Cao Miaodao said, "Father, Junior Brother still needs to practice his skills."

Cao Ya shook his head. "Palace Master Qin said that Wuji only needs half a day of practice now."

"Only half a day of practice?" Cao Miao looked at Li Muzhan, her bright eyes like water, with confusion.

Xiao He’s eyes widened, and she said in a delicate voice, "Master, did the Palace Master really say that?... Could it be that Young Master’s martial arts are complete?... How long has he been practicing?"

Cao Ya said, "No matter how long he has practiced, Palace Master Qin wouldn't lie to me... Besides, talent for martial arts is very important, and Wuji's talent is extraordinary and unusual."

Xiao He was unconvinced. "Master, no matter how unusual he is, can the Young Master practice for one day be equal to one year for others?... The Young Master has only been practicing for two months!"

Cao Ya waved his hand. "That's enough, Xiao He, stop chattering, lest you lose the heart to practice."

"Master, how could I lose the heart to practice?" Xiao He tilted her head and asked.

Cao Ya said, "You work hard practicing for a month, and someone else catches up in one day; do you still have the heart to practice?"

Xiao He laughed merrily. "Master, how can there be such a person."

"There." Cao Ya pointed at Li Muzhan.

Li Muzhan smiled faintly and said, "Teacher has praised me too highly; it's not that mystical. I merely comprehended the Zhaoxia Gong, which is why I achieved this."

"What?!" Xiao He’s bright eyes widened, her small mouth dropping in shock.

Cao Miao’s bamboo chopsticks also froze mid-air as her bright eyes turned over.

Li Muzhan laughed. "Yes, I went into seclusion to practice some time ago, specifically to comprehend the Zhaoxia Gong. Fortunately, I gained some insight. Thanks to Teacher's guidance, I grasped the Zhaoxia Gong through calligraphy."

Cao Ya pondered. "Is that the Zhaoxia Gong stored in the Zhaoxia Hall?"

Li Muzhan nodded.

Cao Ya set down the white jade cup and nodded. "I’ve also heard Miaor and Xiao He talk about the Zhaoxia Gong; it is said to be extremely profound. It seems the reputation is well-deserved."

Li Muzhan laughed. "My comprehension was pure luck. If I hadn't been a scholar and approached it through calligraphy, I wouldn't have figured it out."

"No wonder!" Cao Miao’s bright eyes flickered, slowly regaining their composure.

Xiao He was the complete opposite. She nearly jumped up and cried out, "Young Master, you truly deciphered the Zhaoxia Gong?!"

Li Muzhan nodded helplessly. "It is true."

Xiao He slapped her hands together suddenly, her face beaming with joy. "Amazing, Young Master!"

Li Muzhan laughed. "That’s enough, Xiao He. It was a fortunate coincidence; it's not real skill. Don't make such a fuss and let people laugh at you."

Xiao He gave him a sidelong glance and giggled. "No one has figured it out for so many years, and Young Master has understood it—isn't that worth celebrating!"

"Xiao He, you..." Cao Ya shook his head. "Your control of your spirit is too poor!"

Xiao He said happily, "Young Master actually comprehended the Zhaoxia Gong and surpassed them all!"

Cao Ya waved his hand. "That’s enough, ignore her. Let’s eat."

Li Muzhan and Cao Miao smiled slightly. Li Muzhan inwardly praised, as expected of a young lady from a prominent family; she had only lost her composure for a moment upon hearing the news before regaining her calm.

Cao Ya said, "Wuji, now is not the time to hide your light. On the contrary, you must reveal your sharp edges and display your astonishing talent, ascending to the pinnacle in one go. Only then can you convince everyone and avoid countless troubles."

Li Muzhan smiled. "Teacher, I understand."

"It’s good that you know," Cao Ya nodded. "If you retreat now, the troubles will be endless, and you will become the target of public criticism."

Cao Miao said, "I didn't expect Senior Brother to have such an achievement. Congratulations, Senior Brother."

"It truly was a fortunate coincidence," Li Muzhan shook his head and smiled.

Xiao He, however, was frowning, her delicate, curved eyebrows almost knitted into a knot.

Li Muzhan smiled. "Xiao He, what's wrong?"

"Young Master, something bad is about to happen," Xiao He said.

Li Muzhan smiled faintly. "What major event?"

Xiao He said, "Young Master is going to pass the Zhaoxia Gong to the other senior brothers, right?"

