As the dust settled from Jiang Yue's momentous acceptance as a disciple, the excitement in the air was palpable. The sword reverent, accompanied by a group of talented sword cultivators, took off into the heavens, leaving behind a deep impression on everyone present. Among them was Wang Feng, a striking young man clad in orange robes, designated to guide Jiang Yue to the first Jianfeng, introducing her to the life of a sword cultivator in the Blue Soul.
"Just a moment, fellow apprentices!" Jiang Yue called to the group as they prepared to depart.
Wang Feng turned, his expression warm and appreciative. "Take your time," he replied, his sunny demeanor shining through.
However, Jiang Yue's focus shifted as she approached Yun Xiao, her expression steely. "Do you regret it?" she asked, raising her chin defiantly.
"Regret? Not at all! I never expected your Sword Soul to be so incredible. Truly, you've surpassed my wildest imagination," Yun Xiao replied, giving her a playful thumbs-up.
"Vulgar…" Jiang Yue shot him a piercing glare, her teeth clenched. "You may not fear me, but I promised you ten times that I wouldn't let your insults go unpunished."
Yun Xiao smirked, his heart twisting at her confidence. "And what will you do? Will you seek revenge on me?"
Jiang Yue's beautiful features contorted in frustration. "You don't understand the magnitude of my abilities," she retorted, her pride evident. "I won't need to stoop to your level to prove myself."
As she turned away, she overheard Wang Feng conversing with Yao Qingqian nearby.
"What's the story with that guy?" Wang Feng asked, folding his arms and narrowing his eyes at Yun Xiao.
"Just a clumsy fool who got in Jiang Yue's way and hurt her," Yao Qingqian replied with a dismissive snort.
"Is that so?" Wang Feng's Sword Intent flared momentarily. "He really went for it, then."
"Fools like him are everywhere in this world," Yao Qingqian said, her disdain evident. "They think they can climb high without skill, but they often find themselves falling into the abyss."
Wang Feng nodded in agreement. "Exactly. I've been practicing a new technique called the 'Skin Technique.' I can peel a person's skin without harming them. I just need to find a 'frog' for practice," he said, a mischievous grin spreading across his face.
"Peeled skin? Will they survive?" Yao Qingqian asked, intrigued.
"Of course! They'll just jump around in excitement," Wang Feng laughed.
Yao Qingqian smirked, her eyes twinkling. "It's a pity about this boy's good leather—he dared to challenge the Blue Soul without fully understanding the immortal path."
"An immortal is worth ten thousand Guku! Without skill, one can easily extinguish their own divine shape," Wang Feng added, his tone serious.
Despite their banter, Wang Feng's demeanor shifted when Jiang Yue rejoined them. With a newfound brightness, he took her slender waist, effortlessly lifting her as they soared into the sky, leaving behind the rest of the new disciples.
As they flew together, the other Blue Soul newcomers felt a wave of relief wash over them. Jiang Yue's ascension as a disciple of the sword reverent created a vast gulf between her and the rest.
"Yun Xiao's fate is sealed," one murmured. "With the monster bone he lost, he should have been the one buried in the wilderness."
Although Yun Xiao remained alive, the weight of his past decisions pressed heavily on him.
"Your nine companions, choose your Jianfeng wisely," Yao Qingqian commanded, addressing the group. "Forest Rock, you're designated for the first Jianfeng. The rest of you, make your choices."
Her words carried authority, and the selected youngsters rushed to secure their futures, many eager to align themselves with the first Jianfeng. With the chatter of new friendships and alliances growing louder, Yun Xiao found himself the last one standing, waiting for guidance.
As he looked to the elders for direction, Yu Elder stepped forward, gesturing for him to join him near the edge of the receiving sword stage.
"Yun Xiao," he began, his voice steady. "I wanted to talk to you."
Yun Xiao nodded, intrigued. "What is it, Yu Elder?"
"Tell me, how do you perceive me?" Yu Elder asked earnestly.
"Fair and just, as always," Yun Xiao replied, recalling their earlier interactions.
"Yao Qingqian has spoken on your behalf," Yu Elder continued, an earnest look in his eyes.
"Really?" Yun Xiao was surprised. He hadn't expected such backing.
"Yes, but you must heed my advice," Yu Elder warned, his expression serious. "Do not choose my seventh Jianfeng."
Yun Xiao's brows furrowed in confusion. "Why not?"
Yu Elder hesitated, clearly struggling with his words. "My old self has grown weary. I cannot guide you as you deserve. Choose wisely, Yun Xiao. Your path should lead you somewhere other than here."
Yun Xiao sensed the weight behind those words and felt a shiver run down his spine. This was more than just advice; it was a warning, urging him to forge his own destiny beyond the seventh Jianfeng and its uncertainties.
"Thank you, Yu Elder. I will take your words to heart," he vowed, feeling the significance of the moment wash over him.
