Chương 17: Chapter 96 - 100: A Single Step, the Ultimate Martial Art. Master Li. Once Promised to be the Best in the World. The Heart of a Sect Master. The Ultimate Sword Art, A Divine Sword!.
Chapter 96: A Single Step, the Ultimate Martial Art [Sixth Update]
Sun Hongdian was a little surprised, but he didn't think much of it. After letting go of Li Hao's hand, he turned to the students below and introduced,
"Everyone, this is the newly appointed teacher's assistant at the academy, the young master of the Li family, Li Hao!"
Wow!
With the mention of the name "Li Hao," the crowd of students, who were originally filled with surprise, doubt, and curiosity, suddenly burst into an uproar.
Over the past few days, this name had been on everyone's lips throughout the city.
Whether it was in tea houses, restaurants, or even brothels, people were talking about him.
While in a world where heroes vie for supremacy, this name might only be akin to dropping a small stone, creating ripples that have just begun to spread and have not yet reached far.
However, within Qingzhou City, it had become a household name.
A fourteen-year-old at the Fifteen-Mile Realm—a once-in-a-millennium genius!
Such a living legend was standing right before their eyes?
The students widened their eyes, examining Li Hao as if he were a rare treasure.
Li Hao felt helpless but had expected such a reaction, so he could only get used to it.
"From now on, Young Master Li will be your instructor. He only teaches three times a year, so listen carefully and cherish this opportunity. No noise or chaos!" Sun Hongdian announced loudly to the students.
The students' eyes sparkled with excitement. They were about to be taught by such a legendary youth. What insights could he offer? Many of them were filled with anticipation, even though they didn't expect Li Hao to teach them anything substantial. They were still curious about his demeanor.
"Young Master Li, I'll leave him to you now." Sun Hongdian turned to Li Hao and smiled.
Li Hao nodded with a smile. As he watched Sun Hongdian wave goodbye and leave, he then turned to face the classroom, which gradually quieted down.
"Since all of you already know me, I won't bother with self-introductions." Li Hao smiled and asked, "What would you like to learn? Sword techniques, fist techniques, or body movement techniques?"
"You're going to teach us sword techniques?" Upon hearing Li Hao's words, a glint appeared in Song Yuyao's eyes, as most of them practiced the sword.
Li Hao knew that swordsmen and bladesmen were like language and mathematics—they were the primary disciplines, the broad categories. Eight or nine out of ten martial artists practiced one of these two types of weapons.
Throughout history, the most abundant types of techniques were those for the sword and the blade.
"If you want to learn, I'll teach." Li Hao smiled.
"Are you going to teach us the techniques of the Listening Rain Pavilion?" A bold young man asked, his face full of anticipation.
They were all young masters and young ladies from prestigious families, with decent family backgrounds. After completing their studies here, some would venture into the martial world to make a name for themselves, while others would return to inherit their family fortunes.
With the cultivation of the Divine Travel Realm, they would be able to suppress many threats and be considered relatively powerful among their peers.
"I'm sorry, but the Li family's secret techniques are not to be shared externally." Li Hao smiled and said, "However, I can teach you the sword technique that your White Palace Master cultivates."
"But you haven't learned it yourself. How can you teach us?" Someone asked in surprise, and their impression of Li Hao changed instantly.
"It's not too late to learn it now." Li Hao smiled and asked, "Who has a sword manual? Lend it to me."
Hearing this, the students were stunned and soon became dissatisfied. Li Hao's words were too arrogant, and he didn't seem to take this teaching session seriously at all.
Their initial anticipation suddenly felt unfulfilled.
Song Yuyao frowned slightly, and her impression of Li Hao changed as well. She found him too arrogant.
"Young Master Li, we really want to learn," someone reminded him with good intentions.
"In that case, let's get started quickly. Does anyone have a sword manual?" Li Hao asked.
Seeing that Li Hao remained unchanged, the rest of the students also became disappointed and frowned.
Was he going to simply glance at the sword manual and give them a few pointers? Whether or not he could teach well was one thing, but his attitude was terrible.
Disappointment flashed in Song Yuyao's eyes as well. While it was true that he was an unparalleled genius, this arrogance was also genuine.
The students all showed dissatisfaction on their faces, but no one spoke up.
If he didn't want to teach, then forget it. Why put on a show?
So what if he was the young master of the General's Manor?
Of course, these words were only muttered in their hearts, and no one dared to say them aloud.
After all, Li Hao's identity was intimidating, and no one wanted to offend him openly, as that would be foolish.
Li Hao looked around and saw the expressions on their faces, instantly understanding their thoughts. He felt a bit helpless and continued to scan the room, his gaze finally landing on Song Yuyao:
"Song, do you have a sword manual? Let me take a look."
Song Yuyao's face turned slightly unnatural when she was singled out by Li Hao, especially when she felt the gazes of the others on her. She frowned and said, "I didn't bring a sword manual. I've already practiced this sword technique to near perfection."
"Then get me a sword manual." Li Hao said.
Song Yuyao was speechless. She pouted slightly and reluctantly agreed. She was just about to ask her good sister Lin Feifei for one when a young man spoke up:
"Young Master Li, I have one."
He quickly ran up and handed the sword manual to Li Hao, then smiled at him, "Young Master Li, my name is Ma Jing."
He revealed a flattering expression on his face.
Li Hao nodded.
When the young man returned to his seat, whispers filled the room, as the students clearly looked down upon Ma Jing's flattery.
However, Ma Jing didn't mind. Whether or not Li Hao looked down on them, this was an opportunity to get on his good side, and only a fool would miss it.
"Please give me a moment." Li Hao took the sword manual and said to the students below.
Then, he lowered his head and began to read.
Page by page, the words and diagrams in the sword manual were easily understandable to Li Hao due to his profound insight into the sword path. By the time he had read halfway through, he could even deduce the subsequent moves in his mind.
This was an upper-tier sword manual called "Yin-Yang Polarization Sword."
[Basic understanding achieved. Do you want to master it?]
Master it.
Li Hao silently answered in his mind.
Soon, a vast amount of information surged into his brain, but with his current cultivation, it was easy to accept and digest. He only needed to close his eyes for a moment before fully absorbing everything.
He glanced at the panel again:
Yin-Yang Polarization Sword (True Form)
- Yin-Yang Reversal.
Yin-Yang Reversal was the ultimate technique of this sword art. With his profound understanding of the Dao, Li Hao could grasp the ultimate technique of most martial arts.
For example, the ultimate technique of the Falling Snow Sword Art was Avalanche!
"The student outside the door, come in and join the class as well.
As for Li Hao teaching swordsmanship, even if Li Hao had intended to teach seriously, this young man had no interest. Ever since he was young, he had disliked martial arts, but being born into a military family, he had no choice but to endure it.
"Thank you, Young Master Li. My name is Zhou Zheng," the young man said.
Li Hao nodded and said, "Return to your seat."
After Zhou Zheng returned to his seat, Li Hao said, "I'll demonstrate a perfect level of the 'Yin-Yang Polarization Sword' for you. Try to feel it as I perform."
Huh?
The students, who had already lost interest and were even considering leaving, were taken aback by Li Hao's words. Someone covered their mouth, stifling their laughter.
Was he going to teach them a perfect level sword technique just by showing them once?
This was an advanced swordsmanship technique. Even if one was a genius, it would take two to three months to reach perfection, right?
Seeing Li Hao's bravado, the students were now eagerly watching, curious to see what this "legend" would do.
Song Yuyao frowned. Li Hao didn't give her the impression of being this boastful, but today's interaction had left her deeply disappointed.
However, thinking back to their brief encounter in Cangyu City, they hadn't really interacted much at all.
Sighing inwardly, Song Yuyao turned her head away, no longer interested in watching. She found it boring.
On the stage, Li Hao casually summoned a sword from the weapon rack.
His display of Quwu power caused those who had been sneering to become more solemn, their eyes reflecting the weight of his skill.
Regardless of Young Master Li's personality, his cultivation was indeed terrifying.
Li Hao, holding the sword, remained casual and natural. He sent the sword manual back to Ma Jing's desk and then began to wield the sword.
The 'Yin-Yang Polarization Sword' was a technique that alternated between the real and the illusory, with the real containing the illusory and the illusory containing the real. The killing moves and feints changed constantly, making it extremely complex.
In terms of difficulty, it was three points higher than the 'Falling Snow Sword Art'.
However, at this moment, as Li Hao casually swung the sword, his graceful figure and rainbow-like sword moves captivated the students. A set of exquisite and unparalleled 'Yin-Yang Polarization Sword' moves, combining the real and the illusory, unfolded before their eyes.
In an instant, the students who had been scoffing and expecting a show had their smiles frozen on their faces.
The curve of their lips slowly straightened, and they stared dumbfounded at the intricate and wonderful sword shadows.
The sudden silence in the hall surprised Song Yuyao, and she felt something was amiss. She turned her head to look at Li Hao, who was about to perform his trick.
But what met her eyes was a splendid and exquisite sword shadow, like a peacock spreading its tail.
This was... the 'Yin-Yang Polarization Sword'!
Song Yuyao was stunned.
She felt as if she had been struck by lightning, freezing in place.
She had almost perfected this sword technique, but she knew she couldn't perform the marvelous sword moves that were unfolding before her.
Between the illusory and the real, which was which?
Or perhaps, they were all illusory, and they were all real?
She couldn't distinguish anymore, her eyes dazzled by the myriad of flashing swords.
In the silent hall, after Li Hao finished his demonstration, the stillness persisted for a long while.
Li Hao sheathed his sword and looked at the students, giving them some time to process what they had seen before breaking the silence.
"Have you all learned it?"
"..."
"..."
The students snapped out of their daze, only to fall into silence again.
Learn it?
Just by watching once, he asked if they had learned it?
We would like to learn, but... we can't remember it! It's too much to take in!
"Um... Young Master Li, did you really just learn that sword technique now?"