Li Muzhan nodded. "The Zhaoxia Gong belongs to the Palace; naturally, I cannot keep it secret."

Xiao He protested, "But the Zhaoxia Gong is a mental cultivation method for men; women cannot practice it. We all practice the Yingyue Gong!"

Li Muzhan said, "Yes, Zhaoxia Gong is a male cultivation method."

Xiao He continued, "In the past, Zhaoxia Gong was not as good as Yingyue Gong. Now that Young Master has realized Zhaoxia Gong, it can equal the Yingyue Gong. In the future, the senior brothers will be able to catch up with the senior sisters! ... Young Master, your sin is great! All the senior sisters wish they could kill you!"

Li Muzhan smiled and shook his head. "The mental method is dead; the practitioner is key. No matter how good the Zhaoxia Gong is, those who cultivate it might not surpass those practicing the Yingyue Gong."

Xiao He frowned tightly. "In the past, the senior brothers were completely suppressed by the senior sisters. Now that they have the Zhaoxia Gong, they will surely turn the tables. The senior sisters’ good days are over—do you think they won't hate you to death?!"

Li Muzhan laughed and shook his head. "There’s nothing that can be done. We can't always be suppressed by them; it’s truly shameful for a dignified man."

"Alas..." Xiao He shook her head. "Senior Sister Yan might not have acted before; she is always aloof and too lazy to bother with such matters. But now, I’m certain Senior Sister Yan will definitely cause trouble for you."

Li Muzhan said, "I also look forward to meeting Senior Sister Yan."

Cao Miao said, "Senior Brother, Senior Sister Yan is truly formidable, unfathomable."

Li Muzhan nodded. "I will be careful. Victory and defeat in martial arts are common; it’s nothing major."

"Good, it’s good that Wuji has this magnanimity!" Cao Ya nodded, shaking his bamboo chopsticks. "Alright, stop just talking and eat, eat! Xiao He, don't mention this stuff anymore!"

"Yes, Master," Xiao He nodded worriedly.

She was anxious in her heart. Although the Young Master had comprehended the Zhaoxia Gong, he had been practicing for too short a time. No matter how powerful the Zhaoxia Gong was, it could only be about equal to the Yingyue Gong. Senior Sister Yan and the others had been practicing for more than ten years—how could the Young Master possibly compare? Senior Sister Yan was ruthless; the Young Master was doomed!

After dinner, Li Muzhan discussed the Classics with Cao Ya until deep into the night, not returning to his own small courtyard but staying there directly.

Cao Ya’s courtyard had several side rooms, and he had specifically kept a room for Li Muzhan, who could stay there whenever he wished.

The next morning, as soon as Li Muzhan woke up and was about to start his practice, Xiao He’s voice was heard from outside: "Young Master! Young Master!"

Li Muzhan opened the window, and the fresh air rushed to meet him. Xiao He was standing gracefully beneath the peach tree outside the window, clad in a lake-green silk shirt, her appearance delicately beautiful.

"Young Master, I’ve thought of a great idea!" Xiao He said.

Li Muzhan laughed. "Tell me about it."

Xiao He suggested, "Young Master, you should pretend to be sick! ... That way the senior sisters won't have a way to force the Young Master into a match, right?"

Li Muzhan shook his head and laughed. "Silly idea. Can you hide for a while, but hide forever?"

Xiao He countered, "Hiding for a while is better than not hiding at all. Besides, Young Master, you can use that time to practice your martial arts hard and perhaps find a chance."

Li Muzhan laughed. "No need for such trouble. That’s enough, Xiao He, you worry too much. They wouldn't dare do anything to me."

"Young Master, you don't know how formidable the senior sisters are," Xiao He shook her head dismissively.

Li Muzhan laughed. "That's a bad idea of yours. At worst, I'll just bring the Palace Master with me. They wouldn't dare start anything right under the Palace Master’s nose, would they?"

"What a great idea!" Xiao He’s bright eyes lit up, and she clapped her hands. "This idea is good!"

Li Muzhan laughed. "That’s enough, you didn’t sleep well last night. Go back and catch up on some sleep!"

"I’m so stupid!" Xiao He lightly tapped her head and huffed, "I thought all night and couldn't come up with a good idea."

Li Muzhan shook his head and smiled. "I comprehended the Zhaoxia Gong; I have merit in any case. The Palace Master understands everything; how could she let me suffer?"

