125 - Confession (Ying Cheng)

Chapter 125: Sword Flight The bustling street was even more crowded now, teeming with a sea of people and a constant flow of carriages. Yan Jue had been staring at the street below for quite some time before she finally made out what was happening. It was a deep blue palanquin. The street thronged with people followed the palanquin, loudly chanting the name Du Xue Tang. A bamboo curtain hung from the palanquin, and the person seated inside gave an air of utmost discretion. Despite the crowds following for so long, the bamboo curtain remained undisturbed and unmoved, giving no indication of being drawn. It was unclear how the onlookers had deduced the identity of the palanquin's occupant. Qi Xian Qing closed her eyes briefly, suppressing the emotions bubbling within her, then spoke in a deep voice, "This is Du Xue Tang, a disciple of the Echo Pavilion." "If you look closely, you'll see the Echo Pavilion's sigil on the palanquin." Yan Jue turned her gaze firmly towards the palanquin and indeed noticed a gracefully sculpted white crane at its front, rendered with exquisite skill. The crane's cry was melodious and resonated deeply, aligning perfectly with the characteristics of the Echo Pavilion's music, which is why the white crane served as their emblem. Wherever Du Xue Tang's palanquin traversed, waves of people followed. Yan Jue knew that the disciples of Echo Pavilion were renowned Jiangnan beauties but hadn't realized they commanded such substantial influence. Qi Xian Qing commented, "Echo Pavilion disciples have admirers all over the world; it's not surprising." The Echo Pavilion was deeply gifted in music, and its disciples often traveled to perform worldwide, viewing cultivation with relative indifference, contrary to many other sects. After some time reflecting in silence at the tavern, Qi Xian Qing and Yan Jue decided to proceed to the Echo Pavilion. Situated along the serene banks of the Qing River in Jiangnan, the Echo Pavilion boasted an elegant ambiance with its green-tiled roofs and vermillion eaves. Upon entering its gates, one was immediately greeted by the soft strains of music. The Echo Pavilion's edifices were surrounded by pristine ponds where golden carp playfully swam. The six great sects are distinguished among countless others due to their unique assets, each possessing something emblematic of their formidable strength. For instance, the Five Dragon Gate boasts a divine Kirin, while the Luantai is famed for its sacred phoenix... Yan Jue had heard that the Echo Pavilion's distinctive elements were melodious music and vibrant carp, serving as their sect's specialties. A gentle and graceful Echo Pavilion disciple led Yan Jue and Qi Xian Qing to a charming pavilion. They didn't have to wait long before a strikingly beautiful woman emerged, her features soft and enchanting. The woman wore a flowing, light blue gown with wide sleeves, her long, dark hair elegantly styled in a chignon, her steps as graceful as a willow swaying in the breeze, imbued with a quiet strength amid her apparent fragility. "It's rare to have Xian Qing visiting," the woman approached them, smiling softly at Qi Xian Qing. "What winds have brought you here?" Qi Xian Qing returned the greeting, "I apologize for interrupting during your busy tour preparations, Jin Rou." Su Jin Rou replied, "It's no bother." Once inside the pavilion, Qi Xian Qing disclosed the purpose of their visit to Su Jin Rou. Su Jin Rou led them into a room, gently gesturing, "Let's discuss inside." Yan Jue was unaware of the close ties between Qi Xian Qing and Su Jin Rou, observing their interaction seemed like old friends. Yan Jue knew Qi Xian Qing's visit aimed to have Echo Pavilion assist in sending her parents' souls to rest, which implied Su Jin Rou would soon perform. Sects typically guard their unique skills jealously; likely, this Echo Pavilion disciple would be cautious of anyone other than Qi Xian Qing. Yan Jue hesitated, unsure if she should follow them inside. Qi Xian Qing turned to her, declaring, "This is Yan Jue, my companion, she's not an outsider." Yan Jue