return to her seat with the others properly. Because she hardly paid any attention to the elders in their sect Lan Biyu glanced at the bland and disinteresting face of the noble-looking person who was the opposite of his arrogant disciple. "Yu'er still has much to learn, she can be considered lucky to have won this time." Though he said this humbly accepting their praise, after seeing his favored disciple acting like a proud princess returning to her seat with a pleased expression. Lan Biyu detected wariness on the older man's face.
Each master had their problematic disciples. This Shao Lin was indeed a popular master in their sect as he was gentle, patient, and caring towards everyone. So it wasn't a surprise when Minglan was truly happy for him even teasing the older man. "I bet three chests of gold taels that your disciples will try to sneak out and celebrate without your permission again." Shao Lin shook his head at the mischievous Minglan also at a loss due to his unruly students compared to Minglan's obedient ones who wanted nothing more than to play with their fellow disciples on the mountain and cultivate. One would think Shao Lin's disciples would be as good-tempered as himself, however, for some reason those little rascals always rebelled at one point or another under his care.
"I don't dare take that bet, otherwise I fear your disciples would swagger their way into my mountain once more to rob me of my things after this is all over." Although he says this, one can see this Shao Lin was truly a gentle soul as he sounded exasperated but in reality, his eyes held the same humor and tolerance as before. Minglan laughs happily because of the other's soon-to-be troublesome future much to the other elder's disapproval. Yu'er? Ah, no wonder she was a little familiar. Lan Biyu finally recalled a little girl in red who loved to run over and pick fights before Da Chuanli returned and then she and her friends ran back with their tails between their legs avoiding her whenever Da Chuanli was near. Holding back the urge to lounge in her chair as Minglan lazily did without consideration of others.
She could only lightly roll her tongue with a hint of contemplation in her heart watching the bright flushed cheeks of the young girl from far away laugh happily with her companions. Her thoughts were a mystery to all but herself. "Da Chuanli should be coming out soon, do you suppose he'll be fine?" Minglan almost snorted towards this question one of the elders mutters unable to help himself. "That boy? Is there even a need to worry? Watch and see." Towards his confident reply, almost all but Lan Biyu frowned in contemplation and doubt.
Zhang Wei who hadn't attempted to speak to Minglan again sitting a few seats away glances at the worry-free man with some well-hidden thoughts that went unnoticed as most looked at Minglan when he said this out loud. An elder from another sect jokes with Minglan lightly without any malice "Yo? So confident? Are you bragging about having two talented inner disciples? Didn't you say the same about your daughter just a moment ago?" Lan Biyu and Minglan scrutinize this new face who smiles at Minglan in a friendly manner. He had a likable aura and face making one unconsciously lower their guard under his influence.
From his casual and fresh attitude, it could be seen that he was most likely a recently promoted talent. Not recognizing the purple sash and robes, Minglan's response was also casual "Naturally, sharing the same blood as our patriarch isn't it only natural that my disciple will win his match?" The man blinked twice while others who held slight doubt now nodded in understanding and even leaned forward in anticipation. Whenever someone related to a patriarch of a sect was involved of course more people would be willing to pay attention. After all, if the child was an talented as Minglan claimed doesn't that mean the boy would be more amazing than his own daughter if not more?
Lan Biyu's brow twitched once, however, she hid her emotions well keeping a neutral expression. Flowery words for his daughter and blind confidence for Ling Da Chuanli. When it was Da Chuanli's turn to appear, naturally the disciples from their sect who were unruly called out in a fevered way one could hear their sincerity from here. "Senior Ling!!!" This wasn't out of arrogance but out of genuinely energized youths who believed in and revered Da Chuanli as the pride of their Azure sect. Da Chuanli kept the same smile on his face as before, inclining his head toward his fellow sect members patiently. It was unknown if he knew or not, but many girls who had never seen the face of Da Chuanli until today couldn't help their hearts skipping a beat after catching sight of his gentle smile.
Writing the name of this teen's sect and name into their hearts. Lan Biyu's expression was cool while Minglan's lips quirked up lightly "Your senior brother is sure to become even more popular and well-known after today." Undeniably, Lan Biyu could already see the gears turning in most of the elders' heads who were seated beside them scrutinizing the handsome Da Chuanli with satisfaction. Patriarch Ling was in seclusion, but his brilliant younger brother was out and about still, who wouldn't want to grab the chance while the parent was absent? Da Chuanli whether aware of the thoughts of those in the stands or not politely traded bows with his opponent.
"So you are an inner disciple as well? Allow me to start over and apologize for my junior brother and sisters' disrespect from before." A familiar face in gold robes and headband, BiaoLing, was serious when apologizing to Da Chuanli keeping his head low out of shame due to their unfortunate first meeting. Da Chuanli didn't hold much of a grudge and smiled at the sunny youth lightly also lowering his head in response. "No hard feelings, it's understandable of younger folk to not know better and make assumptions based on one's appearance." BiaoLing turns a tad bit red out of embarrassment before firmly straightening along with the gently smiling Da Chuanli.
