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The early spring nights were no longer as biting as the winter chill, yet still carried a hint of cold.
A gentle breeze slipped through the gap of the main door, causing the dim oil lamp on the table to flutter, casting dappled and kaleidoscopic shadows on the simple furniture.
Shen Qing's complexion was illuminated with a mix of light and shadow.
The worn wooden table, its edges smoothed over time, held five yellowing books and a stack of new paper filled with writing.
Shen Qing sat by the table, his brow furrowed, eyes flickering with a complex light.
His fingers repeatedly traced over the five martial arts secret manuals: "Illusion Breaking Fist, Netherworld Ghost Steps, Eight Extremities Collapse, Wuji Tiangang Kick, Dragon Roar Armor, Nine Revolutions Mysterious Skill..."
The smoke from the oil lamp rose slowly, with the sound of the burning crackling echoing in the empty room.