Chapter 6

Xue Xinyu was intimately familiar with these long-standing traditions. In their sect, it was customary for a teacher to leave for a period of secluded cultivation once their disciple had reached a certain level of independence. This practice allowed the teacher to advance their own cultivation without the distraction of mentorship, ensuring they could continue to provide valuable guidance upon their return.

"It is indeed correct that I shall depart to cultivate for several months, "However, because I cannot bear leaving my disciple alone, Lǐ Tāo's master, Lǐ Jùn Yǔ, has graciously offered to take him in during my absence."

Huai Xiaozhun's eyes widened in surprise. Lǐ Tāo's master, Lǐ Jùn Yǔ? How could a peak master from the prestigious Lingyun Peak possibly take him under his wing while his own master was away? Lingyun Peak was known for its rigorous standards and exceptional cultivators, making the prospect of studying under its peak master a rare honour, especially because he'd become a dual cultivator under the two best peaks within the sect.

Seeing the apprehension in his disciple's eyes, Lan Yunlong stepped forward to offer reassurance. "Huai Xiaozhun, you need not worry. Lǐ Jùn Yǔ will surely treat you well. He is known for his fairness and dedication to nurturing talent. This is a great opportunity for you to learn from one of the best."

Despite Lan Yunlong's comforting words, Huai Xiaozhun's mind swirled with uncertainty. The idea of leaving his familiar surroundings and training under a new master was overwhelming. However, he deeply respected his master's judgement and knew that this opportunity could significantly advance his cultivation.

Taking a deep breath, Huai Xiaozhun nodded slowly. "I understand, Shizun. I will do my best to learn and grow under Lǐ Jùn Yǔ's guidance."

Lan Yunlong placed a reassuring hand on Huai Xiaozhun's shoulder. "That is the spirit. Remember, this is a chance to broaden your horizons and gain new insights. Embrace it fully."

With those words, Huai Xiaozhun felt a renewed sense of determination. He would make the most of this unique opportunity, honouring both his current master and the esteemed sect master who was willing to take him in.

Oho? It seems young Huai Xiaozhun was pretty close to his Shizun.

The festive atmosphere of the party quickly resumed, perhaps even more animated than before. The laughter and clinking of cups filled the air, and the vibrant colours of lanterns and decorations seemed to glow brighter against the night sky. 

Reaching a level that allowed one's master to embark on long-term cultivation within less than two years was a rare feat indeed, and it filled the air with a palpable sense of pride and anticipation.

As the festivities lingered on, Lǐ Jùn Yǔ and Lǐ Tāo, who had been observing the scene with quiet patience, waited for Huai Xiaozhun to finish his farewells. They stood slightly apart from the merriment, their serene presence contrasting with the bustling activity around them. Lǐ Jùn Yǔ, the dignified master of Lingyun Peak, exuded a calm authority, while Lǐ Tāo, his devoted disciple, watched the proceedings with a mixture of curiosity and respect.

Liang Chen, one of Huai Xiaozhun's closest friends, couldn't hold back his tears. His face was flushed, and his eyes glistened as he clung to Huai Xiaozhun's sleeve, his sobs barely muffled by the festive sounds around them. "I promise I will visit you, Huai-shixiongggg," Liang Chen cried, his voice breaking with emotion. The two had formed a strong bond during their training, sharing countless hours of practice and camaraderie.

It's surprising to see how close Huai Xiaozhun and Liang Chen were. However, given that Huai Xiaozhun will now be with Lǐ Tāo, his 'father' should be unable to harm him. Hopefully.

Huai Xiaozhun gently patted Liang Chen on the shoulder, his own heart heavy with the weight of parting. "I will be back before you know it, Liang-shidi. Keep training hard, and we'll spar again soon," he said, his voice firm yet tinged with sadness. After offering his final farewells to Liang Chen and his shizun, he turned towards the elegantly decorated carriage that awaited him.

As he stepped into the carriage, he noticed its intricate details. The exterior was adorned with finely carved wooden panels.. Inside, the plush cushions and rich fabrics spoke of luxury and comfort.

Lǐ Tāo, already seated inside, greeted him with a warm smile. "I'm glad my master was able to take you in during your master's long-term cultivation. Now, we can train together, and I can learn from you, Huai-shixiong," he said with genuine enthusiasm. Lǐ Tāo's eyes sparkled with the excitement of new beginnings, eager for the chance to deepen their friendship and hone their skills together.