Someone couldn't help but ask.
Hearing this, the students suddenly realized, their eyes widening as they stared at Li Hao as if he were a ghost.
Did he just learn that sword manual in one go?
And not just the basics, but a perfect level?!
Song Yuyao was also stunned, her red lips slightly parted as if something was stuck in her throat, leaving her speechless.
Li Hao sighed, "Although our Li family has collected quite a few cultivation techniques and secret manuals, the techniques of the Altar Palace Academy are not meant to be shared externally. We wouldn't dare to steal them."
Even if we did steal them, I wouldn't dare tell you... Li Hao added silently to himself.
Hearing Li Hao's words, the students looked at each other, knowing that what he said was true.
Each sect had its unique techniques and secret arts that were not to be passed on. If someone else were to learn them without permission, it would be a serious offense, and they would face repercussions from the sect and be ostracized by other martial arts sects.
"Then how did you..."
The students were confused. If he didn't steal it, did he really master it on the spot?
Just by watching once?
"Don't worry about that. Try to recall what you can, and once you've absorbed it, I'll perform it again slowly for you," Li Hao said.
Hearing Li Hao's words, the students immediately snapped back to attention and began to eagerly recall the moves they had just witnessed.
The hall fell silent once more.
Li Hao, with some time to kill, turned and brought the easel that had been left outside the door into the hall.
He then set up the easel and began to paint in front of the students.
As for what he was going to paint, Li Hao had an idea.
He would paint all these students into the picture.
Although they were all at the Shenyou Realm and their cultivation levels were not high, having so many of them together would still bring him a considerable amount of experience.
Some students were puzzled by Li Hao's strange behavior, but no one asked any questions, as they were still trying to recall the sword moves.
After a while, Li Hao finished the painting, estimating that half an hour had passed.
Those who could absorb the knowledge had done so, and those who couldn't would probably have forgotten most of it by now.
Clearing his throat, Li Hao said, "I'll perform it again for you, so watch carefully."
Hearing this, the students' spirits lifted, and their eyes unanimously focused on Li Hao.
Li Hao picked up the sword and, without further ado, began to perform the sword technique again, this time at a much slower pace.
Chapter 97: Master Li
The afterimages of the sword techniques lingered like an illusory dream, still lingering before their eyes even after the demonstration was over. The intricate sword shadows were difficult to forget, yet hard to recall with clarity.
Noticing that everyone was deep in thought, Li Hao didn't delay and sat down to continue painting.
+827, +789, +702...
Li Hao's brush moved swiftly as he painted, his ink-dipped strokes capturing the essence of the dozens of Divine Wander Realm cultivators. Each painting accumulated experience, ranging from seven to eight hundred points, causing his experience in the Way of Painting to soar.
As Li Hao painted, the others gradually regained their senses. Seeing him busy, they didn't dare disturb him and instead seized the opportunity to reflect on their experiences.
Upon completing the fourth painting, Li Hao turned to the group and asked, "How do you feel?"
"Young Master Li, could you demonstrate it for us again?"
After a moment of hesitation, a graceful and handsome young man spoke up. He was a genius in the White Palace, on par with Song Yuyao, and he felt embarrassed making such a request. After witnessing two demonstrations, he still couldn't quite grasp the technique.
Li Hao glanced at the others and saw the same mixture of anticipation and restraint in their eyes.
"Alright," he agreed thoughtfully. He knew that repeatedly demonstrating the technique wasn't the best approach. Moreover, having taken on the role of a teacher, he wanted to ensure he taught them properly and thoroughly. It wouldn't do to simply go through the motions.
He inquired about their cultivation bases and learned that they were all at the Agile level, though some had just reached it while others were close to perfection.
"Since I've taken on the role of a teacher, I hope you will make the most of it and achieve success," Li Hao said, addressing the group. "I plan to hold three classes this year, and during these sessions, I want you to strive to perfect this sword technique. If you can accomplish this, I will consider granting three wishes within my abilities!"
"Perfect level?"
"Three wishes?"
The group was stunned by Li Hao's ambitious promise.
He wasn't just granting them wishes; he was making wishes of his own!
Three classes to bring them all to the perfect level? That wasn't just high expectations; it was a pipe dream.
They didn't dare compare themselves to Li Hao, who could master a sword manual after a single glance and perform it flawlessly.
Moreover, they had their doubts, suspecting that Li Hao had prepared in advance. No teacher would skip lesson preparation. Perhaps he had someone secretly help him.
"Young Master Li, aren't you setting the bar a bit too high?" someone blurted out.
"Young Master, are you joking? I admit it's a bit funny..." added another.
Song Yuyao looked at Li Hao with confusion. She had reached the Agile level half a year ago and knew how challenging it was to progress from Agile to Perfect. Even with decent talent, it would take at least a year of intense training to engrave the sword techniques into one's bones and achieve perfection.
It was impossible to accomplish this in just three classes.
However, for the legendary Li family heir standing before them, the "impossible" seemed a little less distant. After all, everything he had demonstrated so far seemed to defy the impossible.
Seeing the whispers and discussions among the group, Li Hao didn't say more. He picked up his sword once more.
It would indeed be challenging for them to simply mimic his perfect-level sword technique demonstration, and it would also be a waste of time. However, if they could grasp the essence and nuances of the sword technique, it would be much easier to guide them from there.
"Quiet!"
Li Hao's gaze turned stern, silencing the entire hall.
The two words carried an air of authority that calmed the murmurs instantly.
Hearts stirred within the group, feeling a sense of solemnity as their gazes turned respectful.
"Pay attention and feel with your hearts," Li Hao instructed, his eyes focused on the sword in his hand.
He raised his hand, and the sword followed.
The Yin-Yang Split Sword, in its true form!
Indeed, surpassing the flawless and impeccable, Li Hao demonstrated the sword technique in its true state! The true form of the sword technique was a return to simplicity, transcending the mundane and revealing the ultimate essence and charm of this sword style.
The sword light flickered, alternating between black and white, a dance of light and shadow.
The sword seemed to wander in the air, yet it also felt like it was traversing another dimension.
The sword was substantial, while the air was insubstantial.
As the sword light turned, the black and white lights alternated, eventually merging into one with a fierce intensity.
The sword movement concluded.
The hall fell into a profound silence as everyone stared, transfixed. Their gazes and thoughts seemed to be carried away by that single sword strike, drowning in its allure and unable to break free.
Even after Li Hao sheathed his sword, they remained entranced, as if the elusive afterimage of the sword, filled with indescribable charm, still lingered before their eyes and in their minds.
Li Hao waited quietly, not wanting to interrupt their moment of realization.
Suddenly, someone snapped out of their trance, and soon, the others followed suit, awakening from their reverie.
"Th-That's the Yin-Yang Split Sword?" someone exclaimed, astonishment evident on their faces.
"It seems completely different from what I've been practicing! But this feels so genuine, like what I've been doing was false!"
"Not false, but incorrect!"
"This is the true Yin-Yang Split Sword! Mr. Sun taught us wrong, no, the manual itself is wrong!"
"A sword that defies yin and yang, a strike that confuses the void!"
The group grew increasingly excited, their voices rising in volume as their faces flushed with emotion.
Song Yuyao stood transfixed, blocking out the surrounding discussions. Suddenly, she closed her eyes.
The sword's shadow shimmered like light, trembled like a snake, and dazzled with vibrant colors!
In that moment, the sword's shadow resembled a peacock fanning its tail, a breathtaking display.
The sword technique that had been stuck at a bottleneck for half a year without progress had now reached a new level!
Everyone noticed, their eyes filled with shock as they watched her.
"Sister Song has comprehended it..."
"She's actually achieved perfection, and she's only been practicing this sword technique for less than a year!"
"It's the perfect level, exactly the same as when Young Master Li demonstrated it just now!"
The group was astounded, their emotions stirred, and they began to refer to Li Hao as "Master Li" instead of "Young Master Li".
From awe to admiration!
At the same time, the others seemed to have gained some insight as well, and they all rushed towards the weapon rack, drawing their swords and brandishing them.
The spacious hall provided ample space for their practice.
The rest also snapped out of their trance, too eager to continue observing others and instead seized the opportunity to imprint their newfound insights into their minds through their swords.
In that moment, everyone rushed towards the weapon rack to practice with their swords.
After Song Yuyao finished practicing her sword technique, she also woke up from her trance. She stared blankly at the sword in her hand, then looked at the young man, only to see him smile slightly at her, his expression encouraging and approving.
That smile was like a ray of sunshine, warming her heart.
Song Yuyao was slightly dazed, and her cheeks suddenly flushed, and she turned away.
In the hall, everyone was actively and excitedly engaged in their practice, trying to engrave the fading nuances from their minds, capturing and preserving them.
During this time, several people cried out in excitement, having achieved success!
They had all been stuck at a bottleneck, and now they had finally broken through.
Li Hao smiled.
When someone asked for guidance, he clapped his hands, indicating for everyone to watch the demonstration again.
This process was repeated four times.
As the sun set, Li Hao concluded the second class.
Before the end of the class, seeing that more than a dozen people had achieved the perfect level, Li Hao felt relieved. It seemed that hard work truly paid off.
"Master Li, what level of sword technique did you demonstrate just now?"
"I heard that above perfection is ultimate perfection. Is that the level you've reached?"
As the class was about to end, someone couldn't help but ask.
Li Hao smiled and said, "Above perfection is ultimate perfection, and above ultimate perfection is true form, which is the level I demonstrated to you."
He didn't see any reason to hide this level of skill.
Even Sword Saints and Knife Saints, those powerful beings who had immersed themselves in their respective crafts for decades, had touched upon the true form.
They had even grasped the essence of certain sword techniques.
Moreover, Li Hao felt that true form was not the pinnacle. There should be an even higher level above true form.
However, with his current level of insight, he couldn't reach it. Perhaps when his heart entered the spiritual realm and took another step forward, he would be able to glimpse it.
"True form..."
