Whispers of the Celestial Blade

Chapter 5

Xuan Xiao?

A small figure leisurely strolled down a quiet, deserted path, humming a tune. Of course, this carefree slacker was none other than our dear Zhao Yun. Why wasn't she helping Zong Lian with his forging today, you ask?

Flashback:"Yun'er, your knowledge of minerals is already... quite 'adequate.' You won't gain anything more from assisting me further. Why not take a walk, clear your mind, and see if inspiration strikes?"

——End Flashback——

And that's how Zhao Yun found herself banished by Zong Lian as well, right after Su Yao.

With a pout, Zhao Yun muttered to herself, "What inspiration could I possibly get from wandering around aimlessly? I was just starting to get the hang of sorting those stones!" Still totally clueless, as usual...

She lazily stretched her arms, grabbed the small iron sword hanging at her waist, and found a secluded spot to practice.

After finishing one set of basic sword moves, Zhao Yun was slightly out of breath. Something felt off—her movements were a bit clunky. As she rested, she mentally reviewed the sequence. Once she was ready, she picked up the sword again and practiced the routine once more.

Thrust, slash, parry, spin, diagonal strike...

Over and over, Zhao Yun repeated the same sequence, using up most of her day in the process. But despite all her efforts, she wasn't a prodigy. While others might have mastered the basics after a few attempts, she still struggled with certain parts of the form.

One more try. If it's still off, I'll have to ask Master for help.

Thrust, slash, parry, spin—Ugh, the spin is still off...

"Plant your right foot, twist with your core, and lower your right arm!"

Zhao Yun followed the voice's instructions without hesitation. She planted her right foot, twisted her core, and lowered her right arm, executing a flawless diagonal strike.

Thrilled, she turned to thank her mysterious coach, only to be met by the sight of an unbelievably handsome young man with piercing eyes and a smug expression.

OMG, an absolute hottie! If only I were a few years younger... (Oh no, are you a closet fan of younger guys?!)

Still caught in her daydream, Zhao Yun was rudely awakened by the boy's cold voice: "You can't even handle basic sword techniques. Truly hopeless."

Ouch, that stings. Zhao Yun awkwardly smiled. "Thanks for the advice, Senior Brother. I know my skills are lacking, but I'll work harder."

The boy gave her a long, serious look before huffing, "At least you understand that hard work can make up for poor talent. Just make sure you actually mean it and don't rely on empty words."

Zhao Yun nodded earnestly, then asked, "May I ask for your name, Senior Brother?"

"...Xuan Xiao."

!!!

Zhao Yun's brain short-circuited. Wait, what? This arrogant, cool-as-ice teenager was Xuan Xiao? The same Xuan Xiao who would one day be practically untouchable? He was this sassy as a kid?!

Zhao Yun was speechless for a long moment... until she suddenly burst into laughter.

"What have I been stressing about all this time? I've known this was a real world for ages, yet I was getting so worked up over something so trivial," Zhao Yun laughed, slapping her forehead. "Starting today, I refuse to let fate dictate my life!"