The waterside pavilion was erected with astonishing speed, completed by the morning of New Year's Eve. The three women immediately sprang into action, dragging Li Muzhan into Xiushui City for a massive shopping spree.

Everything needed to be bought, from the furniture down to the cups for drinking water. They were highly experienced; after circling Xiushui City once, they finished their purchases in half a day.

By noon, everything had been delivered to the lakeside. With the help of a few senior and junior sisters, amidst cheerful chatter, several small boats ferried the goods over to Li Muzhan’s waterside retreat.

This retreat was situated in the east, to the east of the three women’s pavilions, facing south and backed by the north. Standing at the entrance, one faced the vast, boundless expanse of the lake.

Pushing open the northern windows revealed lush green mountains, like a giant azure dragon lying dormant across the water. The south and north sides featured large windows, bright and softly lit, while the east and west sides were constructed of sturdy pine wood.

The east side contained the sleeping quarters, the west the study, and the center the living room. He had only built a single story; it was sufficient for one person.

Apart from Lake Lord Leng Wushuang’s pavilion, all other disciples’ retreats were only one story high. His location was at the far east end, somewhat secluded.

The two closest pavilions to the west belonged to Xu Xiaorou and He Ruoshui, and further still was Zhang Qiaoyi. The four retreats formed a cluster, a self-contained unit.

Li Muzhan had very little social interaction in the small residence. Aside from the Fifth-Rank disciples in the main courtyard, his closest associations were only with these four: Xia Wufeng, and the three women—Zhang Qiaoyi, He Ruoshui, and Xu Xiaorou.

One reason for this situation was that he had been buried in practice, leaving no time for extensive socializing; another was that he had deliberately kept his distance, unwilling to form too many attachments. The three women completely redecorated his retreat—it now carried a slight scent of rouge and perfume.

Li Muzhan shook his head helplessly but did not attempt to change anything. By the time they finished their work, it was already New Year’s Eve.

All the disciples gathered in the plaza beneath the Hall of Stars, singing and dancing, a scene of great merriment. Each disciple could go up to perform or sing or dance as they pleased.

They were exceptionally clever people—quick to learn anything. Though their amateur performances were somewhat chaotic, they possessed a high degree of skill.

For instance, Han Yuzhu’s guzheng playing flowed like running water, ethereal and vast, with a moving artistry that rivaled that of a master zitherist. Several senior sisters also played the xiao flute exquisitely.

Although accompanied by the three women, Li Muzhan couldn't help feeling a pang of melancholy, thinking of the people at Canghai Mountain, yet he didn't feel truly lonely. Zhang Qiaoyi and He Ruoshui both took the stage to display their vocal talents, greatly surprising Li Muzhan.

Zhang Qiaoyi's singing was silken, soft, clear, and gently unfolding, like a spring breeze blowing softly into the heart. He Ruoshui’s voice was soft yet powerful, brimming with explosive energy that stirred the listener's soul, making restraint difficult.

Xu Xiaorou, however, was somewhat shy and hesitant to perform on stage. Li Muzhan secretly smiled to himself.

Normally, Xu Xiaorou seemed the most outgoing, known for her sweet laughter and love for lively atmospheres, while He Ruoshui appeared the most reserved and quiet. Who would have thought that in such a setting, Xu Xiaorou would show stage fright?

…………………………………………,………… After the crowd settled down from their revelry, Li Muzhan took wine, meat, and dishes and sought out Xia Wufeng. Xia Wufeng stood alone in the night wind, motionless as a statue.

Watching his back, Li Muzhan could sense his loneliness and melancholy; he must be missing his beloved. “Junior Brother Li, you have arrived.” He suddenly turned, offering a faint smile.

Li Muzhan stepped forward and scrutinized him: “Senior Brother Xia, you’ve lost weight.” He hadn't seen Xia Wufeng for nearly a year, and upon meeting him now, he immediately noticed he had thinned somewhat; his eyes were no longer as bright, and some of their sharp edge had vanished, replaced by much greater softness. Xia Wufeng beckoned with his hand, and a wine jar flew into his grasp.

He broke off the mud seal and chuckled: “Long time no see… Junior Brother, you’ve changed too.” Li Muzhan smiled: “I was in seclusion for a year; perhaps I’ve lost weight too.” Xia Wufeng laughed heartily: “Haha, likewise. I haven’t been idle this past year either.

Come, come, let’s drink first—then we can spar a few rounds.” “Good.” Li Muzhan nodded with a smile. The two sat down.

The large bowls inverted on the nearby stones were already dusted with a layer of grey. Li Muzhan wiped one with his sleeve and sighed: “Before we knew it, a year has passed.” “You little fellow, quite sentimental!” Xia Wufeng chuckled.