With determination in his heart, he prepared to choose his Jianfeng, ready to carve out his own path, away from the shadow of Jiang Yue and the expectations of the Blue Soul.
Yun Xiao felt a strange mixture of emotions as he conversed with Yu Elder. The elder's expression was complex, a hint of regret mingling with his concern. "Young man, I'm truly sorry! I recognize your potential. Even though Jiang Yue is at the Kaiyang level, I could still have wrapped you up in my protection. What a pity..." His voice trailed off, as if the weight of the world rested on his shoulders.
"What a pity indeed. She's surpassed the Kaiyang level, breaking the sword stone and shattering Blue Soul history!" Yun Xiao thought to himself, but he simply smiled and replied, "No need to worry, Yu Elder. Things are as they should be."
Yu Elder sighed, relief washing over him. "I cannot bring disaster to the seventh Jianfeng. Can you understand my position?"
"I understand," Yun Xiao said with a nod.
"Thank you," Yu Elder replied, cupping his hands in a gesture of respect.
As the conversation drifted into the deeper implications of their choices, Yun Xiao felt the tension in the air. The elder's words hinted at something significant, but it was wrapped in caution.
"Disaster?" Yun Xiao mused, but kept the question to himself. The elder seemed relieved, turning away to observe the remaining elders. Aside from Yu Elder and Yao Qingqian, the other five Jianfeng elders were slipping away, perhaps afraid that Yun Xiao would choose them.
"What's this?" Yu Elder thought, puzzled by Yun Xiao's calm demeanor.
Yun Xiao, however, felt an inner confidence. "An ascetic fights against fate, living more selfishly and realistically than others," he reflected. His experiences had led him to realize that the world of cultivation was not about ideals but survival and strength.
"I used to have fantasies about Blue Soul, imagining that ascetics roamed freely, eradicating monsters and reigning supreme. But now, I see the truth: the world is far from perfect, and those who appear noble may not be," he concluded inwardly. Still, he resolved to enter Blue Soul, knowing he had come here not to uphold justice but to hone his skills in the art of killing.
"Yet, if the seventh Jianfeng has no options left, then who will I choose?" His gaze fell on the stone chairs, especially the one at the center—the Sword Pavillion.
Today, it remained empty. "Blue Soul Sword Sect, Sword Pavillion, and the seven Jianfeng… surely the Sword Pavillion is the strongest lineage?" he pondered.
"Yu Elder, why is there no one in the Sword Pavillion?" Yun Xiao inquired, curious.
"Ah, the Sword Pavillion," Yu Elder responded, a hint of surprise crossing his features. "Not many live there anymore."
"Are there no living souls? Have they died?" Yun Xiao asked, bewildered.
"Do you wish to choose the Sword Pavillion?" Yu Elder's voice was urgent, almost pleading.
"I choose the Sword Pavillion," Yun Xiao stated firmly, feeling a wave of relief wash over Yu Elder.
Yao Qingqian's lips curled into a slight smile at his choice. Although they hadn't stated their intentions outright, it was clear they had hoped for this outcome.
"I've heard that the Sword Pavillion is the premier lineage of the Blue Soul," Yun Xiao remarked, studying the heavy, blue stone chair adorned with a mottled sword mark, which radiated a sharp Sword Intent.
"Three years ago, the Sword Pavillion was involved in a major event that caused a stir across a thousand lands. Have you not heard?" Yu Elder asked, his tone serious.
Yun Xiao shook his head. "I haven't."
"Once you enter the Sword Pavillion, you can inquire about it at your leisure," Yu Elder replied, pursing his lips thoughtfully.
"Alright," Yun Xiao agreed, his curiosity piqued.
Yu Elder clapped him on the shoulder, his demeanor shifting to one of concern. "As a disciple of the Sword Pavillion, you must first pay respects to Fen," he said, his voice heavy with sorrow.
"Pay respects to Fen?" Yun Xiao echoed, startled.
"Yes, the death ray," Yu Elder explained, sadness flickering in his eyes.
"Death ray?" Yun Xiao's interest was further piqued.
"Yes," Yu Elder confirmed, his tone solemn.
Yun Xiao felt a twinge of curiosity mixed with apprehension. Why was there so much secrecy surrounding this place?
"Have you asked anyone how to enter the Sword Pavillion?" Yu Elder probed.
Yun Xiao realized that their conversation had gone on long enough. Yu Elder's impatience was palpable; he was likely eager to return to Yao Qingqian and the others.
"Not yet," Yun Xiao replied. "But I'd like to ask—what does 'aspire to seize the seven swords' entail?"
"To put it bluntly, it's a contest among sword cultivators vying for resources to seize control of Blue Soul. The first sword reverent, Jiang Yue, has her sights set on the Divine Sea pill, and she aims to secure the top position for the first Jianfeng," Yu Elder explained.
