All things in the universe are constantly in a cycle of separation and union. In ancient times, the Xia Dynasty unified the land—this was union. Then, as the Shang and Zhou Dynasties followed, chaos reigned during the Spring and Autumn and Warring States periods—this was separation. Afterward, Emperor Qin Shi Huang unified the world again—union. The Han Dynasties followed, but chaos returned during the Three Kingdoms, the Jin Dynasties, and the Northern and Southern Dynasties—separation. Then came the Sui Dynasty's unification, followed by the Tang. This cyclical pattern continues endlessly, with separation and union recurring as the natural rhythm of all things. It becomes clear that these cycles follow the rule that what is long united must divide, and what is long divided must unite, but not without exception—there are countless examples of separation without reunion.

The Hanzhen Sect, once the most prestigious martial arts sect, was founded by Lin Xuanfei, expanded under Liu Yiyi, and reached its zenith during Xi Qingquan's era. Unfortunately, its golden age was brief, as internal conflicts over interests plunged the sect into chaos, leading to its decline and eventual split into two factions. One retained the original name, Hanzhen Sect, while the other, breaking away, took on a new identity, calling itself Fanhua Valley.

Coincidentally, a similar fate befell another sect. The Muo Sword Manor, originally a minor and insignificant sect founded by Song Qianfeng, rose to prominence in later generations. Today, it has earned a modest reputation in the martial world. However, the succession of the manor's leadership was based solely on bloodline rather than merit, which led to widespread dissatisfaction within the sect. Many disciples left, founding their own sects. Eventually, Muo Sword Manor split into six factions: Muo Sword Manor, Qi Sword Manor, Yi Sword Manor, Xuan Sword Manor, Xu Sword Manor, and Yufeng Manor.

Before the divisions of Hanzhen Sect and Muo Sword Manor, the two sects had no connections and rarely interacted. But the emergence of a legendary sword made them lifelong enemies. The sword, named "Seventeen," was forged by a family surnamed Xia from beyond the northern frontier. This blade, unparalleled in power, was ranked alongside the famous "Flying Leaf Blade" as one of the martial world's dual wonders. The Xia family, known for their eccentric behavior, never used the sword themselves but instead entrusted it to the warriors of the Central Plains. Every year, they held a martial arts competition on Mount Yi, and the winner was granted possession of the sword for seventeen years. After this period, the bearer was required to pass the sword on to the next champion, or else they would face the Xia family's deadly pursuit.

Seventeen years ago, both Hanzhen Sect and Muo Sword Manor participated in that year's Mount Yi competition. The leader of Hanzhen Sect at the time was Xi Qingquan, while Muo Sword Manor was led by Song Qianfeng. The two were vastly unequal in skill—Xi Qingquan was a martial prodigy, while Song Qianfeng was mediocre. What was expected to be a quick match, however, took a surprising turn. At the moment of competition, Song Qianfeng's strength suddenly surged, causing the highly anticipated Xi Qingquan to struggle and retreat. The reason behind this was that Song Qianfeng had taken a drug that temporarily enhanced his abilities. However, at the crucial moment, Song's demeanor changed drastically—he went mad. Xi Qingquan, caught off guard, accidentally struck him off a cliff. By the time Muo Sword Manor's disciples found him, Song Qianfeng had already died. Thus, the twin wonders fell into the hands of Hanzhen Sect, and the enmity between the two sects was born.

Three years after the Mount Yi competition, both sects experienced internal turmoil—Hanzhen Sect split into two, and Muo Sword Manor fractured into six factions. To this day, they remain divided.

Seventeen years have passed in the blink of an eye, and the time for the Mount Yi competition is once again approaching.

On this scorching day, under the blazing sun, disciples from the six branches of Muo Sword Manor had gathered atop the peak of Liyun in Yufeng Manor, filling the place to capacity. Yufeng Manor's leader, Chang Jingyun, and Muo Sword Manor's leader, Song Yuanmo, had been locked in a standoff on Liyun Peak for hours. The duel had stretched on for a full day and night without a winner in sight, and it seemed that, in the end, they would have to settle for a draw.

Chang Jingyun said, "Master Song, the purpose of this competition is to exchange skills. Since we are evenly matched, why not call it a day?"

Song Yuanmo smiled, "Master Chang, you're mistaken. Today, the six branches have gathered here to determine who among us will lead the factions, unite against Hanzhen Sect, and avenge the death of Song Gong."

Chang Jingyun replied, "The six branches have been separate entities for many years now. Forcing them to reunite would only lead to discord and make it impossible to achieve anything significant!"

