Chapter 10: Master and Disciple Reunited

The Thousandweight technique is a classic defensive move, a protective sword aura capable of reflecting the enemy's sword energy back upon them. Each reflected strike carries the weight of a thousand jin, "Well done, boy. So you've already mastered the protective sword aura—this is the final form of 'Sword Aura as One,' the famed technique 'A Decade for a Single Sword.' Defensive sword auras have grown rare these days, but before my Six Dream-Soul Swords, no defense can prevail! The Illusory Spirit Realm is itself one of the world's supreme dream-realms; here, to unleash the Heaven-Obscuring Sword Art is like giving wings to a tiger for Cheng Zhu Meng."

"Your second senior sister is about to get serious now. Ji, little girl, you've always wanted to know how powerful your second senior sister's sword techniques are. Today, observe carefully."

Within moments, the Illusory Spirit Realm's sky darkened with heavy clouds. The plum blossoms in the grove scattered, creating an atmosphere of decay and decline. The wild wind fused with thunder; this sword combined both wind and lightning, Cheng Zhu Meng's most prized technique. Her movement matched the fury of wind and thunder, reaching the pinnacle of speed. Though a single move, it surpassed all the myriad techniques of the world. After executing it, Cheng Zhu Meng already felt regret.

Her competitive spirit remained unrestrained. Now, the wind and thunder energies had been pushed to their utmost; if this boy could not withstand her strike, he would surely be gravely wounded, if not killed. How would she explain that to her junior sister? Thus, she shouted at Liang Xi, "You fool, get out of the way! Are you trying to die?"

Liang Xi's face betrayed not the slightest fear. Die? No—though the move was formidable, he felt no fear. In this critical moment, he finally comprehended the principle of the second realm of Jiang Xuehan's Water Mastery, 'Rowing Against the Current.' If one likened the Illusory Spirit Realm to a vast ocean, then her Heaven-Obscuring Sword Art was a torrent surging toward him; to row against the current was to disrupt the flow, forcing the water to yield.

Previously, when he used his senior brother's Xuansteel force to suppress the cold moon energy, the situation was strikingly similar. This realization brought clarity: the essence of 'against the current' lay in resistance. Laughing loudly, he declared, "What is Heaven-Obscuring but a trifle? Witness my 'Against the Vast Sea'!" Liang Xi punched with force—not a cold Snowflake Fist, but a mighty blow infused with water's strength. The punch resounded, brimming with momentum.

When the wind and thunder sword met his punch, both forces nearly collapsed. Were it not for Cheng Zhu Meng's deep cultivation, she would have been overwhelmed. "A fine fist technique, but before my wind and thunder illusions, even this is not enough!" Wind and thunder gathered anew. Liang Xi moved like the wind, laughing as he unleashed, "Behold my 'Surging Palm!' Can you break it, senior sister?" The waters of the Illusory River surged into a massive wave, its power concentrated in his astonishing palm.

Both Cheng Zhu Meng and Liang Xi were now guided by their own tumultuous emotions, seeing each other as formidable foes, intent on victory. "Enough! Look at yourselves—what have you become? Within the Illusory Spirit Realm, do not let your emotions control you, or disaster will surely follow. Both of you must reflect for three days. If you cannot understand, you will not leave your rooms!" The strange phenomena shattered under a tremendous force—Hua Lian had intervened, halting the duel before it spun beyond all control.

Liang Xi and Cheng Zhu Meng were left shaken by the narrow escape. Had it not been for Hua Lian's timely action, they could have committed a grave mistake. "Hmph, you two are reckless. Mengmeng, Liang Xi is not of our sect, unfamiliar with the rules—that’s understandable. But you, always so steady, how could you let a moment’s pride drag you into combat? Have you forgotten? Private duels are forbidden in the Illusory Spirit Realm!"