As the carriage rolled towards Lingyun Peak, the atmosphere inside was rather subdued. The rhythmic clatter of wheels on the cobblestone path and the soft rustle of leaves in the night breeze were the only sounds that accompanied them. Conversation between Huai Xiaozhun and Lǐ Tāo was minimal, each lost in their own thoughts.

Huai Xiaozhun's mind wandered, pondering the many changes that lay before him. He wondered if he would be required to don the distinctive Lingyun Peak uniform, a formal ensemble known for its striking golden and white colour. 

However, Huai Xiaozhun felt a pang of reluctance at the thought of setting aside his current attire, a personalised creation by his shizun, Lan Yunlong. Each piece had been carefully crafted, imbued with subtle symbols and protective charms unique to their lineage. 

The clothing held immense sentimental value, a tangible connection to his master and his training. Relinquishing it felt like a potential breach of etiquette and a loss of his personal identity within the broader spectrum of his new home.

Upon their arrival at Lingyun Peak, the majestic mountain greeted them with its towering peaks shrouded in mist, giving it an air of mystery and grandeur. The path to the main hall was lined with lanterns that flickered softly in the night, casting long shadows that danced on the ancient stone steps. 

Lǐ Tāo, with a friendly smile, assured Huai Xiaozhun that he would be given a tour in the morning, explaining that the lateness of the hour made it impractical to start now. 

Despite the late hour, a group of Lingyun Peak disciples gathered to welcome them. Their robes, flowing and adorned with intricate patterns of golden hues, rustled softly as they moved. The disciples' faces were a mix of curiosity, scepticism, and some mild disdain. 

Huai Xiaozhun could feel their eyes on him, scrutinising every detail of his appearance and demeanour. Coming from Qi Yun Peak, a historical rival, he was met with a range of reactions from warm greetings to cold, assessing stares.

Huai Xiaozhun tried to maintain his composure as he bowed respectfully to each of them, despite feeling the weight of their scrutiny. He could sense the lingering doubts and whispers that hinted at his outsider status. 

Qi Yun Peak and Lingyun Peak had a long-standing rivalry, one that was deeply ingrained in the traditions and psyche of both sects. 

Walking behind the group, Xue Xinyu observed the scene with a keen eye. He noted how the architecture of Lingyun Peak had remained unchanged over the years, with its sweeping roofs and intricate carvings that spoke of a rich history and unwavering traditions. 

Poor young Huai Xiaozhun, he thought, watching Huai Xiaozhun struggle under the weight of the cold stares. He's practically suffering from these mean looks. The rivalry between the top peaks was well-known, driven by Lingyun Peak's relentless efforts to maintain its preeminent position and the pride that came with it.

As the morning dawned, the golden light of the rising sun bathed the peaks in a warm glow, casting long shadows that stretched across the valley below. Huai Xiaozhun, who had just settled into a deep slumber after the emotional turmoil of the previous evening, was roused unusually early by Lǐ Tāo. 

The morning air was crisp and filled with the scent of pine and dew, a stark contrast to the warmth of his bed. Squinting against the early light, Huai Xiaozhun peered groggily at Lǐ Tāo, his mind still foggy from sleep.

"Good morning, Huai-shixiong!" Lǐ Tāo greeted cheerfully, his enthusiasm evident in his bright eyes and eager demeanour. He held out a set of freshly tailored gowns, their fabric shimmering in the soft morning light. 

"I've prepared new gowns for you," he said, his voice full of anticipation and pride. The gowns were made of fine silk, adorned with the elegant patterns and colours of Lingyun Peak.

Huai Xiaozhun glanced at the gowns, "I don't want them," he replied, his tone unintentionally harsh. The words were not meant to hurt, but rather reflected his deep attachment to his current attire, which had been crafted by his shizun with care and tradition. 

The gowns he wore were more than just clothes; they were a symbol of his identity and connection to his master, something he was not ready to relinquish.

Lǐ Tāo's cheerful expression faltered, replaced by a look of disappointment and confusion. "But why?" he asked, his voice tinged with hurt. "I spent so much time picking the design. It's very good fabric; are you sure?" He had hoped that the new gowns would symbolise a fresh start and a warm welcome into the Lingyun Peak community.

Huai Xiaozhun sighed, struggling to convey his feelings without causing further offence. "The old design was made by my shizun," he explained, his voice softer now. "I won't change my uniform if it's too different. It's not just about the fabric; it's about what it means to me."