internally sighed, not for the first time surprised by Qi Xian Qing's directness. Su Jin Rou's gaze lingered on Yan Jue momentarily, her smile gentle, "Of course." Inside the room. Qi Xian Qing knelt on a mat, extracting two Bodhi leaves from her possessions, laying them out before her. "These are my parents; they've become senseless spirits, and I ask your help to soothe them." Su Jin Rou frowned slightly, "We'll need a renowned guqin capable of alleviating restless spirits." Qi Xian Qing nodded, understanding Su Jin Rou's point. While soothing ordinary spirits is simple, calming senseless sprites is difficult. The highest-order spectral melody, 'Serenade of Departed Souls,' must be paired with a legendary guqin to unfurl its full power. Qi Xian Qing retrieved an item from her storage. Su Jin Rou was taken aback. It was a meticulously-carved guqin, its body a faint hue of deep red. Su Jin Rou lightly plucked the strings, appreciating their pure and elegant sonority, impressed by the instrument's lingering resonance. Realizing its significance quickly, Su Jin Rou recognized, "This is the famed guqin, Fuhuan." Qi Xian Qing inquired, "Do you think it could play the 'Serenade of Departed Souls'?" "Certainly." The allure in Su Jin Rou's eyes intensified. "To see this guqin in my lifetime, truly a blessing." On the Bodhi leaves, two lost souls floated aimlessly. Qi Xian Qing carried her parents' spirits this long, harboring a hidden desire to keep them close, even if they were only mindless phantoms. With resolve, Qi Xian Qing implored, "I entrust this to you." Su Jin Rou affectionately praised the guqin's body, "I will meet Xian Qing's expectations." With deft hand movements, the guqin rested serenely before her. Tang—Tang—Tang— The soothing melody erupted, clear and majestic as a cascading mountain stream, each note showcasing Su Jin Rou's impeccable skill. The measured, calming tune defused any lingering tension. Yan Jue, entranced, allowed her eyes to close, letting the music's emotions wash over her, until she realized tears silently rolled down her face. She quickly wiped them away. The two vaguely restless souls atop the Bodhi leaves ceased their agitated wandering, softly fading away with the music. A fleeting hint of hesitation and complexity crossed Qi Xian Qing's eyes, her grip tightening unconsciously. The 'Serenade of Departed Souls,' renowned for aiding spirits to pass on, accelerated from its tranquil start to an intense finish. Su Jin Rou skillfully imbued a trace of inner energy into the strings. Tang—Tang—Tang— The notes grew persistently urgent. ... The 'Serenade of Departed Souls' was long, lasting until the twilight settled. The specters of Qi Xian Qing's parents, once hovering above the table, had vanished completely. Yan Jue watched Qi Xian Qing closely, noting her bowed head, exuding a serene acceptance. As she should be. After years as mere ghosts under the tiger demon's control, her parents were finally freed. ... Yan Jue rose first. Clad in a snugly fitted dark green pleated skirt paired with a crisp white overlapping collar, her posture found balance, black hair tied gracefully, her complexion luminescent in the sunset, while her elongated phoenix eyes glistened. She offered Su Jin Rou a respectful nod before stepping outside. Leaving Qi Xian Qing and Su Jin Rou to converse alone. Su Jin Rou, after a lingering gaze, quietly acknowledged, "Xian Qing's companion is indeed a peerless beauty among mortals." Born with a gentle disposition, Su Jin Rou spoke softly, characteristic of Jiangnan women. Qi Xian Qing's compensation for using Fuhuan on her parent's souls was implicit in their pact. The reward was none other than the prized guqin, Fuhuan. Su Jin Rou hesitated, "It's far too valuable. I merely assisted with a friend's request to send souls to rest; it surpasses my worth." She glanced at Qi Xian Qing, "Xian Qing, any other assistance you need?" Qi Xian Qing, with a faint smile, slowly admitted, "There is something minor I wish to trouble you with." Su Jin Rou invited, "Speak freely." Qi Xian Qing humbly requested, "Can you teach me your simplest