His gaze was determined despite being despised by the other boy. "I will discipline my juniors appropriately so the same won't happen again, thanking brother Ling for his generosity." He was merely met with Da Chuanli's genial smile in response. Taking their places, BiaoLing showed a radiant and serious appearance gaining nods of approval from the elders in his sect. Drawing his blade his whole aura changed from a sunny youth to a serious warrior giving off an intimidating aura that was befitting his status as an inner disciple. His brown eyes showed ferocity like a tiger pleasing even more masters.
"This disciple of yours isn't too bad patriarch Zhang Wei, he seems close to breaking past martial king given a year or two." Zhang Wei gave a modest response to this flattery looking as upright and generous as his disciple. His eyes shone lightly when his disciple was complimented and acknowledged by another. His tone even implied that it was a guarantee his disciple would win over an Azure sect disciple, no matter if it was an inner disciple or not. "Biao Ling is still young and inexperienced, I'm hoping this trip to An Xing will temper him and help him gain enlightenment." Following his statement were some murmurs of praise and flattery as expected of a flock of sheep gathering in his city of gold.
Only sects like their Azure sect remain unphased calmly sipping tea or eating snacks they had brought along out of boredom for the competition to be over in no rush to curry favor with the Goldencloud sect. On purpose or not, occasionally Zhang Wei's gaze would move from those speaking to him towards Minglan who continued to ignore his side. Some bristled in their seats, however, Minglan, Elder Shang, and Elder Shao Lin appeared as composed as before. Minglan even offered Lan Biyu delicious pine nuts he had stolen from Elder Shang out of spite. Whispering under his breath towards his daughter who took them silently with no real intention of eating them. "Although that old man has a bad temper and terrible personality, his snacks are really delicious since he truly loves my senior brother like a nephew always sneaking him exquisite treats when our master wasn't looking."
"-Senior brother shared these snacks with me when he couldn't finish them back when we were children so I would know best." Elder Shang couldn't help his expression turning sour and side-eyed the two beauties coldly. Despite his glower, Minglan continued to wink and encouraged Lan Biyu to eat the pine nuts much to her reluctance. So, when she quietly took a nibble she realized that they really were more delicious than the ones she had eaten before with mild surprise. With a crispy crunch and perfectly mild sweetness that wasn't like that of other sugary snacks, it suited her taste buds rather well. Minglan chuckles and again whispers to his adorable daughter despite the sharp ears of the martial artists around him slyly.
"They say the stolen sweets of villains taste the sweetest." "Pfft." Before Lan Biyu could send her master another look of helplessness someone in a purple robe already gave a small puff of laughter due to the carefree sect master. While Elder Shang's expression turns darker, Shao Lin pats the old man's arm lightly sending Minglan an amused look. While the two continued taking shots and glaring at one another Lan Biyu took her attention back from their bickering to glance back to Da Chuanli's match. While they had been distracted, Da Chuanli had managed to hold back BiaoLing's advances with a single hand. His sword was still sheathed by a string at his hip, while BiaoLing was seriously attempting to cut the other down or force them out for the ring.
Da Chuanli to much of the crowd's awe merely used his right hand to adjust the angle of BiaoLing's sword so it barely touched him leaving him unscathed. All the while keeping his at-ease smile without breaking a sweat appearing as if he was just playing with the other and there wasn't a sword about to slice his limbs and torse every flash of silver. Also noticing this oddity, many cultivators frowned and took the match even more seriously observing Da Chuanli's movements more carefully. "Is your disciple serious? Why isn't he attacking?" As Minglan had long predicted, Da Chuanli wasn't taking the match seriously.
Shao Lin and Elder Shang both expected this outcome as well showing wary expressions. It was very much like him. Lan Biyu cursed in her heart. Zhang Wei who was so proud of his student couldn't help frowning after noticing how weird Da Chuanli's actions were. Aiya, Minglan laments in his heart as he also notices Da Chuanli's movements like playing with his food. Even now, his bad habit can't be fixed, the moment he finishes memorizing all his opponent's movements and draws his sword that boy is surely finished.
"This, despite being his master I also don't know what his thoughts are." This was a lie, otherwise why else would Minglan be wearing a helpless expression but his eyes danced with amusement? Zhang Wei's expression visibly darkens and he scrutinizes Da Chuanli with more vigilance and a bit of apprehension in his heart. Impossible. BiaoLing was his most talented student! Having personally trained him for this moment, Zhang Wei who was confident in his knowledge of the Azure Patriarchs' weaknesses on account of their past friendship began to feel a shred of doubt. Ling Li Shi was well known for his defensive way of the sword, returning an eye for an eye with the accuracy of a hawk.