Everyone was stunned by Li Hao's words.
Song Yuyao's pupils constricted slightly as she looked at Li Hao in disbelief.
She had heard her grandfather mention the existence of "true form," but it was extremely rare to witness. It required exceptional talent in that particular craft and decades of dedicated practice to even have a chance to touch it!
There was no doubt that Li Hao was a sword genius, but to master this sword technique to the level of true form, he would have to practice diligently for at least ten years, right?
But Li Hao was only fourteen years old... Song Yuyao didn't dare to think further, feeling her Daoist heart wavering.
She finally understood the feelings of those who had complained about the difficulty of keeping up with a genius.
"Work on it yourselves tonight. A teacher can only guide you to the door; the rest is up to the individual," Li Hao said, waving his hand in farewell as he announced the end of the class.
Upon returning to the mansion, Li Fu found Li Hao and delivered a message from Lord Hou, asking Li Hao to make friends whenever he had the chance. Although becoming a True Dragon was almost guaranteed, building connections was a lifelong endeavor.
Lord Hou hoped that Li Hao would achieve the True Dragon status flawlessly, leaving no room for criticism.
Li Hao casually acknowledged the request.
The next day.
Li Hao prepared an extra portion of small pastries and headed to the Cold Pond. With a flick of his toes, a small stone skipped across the water and into the depths of the pond.
Soon, the massive form of the Water Qilin appeared, transforming into a human shape as it emerged from the water. Its body was clean and refreshed, untouched by even a drop of water.
Seeing the small pastries in Li Hao's hand, Song Qiume's eyes lit up with delight.
Li Hao smiled and handed over the pastries. With a wave, he departed without lingering.
As Li Hao walked away, Song Qiume took a bite of the pastry, her eyes curving into a crescent moon.
At this time, Li Hao arrived for the third class, having already submitted the necessary requests.
As he approached the White Palace, he heard an angry voice from within:
"How can you, as a teacher, humiliate a child like that?"
"He may have poor martial arts talent, but that doesn't make him a despicable person!"
"You can discipline him, chastise him severely, you can be as strict with him as you would with any other martial artist, but you can't treat him like a beast and demean him like that!"
The speaker seemed to be extremely angry, their voice filled with righteous indignation.
Hearing this angry shout, Li Hao paused, then slowly made his way towards the entrance.
The hall was already filled with people. Due to his habit of sleeping in, he hadn't arrived early.
On the ground in front of them were scattered fragments of books, and apart from one additional person, the scene was strikingly similar to the previous day's incident.
"Zhou General, you're being completely unreasonable!"
Sun Hongdian's face turned red from anger as he reprimanded Zhou Zheng. Unexpectedly, Zhou Zheng's father had come to visit and overheard the entire exchange.
Although he had heard it all, Sun Hongdian believed that Zhou General should be grateful for his strict teachings and for disciplining his unruly child.
However, Zhou General stormed in and berated him without holding back, leaving him utterly flabbergasted.
"I'm being unreasonable? Which of my words was unreasonable? Is it reasonable for you to insult my son?" Zhou Zheng's father retorted furiously. "I may be a martial artist, but I understand basic principles. I know that my son is a human being, a dignified and upright person. He is not a rotten mouse in a pot of porridge!"
"Nor is he a despicable, dirty, and vile worm!"
"Just because he's not talented in martial arts doesn't mean he's unworthy of being a human being!"
The sturdy father's voice was filled with anger, resonating powerfully as he said, "My son may not have high aptitude, but he has a pure heart. Even if he only reaches the Tongli Realm, he is still my pride. What gives you the right to humiliate him like that?"
The students in the hall remained silent.
No one mocked Zhou Zheng for relying on his father's protection. Instead, their eyes showed a hint of envy.
Sun Hongdian was furious as he said, "If you refuse to listen to reason, then get out of here, Zhou Zheng! If you leave now, you can't come back!"
"I never intended to come back anyway!"
Zhou Zheng's father was also enraged, pulling his son to leave. However, they bumped into Li Hao, who was standing at the entrance.
At that moment, everyone's gaze fell upon Li Hao.
The students abruptly stood up, bowed in unison, and greeted, "Greetings, Master Li!"
This synchronized movement not only startled Sun Hongdian and Zhou Zheng's father but also took Li Hao by surprise.
"Master Li?"
Sun Hongdian was taken aback, looking at Li Hao with confusion.
Upon seeing Li Hao, Zhou Zheng's eyes, which had been red from holding back tears, suddenly lit up. He quickly said to his father, "Dad, he's Li Hao, Master Li. Yesterday, he taught us all how to cultivate the high-grade sword technique to perfection in just one class!"
"???"
Both Zhou Zheng's father and Sun Hongdian wore puzzled expressions.
What is this kid talking about?
Li Hao was also taken aback, feeling a bit dazed.
What's going on? Did they all master the sword technique in just one class yesterday? But when the class ended, there were only about a dozen people who had succeeded.
Wait, why am I here today, then?
"Li Hao..." Zhou Zheng's father stared at Li Hao in shock, then suddenly bent down and knelt on one knee. "I am Zhou Liang, and I have had the honor of serving under your father."
This action startled everyone once again.
Li Hao quickly helped him up, saying, "General Zhou Liang?"
"Young Master, I used to serve under your father," Zhou Liang replied respectfully.
Li Hao nodded in understanding and smiled. "You don't have to be so formal with me."
Sun Hongdian's face turned ugly, and he furrowed his brows.
"Dad, I want to stay here. I want to keep learning from Master Li," Zhou Zheng pleaded with his father.
Zhou Liang hadn't expected that the recently famous Li Hao would be teaching here. Seeing his son's earnest request, he thought for a moment and agreed.
After Zhou Liang gave Zhou Zheng a few words of advice and left, Sun Hongdian scoffed, "Zhou Zheng, you disrupted the class today. The Dan Palace Academy is not a place you can come and go as you please."
Zhou Zheng's face fell.
Li Hao smiled and said, "Mr. Sun, it was just a misunderstanding."
Seeing Li Hao intercede, Sun Hongdian's expression changed, and he smiled politely. "Young Master Li, you don't know how unreasonable this Zhou Liang is..."
Li Hao shook his head, interrupting him. With a smile, he said, "Mr. Sun, I understand that you want to motivate the students with sharp words. However, perhaps your words were too harsh and could crush a young soul?"
Sun Hongdian was taken aback, his expression shifting as he fell silent.
Li Hao didn't say anything further to him. He didn't intend to socialize with someone like Sun Hongdian. After completing the classroom handover, Sun Hongdian left. Li Hao's gaze swept across the students, and he asked, "So, according to Zhou Zheng, all of you have cultivated the sword technique to the perfect level?"
The atmosphere in the hall seemed to liven up, and the students' faces were filled with excitement, their eyes sparkling. Ma Jing was the first to speak up, "Master Li, Zhou Zheng is right. Your demonstration of the sword technique yesterday could be described as having entered the Dao. We captured that hint of the Dao's essence, and that's why we've made such rapid progress!"
Although it was flattery, it did hit the mark.
Li Hao sighed, "I had planned to teach you over three classes. It seems I came here for nothing today. I don't have anything to teach you now.
"Hmm?" Li Hao asked.
"You said yesterday that once we all mastered the sword technique to perfection, you would grant us three wishes!" an excited student exclaimed.
Li Hao was taken aback. He had made that promise on a whim, never expecting them to be so talented. Indeed, they were worthy of being in the White Palace, each with their unique gifts.
"Well then, go ahead and make your wishes, but they must be within my abilities," Li Hao said.
The students buzzed with excitement, each one eager to make their request.
Some wanted to visit the Listening Rain Tower, others desired famous swords, and a few even asked to learn another sword style.
Among the more lighthearted wishes, there were also some boisterous voices asking to become sworn brothers with Li Hao or to visit brothels with him.
Li Hao laughed, "Calm down, everyone. You'll have to discuss and choose one wish among yourselves."
Hearing Li Hao's words, the students were both surprised and delighted, never expecting him to take their wishes seriously.
They were already extremely grateful for his teachings, and most of their previous requests had been made in jest.
"Hey, don't get too greedy with your wishes," Lin Feifei warned, glaring at a few of the bolder students.
A few of the boys blushed and laughed awkwardly at her rebuke.
"Master Li, you won't take us to the Listening Rain Tower, will you? How about taking us to a brothel instead?" someone teased.
At this suggestion, the other male students' eyes lit up, and they began to cheer, "Yes, yes! That's a great idea!"
They were all young men in the prime of their youth, having come to the Qingzhou Tan Palace Academy to study. They rarely left the mountain, and the intense competition within the academy, with its strict elimination system, kept them constantly on their toes.
Naturally, they had long fantasized about experiencing the pleasures of the fabled brothels.
Meanwhile, the female students rolled their eyes and scoffed, their faces filled with disgust as they glared at the excited boys.
Li Hao smiled, "Going to a brothel is a small matter."
In this era, entertainment was scarce, and visiting a brothel was akin to streaming music in his previous life.
Brothels varied in quality and reputation. The lowest were little more than brothels, cheap but risky in terms of health.
Well-known brothels, on the other hand, offered a variety of artistic performances, from music to poetry. Of course, if one had exceptional poetry skills or ample money, other pleasurable services could be enjoyed as well.
If Li Hao were to take them, it would be to the best brothel in Qingzhou, where they could enjoy songs and poetry, but nothing more.
"Really?"
The male students were thrilled at Li Hao's agreement.
The female students, on the other hand, scoffed and blushed, clearly disapproving of the idea.
Song Yuyao rolled her eyes at Li Hao, huffed, and said, "I'm not going if you're going to a brothel."
"Neither am I," Lin Feifei quickly added.
The other female students voiced their protests as well.
But the male students, afraid that Li Hao might change his mind, continued to chatter excitedly, like animals in heat, their enthusiasm burning brightly.