He picked up the wine jar, filled two bowls, raised one, and downed it in one gulp, wiping his mouth with a sigh: “Good wine!” Li Muzhan followed suit, draining his bowl, then refilled it, smiling: “In this past year, have you had any wine, Senior Brother?” “My mouth has gone completely bland!” Xia Wufeng waved his hand, sighing: “The Lake Lord issued an order; no one other than you was allowed to visit.” “Who delivered the food?” Li Muzhan asked. Xia Wufeng gave a wry smile: “Someone delivered it, but with strict instructions not to speak a word.” Li Muzhan shook his head: “The Lake Lord is too severe, isn't she?” “Hush!” Xia Wufeng quickly raised a finger to his lips and shook his head: “These words cannot be spoken… Ask anyone else; not one person speaks of the Lake Lord that way!” He sighed, offering a bitter smile: “In the end, it’s all my fault!” Li Muzhan smiled: “I have some good news!” “You imp, stop keeping secrets, tell me quickly!” Xia Wufeng urged.

Li Muzhan grinned: “I have reached the Sixth Rank and can leave the lake now!” “Really?!” Xia Wufeng’s eyes widened. Li Muzhan chuckled: “How would I dare joke about such a thing?” “Good lad, you’ve done it!” Xia Wufeng punched him squarely on the shoulder, roaring with laughter: “To reach the Sixth Rank in a year—that’s unprecedented and will never be repeated!” Li Muzhan said humbly: “Just lucky, just lucky!” “Good lad, you reached the Sixth Rank just by secluding yourself for a year?” Xia Wufeng asked with a smile.

Li Muzhan recounted his experiences with a smile. Xia Wufeng nodded: “Mm, undergoing a life-and-death trial… it does indeed lead to rapid advancement.

The Lake Lord’s intentions were profound; she used a fierce fire!” He added: “It seems the Lake Lord truly knows people well. Your breakthrough to the Sixth Rank relied entirely on that stimulus.

You are truly blessed, boy!” …………………………………… Li Muzhan gave a wry smile: “I almost lost my life!” Xia Wufeng laughed: “You are a lucky one. Had it been anyone else, they wouldn't have the courage or insight necessary to foster you like this.” Li Muzhan nodded; this was true.

His achievements were indeed due to the Lake Lord’s cultivation. Xia Wufeng took a long, deep breath, lay back, gazing up at the night sky, and sighed deeply: “Alright.

When you get a chance, deliver my letter.” “Rest assured,” Li Muzhan replied with a smile. The two chatted and drank, and then Xia Wufeng suggested a spar.

Facing Xia Wufeng, Li Muzhan held nothing back, immediately activating his Blade Intent. The Duanyue Saber Technique possessed immense power; the integration of his intent and moves was far superior to before.

But against Xia Wufeng, he was still like a child and was defeated in just a few moves. Xia Wufeng shook his head: “You’ve gone down the wrong path.” Li Muzhan looked at him immediately.

For Xia Wufeng to reach the Ninth Rank at his age was also unprecedented; his comprehension was astonishing. His words could not be ignored.

Xia Wufeng said: “The Duanyue Saber Technique relies on simplicity to manage complexity, and strength to overcome skill. You, however, are currently focused on practicing moves, which is abandoning the root for the branches.” Li Muzhan frowned: “But if I don’t focus on the moves, the power is too weak.” Xia Wufeng countered: “That’s because your Blade Intent isn't strong enough, but you shouldn't abandon the Blade Intent to focus on moves because of that.” “Blade Intent…” Li Muzhan murmured thoughtfully.

Xia Wufeng stated: “The essence of the Duanyue Saber Technique is the Blade Intent. No matter how complex or subtle the opponent’s changes, I meet it with a single slash.” Li Muzhan wryly smiled: “In that case, I am far behind.” “Don’t seek quick results.

You’ve abandoned the broad, bright path to try and take shortcuts. You will suffer later!” Xia Wufeng warned.

Li Muzhan slowly nodded, absorbing the advice. Xia Wufeng lazily popped a piece of beef into his mouth: “Do you know the method for cultivating Blade Intent?” “I don’t.

Senior Brother Xia, please teach me!” Li Muzhan’s eyes lit up. Xia Wufeng sipped his wine with a smile, keeping silent.

Li Muzhan diligently refilled a bowl and presented it with both hands: “Senior Brother Xia, please!” Xia Wufeng chuckled, looking him up and down, then shook his head: “I’m afraid if I tell you, you won’t take it seriously, wasting my breath.” “Senior Brother Xia, tell me quickly!” Li Muzhan offered a bitter smile: “If what you say is reasonable, I will naturally obey!” “You brat, you have quite the confidence!” Xia Wufeng cursed with a laugh. ……………………………………………… After finishing his wine and eating another piece of mutton, he clapped his hands and turned serious: “Do you know of the ascetic monks of Buddhism?” Li Muzhan nodded.

He was certainly aware of that sect. Buddhist practitioners indeed included a branch dedicated to arduous self-discipline, renouncing external things to seek enlightenment wholeheartedly.

They either mutilated their bodies or endured cruel environments to temper their resolve, forging their spirits into steel. They abandoned all worldly ties, focusing solely on Buddhahood, allowing suffering to hone them directly to the far shore.

If they failed to become Buddhas, they became demons. These people were all fanatics.