melody? I want to make my beloved smile." Su Jin Rou cast her gaze down. Although close as friends, Su Jin Rou bore unspoken feelings for Qi Xian Qing but never imposed them, recognizing her distant nature concerning affection, always viewing her merely as a confidante. Her simple mention subtly dismissed Su Jin Rou's hidden sentiments. - After expressing gratitude, Qi Xian Qing departed. Alongside Yan Jue, Qi Xian Qing meandered down the main street of Yanmen, flanked by tranquil waterways and quaint bridges, shallow boats gliding above. Dusk had descended, the remains of sunlight casting its glow across the cobbled street. The crowds from earlier had thinned considerably. Yan Jue discreetly kept Qi Xian Qing in her peripheral vision, observing her subdued demeanor as they walked. Today must weigh heavily on Qi Xian Qing's heart. Her parents' fate had always been a profound sorrow for her. Yan Jue's mind whirred, searching for words of comfort just as she spoke up to address Qi Xian Qing. Qi Xian Qing pressed her tongue against her cheek, unexpectedly commenting, "Did you find her music pleasing today?" Caught off guard, Yan Jue nodded, "Yes, even it being a melody to soothe souls, Su's mastery was evident. With skills like hers, whatever she plays must be divine." "Does my junior enjoy music?" "I do." Suddenly, Qi Xian Qing turned, seizing her hand, "Let me take you somewhere special." Under dim lantern glow. The pair navigated the streets, arriving at a deserted section of the city's wall. Familiar with the area, Qi Xian Qing seemed more acquainted with Jiangnan's layout than Yan Jue. Qi Xian Qing guided Yan Jue as they climbed to the top of the towering city wall, settling down cross-legged in a relaxed manner. The evening breeze lifted the hem of her black skirt gently into the air. Yan Jue noticed a hint of relief in Qi Xian Qing's eyes, allowing herself to ease a little as well. From this height, the vast wilderness unfolded before them, and the deep purple sky above was studded with twinkling stars. Qi Xian Qing drew out a leaf tinged with a faint white hue from her sleeve. Yan Jue blinked in surprise. Qi Xian Qing said, "Let me play it for you." The leaf in Qi Xian Qing's hand was a White Frost Leaf, familiar to Yan Jue. It's a popular leaf among the common folk for playing tunes, producing clear and melodious sounds. Placing the leaf to her lips, Qi Xian Qing commenced playing, and the clear notes resonated throughout the wilderness. Captivated by the melody, Yan Jue found herself momentarily entranced. The sound was enchanting... She hadn't expected Qi Xian Qing to possess such hidden talents. Eagerly, Yan Jue took the leaf from Qi Xian Qing, bursting with enthusiasm, "Teach me!" Qi Xian Qing replied, "Alright." - By the time they returned to the Five Dragon Gate from Jiangnan, less than half a day had passed. These past few days had been overcast, leaving no moon in the sky, which meant the clues for the secret realm were stalled as well. For cooperative competitions like these, it was nearly impossible to keep the answers hidden. Once one team discovered the solution, it was hard for it not to spread. The day following the secret realm's opening, various teams began finding the temple in the northern forest. Yan Jue revisited the secret realm and noted that over a dozen red beans under the Buddha statue had disappeared. As expected, everyone was clueless about the next yellow bean clue. Naturally, because she had taken the most crucial piece of the paper. Ha-ha-ha. With the clues at a standstill, Yan Jue wandered through the secret realm, gathering materials until it was time to leave. Xie Zi Jin acted quickly, delivering the hundred Spirit Nourishment Pills soon after. Now, Yan Jue could properly feed the little black creature. The creature ate one pill a day and then curled up in the Qiankun bag, sleeping soundly. Its fur had grown significantly, yet it still hadn't opened its eyes. Yan Jue left it be, tossing it back in the Qiankun bag to develop on its own. - Morning. Qi Xian Qing walked into the serene inner courtyard of Zhenhuo Sect, immediately