"I happened to arrive today—what if I hadn’t? Would you two fight to the death? Your senior sister Linglong was always like this, never listening to me, and look what became of her. I swore then that, as a master, I would protect my disciples from any harm. And now you two, with your little skills, dare to act so recklessly!"

Hua Lian had never shown anger in all these years. She had created the Illusory Spirit Realm so her disciples could cultivate themselves. "Senior, all the blame lies with me. I sought out second senior sister for a duel—please do not scold her. In truth, I have already lost." Liang Xi would never let Cheng Zhu Meng take his punishment.

"Oh? How noble—well then, you will reflect for seven days. I grant you this chance in honor of my little disciple. You must use all your strength against Wan Ruyu, that villain. You and your senior brother came to Xuanzhou to temper yourselves and assist Linglong, did you not?"

"Master, Liang Xi is our guest. It is my fault, yet he takes the punishment. I cannot accept this." Cheng Zhu Meng feared no punishment. Her Heaven-Obscuring move had revealed murderous intent, which in this realm was a grave violation—punishable by loss of all her cultivation. Yet, she had acted too slowly. "Enough. This matter ends here. No one will mention it again."

Liang Xi remained carefree, as though the seven days of reflection meant nothing to him. "Second senior sister, you are truly formidable. I admire you! I hope next time we can duel again."

"You’re a strange one—taking my punishment without a care. Instead, you should worry about explaining yourself to my junior sister. You didn't see her expression just now—a beauty’s wrath! She’s taken a liking to you, and that’s real trouble. She treats the world’s rules as clouds, but values our sect’s rules above all else. That’s why she’s angry. Think carefully about what you should do."

Indeed, Liang Xi turned to see Ji Anran’s icy gaze fixed on him. For her, Master Hua Lian was paramount; her rules were law. Liang Xi had broken that law—her anger was inevitable. He was at a loss, clever as he was, unable to find a way before Ji Anran.

"Seven days from now, I will apologize to you. If you wish to beat or scold me, I won’t object! After seven days, I plan to lure Wan Ruyu to Yunjiang. Linglong has waited for this day far too long."

"Liang Xi, are you serious? You really plan to lure Wan Ruyu? You've never fought him—his River-Watching Palm is formidable, and with Mirror Flower’s power, relying on you alone won’t suffice. But don’t worry: we sisters will support you in secret. Our senior sister has waited alone at Yunjiang for years, suffering a hardship we may never truly understand."

Seven days swiftly passed. Liang Xi spent them calming his heart. Today, he could finally leave the Illusory Spirit Realm. He knew Wan Ruyu was waiting outside, ready to kill him if he dared leave. Seven days ago, Liang Xi had no solution, but now, after reflection, he felt no fear.

"Now, do you understand why I made you reflect for seven days? Your mind is calm. Ji Anran, go with Liang Xi now. You’ve avoided the people of Cold River Island for years, always alone. Now, you should realize—you’re not alone anymore. Look at this man beside you; whatever dangers you face, I believe he will help you."

"Hahaha, Liang Xi, are you planning to hide in the Illusory Spirit Realm for life? Days ago, you had the courage to face the world—what happened?"

"Hua Lian, what do you mean? I’ve always respected you as Linglong’s mentor; I’ve never troubled you, for her sake. But now you protect Liang Xi—he’s just an outsider, not worth your efforts."

"Silence! You have no right to speak our senior sister's name!" Suddenly, a figure shot from the Illusory Spirit Realm's entrance—Ji Anran. With a move called 'Plucking Leaves,' she struck fiercely, spinning her body like a whirlwind, trapping Wan Ruyu within.

"Plucking leaves? That’s nothing! Watch my Endless Flow!" Facing the fierce attack, Wan Ruyu showed no fear. His River-Watching Palm's Endless Flow exploded forth.

A metallic clash sounded as their palms met. Wan Ruyu pushed his palm technique to the extreme, morphing Endless Flow into 'Heavenly Water,' a domineering strike. Ji Anran faltered, but Liang Xi intervened, dissolving the crisis with a rainbow arc of sword energy.