"That’s true," Xiao He smiled, relieved. "The Palace Master is very wise."

As the two were talking through the window, the courtyard gate sounded outside. Xiao He quickly turned to open the door and soon returned. "Young Master, the Palace Master is looking for you."

Li Muzhan raised an eyebrow slightly, nodded, closed the window, quickly changed his clothes, and then left the room. A girl in a green shirt was already standing outside, her face lovely, speaking in a low voice with Cao Miao.

As soon as Li Muzhan emerged, the green-shirted girl immediately stopped talking and turned to look. "Junior Brother Li, the Palace Master is waiting. Hurry up."

Li Muzhan nodded, realizing the Palace Master seemed quite urgent.

When Li Muzhan arrived at Zhaoxia Hall, Palace Master Qin Yeqiu was already waiting at the entrance, clad in a fluttering purple robe, watching him silently.

"Palace Master," Li Muzhan stepped forward and bowed respectfully.

Qin Yeqiu waved her hand faintly. "Follow me."

Li Muzhan didn't ask further questions, knowing it would be useless. She always spoke as little as possible, even reducing words if she could.

He followed her down the mountain, using his Qinggong to drift down lightly. Soon, he passed through a forest and arrived before a taller peak.

"This is Miaoxiang Peak," Qin Yeqiu said one sentence, then used her Qinggong to skim over the treetops and float toward the summit. Li Muzhan’s expression turned solemn.

Miaoxiang Peak was the secluded dwelling place of the predecessors of the Zishang Palace. It was shrouded in mystery to the disciples; almost no one knew of it or had ever gone there.

Li Muzhan mused: Could it be because he comprehended the Zhaoxia Gong that he was being taken to Miaoxiang Peak?

Miaoxiang Peak was slightly higher than Zixia Peak. Looking down from the mountainside, white clouds obscured the view, and the forest spread like brocade.

Starting from the mountainside, small huts were scattered in an orderly fashion—some hidden among the trees, some built against the mountain, some situated on cliffs, and some constructed like nests.

Qin Yeqiu kept her lips tightly pursed the whole way, saying nothing. Li Muzhan knew she was still angry, and he spoke softly, "Senior Sister, thank you."

"No need," Qin Yeqiu replied coldly.

Li Muzhan said, "Senior Sister arranging for me to study again made Teacher very happy."

"It was your own effort; it has nothing to do with me," Qin Yeqiu stated.

Li Muzhan smiled and said no more.

After a while, Qin Yeqiu said faintly, "Junior Sister Yan and the others will not give up. You must fend for yourself."

Li Muzhan gave a wry smile; her meaning was that she wouldn't interfere and he would have to deal with it alone.

He sighed. "If I strike too heavily, Senior Sister won’t mind, will you?"

Qin Yeqiu turned to look at him. "Can you bear to be ruthless to your senior sisters?"

Li Muzhan shook his head. "I can’t bear it, but the senior sisters are ruthless."

"You weigh it yourself," Qin Yeqiu said coolly, suddenly accelerating and increasing the distance between them, clearly unwilling to speak more with Li Muzhan.

Li Muzhan sighed helplessly. To tell him to weigh it himself meant he should not harm anyone—placing a restraint on him. She really thought highly of him.

Qin Yeqiu suddenly slowed down. "We have arrived."

Li Muzhan looked up. Before him stood a small pine cabin. They had just passed through a pine forest, and this small cabin was built right next to it.

The cabin stood alone, surrounded by a fence. Inside the fence were a vegetable garden and a few chickens, exuding an aura of tranquility, vaguely imbued with a sense of transcendence amidst the swirling morning mist.

Li Muzhan recognized it as extraordinary at a glance. Though the exterior of the cabin was simple and plain, the aura it projected was not. A mountain is not sacred because it is high, but because a spirit resides there; this dwelling possessed such presence, naturally due to its owner.

Qin Yeqiu arrived before the cabin, standing on the lush green grass, and said faintly, "Master."

"Qiu’er, come in," a gentle voice drifted out.

Qin Yeqiu glanced sidelong at Li Muzhan. Li Muzhan understood the meaning in her eyes, nodded, and Qin Yeqiu slowly pushed open the fence gate, stepping onto the cobblestone path into the main room, then lifted the curtain and went inside.

Li Muzhan could not see inside, nor did he use his Xukong Zhiyan (Eye of the Void) to peer in; he waited respectfully outside, observing the surroundings.