noticing the snow-white Nine-Colored Deer leisurely wandering in the garden. Yun Zhen, known for her affection towards the deer, hadn't seen it for a few days, and now it seemed to have grown even plumper. Draped in a light red gown, Yun Zhen leaned gracefully against the pavilion, eyes following Qi Xian Qing as she approached: "Were you able to successfully send your parents' souls to rest during your trip to Jiangnan?" Qi Xian Qing nodded, "Yes." Recently, many events had transpired indeed. The latter half of the Five Dragon Summit was underway. On her way to Luantai, Qi Xian Qing had fortuitously encountered people from the demonic cult, which substantiated the potential resurgence of the Demon Tribe, even uncovering one of their possible strategies. Qi Xian Qing sent a cult disciple to be a spy in Deadly Valley with the Demon Sovereign, and although nothing significant had been uncovered yet, placing this undercover pawn early on was wise. The Grand Immortal Assembly preparations and the new round of sect evaluations were imminent, with everyone eagerly discussing these matters. So much so, conversations of the Demonic Cult's potential resurgence and the rebellion of the Demon Tribe were forgotten. Thus far, two of the five most honorable demons had defected, but fortunately, the situation hadn't worsened. Yun Zhen inquired, "There haven't been more issues, right?" Qi Xian Qing's brows furrowed slightly, unsure of Yun Zhen's implications, nodded, "Apart from the ongoing team competitions, nothing else is pressing." "In the afternoon sword flying contest, Xiao Yan has already entered to fill the numbers." Yun Zhen replied, "That's great, in the final drinking contest a few days later, Xiang Qing, you should participate." This Five Dragon Summit had fewer entertainment matches, only four in total: a culinary contest, weightlifting competition, sword flying race, and wine tasting contest. Historically, Zhenhuo Sect had been unenthusiastic about entertainment matches, yet it had won two in a row this time, leaving Yun Zhen quite pleased. But Yun Zhen was not naive enough to assume every match would be as fortuitous as the first two. For Yun Zhen to ask Qi Xian Qing to participate in such a competition, it suggested that there were not many capable figures within the sect for representation, so she settled on Qi Xian Qing. Qi Xian Qing was slightly surprised but respectfully agreed, "I'll do my best not to disappoint you, Master." Yun Zhen, knowing her seriousness, gently reminded, "Don't worry too much, the wine tasting contest allows you to enjoy rare elixirs, just have fun." Qi Xian Qing acknowledged, "Certainly." - With the Five Dragon Secret Realm closed, the third entertainment event of the summit's latter half commenced—the Sword Flying Contest. As the name suggests, this was a speed contest of sword flight. Amid the many sword cultivators of the Five Dragon Gate, proficiency in sword flight was an essential criterion for assessing disciple mastery. Naturally, this contest promised more excitement than the prior two entertainment events. Yun Zhen lazily reclined on the viewing platform, eyes locked on the colossal images projected into the sky. Through the shadow-capturing artifact, every participating disciple was visible. In surprisingly good spirits, Yun Zhen mused. Initially, it seemed improbable they would win anything in the entertainment games, yet they had clinched two victories unexpectedly. Of the four matches, winning two meant claiming half the titles. Since Yun Zhen assumed leadership, Zhenhuo Sect had never witnessed such a glorious scene! Seated beside Yun Zhen was Zhu He, clad in a black cloak, eyes sparkling at the osmanthus cake on the table. Yun Zhen patted her gently on the head, soothingly, "Little Zhu, feel free to eat, don't be shy with me." Zhu He's eyes crinkled with joy, nodding earnestly. Yan Yue, nearby, couldn't suppress her irritation: "Yun Zhen, what do you mean by this? Didn't you say your Zhenhuo Sect wouldn't have experts in this contest?" Yun Zhen sighed helplessly, "Does she look like an expert? Even I was deceived by her