"Well done, boy. Your skills have improved these days. It seems killing you today will not be easy!"

"Indeed, Wan Ruyu, even if you try to deny it, you cannot. Today, I’ll take you to see an old acquaintance. I doubt you have the courage!"

"Hahaha, brat, little girl, there is no one in this world I dare not meet. Since you two have come, I won’t let you leave!"

"Hmph, if you have the guts, follow me!" Liang Xi’s 'Soaring Bird Illusion Dance' was astonishingly swift; in a few leaps, he became a distant speck. Ji Anran, carried by Liang Xi, needed no movement of her own. Soon, they left Xuanzhou and arrived at Yunjiang, its waters ever-flowing.

"You brought me to Yunjiang—I see now. You mean for me to meet Shui Linglong, don’t you?"

"Very well, since I’m here, let’s meet. I’ve always known she was here, but never left Xuanzhou—not out of fear, but because Shui Linglong is a troublesome man."

"Miss Linglong, as promised, I’ve brought him. Please show yourself!" Liang Xi’s voice thundered across Yunjiang’s banks. Soon, a woman in water-green robes appeared—Shui Linglong. Ji Anran saw her legendary senior sister for the first time, and found her truly a peerless beauty, though years of hardship had left a trace of weariness.

"Well done, you keep your promises."

"Shui Linglong, after all these years, I never expected you to look like this. I remember your former self—it's like another life. How did you become like this in just a few short years?"

"Wan Ruyu, you dare to face me? Yes, I’ve become like this—all because of you. Every day, I wish to devour your flesh. Today, let’s settle things once and for all. You can deceive others, but not me. I know you’ve mastered Mirror Flower. I am no longer your match, but that matters little. I’ve waited for this day for years; I won’t let you escape!"

Wan Ruyu laughed, "Perfect, I was thinking the same." Liang Xi and his companions understood: there was no affection left between the two—only death. "Liang Xi, take my junior sister aside. I fear I may harm you in the battle." Shui Linglong approached, her aura growing with each step. She thought she would be heartbroken upon seeing Wan Ruyu again, but she felt only calm. Behind her, Yunjiang matched her tranquil heart.

Her gaze shone briefly, then faded. Wan Ruyu stood motionless, watching her approach. He was deeply surprised. In their youth, Shui Linglong was fiery—easy to deceive. Now, her temperament had changed utterly. He had cultivated Mirror Flower for years, confident none could match him in that realm. He could see into anyone’s heart instantly.

"I, Shui Linglong, am a sinner. Master pitied my orphaned childhood, raised me, taught me supreme skills. Yet I was ungrateful, leaving my sect for a fraud. I should not live, but I must—my wish is to settle things with you!" She soared into the air, like an arrow released. Her left hand unleashed 'Plucking Leaves,' her right formed a sword seal, unleashing the swiftest 'Lotus Sword.'

Ji Anran marveled at her senior sister’s might. The 'Beautiful Hand' was a must-learn technique for disciples, but few could execute both 'Plucking Leaves' and 'Lotus Sword' together. 'Plucking Leaves' broke countless moves; 'Lotus Sword' was the fastest strike.

"Vixen, all these years, you’ve improved immensely!" Wan Ruyu’s refined face now bore a cold edge. He shouted, unleashing the second realm of River-Watching Palm, 'Boundless Distance,' a powerful, alternating force that crashed endlessly toward Shui Linglong, stirring Yunjiang’s waters into a frenzy.

With a bang, both had improved over the years. At first exchange, they were evenly matched. Yet Shui Linglong’s pent-up fury would not relent. She kicked out two blades of flying petals—attacking with her feet! Wan Ruyu was caught off-guard by her unpredictable tactics, leaving an opening as he spun to evade.