"With that Divine Sea pill, who could possibly stand against someone like her?" Yun Xiao asked, his brow furrowing.
Yu Elder regarded him closely. "Young man, you clearly recognize the reality of the situation. If you were lucky enough to defeat her even once in your lifetime, it would be a stroke of incredible fortune."
"Haha..." Yun Xiao chuckled, the absurdity of it all striking him.
"Farewell, Yu Elder!" he said with a bow before turning to leave the sword stage, heading into the direction of the Blue Soul hills, ready to embrace the path ahead.
As he entered the boundless forest, he felt an overwhelming sense of liberation wash over him. There was no turning back now.
Meanwhile, Yao Qingqian observed him, a hint of disdain flickering in her eyes. "His choice to go to the Sword Pavillion is akin to stepping into the abyss," she murmured, watching him disappear into the trees.
Yun Xiao climbed the grand and expansive Blue Soul hills, following the winding paths until he finally arrived beneath the illustrious Sword Pavillion. This was the main peak of Blue Soul, renowned for its unique lineage and storied history. The mountain towered into the sky like a great blue sword, piercing through the clouds, an imposing sight that resonated with the spirit of cultivation.
As he ascended the green slate stairs leading up to the pavilion, he felt the refreshing surge of Spirit Qi engulf him, invigorating both body and soul. "This must be the dwelling of Buddhist immortals," he thought, envisioning a realm where practice could yield twice the results with half the effort. Compared to the world he had known, this place was indeed a paradise for cultivators.
By the time dusk settled, Yun Xiao stood before the ethereal white mist surrounding the Sword Pavillion. The simple yet elegant pavilions, shrouded in clouds, resembled the heavenly palaces described in mortal tales.
"Almost there," he whispered, his heart pounding with anticipation.
He climbed the final steps, the gentle breeze rustling through the trees, mingling with the fresh scent of vegetation. Birds chirped melodiously, and as twilight enveloped the landscape, a mist hung in the air, dampening his long hair and white garments.
"This tranquil and elusive environment…" he reflected, reminiscent of the immortals he had dreamed about in his youth. "But this path is more ruthless and bloody than I imagined."
Alone, he faced life and death with indifference, each kill merely a step towards his own understanding. The concepts of power, prestige, and even Jiang Yue's Divine Sea pill felt trivial compared to the deeper truths he sought.
As he approached a clearing, a graveyard came into view—a series of graves adorned with sacrificial offerings. Each grave bore a sword box, as if imprisoning the ominous spirits of fierce monsters, their grotesque faces grimacing at him.
Yun Xiao's gaze fell upon the inscriptions on the gravestones, and he felt a chilling atmosphere wash over him. Each character spoke of deep sorrow, memorializing those who had once walked the path of sword cultivation.
From left to right, he read the names:
- The grave of Qin Qingcheng, loved disciple.
- The grave of Li Qingwei, loved disciple.
- The grave of Du Qinghai, loved disciple.
- The grave of Cai Blue Sky, loved disciple.
Seven graves in total, each marked with blood-red characters that conveyed profound grief and loss. It was as if he could sense the presence of a revered elder bidding farewell to their seven juniors.
"Entering the Sword Pavillion, one must first pay respects to Fen," Yun Xiao recalled Yu Elder's words. Bowing before the graves, he offered eleven respectful gestures, noting the wine glass filled with offerings—a clear indication that others had honored them as well.
"Who are you?" a languid voice called from behind.
Yun Xiao turned to see a man dressed in a yellow sword robe. His appearance was scruffy; his hair looked wild, and he was gnawing on a large chicken leg, grease dribbling onto his beard.
Just as Yun Xiao's little black beast stirred in his chest, the man exclaimed excitedly, "A new disciple? Unprecedented! After three years, Sword Pavillion finally has a new disciple! Happy days are here again!"
The man approached him, oily hands resting on Yun Xiao's shoulder. "You're really handsome! From today, I announce you as Sword Pavillion's 'pavilion grass'!"
Yun Xiao glanced at the grease now on his shoulder and couldn't help but smile. It appeared that Blue Soul Sword Sect had its fair share of eccentric characters.
"May I ask your name, Senior Brother?" Yun Xiao inquired politely.
"Your age?" the man responded, tucking his hair behind his ear.
"Sixteen," Yun Xiao answered.
"Then you should call me Chicken Feather Senior Brother!" the man shouted gleefully.
Yun Xiao paused. "Chicken Feather Senior Brother?" he echoed, somewhat bemused.
"No! It's not my name!" the man protested, raising the chicken leg dramatically. "I meant you should just call me Senior Brother!"
Suddenly enlightened, Yun Xiao quickly corrected himself, "Excuse me, I misunderstood. It's good to meet you, Chicken Feather Senior Brother."