Song Yuanmo countered, "When Muo Sword Manor split into six factions all those years ago, there was discord then as well. But after all this time, many still wish to return to Muo Sword Manor. So why not follow the trend and reunite?"

In his heart, Chang Jingyun thought, "This man harbors ambitions of swallowing Yufeng Manor whole. My master founded Yufeng Manor from scratch after breaking away from Muo Sword Manor. How can I let his life's work be undone? Today, I will fight with all my might and not let Song Yuanmo get his way!"

As the two men stood locked in confrontation, a woman in red suddenly flew from the crowd. Her face was veiled, making it difficult to discern her appearance, but her bearing was extraordinary, as if she were a celestial being descending onto the ancient stone of Liyun Peak.

Song Yuanmo demanded, "Who are you?"

The woman smiled and said, "Hanzhen Sect, Meng Huantan."

Song Yuanmo, startled, asked, "You are Meng Huantan, leader of Hanzhen Sect?"

"Indeed! I am Meng Huantan. On this critical day, where you all gather to conspire against Hanzhen Sect, how could I miss such an important occasion?"

The word "vermin" enraged Song Yuanmo, who shouted furiously, "Witch! It was your Hanzhen Sect that killed my master Song Qianfeng all those years ago! I haven't even begun to settle that score, and here you are, delivering yourself to me!"

Meng Huantan laughed, "Victory and defeat are common in warfare. The victor becomes king, and the defeated a mere bandit. Your master lacked skill, and he met the end he deserved."

"Shameless witch! Today I shall take your life and avenge Master Song!"

Meng Huantan let out a few mocking laughs, "You want revenge? I fear your skills are so lacking that you might lose your life first. Perhaps you should go home and train for a few decades, and by then, you might be able to withstand a move or two from me."

Furious and humiliated by her words, Song Yuanmo unsheathed his sword and lunged at Meng Huantan, aiming straight for her abdomen. Yet, Meng Huantan remained calm, unmoved, and without dodging. When the sword was but half a foot away from her, she unleashed a technique called "Rain of Sorrows." Like a tempest of wind and rain, it froze Song Yuanmo's sword as though encased in ice, rendering it useless. Stunned, Song Yuanmo stared at his immobilized sword, unaware of his opponent's movements. In an instant, Meng Huantan appeared before him, and with a flick of her finger, his sword shattered in two. In the blink of an eye, her palm struck Song Yuanmo's chest, causing him to stagger back three steps, his chest wracked with sharp pain as he spat out a mouthful of blood.

Everyone present stood dumbfounded. Song Yuanmo was considered one of the top martial artists among the six factions, yet he was effortlessly defeated. The disparity in strength sparked whispers among the crowd. Glancing at the people around him, Song Yuanmo thought, "If I retreat now, Muo Sword Manor's honor will be utterly lost. How will the plan to unite the six factions ever be realized? No matter what, I must stand and fight again today."

Struggling to his feet, Song Yuanmo shouted to his disciples, "Bring me my sword!" A purple sword flew from its sheath, landing in Song Yuanmo's hand. He once again grasped his weapon and executed the move "A Thousand Swords in One."

In an instant, the purple sword multiplied into a flurry of flying swords, their color shifting from purple to red, all aimed at Meng Huantan. At this moment, Meng Huantan's sword finally unsheathed, radiating a powerful sword aura that repelled everyone present by at least a foot. The overwhelming force diverted Song Yuanmo's swords from their original path. Unfortunately for him, one sword flew back toward him, and before he could dodge, it was on the verge of striking him. In the nick of time, Chang Jingyun appeared, rescuing Song Yuanmo from danger.

Moments later, the sword aura slowly dissipated, leaving the crowd in awe of what they had just witnessed.

Curious, Chang Jingyun asked, "Elder Meng, that sword is so formidable, it must be the legendary Seventeen Sword?"

"Indeed! Just now, I used only thirty percent of its power. I never expected the renowned Master Song to be so utterly powerless. Perhaps it's time to awaken from your delusions of revenge!"

"Witch! Today I was outmatched, but I will not give up! One day, I will master my skills and kill you with my own hands to avenge Master Song's spirit!" Song Yuanmo spat out another mouthful of blood as he finished speaking. Seeing this, Chang Jingyun surmised that Song Yuanmo had been severely injured by Meng Huantan's strike and, if not treated soon, his life could be in danger.

Meng Huantan said with a smile, "Very well. I look forward to the day of your grand arrival." With that, she tossed a bottle of pills to Chang Jingyun and continued, "These are Hanzhen Sect's sacred healing pills. Have him take one for now." After speaking, Meng Huantan prepared to leave. However, a strange turn of events unfolded as suddenly, some people began experiencing chest tightness, their faces turning purple, and they vomited blood as if poisoned.