Shui Linglong seized the moment, both hands forming claws for a fierce attack. "That’s the fifth move of Beautiful Hand—'Falling Plum Bone-Break'!" Ji Anran instantly recognized the ruthless move. Beautiful Hand had six forms; the fifth, 'Thousand Blossoms,' was the most ferocious, containing three variations: 'Falling Plum Bone-Break,' 'Green Willow Vein-Destroy,' and 'Withered Flower Soul-Eradicate,' each more devastating than the last. Shui Linglong had found Beautiful Hand powerful but not vicious enough, so she created this third form, naming it 'Thousand Blossoms.'

Hua Lian knew her first disciple was exceptionally gifted, but had not expected her to invent such lethal moves. Though she originally wanted to discard them, after Shui Linglong left, guilt compelled Hua Lian to integrate 'Thousand Blossoms' into Beautiful Hand. In the Illusory Spirit Realm, only Hua Lian and Shui Linglong could use it.

The move carried intense malice, and Shui Linglong’s anguish amplified its power. With a crack, Wan Ruyu’s forearm broke. Shui Linglong pressed her advantage, her fingers fluttering like willow leaves, striking with immense force—'Green Willow Vein-Destroy,' sealing his meridians so that any forced energy would destroy him.

Wan Ruyu spat blood, his handsome face twisted. He knew he was gravely wounded. "Linglong, must you see me dead to be satisfied? Fine, I knew this day would come. If I die by your hand, I’ll be content."

At that moment, Wan Ruyu called her name again. Memories flooded Shui Linglong; her power weakened. She had once loved this man deeply—yet gained nothing in the end.

'Thousand Blossoms' must not lose momentum; if it does, all vitality is lost! Wan Ruyu howled, delivering a heavy 'Heavenly Water' palm to Shui Linglong, who spat blood, her spirit shaken. "Vixen, after all these years, your heart is still soft. In illusion arts, you’ll never rival me. I no longer need Mirror Flower; if Nien wants it, take it."

"Do you think you can leave today?" Liang Xi was about to strike when several figures arrived. First was Hua Lian, followed by Cheng Zhu Meng, Fei Xingye, and Mei Lengning. The last two were a man and woman—Zhuang Yunzhen and Mo Qing. They had sensed the disturbance at Yunjiang and came together as backup.

"Linglong, at last I see you again. Your current state is my fault. But rest assured, since I and your four junior sisters are here, I won’t let Wan Ruyu act out!"

"Master, I am unworthy of being your disciple—my only wish is to kill this villain myself, to repay my debt to the sect!"

"Hahahaha, what a lively scene! So many against one—I won’t retreat, though I am sorely aggrieved!"

Cheng Zhu Meng said coldly, "What do you want?"

"Simple: three days from now, at River-Gazing Terrace on Cold River Island, three families will compete in three rounds. Two victories wins. Do you dare?" Wan Ruyu knew he was surrounded by experts; without a plan, he could not escape.

"Agreed. Now go—if I change my mind, you won’t leave alive." Wan Ruyu dared not linger, snorting and vanishing. He had come to intimidate Shui Linglong, but ended up wounded; after years apart, her skills had grown formidable.

"Senior sister, it’s been so long. I’ve missed you dearly. Seeing you again brings me immense joy." Cheng Zhu Meng held two in greatest esteem: Master Hua Lian and Senior Sister Shui Linglong. When she joined the sect as a youth, Shui Linglong’s skills rivaled the master, and her own foundation was a gift from her senior sister, who was admired for both beauty and strength.

"Mengmeng, you’ve grown up. I sense sword aura in you. You once told me you’d create your own sword art—have you fulfilled that wish? I am no longer as I was; I am unworthy of the title 'senior sister.'"

"No, senior sister, in my heart you always hold that place, irreplaceable by anyone. After you left, Master took three more disciples. This is third junior sister Fei Xingye; Master says she resembles you and is talented in Beautiful Hand—but her true skill is cooking." Fei Xingye bowed, "Junior sister greets senior sister!"

