But a Glance

Elder Feng sighed, recalling his own youthful excitement when he first laid eyes on the blade. "You may use it, but I hope you understand that skill is needed to wield this weapon. Without skill, it is as good as a wooden stick."

Nodding firmly, Yi Tian assured, "I understand."

Protector Zhen then walked up to the glass case and bowed respectfully. He carefully unlocked and opened the case before gesturing for Yi Tian to take the sword.

As Yi Tian gripped the handle and lifted the sword, it felt like an extension of his body, as if he had held this blade for ages. He brought it closer, inspecting the engravings and fine details of the Lotus Blade. Running his finger along the cold, smooth surface of the blade, Protector Zhen handed him a scabbard, saying, "The scabbard will attach to your belt; keep the blade sheathed when not in use."

Nodding, Yi Tian sheathed his blade and attached it to his robe's sash, which functioned as a belt. As he did this, Elder Feng spoke, "Why don't we go outside? You can test your new blade."

"Alright," Yi Tian agreed, turning to Protector Zhen. "Thank you for letting me wield this weapon."

Protector Zhen's serious expression softened into a light smile. "It's my pleasure, Young Master."

Together, Elder Feng and Yi Tian exited the martial pagoda. Outside, conveniently located next to the pagoda, was a training area. Moving to an open space, Elder Feng brought over a hay practice dummy, a wooden practice sword in his hand.

"Tian'er, since it's your first time using a sword, I think it's better to use a wooden one," Elder Feng suggested.

Yi Tian glanced at the practice sword in Elder Feng's hands and said firmly, "Old man, I will use my new one."

"Alright," Elder Feng agreed, nodding helplessly. In his mind, he doubted that Yi Tian would be able to swing the Lotus Blade effectively. The blade was designed to flow through the air like water, taking sharp curves if angled too much. Fine control was necessary. However, he would let Yi Tian use it as he was there, strong enough to protect him from potential injury.

Assuming a basic sword stance, Elder Feng instructed, "Tian'er, I will demonstrate a basic sword stance. If performed correctly, you should be able to slice through the dummy." Elder Feng moved forward and, with precision, struck the dummy with the practice sword. As the sword connected, a loud thump echoed through the training area. Elder Feng turned to Yi Tian and said, "Give it a go, but be mindful of your speed and strength."

Nodding, Yi Tian stepped forward, positioning himself in front of the dummy. Elder Feng's eyes widened in surprise as he saw Yi Tian assume a picture-perfect copy of his basic stance. He watched as Yi Tian unsheathed the Lotus Blade and sliced through the straw dummy in one smooth motion, displaying the skill of a master. He was truly befuddled as to how Yi Tian had accomplished this; not even prodigies could achieve such prowess after a single demonstration.

"Tian'er," Elder Feng stammered, "W-Where did you learn to do that?" he asked hurriedly.

"From you, Old Man," Yi Tian replied, nonchalant. It was true; he had simply copied Elder Feng's stance and action. He didn't think anything special of it.

Elder Feng collected himself. Although he had shown Yi Tian some basic moves, he wasn't there to train him in earnest; that was Yi Hong's responsibility. He was merely preparing Yi Tian for his training by providing him with the necessary knowledge, a weapon he felt comfortable with, and techniques he could grasp easily.

"Tian'er, if what you say is true. That you are able to copy my stance from just a glance. Then this is unprecedented news for our family," Elder Feng revealed, his voice filled with excitement.

As Yi Tian listened, he could understand where Elder Feng was coming from. To become a master with a glance is a very extraordinary thing, but what confused him was how easy it was for him to copy Elder Feng.

Elder Feng continued, his voice steadying, "Right now, my duty is just to let you grasp the basics. Yi Hong will train you in martial arts. If you show great talent in Blood Qi, then he will undoubtedly report it to Yi Chang. For now, though, let us head to the Serene Relic Chamber."

...

As Yi Long split from Yi Tian, he soon found himself approaching the main family hall. Climbing the stairs to the grand entrance, he was tempted to barge in like he normally did. But, remembering what Yi Tian had told him, he paused. With a newfound resolve, he knocked upon the door and announced, "Yi Long requests to enter!"

The doors soon opened, and the servant yelled, "Yi Long has arrived!"

As the servant's bellow echoed through the hall, the young boy entered with an air of determination. He walked toward the branch family table, stealing a glance at his father, waiting for the go-ahead to speak.

Yi Chang, perplexed by his youngest son's behavior, nodded anyway.

"Father, I-I have something I want to ask," Yi Long stammered, struggling to find the right words.

Intrigued, Yi Chang probed, "What is it that you want, son?"

Gathering courage, Yi Long asked, "Could you spend some time with me?" His voice was small but sincere.

Yi Chang's eyes widened in surprise. He breathed deeply and smiled warmly, "Long'er, son, you need not request this. You may spend time with me whenever you want. Come, take a seat next to me." He gestured toward the empty seat of Yi Hong.

Yi Long's eyes sparkled with joy. He eagerly ran up to the raised platform and took a seat next to his father.

Yi Chang looked at his son, adopting a serious expression, "Now, son, I will teach you how to handle family affairs."

Throughout their time together, Yi Chang imparted invaluable lessons to Yi Long about managing the family. He taught him about maintaining their ancestral estate, mediating disputes, and ensuring the well-being of every member. Yi Long listened intently, absorbing every word his father said. He could feel the weight of responsibility resting on his father's shoulders, and he began to understand the importance of his own role within the family.

For Yi Long, this was more than just learning about family affairs; it was a rare opportunity to bond with his father. He cherished every moment, and with each passing hour, he gained a deeper appreciation for the love and duty that united them.