Attacking him twice even if one misses, he will return it stronger, faster, and more terrifyingly he will give you back what you've done to him without your mistake of missing the target. Well paired with his generous temperament, the man did not bother others if they did not bother him earning him much praise as a young cultivator in their youth. All the while wearing a smile worth a thousand blossoms blown away by his eloquent qi and mere comforting presence which set friends at ease and placed villains on edge. However, if there was one thing this seemingly flawless senior had trouble dealing with it would be violent and unpredictable techniques that were faster than the eyes could see. He precisely trained BiaoLing for this moment. So granted if patriarch Ling passed on his sword arts to his younger brother, no matter how talented a boy was he was still a fledging and incapable of perfecting such a technique like his older brother quite yet.
And BiaoLing's technique was truly powerful and ferocious, like a tornado of blades his sword aimed at the vitals of his enemy without mercy. One can even hear the slightest whistle of his sword if they were trying hard enough, however, no matter how powerful his stabs were...None of them could land. Zhang Wei, like seeing a shadow of Ling Li Shi in the teen on stage who continued smiling gently at others while being out of reach despite being only a few years older than himself, felt his muscles aching. His heart raced lightly out of anxiety and nervousness. Da Chuanli's handsome facade confused the hearts of many who were wondering what his plan was. BiaoLing, as a good seedling himself also started to notice something wrong with the smiling teen.
As he grits his teeth and makes to step forward again. BiaoLing's eyes widen and his whole body shook violently as the seemingly aura-less Da Chuanli suddenly gave off an eerie vibe. Those smiling eyes were the same as before but now carried a sinister and knee-shaking presence. "!!" Trusting his instincts, instead of attacking BiaoLing jumped as far away as he could to the edge of the platform much to everybody's astonishment and confusion. Sweat coated his brows and his sword arm trembled. BiaoLing was pale in the face and didn't dare close the distance between him and the smiling youth again. "Why did you back off? Won't you try stabbing me again?"
Da Chuanli was acting courteously, but BiaoLing didn't fall for it and gritted his teeth while standing his ground where he was. Zhang Wei almost stood up out of concern for his disciple's pale countenance, while looking like he himself had seen a ghost. It's impossible! Ling Li Shi's younger brother shouldn't be capable of such skill yet! And yet, despite thinking this Zhang Wei's pupils shook slightly as even if he were not the target of Da Chuanli's nerve-wracking sharp qi. He could still feel his spine shiver due to the familiar overbearing aura.
Ling Li Shi... Lan Biyu almost sneers as the white aura surrounding Da Chuanli only she could see spilled like a waterfall over the other teen roaring like a dragon grating in her ears. To others, this qi wasn't seeable and could only be sensed by those with high levels of cultivation. The cultivators who could sense the burning white chi almost choked on their spit out of surprise as their interest in Da Chuanli increased tenfold. "Sect Master Minglan wasn't joking, has his disciple been holding back the entire time against his opponent? Incredible!" The sweat continued pouring down his back as Da Chuanli stood far from the high-strung Chu BiaoLing with his sword still hanging at his side not having the chance to show off its gleam once. Da Chuanli pretends to think before speaking again as if being considerate of the other.
"If you are done attacking, is it my turn now?" The moment his hand touched the hilt of his sword BiaoLing's legs under the influence of the other teen's terrifying qi truly did almost drop. The level of this Azure sect disciple, must not be underestimated! Trusting his intuition again. Da Chuanli only managed to partially pull out his sword before Chu BiaoLing stiffly bent over announcing loud enough for the silenced crowd to hear. "I forfeit, young master Ling truly is a genius among geniuses. It is my loss."
"?!?!" The crowd exploded with noise all at once. "What?! What happened just now?! He gave up before the other even drew his sword?!" "What's he thinking?! Wasn't he winning just seconds ago?" Minglan held a complicated smile on his lips as the cultivators yet to be able to sense qi were all filled with confusion and mild indignation. The patriarchs and matriarchs of all other sects were silent and held pondering thoughts, sending Minglan many glances of contemplation.
To make the assumption the disciple of the famous Minglan wouldn't also be an incredible talent...It was their mistake for underestimating the Azure sect after all these years of no news. The future of the Azure sect continues to flourish as well as others. As Da Chuanli and Chu BiaoLing left the arena, Minglan turned to silently observe Lan Biyu who had not spoken a word from start to finish. "Well? Did you see it? Make sure to continue to take advantage of your senior brother's guidance and learn from him well in the An Xing realm as well." Lan Biyu lowered her head obediently under Minglan's kind intentions her hands curled into fists as she buried the bitterness in her heart again. "...This disciple understands."