"I can't please everyone, so those of you who don't want to go can each have one of my paintings as compensation," Li Hao offered.
Hearing this, the female students were surprised. They watched as Li Hao took out a scroll and unfurled it to reveal a painting. "I made this yesterday. You can each have a section of it."
Everyone gasped in awe.
They had noticed Li Hao painting the day before but had assumed it was just a casual hobby. They never expected his skill to be so exquisite and lifelike!
The painting depicted the White Palace and all the students, each with their unique expressions—some furrowed their brows, while others tilted their heads in contemplation. The girls were portrayed with gentle grace, and the boys exuded a dashing and carefree spirit.
Together, they formed a beautiful scene, basking in the warm sunlight, like a gentle spring breeze.
Many of the students were mesmerized by the painting.
One young man raised his hand and said, "Master Li, I don't want to go to the brothel anymore. Can I have one of your paintings instead?"
"There aren't many, so the girls get first pick," Li Hao smiled.
The female students, who had been quite displeased before, now rushed forward eagerly, each vying for a section of the painting.
Song Yuyao's eyes sparkled with surprise as she gazed at Li Hao. Such exquisite skill couldn't have been achieved overnight.
The young man before them exuded an air of calm, his blue robe as straight as a pine tree. Aside from his exceptional talent in swordsmanship, he also had the time to master this side art, and his true depths remained a mystery.
As the girls received their sections of the painting, they carefully unfurled them, admiring the intricate details. Although they focused on martial arts and couldn't afford to divert their attention, they couldn't help but appreciate such beautiful artwork.
After dealing with the female students, Li Hao decided to use the rest of the class time to take the male students down the mountain for an outing.
The students were thrilled at the prospect of leaving the mountain with Li Hao as their teacher. This was something that had never happened before.
If word got out to the other teachers, they would probably make the students face the wall as punishment.
But with Li Hao's reputation, no one dared to oppose him.
As the group made their way down the mountain, news of their excursion spread throughout the Tan Palace.
Master Song, who was enjoying a cup of tea, nearly choked on his drink. He sputtered and coughed, his eyes widening in astonishment, "You mean Li Hao is taking all the students to a brothel for a lesson?"
Chapter 98: Once Promised to be the Best in the World
The messenger was another Elder of the Black Hall, who had sensed the disturbance and used his spiritual consciousness to investigate.
"Preposterous! This is absolutely preposterous!"
Song Yufeng's face turned ashen with rage, and he suddenly thought of something. "What about Yueyao? Did she go with them?"
"Grandfather."
At that moment, a voice sounded from outside the Tan Palace, and Song Yueyao walked in.
Song Yufeng looked up, and his heart immediately sank back into his stomach as he let out a sigh of relief. "What are you doing here? Tell me, did Li Hao take the others to visit the brothel?"
Although it was slightly inappropriate to mention the word "brothel" to his granddaughter, Song Yufeng didn't care about that at the moment.
A hint of anger rose in Song Yueyao's heart, and she replied coldly, "That's right."
"That kid! He's simply outrageous!"
Song Yufeng flew into a rage.
Song Yueyao was taken aback. Seeing her grandfather so angry, she said, "Grandfather, it's not really his fault."
"What?" Song Yufeng stared at his granddaughter.
Song Yueyao felt helpless and could only explain the whole story.
After listening, Song Yufeng's eyes widened even further, and the Elder of the Black Hall beside him was also stunned.
"You... Are you saying that after Li Hao flipped through the sword manual once, he demonstrated a true-state level swordsmanship for you?"
"Impossible! This is absolutely impossible!"
Even though he said it was impossible, Song Yufeng and the Black Hall Elder had no choice but to believe it, especially after hearing Song Yueyao's explanation that dozens of people in the White Hall had witnessed it with their own eyes.
However, this was simply too exaggerated.
Song Yufeng's first thought was that the sword manual had been leaked and that Li Hao had been secretly cultivating it, only to reveal his progress today.
But his second thought was that even if the kid had been secretly practicing, this was still too outrageous!
After all, he was only fourteen years old. Had he been cultivating since he was an infant?
Even his current cultivation level at the fifteenth tier was already a record-breaking achievement for the Ten Nine Continents. How could he also possess an upper-grade swordsmanship at the true-state level?
Wait a moment.
Suddenly, Song Yufeng felt that something was amiss.
Perhaps Li Hao didn't just master one true-state level swordsmanship.
And maybe his sword manual hadn't been leaked after all.
After all, there were numerous swordsmanship techniques in Li's family's Listening Rain Pavilion, and no one knew how many were upper-grade. Even if they had secretly collected the Yin-Yang Separation Sword, why would they need to teach it to Li Hao?
The Li family had an ultimate-grade swordsmanship technique!
With limited energy, they would naturally prioritize having Li Hao cultivate the ultimate-grade technique. Why would they waste time on an upper-grade one?
As this thought occurred to Song Yufeng, he felt his heart twitch painfully. If that was the case, then there seemed to be only one explanation.
That Li Hao had indeed flipped through the sword manual once and learned it!
Moreover, he had cultivated it to the true-state level! According to his granddaughter, there seemed to be a process, as the first demonstration was at the perfect level, followed by the true-state, skipping the ultimate level...
Damn it, this was still unacceptable!
Even if he were a reincarnation of a sword immortal, it shouldn't be like this... Song Yufeng's face twitched, and he stared blankly at the outside of the Tan Palace. What kind of child had the Li family given birth to?
After a long while, Song Yufeng snapped back to his senses and thought of the brothel incident, letting out a bitter laugh. "This kid is really daring to agree to such a request. Doesn't he know how old he is?"
Hearing this, Song Yueyao's face changed slightly.
Song Yufeng seemed to realize something and slapped his forehead. He quickly asked, "They didn't go there wearing their academy uniforms, did they?"
At this point, it was too late to stop them.
Moreover, Li Hao's teaching session had been so effective that it was almost ridiculous, surpassing the progress these students would have made with a year or two of hard cultivation. Letting them take a break wasn't a problem.
As long as they didn't bring shame to the Tan Palace, it would be fine.
"No, they didn't."
The Black Hall Elder replied.
Song Yufeng heaved a sigh of relief and smiled. "This kid still has some sense."
...
On their way down the mountain, Li Hao ran into the poetry-loving Prince Jiang Hanxing.
When the prince learned that Li Hao was going to visit the brothel, he was so surprised that he immediately tagged along, saying that he wanted to broaden his horizons as well.
Li Hao didn't mind and let him join.
Cloud Mist Pavilion—this was the top brothel in Qingzhou City.
Here, one couldn't simply buy pleasure with money. Usually, it was a gathering place for aristocratic scholars who came to compose poems and exchange ideas.
They often held poetry recitals, and only the winner could meet the top courtesan of Cloud Mist Pavilion—the famous Red Wan'er, whose name was known throughout the state.
When Li Hao and the others arrived, a poetry recital was already underway.
One had to pay a silver coin to enter, and then they could listen to songs and exchange poems.
However, these disciples of the White Hall were warriors who had practiced martial arts since childhood. While they could recite a few famous poems by the great scholars, composing their own poems was out of the question.
Fortunately, Li Hao had come prepared. Since he had promised to fulfill their wishes, he naturally wouldn't let them leave disappointed.
"Come, come, come. One poem per person. Memorize them." Li Hao called out to the group.
Zhou Zheng, who loved poetry, was astonished. He had secretly prepared two poems himself, but he hadn't expected that this genius warrior would also have poems in his possession.
It was common knowledge that the poems recited at these gatherings had to be original works. Copying someone else's poem would only invite ridicule.
Prince Jiang Hanxing had witnessed Li Hao's poetic talent before, and he, too, drew closer, curious about Li Hao's bold claim. However, he couldn't help but feel both surprised and slightly disappointed. How could a poem given to each person be any good?
But the next moment, his eyes widened in shock.
Li Hao had never thought of using poetry to show off, and he certainly wasn't like those time-traveling plagiarists who would squeeze out poem after poem to flaunt their skills.
As one famous poem after another from Li Hao's previous world was recited in this new one, the entire Cloud Mist Pavilion went from lively to frenzied, and then from frenzied to silent.
"Behold, the waters of the Yellow River come from the heavens, flowing to the sea never to return..."
Zhou Zheng murmured, stunned as he felt the majestic and majestic momentum.
"With no one to support my lofty ambitions, I tread alone upon the snow-capped mountaintop!"
Jiang Hanxing's eyes sparkled, and he clenched his fists, as if these lines were speaking to the desires hidden within his heart.
"The boundless sea meets the sky, and upon reaching the peak, I become the summit!"
Ma Jing's eyes reddened with emotion when Li Hao handed him this poem to present on stage, even though he couldn't compose poetry himself, he could at least appreciate it.
These lines seemed to speak of the peerless youth before them.
While there may be countless geniuses in the world, only the youth before them had climbed to the peak and stood atop the summit, becoming the highest pinnacle!
"Born with a talent unmatched by any, I share the same longevity as the heavens..."
"In a single battle, I traveled three thousand miles, and with a single sword, I faced a million soldiers..."
One arrogant and domineering poem after another was recited by the disciples of the White Palace, and as they chanted, they trembled with excitement.
For warriors, these arrogant poems struck a deep chord.
"Drunk, I hold a lamp to examine my sword, and in my dreams, I hear the bugle call of the camp..."
Zhou Zheng, the son of a military commander, stood up, trembling with emotion when he heard this poem.
"Like a great roc soaring on the wind, I ascend directly to the ninth heaven!"
This bold poem comforted the hearts of many, igniting the passion of those who had wasted their lives away in mediocrity.
One by one, the disciples of the White Palace took the stage, and their poems shook the entire pavilion.
Up in the tower, a young woman in her twenties, her hair adorned with ornate decorations and her beauty captivating, stood listening intently to the endless stream of extraordinary poems being recited below.
The bold and majestic, as well as the carefree and reckless lines, stirred the emotions of all who heard them.