Seeing this, Chang Jingyun immediately turned to his disciples from Yufeng Manor, only to find his four pupils—Zhai Yue, Chen Zhiyuan, Yu Xiaohui, and Li Mangran—also showing signs of distress, all collapsing to the ground. Chang Jingyun quickly called out to Meng Huantan.

"Elder Meng, please wait! It seems that the sword aura from the Seventeen Sword has injured members of the six factions. We beg you to spare more of your healing medicine!"

Meng Huantan, aware of Chang Jingyun's ploy, laughed aloud and said, "Master Chang, the sword aura can cause injuries, but it does not poison. These people clearly show signs of poisoning, not from my doing. You'd best ascertain the facts before placing blame."

"Your wisdom is indeed great, Elder Meng. It's well known that Hanzhen Sect excels in the use of poisons. Might I ask you to examine them and identify the poison?"

Meng Huantan sneered, "A moment ago, you all spoke so boldly about killing me, and now, in the time it takes to drink a cup of tea, you're asking me to save you? What a fantasy! I will not save them. Hanzhen Sect is your sworn enemy. If I save you now, wouldn't that be like raising wolves to prey on us later? It's simply not a bargain worth making!"

Chang Jingyun clasped his hands in a respectful gesture, "Elder Meng's martial prowess is unmatched, and none of us here are your equal. How about this? If I can withstand three of your moves, you will agree to help cure the poisoned members of the six factions?"

Meng Huantan glanced at Chang Jingyun disdainfully and said, "Forget three moves—if you can withstand just one, I will grant your request."

"Very well! Elder Meng, your words are as swift as the wind, and once spoken, cannot be taken back!"

With the challenge set, Meng Huantan immediately leaped from the ancient stone, landing gracefully on the Divine Wind Platform. Gripping the Seventeen Sword, she swung it, and the air around seemed to be drawn into the blade, concentrating at a single point before surging toward Chang Jingyun. Yet, instead of drawing his sword to defend, Chang Jingyun employed an unusual technique.

What was remarkable about this move was that, though Meng Huantan's sword aura was powerful enough to bring down buildings, Chang Jingyun was enveloped by another current of energy, leaving him completely unharmed. Meng Huantan was astonished and thought to herself, "In all these years, no one has ever been able to withstand the Seventeen Sword's aura unscathed. How did this young man manage it? Could it be that there are indeed heavens beyond the heavens, and men greater than men? I used half of my strength in that strike—did he exert his full power, or not? If we continue, the outcome may be uncertain. Without understanding his technique, it's better to withdraw for now."

With that thought, Meng Huantan sheathed her sword and said aloud, "Since you managed to withstand a move from me, I have lost the wager." She then approached one of the injured disciples and began to check his pulse, her expression focused and serious.

After a moment, Meng Huantan said to Chang Jingyun, "The poison affecting these people is a rare toxin from the East, known as 'Thousand Cranes.' It is colorless, odorless, and spreads through the air, making it difficult to detect even for those with profound inner strength. It is concocted from thirteen different poisonous flowers and herbs, and the antidote must be prepared in a specific order—one wrong step, and the cure will turn into poison."

Chang Jingyun asked, "Does Hanzhen Sect have a way to cure this poison?"

Meng Huantan replied, "This poison disappeared from the Central Plains twenty years ago, and even I have only read about it in old texts. It's said that this poison now only exists in the East, but when it returned to our lands is unknown. I've told you all I can. It's not that I refuse to save them; rather, there is no cure. However, I can point you in the right direction."

"Please, Elder Meng, share your wisdom."

"Hanzhen Sect is known for its mastery of poisons, as everyone in the martial world knows. But there is another sect, one that specializes in antidotes. You might find a solution there."

"Which sect would that be? I ask for your guidance."

"Fan Flower Valley." With those words, Meng Huantan leaped from the Divine Wind Platform, vanishing into the clouds.

At that moment, Duan Qinyu, the master of Xuanjian Manor, approached and inquired about the solution. Chang Jingyun felt helpless, watching as the poisoned individuals began to convulse, their agony unbearable. One among them, unable to endure the pain, broke free from the crowd and leaped from Li Yun Peak, while others appeared ready to follow suit, hoping to end their suffering through death. Though Chang Jingyun, Duan Qinyu, and others tried desperately to stop them, their efforts proved futile. Just then, a woman in a simple blue robe appeared, bringing with her a glimmer of hope. Her skin was as fair as snow, and she called out, "Senior Brother Chang!"

