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"It has both form and spirit, and is full of vitality."

Yi Huawei spoke slowly, his voice not loud, but clear enough to penetrate the river wind: "However, waves may rise and fall in a thousand layers, and though their momentum is great, they will eventually come to an end. You pursue the continuity of moves and the splendor of appearance too much, thus losing the true meaning of 'condensation' and 'breaking'."

With a casual flick of his wrist, a withered branch blown off the corner of the deck flew into his palm with a "whoosh." It was just an ordinary withered branch, about three feet long, dry and fragile.

"Watch closely." Yi Huawei's voice was calm and indifferent.

Before he finished speaking, he casually pointed forward with the withered branch in his hand! This "point" was unpretentious and not particularly fast, yet it seemed to instantly lock onto the fleeting, tiny gap in Shan Wanjing's swordplay, a gap that even she herself hadn't noticed! At the tip of the withered branch, a tiny, imperceptible, yet extremely refined, burst of true energy suddenly erupted!

Dan Wanjing's pupils suddenly contracted! She felt an overwhelming and irresistible "intention" descend upon her in an instant, as if the surging, powerful sword aura before her had been precisely pinned to its most vulnerable and unstable core point by this "point"! The true energy flowing within her body suddenly stagnated, and all subsequent subtle changes were abruptly nipped in the bud. She was frozen in place as if under a spell, and the "Azure Wave" sword in her hand emitted a resentful hum!

"this……!"

"The sword is the sharpness of the mind."

Yi Huawei retrieved the withered branch, which remained intact: "Though waves may rise and fall a thousand times, their power originates from one point—the power of the ebb and flow of the tide. The power of the sword is also concentrated in one point—the will to defeat the enemy. You have only practiced the form of the 'wave' in your sword practice, without understanding the source of the 'power' or the meaning of 'breaking'."

He casually twirled the withered branch between his fingers, and the fragile branch seemed to possess a spirit in his hands.

"The continuous flow of moves is for accumulating momentum, deceiving the enemy, and finding the opportunity for a fatal blow. If one only knows how to make continuous moves but does not know how to refine and break the enemy, it is like the Yangtze River. It may seem vast, but without the restraint of dikes and the guidance of the river channel, it will eventually be scattered and powerless, and will collapse when it encounters reefs."

"Refine...the will to defeat the enemy..."

Shan Wanjing murmured to herself, a flash of understanding appearing in her blue eyes. Her master's words were like a thunderbolt cleaving through the fog, pointing directly to the greatest obstacle in her swordsmanship training!
"Come again."

Yi Huawei said calmly, pointing with a withered branch, "Don't be bound by any particular moves. Use whatever you have in mind right now to attack."

Shan Wanjing took a deep breath, her eyes becoming incredibly focused, even sharper than ever before. She no longer pursued the elegance and fluidity of sword techniques, but instead concentrated all her spirit, will, and even her understanding of her master's words into the tip of the "Azure Wave" sword in her hand!
"drink!"

With a clear shout, the girl moved like lightning, thrusting her sword straight forward! This sword strike abandoned all complex variations; it was simple, direct, and swift! The tip of the sword concentrated all her energy and spirit at this moment, carrying the resolute determination and the will to "break" of a newborn calf, aiming directly at the withered branch in Yi Huawei's hand!

The sword pierced the air with a sharp whistle! The figure, clad in tight-fitting clothes, left a straight afterimage, displaying astonishing explosive power.

A hint of approval flashed in Yi Huawei's eyes. With a slight flick of his wrist, the withered branch pointed out lightly, striking with perfect precision at the subtle new gap in Shan Wanjing's sword stance.

But this time, Shan Wanjing seemed to have anticipated it. When the sword tip was halfway through the stab, her wrist flicked slightly at an incredible angle, and the sword light instantly split into three, making it difficult to distinguish the real from the fake. She narrowly avoided the dead branch's lock and stabbed straight at Yi Huawei's shoulder!

"what?"

Yi Huawei let out a soft "hmm," seemingly surprised by the girl's sudden flash of inspiration. The trajectory of the withered branch in his hand remained unchanged, but the instant it touched the illusory sword light, an extremely resilient surge of "Birth and Death from the Heart" true energy erupted, gently guiding and leading the three sharp sword blossoms as if they had crashed into an invisible vortex; their force was instantly dissipated by more than half, and their trajectories were deflected.

Shan Wanjing felt an irresistible, gentle force coming from her, and her sword involuntarily veered to one side. But she reacted quickly, using the momentum to spin around, her waist twisting like a serpent. Her long legs touched the deck, and she leaped into the air like a swallow in flight. The sword light descended from above, transforming into a streak of cold light, and with the force of falling, it slashed down again!
"it is good!"