The Great Yu Dynasty was founded on martial might, and its people embraced a martial spirit, so the poems recited in the brothel tended to be more about war and killing, with fewer lewd and lustful songs. Even if there were any, they were confined to ordinary brothels and not worth mentioning.
Red Wan'er was well-versed in poetry, and she could discern the quality of the poems being recited. Even the great scholars of the Hanlin Palace might not have been able to compose some of these, and only a few renowned poems could compare.
Additionally, Red Wan'er noticed that these young talents who took the stage had all come from the side of a particular youth, and before they did so, he whispered something to each of them. This action sparked the imaginations of many.
Time flew by.
As the poetry recital came to an end, the hearts of the courtesans in the pavilion were stirred, and the talents and guests were all intoxicated by the experience.
Someone let slip that all the poems were composed by Li Hao, and someone else recognized Li Hao's identity, shouting it out loud. The entire Cloud Mist Pavilion erupted in excitement.
This astonishing youth, coupled with these brilliant and awe-inspiring poems, made it feel as if the poetry had taken on a life of its own.
In the midst of this excitement, no one seemed to care that the disciples of the Tan Palace had revealed Li Hao's poems. Instead, because they had gained his favor, even those without their own poems were celebrated by the courtesans, who invited them to their chambers.
The manager of the brothel rushed to Li Hao and bowed, relieved to find that this famous young master of the Li family from Qingzhou City had a casual and gentle disposition. He then called for Red Wan'er to attend to Li Hao.
The other disciples of the White Palace were also led away by other courtesans to listen to music and appreciate the arts.
Additionally, the manager cautiously asked Li Hao if he could borrow two poems to display in the pavilion.
Li Hao didn't mind, and the manager chose two poems.
Soon, two lines of poetry were hung outside the Cloud Mist Pavilion:
"Aspiring to grasp the clouds, I once vowed to be the best in the world."
The manager regretted that Li Hao hadn't completed the poem, leaving only these two lines.
However, he couldn't have imagined that because of these two lines, the Cloud Mist Pavilion would soon become famous throughout the Nine Continents.
At that moment, Li Hao was already in the chambers of Red Wan'er, the most sought-after courtesan in the brothel, indulging in food, drink, and merriment.
"Young Master, tonight I am yours to command. Whatever you wish for me to do, I shall obey."
Red Wan'er said with a smile, her beautiful eyes never leaving this number one young master of Qingzhou.
Ever since Li Hao had revealed his cultivation, no other young man in Qingzhou could compare to him.
"Is that so? Then you can peel some sunflower seeds for me." Li Hao said.
Red Wan'er was slightly taken aback but smiled gracefully and walked over to peel and feed sunflower seeds to Li Hao.
Li Hao clapped his hands, enjoying the service while helping himself to other delicacies.
...
At the same time, news reached the mansion of the Divine General.
"What?!"
Li Tiangang's eyes widened as he heard the report, and he slammed his hand on the table, shattering the expensive piece of furniture.
"You rascal! How dare he!"
Li Tiangang's face reddened with anger, and his previous thoughts resurfaced, making him feel that his son was too unruly and needed discipline. How dare he do such a thing!
Li Fu was startled and said, "Lord, I inquired with the Tan Palace, and it seems that Young Master..."
"Regardless of the reason, go and bring him back immediately!"
Li Tiangang roared in anger.
She was both angry and annoyed. As a renowned beauty, countless heroes and brave warriors had traveled far and wide just to catch a glimpse of her, yet this young man barely spared her a glance and only asked her to do such menial tasks.
The favorable impression she had of Li Hao from his earlier poetry dissipated greatly. She had originally hoped to seize this opportunity to forge a connection with him, and perhaps, if she was fortunate, she could marry into the esteemed house of the Divine General, even if it meant being a concubine.
Alas, those hopes had now been dashed.
From that night on, the upper floor of the Cloud Mist Pavilion never displayed any more snacks or sunflower seeds.
On the other hand...
As Li Hao exited the Cloud Mist Pavilion, he bumped into Fu Bo.
Seeing Fu Bo rushing over with a slightly tense expression, Li Hao raised an eyebrow.
"Young Master, it's wonderful that you're back. You... you didn't do anything inside, did you?" Fu Bo anxiously inspected Li Hao's clothes.
Li Hao was left speechless. "Fu Bo, how old do you think I am? Besides, I already have an unmarried fiance. I came here just to hang out with these guys and let them relax a little. Constant martial arts training can be quite grueling."
Hearing Li Hao's words, Fu Bo immediately felt relieved. He was relatively more at ease with Li Hao and bitterly smiled, "Young Master, please come back with me now. The Lord is furious."
Furious?
Li Hao frowned slightly.
He immediately followed Fu Bo back.
As for the disciples inside, they were not children anymore and could find their own way back, so he didn't need to worry about them.
Not long after...
Li Hao returned to the Mountain River Manor with Fu Bo.
In the courtyard, Li Tiangang sat sternly in the main hall, a new table beside him bearing a teacup and a rattan cane.
Li Hao and Fu Bo noticed this as soon as they entered.
Fu Bo's face changed, and he quickly said, "Lord, the Young Master has returned. There's a reason for what happened..."
"Oh? I'd like to hear it," Li Tiangang said, his face dark with anger, but his voice lowered as he thought of the previous incident with the scroll.
Li Hao frowned slightly.
Fu Bo quickly explained the whole story.
"Nonsense! If they wished for you to give them a fiefdom, would you agree to that as well?" Li Tiangang listened and grew even angrier, feeling that Li Hao's behavior was indeed too wild and unrestrained, even using wishes as a reason for his actions.
Promises should be kept, or else one would lose the trust of others.
Li Hao said, "It was to motivate them, and there were conditions. It depends on what I'm capable of."
"You could afford to give away a city if you wanted to, once you become the True Dragon," Li Tiangang said, fixing his eyes on him.
Li Hao gazed back at him, and after a moment, he sighed and said, "The phrase 'within my capability' is very broad, and I believe I should be the one to decide its limits. If their requests are too excessive, I naturally won't agree."
Li Tiangang raised an eyebrow. "You still know to leave some leeway. But have you thought about the consequences of your visit to the brothel today?"
"If I'm not mistaken, didn't Second Uncle say that you also went to quite a few when you were young? Why can't I go?" Li Hao asked.
"Can you even compare to us?" Li Tiangang couldn't help but silently rebuke his second uncle in his heart. How could he casually bring up the affairs of their elders to a child?
Just as he was about to reprimand Li Hao, he saw the coldness in the young man's eyes, and his expression changed slightly. After a moment of silence, he let out a long sigh and said, "Hao'er, times have changed. I received news that the Limitless Buddha Master has summoned your cousin back. At this critical juncture, it seems they are determined to compete with you in the True Dragon Contest."
He continued, "They are aware of your situation, yet they still made this choice, so they must have prepared thoroughly. You cannot afford to be careless at this time."
Li Hao fell silent for a moment, then nodded. "I understand."
Li Tiangang looked at him for a moment, wanting to say something, but ultimately holding it back. "For now, it's best that you don't go wandering around. Although I promised to let you do as you please, and I will compensate you, at least for this period, you should stay put and be well-behaved."
Well-behaved... Li Hao glanced at him, sighing inwardly.
When had he ever been well-behaved?
He had stayed in the mansion all these years. Was going to a brothel considered misbehaving?
He felt helpless in the face of such prejudice, which seemed difficult to change once it took root.
What he found even more amusing and sad was that such prejudice existed within his own family, among those with the closest blood ties to him.
He no longer felt like continuing the conversation and turned to leave.
"This child, when will he finally grow out of this behavior? I wonder who he takes after..."
Seeing Li Hao walk away, Li Tiangang sighed. He wanted to make up for lost time with his son, but he also didn't want Li Hao to stray down the wrong path.
"Lord, it's best not to rush things, given the circumstances," Zhao Bo said with a worried expression.
He always felt that there would be major issues between this father and son.
Their personalities were just too different.
Chapter 99: The Heart of a Sect Master
Time flew by.
After returning from the Green Tower, Li Hao was kept in the mansion by Li Tian Gang, not allowed to roam freely.
This led to a small argument between the father and son, but they eventually compromised. Li Hao agreed to stay in the mansion, but Li Tian Gang wouldn't interfere with his activities.
Li Hao didn't spend his days painting anymore. Instead, he would often visit the Fifth Master to play chess, and the rest of his time was spent in the Listening Rain Tower.
He was waiting for the Second Master's return and browsing through various cultivation methods.
The Listening Rain Tower had an extensive collection of books. Even just browsing through them would take at least ten years of non-stop reading to finish.
Initially, Li Hao had chosen some high-level cultivation methods to practice, but this time, he started from the basics.
With his physical body at the sixth stage of the Fleshly Path, he should have been able to break through to the Heavenly Human Realm, but he was stuck.
Li Hao decided to first comprehend the Heart of a Sect Master.
However, it was easier said than done.
What was a Sect Master?
It was someone who could establish their own sect and have their own path.
No one could teach a Sect Master what to do, and no one could guide them.
Even the Three Immortals couldn't, because each Sect Master's path was unique. The Three Immortals' realm was higher, but they could only share their own experiences and cultivation methods, not provide specific guidance.
Similarly, after reaching the Heavenly Human Sect Master Realm, the path ahead would require one to walk alone, step by step.
There were no cultivation methods to guide them, and no one could teach them. They could only learn from others, think, and comprehend on their own.
"My own martial path..."
Li Hao sat in the Listening Rain Tower, holding a book on the basics of martial arts, his eyes sparkling.
He had asked the Second Master how to comprehend the Heart of a Sect Master.
The Second Master had given him three methods: one was to experience the world, find one's own martial heart through trials and tribulations; the second was to walk the edge of life and death, using the fear of death to stimulate a sudden understanding; and the third was to search for it from the most basic martial arts, relying on one's own comprehension.
Why start from the basics?