To the west of the cabin was a dense, mist-shrouded pine forest, visible only in glimpses. To the east was an open expanse below which was a deep, unfathomable valley. The small cabin was not far from the edge of the cliff.

The trees blocked the view of the distant scenery; he could only see the rising sun in the east, a color tinged with red, purple, and gold.

As he was staring at the red sun, Qin Yeqiu’s cool voice suddenly reached his ears: "Wuji, come in."

Li Muzhan entered the small courtyard, crossed the path, lifted the bamboo curtain, and entered the house. His eyes immediately brightened; the interior was even brighter than the outside.

The main room held a low couch made of green bamboo. Seated on the couch was a beautiful middle-aged woman, around thirty, graceful and moving, gentle as water, smiling as she looked at him.

Qin Yeqiu sat on a nearby bamboo stool and said in a deep voice, "Wuji, this is my Master."

Li Muzhan quickly clasped his fists in salute. "Wuji pays respects to Master!"

The middle-aged beautiful woman waved her hand and smiled gently. "Wuji need not be so formal; sit down and talk."

Li Muzhan moved to the bamboo stool opposite Qin Yeqiu, smiling at the middle-aged woman. He knew this beautiful woman was the previous Palace Master, Luo Bixi.

She looked barely thirty, but she had been the Palace Master for a hundred years, making her at least over a hundred years old. He inwardly marveled at the profoundness of the Yingyue Gong, which allowed her to retain her youthful appearance.

More importantly, her temperament was gentle as water, lacking any sense of vicissitude, as if her heart had not aged with the years, still retaining the heart of a young married woman—truly rare.

He smiled calmly. Luo Bixi’s gentle eyes swept over him a few times, and she nodded slightly. "I have always been worried about Qiu’er, as she is too young. This time, you have made me see things in a new light."

Qin Yeqiu showed a fleeting hint of a smile.

Luo Bixi smiled gently. "Wuji, are you accustomed to living on the mountain?"

Li Muzhan nodded. Luo Bixi then asked about some trivial matters, all related to daily life, showing care and nurturing affection that naturally made one feel favorably inclined toward her.

After asking a few questions, Luo Bixi smiled. "Wuji, for you to comprehend the Zhaoxia Gong is a boundless contribution, and for sharing it with your senior brothers, you show great breadth of mind and boundless prospects. Is there anything you desire?"

Li Muzhan pondered for a moment. "Master, I wish to go down the mountain more often to accumulate experience."

"Hmm, that is good too," Luo Bixi nodded and smiled slightly. "I heard from Qiu’er that you are extremely clever, steady, and meticulous. Experiencing more truly has benefits. Qiu’er, you will have to work a bit harder."

"...Yes, Master," Qin Yeqiu nodded faintly.

If Li Muzhan were to go down the mountain, he would naturally require escort and protection, which would fall to Qin Yeqiu. Qin Yeqiu’s expression showed no change, but Luo Bixi noticed it and pursed her lips, smiling. "Wuji, did you offend Qiu’er?"

Li Muzhan smiled wryly. "Master, my actions might have been reckless, and I may have inadvertently offended Senior Sister."

"For you to make Qiu’er angry, it seems this is no small matter," Luo Bixi smiled, pursing her lips. "You must apologize properly; you need Qiu’er to protect you when you go down the mountain in the future."

Li Muzhan hurriedly nodded in agreement. Qin Yeqiu frowned. "Master!"

Luo Bixi chuckled lightly. "Qiu’er, don’t be so petty. Wuji has just joined; he was a scholar before and doesn't understand the rules. You can teach him slowly."

Qin Yeqiu frowned and said faintly, "Master, there is no need to say more; I understand."

Luo Bixi said, "It’s good that you understand. Treat Wuji well; Wuji is a person of merit."

Qin Yeqiu tightly pursed her lips and stopped speaking. Luo Bixi did not press the matter, turning and smiling at Li Muzhan. "Wuji, if you suffer any grievances in the future, come directly to me."

"Yes, Master!" Li Muzhan was overjoyed. "If I have anything I don't understand, may I come and ask Master for guidance?"

Luo Bixi smiled sweetly. "Ask Qiu’er first if you don’t understand anything. If Qiu’er doesn't understand, then come ask me. I am currently focusing on quiet cultivation and do not wish to engage with worldly affairs."