appearance." Zhu He seemed oblivious to their conversation, quietly savoring her osmanthus cake, eyes squinted with happiness. Yan Yue glanced at her slender arms, falling silent. Being Yun Zhen's close friend, Yun Zhen sought to pacify Yan Yue: "Winning the first two times was sheer luck, I'm as shocked. This Sword Flying Contest, however, holds the most weight for our sect, and the champion will surely go to you." "I'm just here to watch the excitement." Atop Jin Gang Peak. Disciples assembled eagerly at the summit, all donned in lightweight robes, summoning their spiritual artifacts for warm-up. The azure sky filled with radiant hues of sunlight. Beyond the Five Dragon Gates' five main peaks lay numerous smaller peaks. The contest demanded participants start from Jin Gang's peak, traversing through Qidun's Panlong Cave, Shuiyun's Cold Falls, Zhenhuo's sea of fire, and the twenty-six peaks behind Muyin Sect. First to reach Wuzhou Peak's Five Dragon Plaza would claim the title. At Jin Gang Peak's crown, the scene was engulfed in clouds and mist. The countdown to the race's start had begun. Yan Jue approached the cliff, forming a seal with one hand to summon her celestial sword, Liu Bing. In an instant, a dazzling blue light and chilling aura enveloped her. Simultaneously, from the viewing platform, Xing Ye Dao Ren, in a drowsy state, suddenly widened his eyes upon seeing the spectral image in the sky, "Isn't that the young disciple from the Sword Tomb who wielded that sword?" "The sword in her hand is one of the celestial swords that slew two demon sovereigns a millennium ago!" "Liu Bing is notoriously difficult to tame; who'd expect her to subdue it and even pair with it in a sword flying contest in such a short time. Truly a rare talent..." Yan Yue whirled around, glaring angrily at Yun Zhen, "Didn't you say your sect had no one!" Under the vast sky, the girl donned black gear, the fabric flowing, her features elegant, her skin as white as snow. Yun Zhen's gaze fell on the Liu Bing beside Yan Jue, surprised. She had previously gifted Yan Jue a sword; she'd never imagined Yan Jue would use Liu Bing for this contest. "Liu Bing's pride would never permit anyone to control it quickly. I know Xiao Yan's capabilities well." Yun Zhen chuckled at Yan Yue, "She's merely here to augment the numbers." Yan Jue had deliberately practiced sword flight at Qiwufeng since when, during a previous trip to Wanwu Fort with her master, she couldn't keep up with the large winged creature, starkly reminding her of her inadequacies in sword flight. Through dedicated practice, Yan Jue had somewhat improved her coordination with Liu Bing. Standing at the cliff's edge, Yan Jue looked down at the boundless sea of clouds, suddenly feeling a piercing gaze upon her. She spun around to meet Bai Chu Li's resentful stare. As a daughter of the Bai family, Bai Chu Li had a penchant for high stakes, having lost significantly due to Yan Jue in previous bets at the Emerald Altar, harbored deep-seated resentment. Moreover, Bai Chu Li had been the previous Five Dragon Summit sword flying champion. In recent bets at the Emerald Altar, she placed her confidence in herself to win. Seeing Yan Jue ignited a mix of fear and subsequent fury within Bai Chu Li. This sword flying contest was her battlefield; she wouldn't stand for Yan Jue stealing her spotlight! Behind her, Yun Yang patted Bai Chu Li's back, also looking disgruntled, "Sister Bai, do your best." The melodious sound of bells tolled, and the race began in an instant. At the edge of the cliff, the participating disciples launched themselves forward, each controlling their spiritual artifact. As Yan Jue mounted her celestial sword, Liu Bing, her clothing fluttered wildly under the intense wind, its roar echoing like thunder in her ears! Surrounded by fellow disciples racing for the finish line, Yan Jue began channeling her spirit sea's demon core, which spun feverishly as her inner energy surged forth. After passing the summit of Jin Gang Peak, the path led into Qidun Sect's Panlong Cave—a vast cavern in the mountain's heart, its darkness absolute, flooding