Understanding dawned on Lǐ Tāo's face, mixed with a touch of regret. He realised that he had misjudged the significance of the gowns and the deep bond Huai Xiaozhun had with his shizun. Feeling that he might have offended Huai Xiaozhun, Lǐ Tāo hastily excused himself, leaving the room with a heavy heart. 

Huai Xiaozhun, unaware of the reason for Lǐ Tāo's abrupt departure, allowed him to leave and turned around to continue sleeping. 

How could he just go back to sleep? Had he no regard for emotions?! Tsk tsk tsk, little Huai Xiaozhun, you have a lot to learn!

Huai Xiaozhun wasn't lazy by any means; his body and mind simply weren't attuned to the early hours. He preferred the calm and quiet of the night, when he could reflect and practice in solitude. However, today was different, and he found himself thrust into the morning's bustle much earlier than he would have liked. 

After several hours of restlessness, his eyelids still heavy with sleep, he heard a soft knock on the door. It was Lǐ Tāo, returning with another gown in hand, a hopeful smile on his face.

Huai Xiaozhun blinked in surprise at Lǐ Tāo's persistence and wondered how he had managed to acquire a new gown so quickly. 

The morning sun streamed through the windows, casting a golden hue across the room, highlighting the intricate patterns on the floor mats and walls. The room itself was modest but exuded a sense of peace, and history, with scrolls, and books neatly arranged on shelves and a small table in the corner adorned with flowers and books.

Lǐ Tāo stepped forward, holding the gown up for Huai Xiaozhun to see. "The palace maids hand-made this for you," he said, his voice brimming with excitement. "They tried to replicate the embroidery from the gown your master made, ensuring it carries a touch of Lingyun Peak's tradition."

Huai Xiaozhun took the gown and examined it closely. The fabric was soft and smooth under his fingers, crafted from the finest silk. 

The embroidery was delicate and intricate, featuring motifs of cranes and clouds, symbols of purity and aspiration. The colours were a beautiful blend of white and blue, reminiscent of the sky and the sea, with a hint of gold that added a regal touch, symbolising its connection to Lingyun Peak.

The gown managed to retain the essence of his master's design while incorporating elements unique to his new home.

A feeling of warmth and gratitude welled up within Huai Xiaozhun. "Thank you for going through so much effort for me," he said, his voice filled with genuine appreciation. Lǐ Tāo's face lit up with satisfaction, the tension of their earlier encounter melting away.

From that moment on, Lǐ Tāo seemed to take on a new mission: to help Huai Xiaozhun feel more at home and to foster a sense of camaraderie with the other disciples. After breakfast, which consisted of steamed buns, congee, and fresh fruit served in the communal dining hall, Lǐ Tāo assisted Huai Xiaozhun in putting on the new gown. 

Huai Xiaozhun, still half-asleep, appreciated the help, though his movements were slow and his mind foggy. The dining hall itself was bustling with activity, filled with the chatter of disciples discussing their morning routines and training schedules.

Once he was dressed, Huai Xiaozhun caught Lǐ Tāo staring at him, a mixture of amusement and concern on his face. "Are you awake enough to get a tour from me?" Lǐ Tāo asked, his tone light-hearted but with a hint of urgency.

Yawning deeply, Huai Xiaozhun turned around and gave a small nod. "Of course," he replied, his voice still thick with sleep, though he couldn't help but smile at Lǐ Tāo's enthusiasm. It was clear that Lǐ Tāo was eager to show him the wonders of Lingyun Peak, and despite his drowsiness, Huai Xiaozhun felt a spark of curiosity.

As they stepped out into the crisp morning air, Lǐ Tāo began the tour, leading him through winding paths and grand courtyards. The peak was a marvel of natural beauty and architectural elegance. 

"This is where most of the disciples train," Lǐ Tāo explained, gesturing towards a large, open courtyard where several disciples were already engaged in their morning exercises. The sound of clashing swords and the sight of graceful, flowing movements filled the space, showcasing the discipline and skill of Lingyun Peak's disciples.

Huai Xiaozhun stood at the edge of Lingyun Peak's expansive training grounds, his gaze sweeping across the vast expanse of rugged terrain and towering cliffs that surrounded him. 

