The Approaching Storm

Within Yunxiao Sect, a tense atmosphere loomed as if an invisible pressure had cast a shadow over everyone. The demand for training resources like pills, talismans, and weapons surged, crowding the alchemy room and talisman hall daily with disciples preparing for the battle ahead. They understood that the delicate balance among the three sects was on the brink of collapse and that they themselves would be drawn into the impending conflict.

Wang Quan had already sensed this undercurrent. Since returning to the sect, he felt the weight of the limited resources he had acquired on his recent expedition. Nonetheless, the fierce battles he experienced had honed his skills and solidified his growth, especially in overcoming his rivalry with Li Cang. His mastery of the Azure Sword Technique and Five Element Arts had noticeably advanced.

One day, Wang Quan made a special trip to Azure Sword Peak to visit his master. Having seen firsthand the growing rift among the three sects, exacerbated by Xuanshao Sect's pro-war faction, he knew that Yunxiao Sect—and the entire cultivation world—stood at the edge of a deadly storm.

On Azure Sword Peak, the disciples had all gathered, their faces reflecting an unprecedented urgency. Clad in an azure robe, his gaze as sharp as a blade, Master Azure Sword addressed his disciples with a steely voice. "All of you are aware of what happened in the secret realm. Not only did we return empty-handed, but we also lost many brothers and sisters. Now, Xuanshao Sect's Shen family—those pro-war advocates—has incited a series of events to disrupt the three-sect balance. Prepare yourselves, for we are likely on the brink of a sect war."

Hearing these words, the disciples' expressions grew heavier. Master Azure Sword's gaze swept over them, and he continued, "This standoff between the three sects is perilous, with life and death at every turn. Shen Gu, the son of Xuanshao Sect's Shen Tuo, is a key figure in the war faction. Ruthless and cunning, the Shen family wields formidable toxic arts, with Shen Tuo himself a Nascent Soul expert specializing in venomous spells. His toxic arts are lethal; you must remain on guard and never underestimate the power of his poison."

Standing nearby, Wang Quan felt a chill run down his spine. Although he had not encountered Shen Tuo, he had firsthand experience of the viciousness of the Shen family's toxic techniques during the secret realm expedition, where their attacks had been as unpredictable as they were deadly. With Shen Tuo himself driving the sect toward war, Wang Quan knew the battlefield would soon be steeped in venomous traps.

Noting the solemn expressions of his disciples, Master Azure Sword's voice softened, yet it carried a somber weight. "As our sect prepares for battle, remember that our strength lies in unity. You must never fight alone on the battlefield; cooperation is essential."

His gaze rested on Wang Quan, and he added, "Wang Quan, you made solid progress in the secret realm, but be warned: poison can infiltrate defenses that even sword energy can't hold back. Your Five Element Arts may complement your swordsmanship, but they must be wielded with caution."

Wang Quan nodded inwardly, feeling a renewed sense of gravity. Though the Five Element Arts provided him with adaptive power, facing an expert like Shen Tuo would demand even greater vigilance. His elemental energy could neutralize some toxins, but with such a versatile arsenal of poisons, a moment's carelessness could lead to disaster.

Master Azure Sword's expression grew introspective. "As swordsmen, you mustn't let the allure of conflict cloud your purpose. Although resources will inevitably be at stake in this war, remember to maintain your principles and not to sacrifice honor for short-term gain."

After a pause, he continued in a calm voice, "Yes, danger is abundant on the battlefield, but it is also a chance to temper your skills and refine your path. Focus your hearts on the Way of the Sword, and even the fiercest opponents will seem less daunting."

The disciples exchanged determined glances, their eyes bright with conviction. Master Azure Sword's gaze lingered on Wang Quan, who stood with steadfast resolve. With a voice full of earnest guidance, he said, "Wang Quan, do not rush forward. Shen Tuo's power may be formidable, but if you commit yourself to swordsmanship, the day will come when you can avenge past grievances."

Taking a deep breath, Wang Quan respectfully replied, "I will follow your teachings, Master, and will not give up so easily." He understood that the coming storm would be a true test of survival—and an inevitable fate along his path as a swordsman.

Pleased, Master Azure Sword nodded approvingly, a gentler look crossing his face. "Go now and prepare yourselves. A great challenge awaits, so each of you must reach your peak form."

With that, the disciples offered him respectful bows and departed, feeling both the tension and thrill of the approaching battle.