Li Muzhan glanced at Qin Yeqiu. Luo Bixi laughed. "Don't worry; Qiu’er is broad-minded and won't hold grudges against you."

"Yes, Master," Li Muzhan smiled and nodded.

Luo Bixi waved her slender hand. "Alright, you two go attend to your business."

Li Muzhan and Qin Yeqiu took their leave and walked down the mountain together. Along the way, Qin Yeqiu kept her red lips tightly pressed, saying nothing, unwilling to engage with Li Muzhan.

Li Muzhan didn't approach her to speak either. Talking now would be counterproductive; time was needed to diffuse her anger, and speaking more would only incite her further.

The two returned to the mountain. As Li Muzhan arrived at his small courtyard, he saw four people standing at the gate. He recognized three of them: Luo Jiangyan, Gu Qiongxin, Li Chenjing, and the fourth, with a melon-seed face, was cold and imposing.

Li Muzhan’s heart sank. He thought, They’ve arrived. He clasped his fists and smiled. "Senior Sister Luo, Senior Sister Gu, Senior Sister Li, and this Senior Sister. Are you waiting for me specifically?"

"Junior Brother Li, you’re quite busy," Luo Jiangyan said with a slight smile.

Gu Qiongxin cast him a sideways glance, looking contemptuous. Li Chenjing showed an apologetic expression, looking away from him awkwardly. As for that Senior Sister Yan, she observed him quietly. Luo Jiangyan, however, was smiling faintly, as if greeting an old friend.

Li Muzhan inwardly shook his head. This Senior Sister Luo was a smiling tiger—smiling to the face while ready to stab in the back; extreme caution was needed.

Li Muzhan laughed. "I went to Miaoxiang Peak with the Palace Master."

"So it’s true then?" Luo Jiangyan asked.

Li Muzhan played dumb. "What is true?"

Luo Jiangyan said, "Junior Brother Li comprehended the Zhaoxia Gong and generously offered it up without keeping it private."

Li Muzhan feigned shame. "Pure luck, pure luck. It was truly a coincidence."

Luo Jiangyan gritted her teeth, a smile plastered on her face. "Junior Brother Li is too modest. The reappearance of the Zhaoxia Gong is truly something to be happy about and congratulated!"

These words were squeezed out from between her teeth, carrying a trace of chill.

Li Muzhan smiled, knowing she was angry but pretending ignorance. He clasped his fists and laughed. "It is truly heaven’s will that our Zishang Palace prospers, using me as the instrument for the Zhaoxia Gong to reappear."

"Hmph, not bad!" Luo Jiangyan snorted, her face sinking, then immediately regained her composure and smiled. "Junior Brother Li, I hear the Zhaoxia Gong is incomparably wonderful, allowing for rapid cultivation, advancing a thousand miles in a day. Junior Brother Li now has profound internal strength, making him the foremost among the male disciples."

Li Muzhan hurriedly waved his hands. "Senior Sister Luo, you mustn't say that! ... I am just a newly initiated disciple; I haven't even grasped the essentials yet. How could I be the foremost person!"

"The Palace Master said that," Luo Jiangyan said with a smile.

Li Muzhan showed a bitter smile, instantly understanding. The Palace Master was using them to vent her anger.

Thinking of this, he decided to drop the pretense altogether and laughed. "Senior Sister Luo, let’s be frank. Senior Sisters do not come to the Three Treasures Hall without reason; what is the matter?"

Luo Jiangyan chuckled lightly. "Very well, Junior Brother Li is straightforward! Then I shall be straightforward too. Senior Sister Yan wishes to spar with you to see just how formidable the Zhaoxia Gong is."

Li Muzhan smiled. "I suppose I have no choice but to agree, right?"

"Junior Brother Li is an understanding person," Luo Jiangyan said, smiling.

Li Muzhan spread his hands helplessly and sighed. "Then please, come into the courtyard!"

He turned, opened the courtyard gate, stepped inside, and stood before the small pavilion, smiling. "Senior Sister Yan, please guide me!"

Luo Jiangyan smiled. "Junior Brother Li wants to test palm skills?... I heard Junior Brother Li is currently practicing swordsmanship. Are your palm skills ready?"

Li Muzhan nodded. "Palm skills are easier. Swords are blind; it would be unfortunate if I injured someone by mistake. Palm skills will do, Senior Sister Yan, please—!"

Li Muzhan already knew from Xiao He that this Senior Sister Yan was named Yan Mei, and just as Xiao He had described, she rarely spoke unless necessary.