Although Li Muzhan didn't share their extreme path, he respected them deeply. Their conviction toward achieving Buddhahood was absolute, but for someone who understood Buddhist doctrine, their obsession made true enlightenment harder to achieve—a pity.

Li Muzhan frowned: “Senior Brother, are you saying I also need to practice asceticism?” Xia Wufeng nodded: “Yes, this is the most effective way!” Li Muzhan remained silent in thought. Xia Wufeng continued: “We have an Ice Cave in the small residence; it’s an excellent place.

Stay inside for a period; it will be beneficial.” Li Muzhan sighed and slowly nodded: “I will go ask the Lake Lord. If she agrees, I will try it.” Xia Wufeng shook his head and sighed: “This is my unique secret technique, and you don't seem to value it at all!” Li Muzhan laughed heartily: “Thank you, Senior Brother Xia.” “Alright, let’s see how long you can last.

I stayed there for half a year!” Xia Wufeng said with a smile. Li Muzhan was momentarily stunned: “Senior Brother Xia, have you cultivated Sword Intent?” Xia Wufeng suddenly formed his fingers into a sword and pointed toward him in the air.

Li Muzhan instantly felt a chill rush toward him, as if a real sword were piercing the sky. He couldn't help but lean backward, trying to evade the attack.

Xia Wufeng withdrew his finger-sword and picked up the large bowl, drinking another mouthful. Li Muzhan straightened up, staring at Xia Wufeng in astonishment.

He had not expected that single finger-thrust to possess such power, indistinguishable from a real blade. If used during combat, such a move could utterly disrupt an opponent's focus.

If the power were slightly stronger, it might even inflict injury. Xia Wufeng said: “I’ve only grasped a slight entryway; I’m still far off.

This is also thanks to the Ice Cave… Your internal energy is currently weaker; whether you can go depends on what the Lake Lord says.” Li Muzhan now realized that Ninth-Rank disciples were far more formidable than he had imagined. When could he reach the Ninth Rank himself!

The two chatted about everything under the sun until they were both drunk. The next day, after waking up, he first practiced his breathing exercises before heading down to the Falling Star Pavilion to see Leng Wushuang.

Leng Wushuang was already standing in the Falling Star Pavilion, hands clasped behind her back, clad in flowing white robes. After hearing what Li Muzhan said, she shook her head: “There are many methods for cultivating intent.

For you, remaining in the Ice Cave for arduous practice is less effective than reciting the Vajra Sutra.” Li Muzhan nodded. He had, in fact, been using the Heaven and Man Illumination Scripture to enhance his spirit.

A sudden inspiration struck him, and a possible method faintly emerged. If he incorporated Buddhist visualization techniques, would it be effective?

………………………………………… She turned her head, her clear eyes looking over: “Xiaorou told me she wants you to accompany them to White Cloud City. Have you agreed?” Li Muzhan nodded slowly: “Yes.” Leng Wushuang turned away.

A faint, delicate fragrance drifted to Li Muzhan’s nose. Yet, he felt no distracting thoughts; this scent, like sandalwood or something similar, was pleasant but brought clarity and peace to the mind.

“Very well. After the first month passes, you will accompany them to White Cloud City,” Leng Wushuang said softly.

“Yes,” Li Muzhan acknowledged. Leng Wushuang instructed: “Your martial arts have achieved minor success now; you can protect yourself.

Do not overexert yourself if you cannot win.” Li Muzhan agreed, suddenly feeling a touch of reluctance to leave. Leng Wushuang added: “You are currently at the third layer and are close to the fourth.

Once you pass the fourth layer, you must return. The gate of Heaven-Connecting Gate requires extreme caution.” Li Muzhan nodded in assent.

Leng Wushuang turned, her clear gaze lingering on his face for a moment, then waved her hand: “That’s enough. You may go.” Li Muzhan hesitated for a moment: “Lake Lord, I wish to visit the Sea Heaven Palace to deliver Xia Shixiong’s letter.” Leng Wushuang’s delicate eyebrows furrowed slightly.

She looked up toward the vast mountain range and sighed softly: “Another deeply passionate soul! … Yes, you may go.

Be careful; Sea Heaven Palace is not a friendly place.” Li Muzhan smiled: “I am only delivering a letter; I will not cause trouble.” Leng Wushuang shook her head: “I worry that trouble will find you… In any case, be cautious. Sea Heaven Palace and our small residence are enemies, not friends.” Li Muzhan agreed and turned to leave.

The first lunar month passed quickly. Li Muzhan left Star Lake Small Residence with the three women, heading toward White Cloud City.

The journey was smooth, encountering no mishaps, and they soon arrived at White Cloud City. Standing before the tall and imposing White Cloud City, Li Muzhan was filled with emotion.

It felt as if he had been away for a long time, yet it had only been a year. But in this year, he had changed immensely: by practicing the ancient Qi Refining Art, he had learned the true Duanyue Saber Technique, and his strength had greatly increased.

Now his Dantian was full of Qi, his internal energy profound—no less than his former self, and in terms of actual combat power, he was now a cut above. He looked at White Cloud City, but his thoughts were fixed on Lin Ping; finally, he had the opportunity to kill Lin Ping.