"Sister Xiao Qing, why have you come at this time?"

"I was waiting for you at Yufeng Manor, but I heard from our disciples that something terrible had happened at Li Yun Peak, so I rushed over to see if I could help."

Chang Jingyun replied, "These people have been poisoned by a rare toxin from the East called 'Thousand Cranes.' The pain is unbearable, and there seems to be no cure."

Xiao Qing quickly responded, "I have some Restorative Heart Pills here. They can temporarily alleviate their pain, but a more permanent cure must be found elsewhere."

Chang Jingyun took the pills and gave them to the poisoned individuals, who soon began to recover. He then ordered the disciples of Yufeng Manor who had not been poisoned to escort the wounded back to the manor for proper care, an act that earned the gratitude of the disciples from the other sects. Watching this, Song Yuanmo realized that the plan to unite the factions was no longer feasible for the time being. Hastily, he led the disciples of Muo Sword Manor down the mountain.

Upon returning to Yufeng Manor, Chang Jingyun finally remembered to ask Xiao Qing the reason for her visit.

Blushing, Xiao Qing said, "Forgive me for troubling you with this, Senior Brother, but I have found a suitable match. Next month, I will be wed in Taiyuan, and I have come to deliver an invitation, hoping you will honor us with your presence."

Chang Jingyun was overjoyed and quickly responded, "This is wonderful news! I will certainly attend. May I ask who the lucky man is?" Xiao Qing's cheeks flushed as she replied, "My future husband's surname is Ye, with the given name 'Mian.' He is not of the martial world; his family has been merchants for generations. After all these years, I have grown tired of the fighting and feuds of the jianghu. From now on, I wish for a quiet, peaceful life. I hope you understand, Senior Brother."

"Sister, you are absolutely right. We were both disciples under the same master, and though I am a few years older than you, I have always regarded you as my younger sister. Now that you are to be wed, it is only fitting that I, as your elder brother, be the first to offer my blessings."

"I am deeply grateful to you, Senior Brother, for your kind attention. Master Duan, the head of Xuanjian Manor, is also present, and the two of you have been close since childhood. I happen to have an invitation addressed to him, and I would be most obliged if you could pass it on for me."

Chang Jingyun accepted the invitation and once again congratulated Xiao Qing. She said, "After delivering this invitation today, I must return immediately. There are many matters to attend to on my husband's side, and I cannot linger long. I hope you will forgive me, Senior Brother."

"If you're pressed for time, hurry on your way. I promise to attend your wedding next month and enjoy your celebration."

Before leaving, Xiao Qing handed him several bottles of Restorative Heart Pills and instructed, "These were given to me by my future husband. Knowing my life in the martial world, he prepared these medicines for injuries. They're highly effective for pain and wounds. If anyone suffers from the poison again, administer these pills. I'm confident, Senior Brother, that you will soon discover the antidote."

Chang Jingyun replied, "Thank you for your kind words, Junior Sister. I will do my utmost to find the cure."

After seeing Xiao Qing off, Chang Jingyun busied himself with settling the disciples of various sects. By the time he found a moment of peace, it was already midnight. He sat alone by the railing, absentmindedly holding a jug of wine. In the distance, Duan Qinyu approached and said, "Yufeng Manor is always shrouded in mist. If you're here to admire the moon, you'll find nothing but a blank whiteness. But if it's the antidote you're pondering, I'm open to discussing it."

Chang Jingyun smiled, "Are you mocking me, Master Duan?"

Duan Qinyu responded, "Not at all! I'm simply offering my help. But there's something I don't quite understand."

"What's that?" Chang Jingyun asked, curious.

"During your fight with Meng Huantan today on Li Yun Peak, that final move you made—was that truly your full strength?"

"Of course. My last move was the ultimate form of the Wind's Eight Techniques: 'West Wind, Hidden Moon.' It's purely defensive, meant only to protect oneself. Once it's unleashed, no martial arts under heaven can harm you."

"And do you believe Meng Huantan fought with her full strength?"

"Judging by instinct, I doubt it. It's not just her skills—no one can rival her sword alone."

Duan Qinyu said, "You've given your all, but only you know for certain that you did."

"What do you mean by that?"

"It's simple. You've never fought Meng Huantan before, so she doesn't know your full capabilities. When you used 'West Wind, Hidden Moon,' you skillfully avoided her Seventeen Swords. Even she likely didn't expect it. She must have assumed you hadn't used your full power, which is why the duel ended as it did. Soon, word will spread throughout the martial world that you and Meng Huantan are equals, both the best under heaven. Little will they know, her abilities far surpass yours."