Yan Mei stepped forward, her green robe fluttering. Her lithe and graceful figure was faintly visible, her physique slender yet voluptuous, like a modern model. A single step she took made the heart leap—a sexiness emanating from deep within her bones.

Li Muzhan sighed inwardly, A true beauty, yet he did not avert his gaze. He assumed a starting posture, fixing his gaze on her bright eyes.

She possessed phoenix eyes, long and sharp eyebrows, and a face like white jade, cold and proud, yet possessing a cold allure that stirred the heart.

She and Qin Yeqiu were both cold, but in entirely different ways. Qin Yeqiu’s coldness was like that of a clear spring, deep and quiet, leaving no room for impious thoughts. Her coldness, however, was like ice enveloping a ball of fire.

Her figure was full and tall, slightly taller than Li Muzhan. She took two steps and stood before him, saying faintly, "Junior Brother Li, please begin!"

"Then I shall presume!" Li Muzhan said in a deep voice. He lightly brought out a palm strike. Yan Mei focused her gaze, watching intently. As the palm neared her chest, she quickly struck at Li Muzhan’s wrist with pointed fingers, light and ethereal. Li Muzhan inverted his wrist, turning the palm into a fist. He drove it toward her slender, delicate fingers. She retracted her fingers into a palm to meet it.

"Bang!" It sounded like a fist hitting a military drum. Both recoiled a step. Li Muzhan felt a soft, yielding sensation in his palm, like touching a piece of the finest white jade, yet softer still. Their palms met, internal energies colliding, and each stepped back. On the surface, it seemed an even match, which made the three women, Luo Jiangyan among them, frown with evident worry. Yan Mei knitted her brows slightly and looked at Li Muzhan. She said plainly, "Again!" She shot a direct palm strike toward him, and Li Muzhan met it. "Bang," the two palms clashed once more. Li Muzhan felt the soft sensation in his palm, accompanied by a gentle force that sought to push him back. Li Muzhan gave a slight flick of his wrist, neutralizing that strange force, and stood firm. Yan Mei also did not retreat; their palms remained pressed together, motionless. "Senior Sister Yan," Li Chenjing called out softly. Yan Mei’s exquisite face remained composed as she stared intently at Li Muzhan. Li Muzhan greeted her with a smile, their palms still touching, unmoving. After a moment, Yan Mei’s purple robes fluttered wildly as if she stood in a gale. The three women, Luo Jiangyan watching, sized Li Muzhan up and down, genuinely astonished that he could actually block Senior Sister Yan's palm strike! Li Muzhan merely smiled at Yan Mei, showing no sign of strain. Yan Mei’s robes shook violently, and soon, wisps of white mist began to rise from the back of her head—a clear sign she was pushing her internal energy to the very limit. Luo Jiangyan and the others could never have imagined Yan Mei’s internal strength was inferior to Li Muzhan’s. Seeing this situation, their bright eyes widened as if they had seen a ghost; it was obvious Yan Mei was at a disadvantage! Yan Mei tightened her delicate eyebrows, her robes shaking even more intensely. White vapor billowed from her crown, and a blush crept over her usually cool features, making her exquisitely charming. This state was the peak of internal power usage, exhausting all her reserves. Li Muzhan said gently, "Senior Sister Yan, let's withdraw our power and stop here." Yan Mei tightly sealed her alluring lips, remaining silent. Luo Jiangyan exchanged a look with the other two. Incredulous, she broke into a smile again: "Junior Brother Li, how did you cultivate your internal energy? It is astonishing!" Li Muzhan chuckled, "This is the wonder of the Zhaoxia Gong. My progress in internal energy has indeed been lightning fast." "Zhaoxia Gong is truly formidable!" Luo Jiangyan praised, "Impressive, impressive! ... Senior Sister Yan, I suggest we stop now. We came precisely to see if the Zhaoxia Gong is truly as powerful as the legends say. Clearly, the rumors are not exaggerated!" Yan Mei pondered for a moment, then slowly nodded. Li Muzhan smiled, "Senior Sister Yan is wise!" They each retracted their internal energy. Yan Mei glared coldly at Li Muzhan, and once she retracted her jade-like palm, she said in a firm voice, "Junior Brother Li, let's fight with swordsmanship instead!" Her robes settled, the white mist behind her head dissipated, but the flush on her face remained, making her as radiant as a blooming flower.