her senses with a misty aura. The moment Yan Jue entered, she expanded her divine consciousness. She knew the sword flying contest was ostensibly about speed, but it tested much more. Though Panlong Cave appeared to be a simple dark tunnel, it was riddled with countless boulders and stalactites! She performed a hand seal, slightly reducing her speed, her dense divine consciousness scanning every corner. Ahead loomed a massive stalactite! Yan Jue lowered her profile, swiftly veering with a swoosh, narrowly dodging the perilous obstacle. All around her, the echoes of other disciples’ cries and the sound of them falling reached her ears. Light appeared ahead as Yan Jue reached the cave's end. She lowered herself slightly to bypass the final jagged rock and propelled herself outside. The sky was a brilliant blue, and she sensed that the number of competitors around her had drastically decreased after leaving Panlong Cave. Her gaze latched onto the distant figure in the lead. Bai Chu Li stood atop Liu Su, her celestial sword, enveloped in a faint icy aura. Her skillful swordsmanship had already outdistanced the rest significantly. Yan Jue didn’t feel particularly pressured; she was still relatively new to sword flight and hadn’t aimed to win. Yet, regardless of Yan Jue’s intentions, Liu Bing, an illustrious sword perfect for sword flight, had already taken her far ahead. After traversing Panlong Cave, the path led to Shuiyun Sect’s Cold Waterfall, notorious within the Five Dragon Gate for disciplining disciples. A massive waterfall cascaded from the sky, emanating overwhelming cold, rivaling the power of an icy pond. Upon entering the Cold Waterfall, Yan Jue felt the chill, but being of ice spirit root, she was relatively unbothered. She only needed to be cautious of falling icicles during her passage. With a swoosh, Yan Jue maneuvered Liu Bing, ducked slightly, and exited the Cold Waterfall. The number of competitors decreased sharply again. Bai Chu Li remained in the distant lead, exhibiting mastery over sword control, gliding through obstacles with instinctual precision. Exiting the Cold Waterfall meant entering Zhenhuo Sect’s sea of flames. Zhenhuo Sect chose its peak location because of a giant magma rock in a valley—said to be left by an ancient fire god, perpetually aflame, turning the valley into what disciples cheekily called Fire Mountain. Flying into this area, Yan Jue began feeling overwhelmed, being an ice spirit root, she despised the heat tremendously. Surrounded by searing waves, fiery tongues licked at her feet; after half a cup of tea's time maneuvering through the valley, cold sweat dripped profusely from her forehead, soaking her clothes as though she’d emerged from water. Bai Chu Li, also of ice spirit root, found it equally distressing, her pace noticeably slowed. Gritting her teeth, Yan Jue channeled her full energy, her demon core spinning wildly within her spirit sea. Liu Bing, a legendary sword superior to most celestial swords, propelled forward, rapidly closing the gap between her and Bai Chu Li. Suddenly, a golden dragon of flames surged beneath Bai Chu Li, eliciting a fierce roar that startled her. Clearly unfamiliar with this valley, her footing faltered atop her sword. Yan Jue pressed on her sword, leaping into the air. The Five Dragon Plaza erupted with commotion. Yan Yue spun around, glaring ominously at Yun Zhen, "Yun Zhen, is this what you meant by ‘just for numbers’?" Yun Zhen made no reply, her gaze lingering on Yan Jue with a spark of intrigue. Indeed, Yan Jue was meant to fill the numbers. The Five Dragon Gate, a haven for sword cultivators, offered dedicated sword flight lessons. It happened to be Yun Zhen who taught these classes personally. Yet, in her memory, Yan Jue had never attended a single lesson. To develop such proficient sword skills without formal instruction... Unless Qi Xian Qing taught her, her talent was extraordinary. Yun Zhen's curiosity piqued, fixating on the projection with renewed interest. Yan Jue’s level of finesse was beyond what Yun Zhen had anticipated. After flying out of Zhenhuo Peak's sea of flames, few