Because the higher the cultivation method, the more mysterious it became, and the core essence was easily obscured by the intricacies of the technique.
Like a stone.
When thrown on the ground, everyone knew it was just a stone, trampled and disregarded.
But when placed on a table, especially in a Buddhist temple, it became an object of reverence, worshipped and protected by many.
Yet, in essence, it was still just a stone.
At this moment, Li Hao was browsing through a book on the general outline of martial arts, which included various techniques, but only listed them briefly.
Swords, guns, fists, body techniques...
Li Hao flipped through the pages casually, not forcing himself to gain any specific insights, simply passing the time.
A month went by.
Li Hao had read many books in the Listening Rain Tower, not just on martial arts, but also on the stories of eccentric individuals.
There were many books recording the lives of Sect Masters, each with their unique paths and martial styles.
Some were from the "despicable" school, using underhanded and sinister techniques; some were from the "hard and strong" school, using brute force; and some were from the "agile and quick" school, emphasizing speed and agility.
For Li Hao, creating his own cultivation method wasn't difficult.
With his sixth-stage comprehension of the sword and fist paths, creating his own fist or sword techniques was easy.
He could even combine the two.
But he had yet to establish his own Heart.
Most people would first establish their Heart and then strengthen their cultivation methods according to their Sect Master's Heart.
Li Hao, however, was doing it in reverse.
"My Heart... where is it?"
Li Hao muttered to himself.
He had read too many cultivation methods, and now his mind was a jumble.
His Heart was unsettled.
...
That day, Li Hao went to the Listening Rain Tower as usual.
But shortly after sitting down, he was called back to the Mountain River Mansion, saying someone was looking for him.
When Li Hao returned to the mansion, he saw his father, Li Tian Gang, sitting in the main hall, with a young girl sitting across from him.
The girl's back was to Li Hao, and she was dressed in a dark purple outer garment, exuding an air of mystery, like a fragrant, delicate orchid.
Just her straight back was enough to make one feel the vitality of youth.
At this moment, the two seemed to be discussing something, and Li Tian Gang's face was filled with a warm, loving smile.
Li Hao stopped at the door, remembering the rules he had been forced to learn this month, and didn't directly enter the room. Instead, he called out from outside.
Li Tian Gang looked at Li Hao, and the girl turned around as well.
Her eyebrows were like distant mountains, her eyes sparkling like clear streams, her nose and teeth delicate, and her small face seemed to glow with a soft light, her skin as white as jade.
Li Hao was taken aback, his eyes widening.
"Xue'er?"
"Brother Hao."
The girl seemed to recognize Li Hao, and memories of the past flooded her mind. She revealed a bright, cheerful smile, and her voice was crisp and clear.
Li Hao finally confirmed that the girl in front of him was the little girl he hadn't seen in eight years, the one who used to follow him around.
He quickly stepped forward, amazed, and looked her up and down. The little girl who used to cry all the time had grown into a beautiful young girl, with a delicate, exquisite face.
"And you've grown so tall!" Li Hao couldn't help but exclaim.
The girl, Bian Ru Xue, stood up from her chair, her movements elegant, and smiled sweetly. "Brother Hao, you've grown taller too."
"That's for sure."
Li Hao laughed and said, "Why didn't you tell me you were coming back? Have you eaten? I'll tell you, my cooking skills have improved a lot. In a few months, I'll be able to make you nice and plump!"
Bian Ru Xue's cheeks flushed slightly, and she said, "Brother Hao still likes to joke around."
"Who wouldn't, with you crying all the time? I have to tease you a bit."
"I'm not a little dog, you know."
Li Hao burst out laughing and then asked, "How was your sword training? Did anyone bully you?"
Bian Ru Xue smiled and shook her head. "My master and senior brothers and sisters were all very kind to me. No one bullied me."
Li Hao grinned and said, "Of course, I'm doing well. Look at me; I'm the one bullying others. Who dares to bully me? I spend my days eating and drinking merrily."
Li Tian Gang frowned slightly and sighed inwardly.
Bian Ru Xue gazed at Li Hao and said softly, "Gege, stop joking around."
Hearing this, Li Tian Gang's face turned stern as he said, "Li Hao, be serious. Ru Xue just got back, and you're not allowed to bully her. Do you understand?"
"Yes, yes, yes," Li Hao laughed helplessly.
Bian Ru Xue immediately turned to Li Tian Gang and said, "Uncle, Gege has never bullied me."
Li Tian Gang looked at her and smiled, saying, "Ru Xue, you're too soft-hearted. Don't worry, now that I'm back, if Li Hao dares to bully you, come to me, and I'll stand up for you.
"Your father entrusted you to my care, and I promise to take good care of you and ensure you don't suffer any grievances in the Li family!"
"Thank you, Uncle," Bian Ru Xue said with a smile, bowing slightly. Then, looking at Li Hao, she noticed that his smile had faded somewhat.
She didn't think much of it and said to Li Tian Gang, "Uncle, I want to go out and walk with Gege. I'd like to chat with him alone."
"Alright, off you go," Li Tian Gang said with a nod.
Bian Ru Xue bowed slightly once more and then turned to Li Hao. "Gege, let's go. It's been a long time since I've been back. Please show me around the city."
Li Hao nodded and then turned to his father, who was sitting upright, and asked, "I'll accompany Ru Xue for a walk?"
Li Tian Gang nodded and said, "With Ru Xue by your side, I can rest assured. Spend these few days having fun with her."
Li Hao's lips twitched, and he turned to take Bian Ru Xue's hand. "Let's go. I'll show you around Qingzhou City. There's not a single delicious treat in this city that I don't know about."
The delicate hand in his grip twitched slightly, as if startled, but it soon relaxed and allowed Li Hao to lead her away.
After seeing them off, Li Tian Gang sighed softly. "Although Li Hao has been without us these past years, he seems to be doing well. It's just a pity that no one has been disciplining him, and he's become too wild."
Zhao Bo opened his mouth as if to say something but closed it again.
Li Tian Gang's expression softened, and he said, "Thankfully, Ru Xue is sensible and well-mannered. Now that she's by his side, she can keep him in check to some extent. I can finally rest easy. This boy is fortunate to have found Ru Xue."
...
As soon as they left the Shen Jiang Fu, Li Hao led Bian Ru Xue towards a bustling street nearby.
"Gege, I just found out that Uncle has only recently returned," Bian Ru Xue said as she allowed Li Hao to lead her by the hand, her cheeks slightly flushed as she glanced at his profile. "Have you been alone since I left?"
Li Hao smiled and said, "Silly girl, you're still as foolish as when you were little. Shan He Yuan is so big, and there are so many servants. How could I possibly be alone?"
"Servants are different. Gege wouldn't confide in them," Bian Ru Xue said.
"Then don't confide in anyone," Li Hao said with a laugh.
Bian Ru Xue fell silent for a moment before asking, "Don't you feel sad keeping things to yourself?"
"I'm used to it," Li Hao replied.
Stopping at a stall selling sugar paintings, Li Hao asked, "Do you want some candy?"
Bian Ru Xue glanced at the stall and shook her head. "Gege, I'm already grown up."
"You're calling yourself grown-up at fourteen? Then by the time you're twenty, you'll be old," Li Hao teased.
Seeing that she wasn't interested in candy, Li Hao continued walking with her.
Along the way, they came across a toy stall, and he bought her an iron frog that could jump forward continuously with a gentle press. It was a product of the Qian Ji Men.
As they strolled and chatted, Li Hao asked about her life in the mountains these past years, and Bian Ru Xue inquired about his days in the courtyard.
When it was time for lunch, Li Hao found a restaurant and invited her to eat and chat.
Having not seen each other for eight years, they had a lot to talk about. The conversation started a little awkwardly, but soon, Li Hao seemed to have recaptured the feeling of their childhood.
"When are you coming down from the mountain?" Li Hao asked.
"A month ago," Bian Ru Xue replied.
Li Hao was surprised. "Then why are you back now?"
"I heard that something strange happened in a certain place, so I went to check it out. It turned out to be a river of death that had permeated and destroyed a village," she explained.
Li Hao nodded. "What happened after that?"
"I tried to deal with it several times, but unfortunately, I could only destroy it temporarily. I couldn't find a permanent solution," she said with a slight sigh.
Li Hao laughed. "Destroying it is already a great achievement. At least you made it disappear for a while."
Bian Ru Xue nodded slightly and sighed again. "I guess so."
Noticing the sword she carried with her everywhere, Li Hao asked, "How's your sword training been these years, following the Jian Sheng?"
Bian Ru Xue paused for a moment, then fell silent before answering, "It's going well, I suppose."
Li Hao saw her reaction and laughed. "What's wrong? Did you not practice well and get criticized? Why are you so glum when talking about the sword?"
Bian Ru Xue shook her head and placed the sword to the side. "Gege, let's not talk about the sword. I just found out that you're about to become the Li family's true dragon. I heard on my way here that there's someone else competing with you. Are you confident?"
"What do you think?" Li Hao asked.
Bian Ru Xue saw his relaxed expression and immediately said, "I think you are."
"I think so, too," Li Hao said with a smile, serving her some food.
"Speaking of which, I saw quite a few important people rushing towards Qingzhou on my way here. I heard that the true dragon competition involves assessing one's connections," Bian Ru Xue said.
"Gege, do you want me to call my master and senior brothers and sisters to come and support you?" she offered.
"Connections are just a small part of it; they're not that important," Li Hao said with a wave of his hand. "The choice of the Li family's true dragon can't be influenced by outsiders."
Bian Ru Xue thought about it and agreed. "In that case, if Gege needs me to do anything, please let me know."
"There actually is something I need your help with," Li Hao said.
"What is it?" Bian Ru Xue asked, taken aback.
"I'm full, so you finish the rest. Don't waste food," Li Hao said, burping contentedly and leaning back in his chair.
Bian Ru Xue was left slightly speechless.