Li Muzhan quickly waved his hand: "If we are comparing swordplay, I concede immediately. I have only mastered the thirty-sixth move of the Zhaoxia Sword Style; I am still far behind." "Is that so..." Yan Mei mused, then shook her head: "My internal energy is inferior to yours, and I suspect my palm techniques are too... When you have mastered the sword style, I will seek instruction from you then." Li Muzhan cupped his fist and smiled: "Very well. When I have mastered all one hundred and eight moves of the Zhaoxia Sword Style, I shall certainly seek your guidance, Senior Sister." "Mm," Yan Mei nodded lightly and turned to leave. "Senior Sister Yan," Li Chenjing followed quickly out. Luo Jiangyan and Gu Qiongxin scrutinized Li Muzhan, as if examining a monster. They had come this time intending to teach Li Muzhan a severe lesson—not just to break an arm, but to keep him bedridden for a while—to crush the spirit of the male disciples. Because of the Zhaoxia Gong, the male disciples had begun to gain confidence, and they wanted to suppress this trend early, with Li Muzhan being the key target. It was all because Li Muzhan had comprehended the Zhaoxia Gong and intended to pass it on to the male disciples; that was the root. To suppress the male disciples, they naturally had to start at the source. They never imagined things would progress to this point. Li Muzhan’s cultivation over a mere few months rivaled their more than a decade of effort, and Yan Mei was defeated by him. Li Muzhan smiled faintly: "Senior Sister Luo, Senior Sister Gu, do you have any further instruction?" "Junior Brother Li is truly formidable. We are deeply impressed!" Luo Jiangyan said with a beaming smile: "Truly heaven-gifted talent, we have no choice but to admire you!" Li Muzhan smiled: "Senior Sister Luo flatters me. It was just a chance encounter that allowed me to cultivate the Zhaoxia Gong. Compared to the bitter effort you Senior Sisters have put in, I am truly ashamed." Luo Jiangyan’s smile faltered for a second before she recovered it: "No matter how good the palm technique is, bare hands cannot withstand a long sword. Then we shall wait and see your swordplay, Junior Brother Li." Li Muzhan's words were clearly barbed irony; saying he was ashamed was actually suggesting they should be ashamed. Luo Jiangyan and Gu Qiongxin understood the implication of his words, gritting their teeth in secret, wishing they could curse him out loud, but they managed to restrain themselves. Li Muzhan smiled: "Thank you for your concern, Senior Sister. When I have mastered the sword style, I will certainly seek your guidance face-to-face, Senior Sister Luo." "Oh, I'll be waiting to see it! But I hope it won't take too long," Luo Jiangyan replied with a sweet smile. Li Muzhan also smiled: "It certainly won't be too long." "Hmph. Junior Sister Gu, let's go!" Luo Jiangyan stamped her foot lightly and turned away. Gu Qiongxin shook her head and huffed: "Arrogant brat, just you wait!" Li Muzhan smiled, cupped his fists, completely unconcerned, and even showed a hint of challenge. Gu Qiongxin gritted her teeth, shot him a fierce glare, turned, and left the small courtyard. Li Muzhan stood in the center of the courtyard, watching them depart. Finally, he let out a breath.

