Lotus Blade

The sun shone brightly overhead as Yi Long held a stance from the Thunderbolt Force Form, beads of sweat trickling down his forehead. He breathed heavily, trying to maintain his focus. In front of him, Yi Tian held his palm out in a relaxed manner. "Strike again," he instructed.

With determination, Yi Long thrust his fist forward, but before he could connect with Yi Tian's palm, he received a light kick to the thigh. He stumbled and fell to his knees. "The power in your legs is uneven, creating a weakness in your stance," Yi Tian pointed out.

"Brother," Yi Long huffed, panting for breath. "I'm tired."

Yi Tian helped him up and said, "It's alright. That's enough for today."

Yi Long marveled at the training he'd received that day. He never expected his brother to teach him so well or to know such moves. As he dusted off his clothes, Yi Tian looked at him with a solemn expression. "Actually, today is the last day I'll be teaching you. Elder Feng will take over from now on."

Yi Long's eyes widened in disbelief. "But, Brother, I want to train with you!" He felt a deep sense of reluctance at the thought of parting ways with Yi Tian. It wasn't just about enjoying the training or getting stronger; it was about having someone to talk to and connect with. His father, the head of the family, was seldom around, and his other brothers were busy learning or hanging out with friends. Yi Tian was the only one who consistently spent time with him.

Seeing his brother's reluctance, Yi Tian sighed. Though he didn't feel particularly attached to Yi Long, he had compassion for the child. He could guess what was bothering him. "Why do you want to train with me?" he asked.

Looking down in sadness, Yi Long replied, "Because... you're my brother."

Yi Tian offered a smile. "I am your brother, but I'm also growing up and going to war. I need to train and focus on myself as well." He paused for a moment before suggesting, "If you're feeling bored or lonely, why not talk to Father?"

Confused, Yi Long said, "Why would I tell him? He's always busy and never takes time to see me." There was a hint of hurt in his voice.

Yi Tian smiled, bending down to place a hand on Yi Long's shoulder. "Yi Long, just because he's busy doesn't mean he dislikes you. Trust me, go to Father and tell him your troubles."

Yi Long stared at Yi Tian, still doubtful. "Why should I go? I can just send a servant to tell him."

Shaking his head, Yi Tian explained, "That's not the right approach, Yi Long. You are his son. Going in person will show that you're serious about your concerns."

Yi Long hesitated, still not entirely convinced. "Do you really think he'll listen? Mother always says he's too busy and not to disturb him."

Chuckling before adopting a serious expression, Yi Tian said, "Remember, Yi Long, a father's greatest responsibility is his children. But he won't force you to confide in him. If you don't go to him now, when will you? Eventually, you'll wait too long, and it will be too late."

Yi Long finally relented. "Fine. I'll go now, then."

"I must leave as well," Yi Tian said, then added, "Since we are heading the same way we can walk together."

Nodding, Yi Long agreed. Together, they exited the courtyard and eventually split on the main road. Yi Tian heading toward the martial pagoda, and Yi Long to the main family hall, which Yi Chang normally spent his days in.

...

As I arrived in front of the Serene Ascension Pagoda, I pulled open the large, intricately carved wooden doors. Upon entering, I saw Elder Feng engaged in conversation with Protector Zhen. As soon as I stepped into the pagoda, they both turned to look in my direction.

"Tian'er, you're here. Come over," Elder Feng beckoned me over to them with a warm smile.

I approached the raised platform upon which Protector Zhen sat, and Elder Feng addressed me once more. "Protector Zhen and I have selected a few swords that would be well-suited to the Willow Breeze technique," he informed me.

As Elder Feng spoke, Protector Zhen descended gracefully from his raised platform. When Elder Feng finished his sentence, Protector Zhen interjected, "Let me show you the ones we've picked." His tone was serious and focused.

Protector Zhen then guided us around the martial pagoda's first floor, showing me an array of exquisite swords, each with its own unique characteristics. Eventually, we arrived in front of a sword encased in a pristine glass display. "This sword is named 'Lotus Blade.' It was once wielded by our ancestor Yi Yunjian himself."

Within the glass case, the Lotus Blade was a sight to behold. The beautifully crafted sword seemed perfect for the fluid, graceful movements of the Willow Breeze technique. The slender blade appeared to weigh no more than a feather, as if it were designed specifically for elegant and precise motions. The sword's design featured an intricate lotus pattern engraved along the blade, which seemed to shimmer and come to life as it caught the light. The hilt was adorned with lotus petals made of white jade, providing a comfortable grip and enhancing the sword's connection to the natural world. A delicate tassel made of silk threads hung from the pommel, adding a touch of elegance and providing visual feedback during swift swordplay.

"The Lotus Blade is a masterful creation. It was said to whisper to the wind, allowing the wielder to feel the subtle shifts in airflow," Elder Feng explained, his eyes sparkling with admiration. He continued as I looked up at him, "This sword was actually my choice too when I was young. When I used it, I could hardly cut anything."

Before Elder Feng could say anything more, I immediately declared, "I'll use this one." My eyes remained fixed on the Lotus Blade, already feeling a connection to its graceful design and rich history.