Chapter 100: The Ultimate Sword Art, A Divine Sword!
Over the next few days, Li Hao left the Shrine General's Mansion and kept Lin Ruoxue company as they strolled through Qingzhou City.
He took her to taste delicious food, watch plays, and listen to storytelling.
They also went to a nearby lake outside the city, where Li Hao caught dragonflies and butterflies for her. He carefully pressed the butterflies between the pages of a sword manual, creating a beautiful specimen that he gifted to her.
Though they were no ordinary individuals, their faces were filled with smiles as they indulged in these mundane activities.
During an outdoor excursion, Li Hao brought along paper, brushes, and a scroll, painting numerous pictures for Lin Ruoxue—each with a different background and perspective. He had already painted her nearly a hundred pictures, and his experience points were almost depleted.
However, Li Hao didn't paint for the experience points.
They went to a small demon lake on the outskirts of the city, not the Black Demon Lake that his second uncle, Li Mu Xiu, had taken him to.
Li Hao brought his fishing rod and started fishing, while Lin Ruoxue sat by his side with the little white fox, Xiao Ruan, in her lap, playing with it.
When they tired of playing, the girl propped her cheeks with her hands and quietly watched Li Hao focus on fishing.
Seeing the boy's intense concentration as he stared at the float, she couldn't help but smile softly, reminded of their childhood.
Lin Ruoxue's eyes seemed to drift to the courtyard of their youth.
Back then, whenever she practiced her sword techniques, she would hear his youthful voice, untainted by the passage of time, ringing out from the nearby pavilion:
"Oh dear, Uncle Lin, you've placed your piece in the wrong spot again!"
"The chess piece doesn't go in the square, it goes on the cross-stitch!"
"Uncle Lin, you lost again!"
Whenever she took a break from her training, she would glance at the pavilion, feeling reassured whenever she caught sight of the boy.
The cheerful laughter of the past still echoed clearly in her ears, as if it had happened just yesterday.
The boy stared at the float on the lake, and the girl stared at the boy's profile, both of them lost in their thoughts.
Suddenly, the float moved.
The boy pulled the fishing rod with force, like drawing a fully-drawn bow, and soon, a fish demon of the Unity Spirit Realm was pulled out of the water.
For demons below the Successive Spirit Realm, a sturdy metal fishing rod and a special fishing line were sufficient for the task.
"Brother Hao is amazing!" Lin Ruoxue exclaimed, snapping out of her daze and clapping her hands in delight.
Li Hao smiled and killed the fish demon with a wave of his hand, tossing it aside. As the sky darkened, he reeled in his line and retrieved the fish basket from the bottom of the lake, which contained a few ordinary fish.
He casually released them back into the water.
After packing up his fishing chair, he called out to the little white fox and said to Lin Ruoxue, "Let's go home."
"Okay," she replied with a smile.
Lin Ruoxue nodded happily, letting Li Hao carry everything while she walked with her hands behind her back, taking small, cheerful steps to keep up with him.
As the smoke rose from the mountain villages, the pair returned from the lakeside.
They didn't rush home, taking a leisurely route that passed by the fields outside the village. Along the way, they came across a melon farm guarded by a single mud-covered dog. Li Hao smiled and instructed the little white fox to distract the dog while he sneaked over to pluck a melon.
He hugged the melon to his chest and ran off. Once he was at a safe distance, he tossed a couple of silver coins into the melon pit.
On a distant hill, Li Hao cracked open the melon, revealing its bright red flesh. He offered half to the girl, and they dug in.
Li Hao wasn't one for formalities, so he buried his head in the melon, juice dripping down his chin.
Lin Ruoxue, on the other hand, was the epitome of elegance and refinement. She gently tapped her sword hilt with her finger, and the blade slid out of its sheath with a silver flash. In an instant, the melon was cut into several crescent-shaped pieces.
She handed a piece to Li Hao, who gladly accepted it.
"This kind of life is truly comfortable..." Li Hao sat on the hillside, propping himself up with his hand as he gazed at the distant sunset, the rays painting the world in a golden hue.
Lin Ruoxue paused mid-bite at Li Hao's words, then smiled and said, "Yes."
Li Hao smiled back, finishing his half of the melon. Lin Ruoxue shared her portion with the little white fox, and after they had eaten their fill, they returned home together.
When Li Tiangang saw that Li Hao and Lin Ruoxue had returned late, their boots and pants caked in mud, he admonished Li Hao, "When you take Xue'er out, take her to nicer places, not those messy and dirty spots. And what about this fishing hobby of yours? What's she supposed to do while you're fishing? Won't she get bored? You need to consider her more."
Li Hao listened expressionlessly, then seemed to smile faintly as he nodded and replied, "Mhm." Before turning to leave.
Lin Ruoxue quickly interjected, "Uncle, it was actually my idea to watch Brother Hao fish. He's very good at it, and he enjoys it. I can tell."
Li Tiangang was extremely fond of his future daughter-in-law and softened his gaze as he said, "I know he likes it, but you rarely come home, and you shouldn't always give in to him and accompany him everywhere. If something happens to me one day, you'll have a hard time if you don't learn to be more assertive."
"Uncle, don't say that. Nothing will happen to you," Lin Ruoxue quickly reassured him.
Li Tiangang smiled and said, "Good girl, don't worry about me. You should just focus on taking care of yourself."
Lin Ruoxue was slightly taken aback but nodded in agreement. "I will."
A few more days passed.
Li Hao kept Lin Ruoxue company as they explored the city. They happened upon a temple fair in the western part of the city and decided to join in on the fun. They watched the sparkling silver trees, witnessed displays of mortal skills and tricks, and enjoyed shadow puppet shows.
"Are you happy?" Li Hao asked, a smile playing on his lips as he turned to face the setting sun beyond the city walls, sitting shoulder to shoulder with his companion.
"I am," she replied, her eyes sparkling with joy.
Li Hao turned his head to gaze at her profile, noting the traces of their childhood still lingering in her features, now matured and refined with a hint of newfound radiance and brilliance.
Yet, such brilliance often came at a cost. Like a shooting star, dazzling but fleeting, burning out its entire life in a brilliant display.
Li Hao studied her quietly, both of them lost in their own thoughts.
After a moment, Li Hao spoke, his voice soft and contemplative. "Would you want this kind of life to continue forever?"
Bordering on snow turned to face him, their gazes meeting and holding, each reflecting the depth of their unspoken thoughts.
She turned her head away, a relaxed smile playing on her lips as she replied, "Of course, I do."
"Really?" Li Hao inquired, his eyes flicking briefly to the sword she held.
Ever inseparable.
Bordering on snow's smile faded slightly, and in that moment, she seemed to understand that Li Hao had sensed something amiss.
A sigh escaped her heart, carrying a hint of melancholy.
"Hao gege, I may have to wrong you," she said, turning to face him once more, her smile replaced by a furrowed brow and an expression tinged with sadness and resignation.
Li Hao fell silent, the faint spark of hope in his heart slowly dimming with her words.
As he remained quiet, Bordering on Snow continued, her gaze lowered as if speaking to herself. "I know how good you've been to me, Hao gege, and I can never repay your kindness."
"But, I want to see, to try... I want to witness the pinnacle of the sword path, to test if I can reach the summit."
Even as she spoke softly, there was an unyielding determination in her voice, a fire in her eyes as she spoke of the sword.
Li Hao's lips parted as if to speak, but no words came.
He simply gazed at her, and in that moment, beyond the familiar contours of her face, he saw something else that he recognized.
It was the same relentless pursuit of glory that he had seen in countless talented individuals, like moths drawn irresistibly to the flame.
"Actually," Li Hao said gently, a hint of resignation in his voice, "after you've seen that view, you'll realize that a simple life like this is the happiest kind."
Were these days of joy and play still no match for her devotion to the sword?
Bordering on Snow lifted her head, her eyes fixed on the setting sun. "Maybe," she conceded, "but if I don't try, I'll never be at peace. I want to see the pinnacle of the sword path, and I want to witness the ultimate sword, the divine sword that my master spoke of!"
"The divine sword..."
Li Hao shook his head with a smile. For countless ages, sword cultivators had whispered of such a thing.
There were countless sword techniques and styles, each with its unique lineage and stances, but none of them were the ultimate sword path.
The ultimate sword path was known as the divine sword, and no one knew its true form. No one knew how it was unsheathed, whether it was a slash or a thrust.
No one even knew if it truly existed.
Yet, the legend persisted that whoever could comprehend this sword would possess the power to slay gods, destroy ghosts, exterminate demons, and conquer magical beasts. It was said that such a sword could cleave through the very fabric of the world, shatter the moon and the sun, and fill the boundless oceans!
This was the ultimate aspiration and goal of all sword cultivators.
Li Hao had pored over the records of countless masters and sword saints in the Listen to Rain Pavilion, and they all spoke of this divine sword. Some even spoke of how they had sparred, fought, and exchanged insights in their pursuit of this ultimate technique.
The legend of the divine sword had spread far and wide during the prosperous era eight hundred years ago, driving sword cultivators to the heights of obsession and madness in their quest for enlightenment.
But as the years passed without anyone achieving this enlightenment, the legend slowly faded, becoming nothing more than a tale.
After centuries of discussion, the topic had grown stale, and no one bothered to argue or debate it anymore.
Li Hao never expected that the girl before him would harbor such aspirations and desires.
Was it that wretched old man who had put these ideas in her head? Li Hao thought of the old man who had refused him, and though he had neither liked nor disliked the man before, a spark of anger now ignited within him.
"Did your master teach you all this?" Li Hao asked, his tone carrying a hint of accusation.
Sensing the subtle change in his tone, Bordering on Snow's expression shifted, and she glanced at Li Hao before shaking her head. "No, my master only mentioned it in passing. It's something he pursues, but he never forced it upon us. It's just a path I want to explore on my own."
"Is that so?"
Li Hao's anger subsided, and he said, "If you want to practice the sword, I can accompany you and even teach you."