competitors remained visible. Despite her less-than-optimal state—her arms singed by flames, clothing drenched—Yan Jue felt increasingly exhilarated as the race progressed! Initially, participating in the sword flight contest was merely for fun, but it had turned out to be incredibly thrilling! Before her loomed the final challenge of the race. The route of twenty-six small peaks. Here, competitors had to weave through the peaks with precision, heightening the challenge. The difficulty lay in the reliance on the disciples’ internal power and footing as there was no harness to keep them anchored to their swords. The peaks were irregularly shaped, packed closely; negotiating these bends demanded sudden sharp turns—it was all too easy to misalign and tumble from the sword. Liu Bing whistled beneath her as Yan Jue tilted her body, taking a sharp turn. Previously, she had intensely practiced this maneuvering amidst Qiwufeng's peaks, executing her turns with fluid precision. Yun Zhen leaned on her palm, eyes narrowing with fascination. Intriguing, indeed, she mused—these peaks were strategically designed to widen the competitors’ gap. Even Bai Chu Li, once touted as the “Sword God” of Shuiyun Sect, had to slow during tight turns... Yet Yan Jue’s movements were remarkably smooth. The tenth peak... the eleventh... the twelfth... Channeling her chi, Yan Jue whipped the tail of her sword, propelling herself forward an impressive distance. She slid past Bai Chu Li. Again, the Five Dragon Plaza erupted. Upon seeing Yan Jue effortlessly pass her, Bai Chu Li nearly screeched in disbelief, hastily urging her internal energy to catch up, but the sudden turbulence disrupted her rhythm. A steep peak loomed ahead, causing her form to waver precariously, nearly sending her tumbling off her sword. Stunned silence washed over the Five Dragon Plaza. Amid the thrumming noise... Amidst the feverish air... Yan Jue pressed forward on Liu Bing with steady progress. Gripping an incantation seal, Bai Chu Li strained to maintain balance, following suit. Liu Su, her sword, roared like a dragon, generating gale-force winds. Adramental and fierce, Yan Jue concentrated forcefully with her feet, and Liu Bing surged, widening the gap further. Yan Jue had practiced extensively at Qiwufeng. Bends were a significant advantage; skillful navigation through them could instantly distance opponents. Indeed, they were a godsend for sword flight novices like herself! Taking another turn at speed, the distance pulled further apart. Everyone on the plaza locked their gaze on the skyward projection. Swiftly, Yan Jue flew past the twenty-six peaks, and before her lay the final challenge—Buzhou Peak! Beyond Buzhou Peak awaited the Five Dragon Plaza; all Yan Jue needed was a vertical sword position to reach her destination. Buzhou Peak ascended sharply, necessitating a perfect parallel alignment with the mountain to swiftly reach the peak—a technique known within the Five Dragon Gate as the vertical sword climb. At the peak's base, Yan Jue abruptly transitioned Liu Bing to a vertical alignment, channeling her chi thoroughly, tapping into the rushing winds around her. She aligned her body horizontally with the mountain, forming a perpendicular angle with the ground. Liu Bing howled. With wide eyes, the onlookers watched. What magnitude of internal power was required for such a high-level maneuver? Yet Yan Jue managed it flawlessly! Behind Liu Bing, radiant colors erupted, arcs of rainbow-like light. Icy energy surged at Yan Jue's feet—a phenomenon exclusive to those with supreme ice spirit roots. At that moment, Bai Chu Li also emerged from the peaks, straining fiercely towards her goal. Despite her efforts, Bai Chu Li lagged just a fraction behind. Above the plaza, the projected image flickered wildly, capturing Yan Jue's face in close-up. Uncharacteristic across her usual gentle demeanor, her expression now burned with fierce determination and exhilaration. Yan Jue breached the finish line, Liu Bing erupting in brilliant luminescence; she braked sharply upon entering the Five Dragon Plaza, landing lightly and