The peak seemed to stretch endlessly into the horizon, its grandeur both awe-inspiring and daunting. Despite his time there, he often found himself forgetting the intricate layout of the peak, his absent-minded nature causing him to meander through its labyrinthine paths.

heh

With a resigned sigh, Huai Xiaozhun realised that his stay at Lingyun Peak might extend longer than he had initially anticipated. The days blurred into weeks as he navigated through the unfamiliar surroundings, occasionally attracting curious glances from other disciples due to his distinctive gown, a constant reminder of his origins from Qi Yun Peak.

During this period of adjustment, Xue Xinyu observed Huai Xiaozhun's struggles from a distance. He noticed how the young disciple often seemed lost in thought or wandered aimlessly, unaware of the attention he drew. 

Some of the female disciples, intrigued by his unique attire and demeanour, approached him with inquiries that ranged from genuine curiosity to thinly veiled attempts at flirtation. Huai Xiaozhun, indifferent to their advances and focused on his training, found such attention to be a distraction he could do without.

Gradually, however, Huai Xiaozhun began to adapt to the rhythms and routines of Lingyun Peak. He developed a routine of rigorous training sessions, meditation in secluded groves, and quiet contemplation in the library. 

As he immersed himself deeper into the peak's culture and traditions, his initial awkwardness gave way to a growing sense of familiarity and belonging.

One afternoon, several days later, Xue Xinyu found himself standing alongside Lǐ Tāo, their footsteps echoing softly in the quiet hallway. They had paused outside a partially open door, through which Xue Xinyu could glimpse the dimly lit interior of a room. Lǐ Tāo peered inside with a slight smile playing on his lips, seemingly absorbed in the scene unfolding within.

Inside the room, cloaked in shadows, Xue Xinyu caught a chilling sight—a figure clad in black, standing over a man who resembled Lǐ Tāo's biological father. The air was thick with tension as the figure ruthlessly stabbed the man, the violence stark against the quietude of the surroundings. Lǐ Tāo's expression betrayed a hint of satisfaction, as though he were witnessing justice being served in some manner known only to him.

Huai Xiaozhun, standing beside Lǐ Tāo, remained eerily impassive. His eyes, normally warm and reflective, now held a steely resolve as he watched the scene unfold without flinching. Xue Xinyu felt a shiver run down his spine, unsettled by the raw brutality of the act and the detached composure.

Moments passed in tense silence before the violence ceased abruptly. Without a word, Huai Xiaozhun placed a hand on Lǐ Tāo's shoulder, his touch gentle yet firm. "Let's leave now," he said quietly, his voice cutting through the stillness like a knife. They turned away from the door without a backward glance, leaving the scene behind them.

Conflicted by what he had witnessed, Xue Xinyu grappled with his thoughts as they walked away. The image of the dark figure and the violence lingered in his mind, casting a shadow over his understanding of the events unfolding at Lingyun Peak. 

He knew there was more to the story than met the eye, and the implications of what he had seen weighed heavily on his conscience as the scene shifted once more.

Every day, amidst the serene backdrop of Lingyun Peak's training grounds, Huai Xiaozhun and Lǐ Tāo engaged in spirited sparring sessions that pushed the boundaries of their martial prowess. 

Their familiarity with each other's techniques grew so deep that they were constantly challenged to innovate and develop new strategies to keep their duels thrilling and unpredictable.

On one particularly lively day, as the sun cast dappled shadows through the canopy above, a crowd began to gather around the sparring grounds. 

Word had spread of the clash between two formidable disciples—one from Qi Yun Peak and the other, their favoured prince. They faced off armed with bamboo sticks, a deliberate choice to minimise injury despite their formidable skills.

Intentions for a controlled duel, however, were swiftly overturned as both combatants infused their bamboo sticks with qi, the energy of cultivation that rendered their weapons harder and more potent. 

Huai Xiaozhun, known for his swift mastery of qi manipulation, enveloped his bamboo stick with a dense layer of energy, aiming to penetrate Lǐ Tāo's defences with precision strikes.

Lǐ Tāo responded with impressive agility, his movements fluid and precise as he skillfully evaded Huai Xiaozhun's relentless assaults. In moments where openings presented themselves, Lǐ Tāo countered with swift and well-timed strikes of his own, demonstrating a mastery of both defence and offence.

Sensing the need for a strategic shift, Huai Xiaozhun deftly withdrew a talisman from his robes, quickly infusing it with qi before discreetly attaching it to Lǐ Tāo's back—all while maintaining the appearance of engaging in their bamboo duel. 

Unaware of the talisman's effect, Lǐ Tāo gradually felt his movements slowing, the subtle hindrance almost imperceptible but enough to tilt the balance in Huai Xiaozhun's favour.