The man burst into laughter, pointing at Yun Xiao. "I'm not surnamed Chicken Feather! 'Chicken Feather' is just a nickname! Got it?"
Yun Xiao was taken aback. "Then may I ask your actual surname?"
The man puffed out his chest, clearly enjoying the moment. "My name is Cai, just call me Cai Maomao!"
Yun Xiao couldn't help but stifle a laugh. "Cai Maomao… that doesn't sound like Chicken Feather at all!"
Cai Maomao, now with an air of brotherly affection, slapped Yun Xiao on the back. "From now on, Junior Brother Yun, I'll take care of you! I've been too lonely here for three years without fresh faces!"
"Alright," Yun Xiao nodded, appreciating the camaraderie.
"The sun is setting, and Senior Sister Zhao hasn't made an appearance lately. I think tonight we should enjoy some roast chicken together!" Cai Maomao added with enthusiasm. "I'll introduce you to her tomorrow. Once you receive your disciple token and enter the Sword Pavillion, you'll officially be part of Blue Soul Sword Pavillion."
"Senior Sister Zhao?" Yun Xiao asked, intrigued.
"Yeah," Cai Maomao leaned in, lowering his voice conspiratorially. "Listen closely, Junior Brother. As a newcomer, I'll share the first survival principle of Sword Pavillion with you."
"Survival principle? What is it?" Yun Xiao inquired, curiosity piqued.
"Don't annoy Senior Sister Zhao!"
"... Noted," Yun Xiao replied, sensing a hint of trepidation. The way Cai Maomao spoke, it sounded like she was someone to be reckoned with.
With that, the evening unfolded with warmth and laughter, the camaraderie providing a welcome respite from the seriousness of their surroundings.
Meanwhile, far away, Yao Qingqian opened a gauzy curtain only to be confronted with a grisly sight. "Ye Guao?" she gasped, horror seizing her as she recognized the bloody scene before her. It wasn't just a severed head; it was Ye Guao himself!
The news of Ye Guao's death sent shockwaves through the Blue Soul Sword Sect, and Yao Qingqian was in no mood for leniency. Her voice was icy as she demanded answers, "Who killed him?"
"Don't know!" came the response from one of the disciples nearby.
"Don't know? Listen closely!" Yao Qingqian's complexion darkened as she glared at them, fury radiating from her. "Feng Road! Anyone who participated in the ascension road must not leave! Only those who have become Blue Soul disciples are allowed to walk free. Everyone else is to be detained in the 'ban Sword Prison' until further notice!"
The disciples from the first Jianfeng sprang into action at her command, scrambling to enforce her orders.
"Get me some ice pieces," Yao Qingqian instructed sharply.
"Why do you need ice?" one of them asked, confused.
"To freeze Ye Guao's body," she replied, her tone grim. "We need to ensure that when Sword King Ye returns from Ten Thousand Swords Sea, he sees his brother as he is—alive or dead. I need to control the situation before it spirals out of control. If I don't, I'll never be able to face him again."
Gloom hung over her like a storm cloud. Although Jiang Yue had ascended, the loss of Ye Guao weighed heavily on her. She feared the wrath that would descend upon them once Ye Guying learned of his brother's death.
Meanwhile, at the first Jianfeng, the atmosphere was thick with tension as night fell. The day had painted the Blue Soul with ethereal beauty, but darkness brought with it a sense of foreboding. In a lavish palace adorned with intricate designs, Wang Feng, a revered disciple, reclined lazily as he surveyed the gathered first Jianfeng disciples.
"The night is dark and fraught with danger," he murmured, turning to face them. "Let's see what fury we can unleash upon young Yue tonight." His tone was laden with malice.
"Did Elder Yao send a message?" one disciple inquired, concern etched on his face.
"Which Jianfeng would dare recruit that unfortunate soul?" another chimed in, nervousness palpable in the air.
"Ah, but Sword Pavillion did," Wang Feng said, a smirk creeping onto his lips as he touched his nose thoughtfully.
Laughter erupted among the disciples, their nervousness momentarily forgotten.
"Haha... I've heard he took the 500-year-old monster bone of Sword King Ye!" one laughed, eyes sparkling with mischief.
In Wang Feng's gaze, a darker ambition flickered—a deep corruption that reflected his true motives.
---
Meanwhile, outside the chaos of the palace, shadows darted through the Blue Soul under the veil of night, each figure a part of the larger web of intrigue that surrounded the Sword Sect. The loss of Ye Guao was not merely a tragedy; it was a catalyst for vengeance, betrayal, and the struggle for power within the sect.
The brothers who had once stood united now faced a fractured future, where the stakes of loyalty and ambition were measured in blood. In the midst of it all, the reality of their past sins and the unforgiving nature of their world loomed large, ready to claim more than just a few souls. The night whispered promises of chaos, and the first act of their tragic tale was yet to unfold.