steadily on the stone path. Du Ming, screeching with delight, rushed to embrace her, "How did you do that, Yan Jue!?" "How did you manage to win first place on your first try in a sword flying contest!?" Wiping the sweat from her brow, Yan Jue grinned wryly. Perhaps because she had practiced so diligently at Qiwufeng. The surrounding chatter had scarcely died down when another rush of wind signaled another arrival. Bai Chu Li, on her celestial sword Liu Su, alighted on the plaza ground, face as white as a sheet, legs trembling. No sooner had she landed than she crumpled to the ground, kneeling. The crowd was in an uproar. Yan Jue's brilliance had stolen everyone's attention, making them overlook how Bai Chu Li, once hailed as the sword goddess, had managed to reach the finish. All eyes turned to Bai Chu Li, who was kneeling on the ground, her shoulders trembling violently. Sword flight consumed inner energy, and her reserves were insufficient to navigate such a challenging course. She had started strong, but by the tenth peak, her stamina began waning. A hushed silence fell over the viewing platform as whispers filled the air. "Poor Bai Chu Li—she used to be so skilled at sword flight, but who would have thought she'd face Yan Jue." "Yan Jue... Sister Yan... who knew? I thought her previous solo contest win was just luck, but she's really something." "Yan Jue doesn't look too well herself." Indeed, Yan Jue was far from fine; the race was long, her energy near-depleted, and she was battered from the obstacles—her face and arms scraped by stones in Panlong Cave, and her passage through the sea of flames had left marks too. After exchanging a few words with Du Ming, Yan Jue glanced in Bai Chu Li's direction. Supporting her waist, Yan Jue approached Bai Chu Li. The viewing platform fell silent once more. Yan Jue was the victor; Bai Chu Li, merely the defeated. For Yan Jue to approach Bai Chu Li now invited speculation. There had been incidents where first-place holders ridiculed the runner-ups after a contest. Given Yan Jue and Bai Chu Li's reportedly strained relationship... Even Yan Yue’s expression was concerning, "Why don't you stop her?" Bai Chu Li remained kneeling, the weight of defeat heavy upon her neck. Why... why had she lost? It must've been her pride. Winning past contests had made her complacent, neglecting her training. How humiliating... Overwhelmed by a shadowy emotion, Bai Chu Li felt a beast stirring within her chest, threatening to burst forth. Suddenly, a pale hand extended toward her. Stunned, Bai Chu Li looked up. Before her stood Yan Jue, clad in black, her demeanor composed yet elegant. With those clear, amber eyes fixed on her, Yan Jue bent slightly, eyes kind and sincere. Yan Jue’s voice was respectful, devoid of arrogance: "Get up, Sister Bai. The winner's podium is over there." That dark turbulence within Bai Chu Li’s heart shattered instantly. For a moment, she was speechless, biting her lip softly, hesitantly reaching out to grasp Yan Jue's hand. With a firm pull, Yan Jue helped her stand. In the glow of the setting sun, the two girls faced each other. Only now did the people on the viewing platform truly see Bai Chu Li's face. Yan Jue sincerely complimented, "That was impressive." Staring into Yan Jue's eyes, Bai Chu Li suddenly understood. In such a challenging contest, be it first or second place, reaching the finish was an achievement beyond most. Bai Chu Li smiled back gratefully at Yan Jue. - Yan Yue nearly flipped the table: "Yun Zhen, is this what you meant by watching the excitement?" Yun Zhen maintained her composure, soothingly pouring tea for Yan Yue, "I didn’t realize the child was that skilled." Yan Yue looked as if she might faint from frustration. Yun Zhen, ever gentle, promised, "For the upcoming wine tasting contest, I'll definitely not compete against you." "Truly, our sect doesn't have anyone outstanding in drinking." Indeed, Yan Yue knew, within Yun Zhen's Zhenhuo Sect, there didn’t seem to be any skilled in drinking. The finale of the entertainment series, the wine tasting contest, was sure to be won by her Shuiyun Sect!!