"This is fourth junior sister Mei Lengning, highly gifted in Mirror Flower and illusions—the best in our sect, already at the third realm, Mirage. Senior sister, do you think she has surpassed you?"

"I’ve admired you for so long, senior sister. Meeting you today is the happiest moment for me!" Senior sister was the most gifted in the sect and the master’s greatest regret.

"And finally, you see our youngest, Ji Anran—Master’s last disciple. She hails from Cold River Island and will join the contest in three days. Little junior sister, I’ve always told you stories of senior sister. Now you’ve met her—have you nothing to say?"

"Senior sister’s strength is awe-inspiring. No matter how I train, I cannot compare."

"Linglong, even now, you refuse to return? I know you must resent me. I’ve wronged you for years."

Hearing this, Shui Linglong felt anxious, "Master, I dare not. I brought it upon myself, betraying the sect. Seeing you and my junior sisters again brings me contentment. I ask for nothing more." She longed every day to return. In dreams, she recalled the past—all destroyed by her own hand.

"Good. Since you do not hate me, I remain your master. Linglong, you left of your own accord; I never expelled you. I’ve always kept your room clean. Will you truly not return?" After so many years, Hua Lian was deeply moved to see her disciple once more.

"Senior brother, you seem well after your days resting at Su Yi Pavilion. Though I was in the Illusory Spirit Realm, I always hoped to see you. This lady, whether senior sister or junior sister, thank you for taking care of my senior brother." Liang Xi saw Mo Qing’s gentle demeanor, pairing well with his senior brother, though he had no place to comment as an outsider.

"So you’re the junior brother Zhuang often mentioned? Each day during his seven days of training, I heard about you. He says you’re the most interesting person, fond of nonsense. Meeting you, I find you less than your reputation."

Liang Xi glanced at his senior brother and smiled, "Sister is right—I do love to talk nonsense. But you’re as outstanding in person as in reputation. My senior brother has always been stubborn; today’s the first I’ve seen him with a girl. The blockhead has finally opened up—good, very good!"

"So you were always a blockhead. Your junior brother has a sharp tongue—after just meeting, he says you’re as famed as you are formidable. Do I really have such a reputation?"

"Certainly! Mo Qing of Su Yi Pavilion is famous throughout Xuanzhou." Ji Anran disliked Liang Xi speaking to Mo Qing, who looked over and saw a stunning woman in black. Mo Qing normally cared little for looks, but upon seeing Ji Anran, felt inferior. She knew she was attractive, but compared to Ji Anran, she paled. "Such a lovely jade-like lady. Sister, from Cold River Island, I guess you’re the eldest daughter?"

"Being the eldest, you spurn family arts in favor of unorthodox techniques. Does your father know?" Mo Qing and Ji Anran, both peerless beauties, clashed at once. Ji Anran smiled, "Of course he knows. Not only does he know, he willingly let me become Master’s disciple. Mo Qing, you disdain ordinary folk—what’s changed today?"

Liang Xi knew if this continued, they’d soon fight. "Enough, Ji the Great Beauty, you’re the best—others aren’t worthy to speak to you!" Though flattering, Ji Anran was pleased to hear it. "For your sake, I’ll let this go." Ji Anran wasn’t usually so proud; Master Hua Lian glanced at Mo Qing, sensing a pure aura quite unlike her own little disciple. "How is your uncle? Years ago, we met; then, he was focused on cultivating the Immortal White Flame. Has he made progress?"

"Master, you know this lady’s uncle?" Ji Anran realized her behavior was poor, but couldn’t help herself. Mo Qing was so composed, unlike herself. Her second mother, Xuelian, was similarly calm but deeply cunning; since then, Ji Anran disliked such types.

Hua Lian knew what her disciple was thinking—not all gentle people are like Xuelian. "Mo Qing is Su Yi Pavilion’s young mistress. Her Immortal White Flame has reached the fifth heaven. Her uncle, Li Feichen, and her father, Li Feiyan, were the 'Twin Stars of Su Yi Pavilion.' Sadly, Li Feiyan reportedly died at the hands of Cold River Island disciples. So, disciple, never trouble Mo Qing. Though you hail from Cold River Island, you know you no longer have ties to it."