"You're mocking me again, Brother Duan!"

"Mocking? Not at all! Soon, you'll be famed across the land. Imagine the glory!"

"You should know me better than that. I care nothing for hollow titles. My only focus now is finding the antidote. But there's something strange—who poisoned everyone? All the disciples present were from the Six Great Manors. Could it be internal treachery?"

Duan Qinyu mused, "It does seem odd. But from what I saw, all the disciples appear genuinely affected. None of them seemed to be faking it. Who do you think is the most suspicious?"

"Whoever wasn't poisoned is the one we should suspect."

Duan Qinyu replied, "Aside from us, the only others are..."

"Mu Jian Manor!" They spoke in unison.

Chang Jingyun wondered, "If the Thousand Cranes poison was unleashed at Li Yun Peak, then the disciples of Mu Jian Manor must have taken the antidote beforehand. That's why they were unharmed and left without issue."

"No wonder they departed in such haste!" Duan Qinyu added. "When I descended from the peak, I checked all the disciples' conditions. Not a single one from Mu Jian Manor was injured. Later, I heard that Song Yuanmo hurriedly led them down the mountain."

Chang Jingyun said, "He's our prime suspect. If it was truly him, then he must have the antidote. Unfortunately, we let him slip away."

Duan Qinyu replied, "Then tomorrow, we should visit Mu Jian Manor for the antidote."

"We're going to find the antidote, but not at Mu Jian Manor."

"Where, then? Fan Flower Valley?"

"Exactly, Fan Flower Valley."

Duan Qinyu was puzzled, "If it was Song Yuanmo who poisoned them, shouldn't we be heading to Mu Jian Manor for the antidote? Why go to Fan Flower Valley?"

Chang Jingyun said, "If it is truly Song Yuanmo who poisoned them, he certainly won't admit to it, nor will he willingly hand over the antidote. So rather than wasting time entangling ourselves at Mujian Manor, we should go directly to Fanhua Valley to seek the antidote."

"You make a fair point, but I still feel unsettled."

Chang Jingyun replied, "What's there to be unsettled about? I'll leave tomorrow to avoid any further delays!"

"Tomorrow? Isn't that a bit too soon?"

Chang Jingyun explained, "The disciples of various sects are gravely poisoned. If I don't act swiftly, their lives may be at risk. You stay behind at Yufeng Manor, take good care of them, and oversee matters. I'll return as soon as possible."

Chang Jingyun took a large gulp of wine and offered the jug to Duan Qinyu, asking if he wanted some. Duan Qinyu shook his head. Seeing this, Chang Jingyun did not press him, but jested, "You're a man of stature, yet you don't drink. If your future child follows in your footsteps, that would be quite troublesome!"

Duan Qinyu retorted, "Who says a man of the martial world must drink? I've never been able to hold my liquor. One cup and I'm down, no one can do anything about it."

Chang Jingyun laughed, "It seems such fine wine will be mine to savor alone. What a shame, what a pity!"

Duan Qinyu replied, "There's nothing to pity. Life is full of disappointments, more often than not. If I were to lament every little thing, I'd spend all my days fretting over trivial matters."

Chang Jingyun nodded, finding some sense in Duan Qinyu's words. Suddenly reminded of Xiao Qing, he added, "My junior sister visited today, as you saw. Before she left, she mentioned that she's getting married next month and brought me a wedding invitation. She asked me to pass one on to you as well." He pulled out the invitation and handed it to Duan Qinyu.

"Xiao Qing is getting married?" Duan Qinyu was stunned, words faltering on his lips.

Seeing Duan Qinyu's amusing expression, Chang Jingyun couldn't help but laugh, "There are plenty of flowers in the world!"

Duan Qinyu remained silent, snatching the wine jug from Chang Jingyun and draining it in one gulp. In no time, his face flushed red, and he collapsed onto the corridor floor. Chang Jingyun glanced at the drunken Duan Qinyu, sighed, and picked up another jug of wine to drink alone.

At dawn the next day, Chang Jingyun set off for Fanhua Valley. Duan Qinyu was still asleep, so Chang Jingyun instructed a few disciples to take good care of him before departing alone on a swift horse.

Fanhua Valley and Hanzhen Sect were originally branches of the same school—one specialized in poisons, the other in antidotes, sharing the same lineage. As Chang Jingyun journeyed to Fanhua Valley, the outcome was uncertain. He didn't know whether they would be willing to assist, and even if they agreed, he couldn't be sure they could produce the antidote. In the end, he might still have to confront Song Yuanmo at Mujian Manor to obtain it.