As the clash intensified, Huai Xiaozhun seized the opportunity presented by Lǐ Tāo's momentary distraction, shattering his opponent's bamboo stick with a decisive blow. 

Xue Xinyu, observing from the sidelines with a mix of pride and amusement, couldn't help but recall Feng Mingzhu's words about Huai Xiaozhun's mischievous past. It seems little Huai Xiaozhun used to be a troublemaker, he silently acknowledged, a faint smile playing on his lips as he watched the unfolding spectacle.

The spectators, caught in the tension of the duel, watched with bated breath as the battle between disciple and prince unfolded before them. Some rooted fervently for Huai Xiaozhun, recognizing his skill as a disciple of Qi Yun Peak, while others remained loyal to Lǐ Tāo, their favoured prince and a symbol of Lingyun Peak's strength and honour.

With quick resilience, Lǐ Tāo dispelled the lingering effects of the talisman and seamlessly transitioned to hand-to-hand combat, demonstrating his adaptability and determination to turn the tide of the duel. 

Undeterred by the change in tactics, Huai Xiaozhun recognized the limitations of relying solely on a bamboo stick against an opponent skilled in close combat.

In a swift and fluid motion, Huai Xiaozhun discarded the bamboo stick, opting instead for a series of rapid kicks that added a dynamic and unpredictable element to their confrontation. 

The air crackled with intensity as the combatants exchanged powerful blows, each strike resonating with the energy of their training and determination.

In a moment that marked the crescendo of their duel, Huai Xiaozhun's strategic adaptability and mastery of various combat forms proved decisive. With a final, well-placed strike, he emerged victorious, his chest heaving with exertion and exhilaration. 

The onlookers, witnessing the clash of two formidable forces, erupted into a mix of cheers and murmurs. The duel had not only showcased the prowess of Qi Yun Peak's disciple but also solidified Huai Xiaozhun's standing against the beloved prince, Lǐ Tāo.

Almost every day followed a similar routine, with the two disciples engaging in sparring sessions until late in the evening. Despite the intense training, Huai Xiaozhun and Lǐ Tāo developed a strong camaraderie.

However, one day, the tranquillity was shattered when Huai Xiaozhun let out a scream that echoed through the halls of Lingyun peak.

"AHHHHHGHIUCXZTUKFJZGH!" Concerned, Lǐ Tāo hurriedly rushed into Huai Xiaozhun's room, expecting the worst—perhaps a robbery or injury. 

To his surprise, he found Huai Xiaozhun frantically running around the room, turning it upside down. The cause of the commotion became apparent when Huai Xiaozhun pointed to a small spider on the floor, exclaiming, "AHHH A SPIDE5RERRRR!"

Xue Xinyu, watching this, laughed at the sight. Never could he have imagined Huai Xiaozhun to be scared of spiders.

Lǐ Tāo couldn't fathom how the formidable Huai Xiaozhun, who surpassed him, could be terrified by such a small creature. 

Taking charge, Lǐ Tāo carefully picked up the spider and tossed it out of the window. "It's gone now, stop screaming," he advised. 

Turning around, Lǐ Tāo found Huai Xiaozhun passed out on the floor, muttering about the spider. Unable to suppress a laugh, Lǐ Tāo lifted Huai Xiaozhun and a few minutes later, Huai Xiaozhun woke up in Lǐ Tāo's bed, alarmed, "WHERE'S THE SPIDER?" He exclaimed as he quickly assessed the situation. 

Realising he was in Lǐ Tāo's room instead of his own, Huai Xiaozhun wondered if he had passed out at the sight of the seemingly "large" spider. 

Entering the room with a cup of tea, Lǐ Tāo greeted him, "Have you finally awoken?" Huai Xiaozhun chuckled awkwardly, acknowledging the embarrassing situation. 

Lǐ Tāo offered a cup of tea, saying, "Here's some tea for you to calm down." Reluctantly, Huai Xiaozhun accepted the cup, muttering a quiet "thank you."

Occurrences like that were not uncommon, even though Huai Xiaozhun was among the strongest disciples. 

Afterward, Xue Xinyu awoke, having witnessed the entirety of the backstory. Sadly, he woke up before he could see if anything transpired between Huai Xiaozhun and Li Tao. 

Nonetheless, it was amusing to observe young Huai Xiaozhun. Even Xue Xinyu could never have imagined Huai Xiaozhun screaming at the sight of a small spider.