"Forgive me, senior. My uncle was injured in the Ten-Day Duel, damaging his meridians. Though he reached the seventh heaven of Immortal White Flame, he’s made no progress since. He told me Hua Lian is a heroine, once famed across Xuanzhou for her Beautiful Hand."

"Good, then I must visit my old friend someday. Since we’re all here, let’s return to the Illusory Spirit Realm; the contest in three days is most important." Shui Linglong, though reluctant, was persuaded by her junior sisters and returned to her sect after so many years. Every tree and blade of grass was arranged with her master in bygone days; the scenery the same, the people changed.

"Master, I will one day make the Illusory Spirit Realm’s arts renowned, becoming the greatest in the world!" The vow echoed—but she no longer possessed the passion of youth. "Is the plum grove still here?" Linglong gazed at the grove, lost in thought. "Of course, senior sister. Master knows you love plum blossoms; you planted this grove yourself. Master often sits here, thinking of you. Now you’ve returned, she’s happiest of all."

Yes, she had finally returned. After years of wandering, only here could her heart truly be at peace. "Master, I truly owe you!" Shui Linglong threw herself into Hua Lian’s embrace, weeping.

"No need for words now—the important thing is you’ve come home. If anyone owes an apology, it’s me. Will you forgive me?"

"Yes, yes, yes! I do! The happiest moment in my life was becoming a disciple of the Illusory Spirit Realm." Everyone was deeply moved. Shui Linglong then turned to Liang Xi and Zhuang Yunzhen. "Master, I owe my return to these two young men. I wish to swear brotherhood with them, witnessed by you and my junior sisters!"

"Hahaha, good! That’s my disciple—do as you wish. You two, are you willing to become sworn brothers with my disciple?"

"I am willing! Eldest sister above, please accept my bow!" Shui Linglong, once passionate, became eccentric after leaving the sect; now, gaining sworn brothers warmed her heart. "Good, from today, you two are my brothers."

Ji Anran pouted, "Now this brat is on my level. Tell me—if I fight senior sister, who will you help?"

Liang Xi laughed, "Of course, I’d help you. Eldest sister wouldn’t quarrel with a little girl like you." Ji Anran, clever as she was, knew this meant she would be unreasonable if she fought her senior sister. "Master, look at this brat—he’s emboldened now that he has eldest sister’s support!"

Hua Lian pinched Ji Anran’s cheek. "No matter how fierce others are, none can match you. Let your senior sisters tell your nickname in the Illusory Spirit Realm." Ji Anran blushed, "This girl is the little tyrant of the Illusory Spirit Realm—never letting go when she has the upper hand. Liang Xi, you’ll have a hard time with her!" Third sister Fei Xingye said.

Everyone laughed. Ji Anran was about to cry. Hua Lian smiled, "Enough, don’t tease too much. We’re all family. Your little junior sister is stubborn, but today is my happiest day—your senior sister has returned, my most gifted disciple. Who knows the fifth move of Beautiful Hand? Only she does. I can use it, but my understanding of 'Thousand Blossoms' pales in comparison."

"I thought I’d never see her again and felt sorrow. But now, seeing her healthy and with two fine brothers, I am overjoyed."

"This is fate. When my junior brother and I first arrived in Xuanzhou, we encountered wild storms on Yunjiang; without those events, we might never have met sister."

"But Wan Ruyu is truly formidable. Eldest sister had victory in hand, but still let him escape."

"That’s my fault—soft-hearted for a moment, recalling the past. He has seen through me; even as I fought, I could not guarantee to kill him. Wan Ruyu’s skills are superb—his River-Watching Palm is truly powerful. With Beautiful Hand, I can only fight him to a draw. His understanding of Mirror Flower surpasses mine, and that’s the truth."