Chapter 9

The wooden sword was plain, almost unremarkable—but there was a quiet weight to it. In the hearts of the young disciples, alchemy, profound scriptures, divination through stars and fingers, and even the intricate crafting of powerful talismans… none of it held quite the same allure as the words "One Sword."

What was tribulation ascension compared to "One Sword to Frost the Fourteen States"? Even the mythical rising of clouds and mists had to take a back seat.

Mu Chun walked to the center of the courtyard, swinging his gangly limbs with an air of solemnity—he looked like a laundry stick that happened to be wearing clothes.

With eyes full of hope, Han Yuan asked the question Cheng Qian wanted to ask but was too embarrassed to voice:"Master, are you going to teach us swordsmanship? When do we get real swords?"

Mu Chun replied leisurely, "No rush. You have wooden swords."

And with that, under the gaze of his disciples, he flapped his arms, took a stance that looked more like a warm-up stretch than a sword form, and started demonstrating a series of moves."—Strengthening the body—improving vitality—enhancing circulation—reviving spirit—extending life—competing with immortals—"

Cheng Qian: "…"

His grand dream of summoning wind and rain crumbled in the shimmering light and shadows of this "Dong Qiang—Dong Dong Qiang" sword dance.

Mu Chun's… exquisite swordplay soon attracted a curious sparrow, which fluttered down onto a nearby stake to watch.

Truly, this was the most tranquil sword technique in the world. The wooden sword passed through the air without stirring even the faintest breeze. A snail could probably crawl up a tree faster.

Accompanied by Master's spirited narration—"Qiáng Fitness Immortals Tournament!"—the effect was oddly mesmerizing.

Mu Chun stepped forward, bent his back slightly, and swung the sword gently toward the sparrow.The little bird, brave and curious, simply stared at the incoming sword with beady eyes.

Mu Chun warned solemnly, "Little beast, beware! The wooden sword of our sect is not to be taken lightly—it may cost you your life!"

Having issued this mighty warning, the tip of his sword arrived… right at the sparrow's feet. The bird, startled but unimpressed, lifted one leg, hopped aside, and calmly watched the "Deadly Sword of Fuyao" pass harmlessly by.

Han Yuan was already giggling uncontrollably. Cheng Qian was stunned—it was hard to believe, but the martial arts display he'd seen back in the village looked far more credible than this.

And yet… he didn't dare laugh. None of his senior brothers were laughing either.

Sure, the eldest was busy fussing with his hair. But the second senior brother—the one who adored toads and had the attention span of a jumping bean—was... actually focused.

Li Yun, who only moments ago was practically bouncing off the walls, now watched Mu Chun's performance with rapt attention, eyes filled with admiration.

Mu Chun completed the demonstration and froze in what he called a "golden pose"—arms wide open, limbs trembling.He looked less like a grand master and more like a startled bird.

"This," he announced, wobbling slightly, "is the first form of the Fuyao Wooden Sword."

Unfortunately, he looked nothing like a majestic roc spreading its wings.

Han Yuan quickly stifled his laughter behind his hand, cheeks turning red.

This time, Mu Chun didn't let it go. With surprising swiftness, he bopped Han Yuan on the head with the wooden sword."Didn't I tell you to focus your spirit and center your heart? So impatient! What's so funny, huh? It's not funny! Copy the Qing Jing Jing five times tonight and bring it to me tomorrow!"

Han Yuan, who was still struggling with literacy, instantly put on a pitiful expression. "But Master, I don't know how to read yet…"

Mu Chun waved him off. "Then trace the characters. Li Yun!"

The second senior brother stepped forward.

"You'll lead your juniors in practicing the first form. When I return, I'll guide you through the second."

Cheng Qian couldn't help thinking: Didn't he say Li Yun spent more than a year learning the second form? Did he really spend an entire year on this... exercise routine?

Before he could fully digest that, Li Yun had already taken position. Wooden sword in hand, he moved with unexpected grace. Compared to Mu Chun, it was night and day.

The youth's stance was like fresh bamboo—straight, vibrant, and proud. His seemingly casual swings stirred the air. The sword's edge whispered as it cut through the stillness. He looked… sharp. Alive.

So much so that the sparrow flapped away in alarm, fleeing into the sky.

Then, just as Cheng Qian and Han Yuan were absorbing the sight, Li Yun drew in a breath and shouted with all the force in his body:"Fuyao Wooden Sword Technique! Live long and compete with immortals!"

...In an instant, the heroic swordsman transformed into a huckster selling Dali Pills on the street.

But Li Yun wasn't the least bit embarrassed. After yelling the line, he turned and made a silly face at his stunned junior brothers.