He sighed in relief, then took out his sword and began practicing the sword style. If he didn't master the sword style soon, his peaceful days would be over. He had just settled into the rhythm of practice when a burst of laughter came from outside the courtyard. Qiao Zaixian and Lin Beihai pushed open the door, their faces beaming with excitement. "Junior Brother Li, well done, Junior Brother Li!" Qiao Zaixian strode over and clapped him on the shoulder, laughing heartily: "You've certainly brought glory to us men!" Li Muzhan sheathed his sword and smiled: "Senior Brother Qiao, Senior Brother Lin, what's happened?" Qiao Zaixian grinned: "Junior Brother Li, you defeated Senior Sister Yan, didn't you?" Li Muzhan gestured, inviting them to sit in the small pavilion. He then activated his internal energy to warm the teapot. The three brewed tea and sat down to talk slowly. "It wasn't really a victory," Li Muzhan shook his head and chuckled: "It was just a draw." Qiao Zaixian laughed: "A draw counts as a victory! How long have you been practicing, compared to Senior Sister Yan! ... I truly never expected Junior Brother Li to be this formidable! To comprehend the Zhaoxia Gong and then pass it on to us—that’s something we never dared to dream of!" Li Muzhan smiled and did not feign modesty again. He realized Qiao Zaixian disliked pretension, finding it superficial and unsophisticated. Lin Beihai said: "Junior Brother Li, we truly benefit from this." Li Muzhan smiled: "With the Zhaoxia Gong, can we finally hold our heads high?" "We can!" Qiao Zaixian laughed: "Just look at Junior Brother Li. After practicing for such a short time, you could surpass Senior Sister Yan. It seems the Zhaoxia Gong is far superior to the Yingyue Gong!" Li Muzhan shook his head: "Senior Brother Qiao, I don't think the Zhaoxia Gong is an invincible divine technique. It might not surpass the Yingyue Gong. I just met our Master; at over a hundred years old, he looks barely thirty, which shows the wonder of the Yingyue Gong." "Hmm, that's true," Qiao Zaixian nodded: "Master does look thirty. The Yingyue Gong is indeed miraculous." Li Muzhan explained: "The Zhaoxia Gong's strength lies in its astonishingly fast initial progress—fast at first, then slower later. Initially, it can quickly surpass the Yingyue Gong, but eventually, the Yingyue Gong may catch up. They might end up about the same." Qiao Zaixian said: "If that's the case, we are satisfied! As long as the core mental techniques are comparable, we certainly won't lose to them!" Lin Beihai nodded slowly: "Exactly!" Qiao Zaixian lamented: "Junior Brother Li, you can't truly understand. No matter how hard we tried, even ten times harder than them, we watched them surpass us. That feeling of despair is agonizing! Many Senior Brothers couldn't bear it and left the mountain." Li Muzhan nodded: "I can imagine." "So, Junior Brother Li, you have achieved immeasurable merit; you saved us!" Qiao Zaixian chuckled: "Come on, let's go down the mountain and have a good feast!" Li Muzhan smiled: "Isn't that inappropriate..." Qiao Zaixian and Lin Beihai pulled him up, and the three walked out of the small courtyard together. After walking about ten steps, they headed directly down the mountainside. Six more male disciples joined them. Qiao Zaixian introduced them; these eight were the only remaining male disciples on Violet Cloud Mountain.

As the nine men reached the middle of the mountain path, a group of about six women approached them, chatting animatedly as they walked upward, all wearing green robes that accentuated their graceful figures. Qiao Zaixian and the others immediately slowed their steps, showing some hesitation. Li Muzhan looked at them in confusion. Qiao Zaixian managed a strained smile: "Junior Brother Li, talk less in a moment." Li Muzhan whispered: "Senior Brother Qiao, what's wrong?" "Bad luck, we ran into them!" Qiao Zaixian shook his head, his expression darkening. Though they hesitated, they did not stop, and neither did the girls approaching. They soon met. The young women all looked at them with wide, cheerful smiles, while the male disciples forced strained smiles. Li Muzhan did not understand why. "Oh, Senior Brother Qiao, Senior Brother Lin, what a coincidence," the leading girl, petite and exquisite, said with a delicate laugh, covering her small mouth: "We truly didn't expect to run into you Senior Brothers here." "Cheng... Senior Sister Cheng, what a coincidence," Qiao Zaixian cupped his fist and smiled, his voice trembling slightly. The petite girl’s bright eyes curved like the moon as she smiled and glanced at Li Muzhan: "Is this the famous Junior Brother Li?" Qiao Zaixian replied: "Senior Sister Cheng, this is indeed Junior Brother Li." "Oh, his reputation truly precedes him," the petite girl pursed her lips and chuckled sweetly: "Junior Brother Li, I heard you comprehended the Zhaoxia Gong and even defeated Senior Sister Yan. Come, the Senior Sisters insist on treating you!" She turned to her companions: "Sisters, shall we invite the Senior Brothers?" "Yes!" the women chimed in agreement. The petite girl turned back to Qiao Zaixian: "Senior Brother Qiao, Senior Brother Lin, please do us the honor!" Qiao Zaixian tried to decline: "N-no need, really." "We insist," the petite girl waved her hand: "Why are you being so formal, Senior Brother Qiao? Are you looking down on us, that you refuse our invitation?" "Senior Sister Cheng, that's not it at all," Qiao Zaixian said helplessly: "Very well, then we'll go to the Wind-Facing Inn below!" He spoke the last words almost through gritted teeth, and the faces of all the male disciples turned pale with dismay. (To be continued...)