Bordering on Snow couldn't help but think of their childhood days spent in the courtyard.
She sighed inwardly, knowing that things were different now.
"The divine sword has no set rules or recordings; it's merely a legend, something that cannot be taught. Perhaps, only when someone truly unleashes that sword will its form be revealed."
He looked at the young girl, his gaze intense as he asked, "Have you truly given your heart entirely to the sword?"
When the sword path enters one's heart, it can lead to obsession, but there is still a fine line between obsession and madness. Only when one truly falls in love with the sword can they reach such extremes.
Bordering on Snow met Li Hao's gaze head-on, and this time, she did not shy away. It seemed that when it came to the sword, she was unwilling to hide or evade.
"Yes," she affirmed. "That is why I want to go and see."
"But what if you don't succeed?" Li Hao probed.
"That is why I want to try," she replied.
"Countless swordsmen have pursued this fruitlessly. It is but a legend, and no one has ever achieved it. Are you willing to give up the happiness that is within your grasp for such an elusive fantasy?" Li Hao asked, his confusion evident as he looked at the girl before him.
Bordering on Snow fell silent for a moment before answering, "If I don't give it my all, I might regret it for the rest of my life!"
Li Hao couldn't help but smile and sigh at the same time.
The endless dramas and heartaches of the mortal world were often fueled by such unwillingness to let go.
Yet, flowers can bloom again, but youth is fleeting and never returns...
Li Hao sighed as he asked, "What were you planning to do originally?"
Seeing Li Hao's constant sighs, Bordering on Snow's eyes softened, but she bit her lip and continued, "In my sect, there are two choices: the mortal world or the sword path. In truth, one can choose both and try to balance them. However, in doing so, one is still choosing the mortal world."
"Because the sword path is pure and singular."
"Only by devoting oneself to a single path can one reach the pinnacle!"
She continued in a soft voice, "I have already made my decision. I plan to stay with you for a while and then continue to refine my swordsmanship."
"And in the future..."
Her voice softened as she spoke, and her cheeks flushed slightly. She stole a glance at Li Hao and saw that he was looking at her as well, causing her to turn away. "In the future, when Brother Hao wants to settle down, I will come back and marry you and have children."
Upon hearing this, Li Hao could only sigh inwardly, for he knew that she hadn't finished speaking.
"And then?" he prompted.
"Then, I will continue on my pursuit of the sword path," Bordering on Snow said, the flush on her cheeks fading as she spoke with determination.
Li Hao understood her intentions and said, "But by settling down and having children, you will waste a year of your time. In that case, you won't be able to devote yourself fully to reaching the pinnacle."
Bordering on Snow nodded, well aware of this fact.
If she truly wanted to pursue the ultimate peak, the best course of action would be to cut all ties with Li Hao.
From then on, only the sword would be her companion.
However, she couldn't bring herself to sever the bonds forged during their childhood.
The debt of gratitude she owed was too heavy and profound.
She understood that without Li Hao's help all those years ago, she might not have even had the opportunity to pursue the sword path or become a disciple of the Sword Saint.
The Li family had used the highest-grade foundation-building elixirs and the best foreign blood to temper her body. Li Hao had even given her the most supreme treasure blood extracted from a three-thousand-year-old demon corpse that Li Tiangang had slain at the border, fortifying her with its essence.
All of this had contributed to her achieving the supreme ninth-grade talent! It was because of this that she now had the chance to pursue the sword path.
How could she ever forget this debt of gratitude? If she did, her heart would be incomplete, and her sword would be flawed.
How could she then hope to reach the summit and become the most exceptional swordsman?
Thus, even with the potential flaw and the year of delay, she was willing to bear it for Li Hao's sake.
Giving birth to his child was her heart's desire and the only way she knew to repay him.
"Have you made up your mind?" Li Hao asked, looking at her intently.
"Yes," Bordering on Snow replied firmly.
Li Hao's lips twitched as he realized that further persuasion would be futile.
The girl before him had already dedicated her heart and soul to the sword.
He couldn't help but sigh, feeling a sense of bitterness.
In that courtyard, four years of companionship through wind and snow couldn't compare to the eight years she had spent with her sword.
Indeed, in terms of time, he only accounted for half of her life.
How could he ever compete with that?
But he was alive, and the sword was not.
He thought of the courtyard on those dark nights, illuminated by the bright river of stars overhead.
He remembered the first time he had seen that tearful little girl, comforting her as she grieved the loss of her father.
He recalled the sunny day when they had made a promise in the courtyard, their small hands clasped in a handshake:
"You have to be a good girl and listen to me. As long as you stay here, no matter where I go, I will always come back."
"Pinky promise."
"No take-backs, or you're a little dog."
"Okay, okay."
Who could have imagined that the indulgent child who had casually made that promise would end up keeping his word and giving his heart?
Each letter that had flown in from the Southern Sword Lodge was like an ellipsis, continuing the story of their unspoken vow.
Yet, while the people in the courtyard waited for the spring breeze to arrive, the girl, who was now nine thousand miles away, had already given her heart to the sword.
Li Hao had never expected that the little girl who had left with her master all those years ago would truly walk so far away from him.
The Half-step Invincible Fist.
After teaching it, the old man asked, "Do you know why I only refer to this technique as half a step?"
The boy speculated, "Could it be that you've only created half of it, Uncle?"
The old man shook his head with a smile. "Everyone in the world assumes so, but that's not the case. This half-step is, in fact, the complete version."
"Then why call it half a step?" the boy inquired.
"Because only with half a step can one be invincible," the old man replied.
The boy didn't understand.
The old man continued, "You see, when people take a full step, they tend to overextend themselves, and if their enemy evades their attack, they may find themselves in a dire situation... The same is true in life. One should not take things too seriously, or they may find it hard to restrain their emotions."
Do not take things too seriously, or you may find it hard to restrain your emotions...
At this moment, Li Hao finally comprehended the true meaning of 'half a step'. It was not about physical steps but a state of mind.
Whether in martial arts or life, taking that full step could expose one's weakness.
...otherwise, you'll reveal your defeat.
Li Hao lifted his head to gaze at the evening glow, letting out a long sigh.
Bian Ru Xue heard Li Hao's sigh, and her heart trembled slightly. She sensed that something was lost.
She tightened her grip on her sword, then relaxed it again. Perhaps this was an expected outcome, so why feel sad now?
She composed herself, looking up at the boy before her, who shone like a bright star or a clear moon, and asked with feigned nonchalance, "When did you realize it?"
Li Hao slowly withdrew his gaze from the girl's cheek, which bore a smile as radiant as the evening glow, beautiful enough to make one forget their surroundings. Yet, his eyes merely smiled without lingering, as he replied, "Perhaps a very, very long time ago."
"A very long time ago..." Bian Ru Xue paused, then looked at Li Hao with confusion. "Why?"
Li Hao smiled without offering an explanation.
The content of the latter part of the letter, as well as the frequency of correspondence, spoke volumes. People are emotional creatures, and they are sensitive to such nuances.
This included the fact that on this trip down the mountain, he hadn't rushed straight to the Li residence but had first attempted to conquer the Mo River.
Now that the Mo River had been infiltrated, the nearby village was destroyed. The civilians who had fallen into the river were doomed, and it made no difference whether they were conquered early or late—it merely depended on his mood at the time.
"Were you truly happy when I took you around Qingzhou this time?" Li Hao asked.
Bian Ru Xue nodded slightly. "Happy!"
"That's good," Li Hao said, nodding as well. But his smile seemed to lack something.
It was genuine happiness, yet it couldn't bring back a heart that had already galloped away long ago.
Half a step, half a step... Why did I take more than necessary?
Li Hao shook his head and smiled.
"What are you smiling about?" Bian Ru Xue asked.
Li Hao's gaze fell on the evening glow, and he said, "I'm smiling because the scenery is so beautiful. But everyone is busy rushing about, and the passersby on the street hurry to and fro. Who has the leisure to stop and look up?"
Bian Ru Xue fell silent. She knew that Li Hao wasn't referring to the passersby but to her.
So she spoke up for the 'passersby': "Maybe they are busy making a living, pursuing their dreams... You were the one who taught me the word 'dream,' after all."
Li Hao burst into laughter, suddenly standing up as if filled with boundless passion. "You're right!"
But then he added, "However, if one truly wishes to, they can spare a moment to look up. It's just a matter of whether they're willing or not."
"Then what's the point?"
"Of course, there's a point," Li Hao said. "Isn't the purpose of life to experience that moment of looking up?"
It seemed that they were both taking this conversation to heart, and then there was silence.
After an unknown duration, Li Hao's face became devoid of all emotion, and he said with a hint of fatigue, "I'm a bit tired from wandering around today. You should head back first."
Bian Ru Xue remained silent for a moment before nodding gently and standing up. "It's getting late. They must be having dinner in the courtyard by now. You should head back soon too, or Uncle will wait too long."
The corner of Li Hao's mouth lifted slightly.
"I waited for him for fourteen years. What difference will it make if he waits a little longer for me?"
Bian Ru Xue was taken aback, her lips parting slightly as if she wanted to say something, but no words came out.
She suddenly felt a strange pain in her heart, a feeling she had never experienced during her sword training.
Her training had always been pure, but now she felt conflicted.
Bian Ru Xue left first, and Li Hao sat there holding the snacks and trinkets he had bought while playing at the temple fair.
Looking at the items in his hands, he noticed that the girl hadn't taken anything, which made him smile.
If she truly liked them, how could she leave without taking anything?
She had only taken her sword and left like a gentle breeze, along with herself.
Was the sword really that captivating? Li Hao looked up, wondering if he would ever have the chance to reach the pinnacle of swordsmanship and see for himself.
To see how many swordsmen's bones were buried beneath that sheer cliff.
And whether there truly existed a divine sword at the pinnacle of that path!
The evening glow turned the sky blood-orange, as if the sun was weeping blood as it set for the day...
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