Yi Huawei gave a thumbs-up. His swift reaction already showed the makings of a master. He no longer used the withered branch to block the attack; instead, his footwork shifted subtly, and his figure in the green robe seemed to transform into a wisp of smoke, narrowly avoiding the descending sword. Simultaneously, the withered branch, like a serpent's tongue, silently struck the vital acupoint on Shan Wanjing's lower back—a point where she had leaped up, had nowhere to brace herself, and where her old strength was exhausted and new strength had not yet arisen!

With no way to avoid the attack, Shan Wanjing was in mid-air! A hint of horror flashed in her amber eyes, but she did not panic. In a flash, she gritted her teeth and forcibly reversed her true energy, pulling back the downward sword strike and blocking it with her sword at her waist!

"Ding!"

A very slight, crisp sound.

The tip of the withered branch gently touched the broad spine of "Azure Waves".

Shan Wanjing felt a condensed, needle-like stream of true energy pass through the sword. It wasn't a domineering destruction, but rather like a gentle spring breeze, instantly permeating and soothing the agitation and disorder within her body caused by the forced reversal of her true energy. She landed lightly back on the deck. Although her breathing was a little rapid, she was fine. On the contrary, she felt that the flow of true energy in her meridians was more harmonious and smooth.

Looking down at the sword in her hand, and then at the ordinary withered branch in Yi Huawei's hand, Shan Wanjing's eyes were filled with shock, understanding, and deep respect.

Those few exchanges, though brief, felt like a transformative baptism for her. Her master not only pointed out her shortcomings but also used that withered branch to demonstrate to her the meaning of "condensation," "flaw," "using simplicity to control complexity," and the supreme realm of "birth and death arising from the mind"!

"good."

Yi Huawei casually tossed aside the withered branch, which fell into the river and disappeared in an instant. Looking at Shan Wanjing, his gaze held a rare gentleness: "A flash of inspiration, composure in the face of danger, you have already grasped three-tenths of the essence of swordsmanship. Remember what you felt today: sword techniques are static, but sword intent is dynamic. Condense it into a single point to break through all enemy techniques; this is the true path of swordsmanship."

"Thank you for your guidance, Master!"

Shan Wanjing sheathed her sword, bowed deeply, her voice filled with heartfelt excitement and gratitude. A healthy blush rose on the girl's cheeks, her eyes shining brightly like polished gems, overflowing with passion for swordsmanship and reverence for her master. Just then, the vast river mist ahead gradually dissipated. The outline of a magnificent mountain city, seemingly blending seamlessly with the surrounding mountains, slowly appeared on the horizon. Built against the mountainside, the city was imposing and precipitous. Atop the city walls, a huge banner bearing the character "Song" fluttered in the wind, like a lurking beast opening its eyes.

We've arrived in Songjia Mountain Town, Lingnan.

...............

The "Cangming" anchored in a natural deep-water bay, a few miles from the mountain city, which was reserved for large ships. Yi Huawei and Shan Wanjing did not bring a large entourage; they were only escorted by a light and swift patrol boat sent by the Song Clan, and sailed towards the magnificent city built against the mountain.

As soon as you approach the dock, a humid and hot atmosphere, so different from that of the Central Plains, hits you, mixed with the rich vitality of grass and soil, the unique fishy smell of the river, and a heavy sense of solemnity and order that belongs to a battlefield.

The area at the foot of the mountain city is not desolate.

Along the riverside wharf area, a sizable market had sprung up. The crisscrossing streets, paved with bluestone slabs, while not as bustling as Luoyang or Chang'an, were remarkably clean and orderly. Shops lined the area, selling mostly Lingnan specialties: colorful, rustic batik fabrics; mountains of spices (pepper, cinnamon, cardamom, etc.) emitting a strong, distinctive aroma; various bamboo and rattan wares; and large quantities of grains, textiles, and ironware transported from the Central Plains or produced locally. The sounds of hawking and haggling filled the air, brimming with the vibrant energy of the marketplace.

However, beneath this vitality lies a steely and resilient spirit.

The people walking the streets, men and women alike, were mostly robust and sturdy. Their eyes held less of the numb fear of refugees from the Central Plains and more of the vigilance and resilience of those in a more secure place. Everywhere, small squads of warriors, clad in Song Dynasty-style leather armor and carrying long and short weapons, could be seen, their steps steady, their eyes sharp as eagles, patrolling the streets and alleys with disciplined rhythm. They didn't disturb the people, but their fierce, efficient, and disciplined aura enveloped the entire market in an invisible, orderly pressure. Order was the dominant theme here.

Shan Wanjing's amber eyes curiously surveyed her surroundings. Having lived overseas for a long time, the landscape of the Central Plains was quite novel to her. The humid and hot climate of Lingnan, the fierce folk customs, and especially the valiant spirit of the Song Dynasty warriors—so different from that of the Dongming Sect disciples, imbued with a strong sense of land-based warfare—all left a deep impression on her. She subconsciously straightened her back and gripped the "Azure Wave" sword at her waist, as if responding to the invisible pressure in the air.

