“Master, that guy’s expression is really unsightly.” Qing Ya noticed Huo Yunsheng and his companions, as well as Huo Yunsheng’s incomparably unsightly expression.

“Don’t talk nonsense,” barked Ling Yunhe.

Huo Yunsheng ignored both master and apprentice, took a deep breath, and repressed the raging fires of his jealousy. He walked right into the palace, smiled, and clasped his fist in greeting. “Senior Apprentice Sister Wen, we’re back.”

Wen Xinzhao grunted distractedly, but she didn’t so much as turn her head to look at him. Instead, she continued asking Su Yi for guidance. “Fellow Daoist, do you think I ought to emphasize tempering my foundations in the Grand Dao?”

Her beautifully contoured eyebrows were utterly focused, solemn, and even expectant, like a good pupil eager for her master to resolve her doubts.

Su Yi said casually, “That’s natural, but more importantly, you need real combat experience. It’s only through combat that you can recognize your own deficiencies and discover the inadequacies of your Dao of the Sword. Only by recognizing your flaws can you effectively improve. I’m sure you understand that already, but knowing something is easier than implementing it. You must put your knowledge...