Yi Huawei remained calm and composed, his blue robe unmoving in the humid wind. His gaze swept across the market, over the patrolling warriors, and over the seemingly ordinary yet steady-moving and shrewd merchants. He understood. Lingnan under Song Que's rule truly lived up to its reputation. This wasn't simply militarized management, but a deeply ingrained order and martial spirit that had transformed the entire mountain city into a massive and efficient war machine. The people lived in peace and prosperity, and were simultaneously integrated into the machine's operation.

As they entered the city gate, Shan Wanjing handed over her name card.

Looking at the three large characters "Heavenly Alliance" on the nameplate, several warriors eyed Yi Huawei and his companion with suspicion. After a few whispers among themselves, one of them quickly went into the city to report.

Led by several Song dynasty warriors, the two did not linger. Instead, they walked along a wide, steep stone staircase carved into the mountainside, heading deeper into the mountain city.

The stone steps wind upwards, flanked by lush, towering primeval forests with gnarled vines, exotic flowers and rare herbs, and the sounds of insects and birds filling the air. But at intervals, there are sturdy outposts built into the terrain, guarding the vital passage.

The Song dynasty warriors on the outpost had eyes as sharp as lightning, scrutinizing everyone who passed by. The higher one went, the more solemn the atmosphere became, and the dampness in the air seemed to carry a chilling edge.

Fine beads of sweat glistened on Shan Wanjing's honey-colored skin, shimmering in the sunlight. She tried to regulate her breathing and maintain her composure. Yi Huawei, however, remained calm and composed, his steps light and deliberate, as if the steep mountain steps and the invisible pressure beneath his feet did not exist.

After climbing for an unknown amount of time, the view suddenly opened up before us.

A vast plaza paved with single slabs of bluestone appeared before us. At the end of the plaza stood the main Song Dynasty mansion complex, its buildings rising in layers, following the contours of the mountain, exuding an imposing and solemn aura. The city walls, constructed of massive, bluish-gray stones, rose several meters high, majestic and imposing. Time had left its mottled marks on the walls, adding only to their weathered appearance and sense of power. The enormous gatehouse stood solemnly and dignified. Above the lintel, a bold and powerful "Song" character, written in strong, elegant strokes, seemed to contain immense force, silently proclaiming the status and authority of the mansion's owner.

People were already waiting in front of the mansion gate.

The leader, a man in his thirties, with a handsome face and a gentle, refined demeanor, wore a light blue scholar's robe, with an antique-style longsword hanging at his waist. He was none other than Song Shidao, the young master of the Song Clan. Beside him stood a middle-aged scholar with a lean face and wise, profound eyes; he was none other than "Earth Sword" Song Zhi. Behind the two were several core members of the Song Clan, their auras steady, their temples bulging, and their eyes sharp as knives.

"Sir, your arrival from afar brings great honor to our humble abode in Songjiashan. I am here on my father's orders to await your arrival."

Song Shidao stepped forward, cupped his hands in a respectful greeting, his demeanor neither servile nor arrogant, displaying the refined manners of a distinguished family. His gaze lingered on Yi Huawei for a moment, sensing an unfathomable calm within him, before falling upon Shan Wanjing, a fleeting hint of amazement and curiosity flashing in his eyes.

"Young Master Song, you're too kind."

Yi Huawei nodded slightly and said calmly, "Thank you for leading the way."

Song Zhi's gaze sharpened further, sweeping over Yi Huawei as if it were a tangible object, attempting to probe Yi Huawei's depths. However, he only sensed that the other's aura was like a vast, deep sea, undisturbed, and he couldn't discern the slightest clue. His sense of dread intensified. He also cupped his hands and said:

"Sir, Miss Shan, please."

The group passed through the heavy gates and entered the Song residence. The mansion was grand in scale, yet it also possessed the unique ingenuity and adaptability characteristic of Lingnan.

Pavilions and towers are built along the mountainside, arranged in a staggered and harmonious manner, with winding corridors and towering ancient trees. Artificial hills and ponds dot the landscape, their flowing waters adding to the elegance. However, within this elegance, a cold, razor-sharp simplicity permeates the entire space. The decorations are minimally luxurious, relying heavily on massive stones and hardwoods with strong, powerful lines. A faint scent of sandalwood and ink permeates the air, yet there's also a subtle hint of metal and leather, as if countless swords are hidden in the shadows, poised to strike.

The servants and maids walking around the mansion all walked with steady steps, clear eyes, and efficient movements, clearly having received rigorous training, and perhaps even possessing martial arts skills. The entire mansion was eerily quiet, with only the sound of footsteps echoing in the empty corridors, creating an invisible pressure.

Following behind Yi Huawei, Shan Wanjing felt that the Song mansion, though seemingly grand and imposing, was like a lurking beast, every corner exuding an indescribable sense of oppression. Her blue eyes warily scanned her surroundings, her palms gripping the hilt of her sword slightly damp. The atmosphere here was heavier, more…dangerous than the General's Mansion in Jiangling. It felt as if a blade of light capable of tearing the heavens and earth might strike at any moment.

(End of this chapter)