Chapter 224: Sect Leader's Grand Ceremony

The Grand Sect Master Ceremony spanned three days. On the first day, the Four Peaks engaged in wine tasting and flower appreciation, drawing sword energy to create star waterfalls and plucking auspicious mists to adorn themselves. They sat together in the clouds, discussing immortal paths and exchanging insights into the essence of Daoist magic.

Around noon, the clanging of swords resonated from outside. The sound, like an iron spear with tattered flags vibrating vigorously, carried a dense, pervasive, and chilling sword intent through the air, palpable even from a distance.

It was the Sword Melody of the Yu Jian Tian Sect, an awe-inspiring tune that, upon nearing, felt like an armored army pressing forward. It made one's bones vibrate incessantly. Any guest with a slightly weaker Dao heart would be directly subdued by the melody, their resolve trembling, unable to even summon their spiritual energy.

Ning Changjiu gazed at the clear sky outside his window, lightly tapping his fingers on the table in rhythm with the sword melody.

Only when the melody faded did Ning Changjiu slowly rise. He took one last look at the tidily arranged room and the painting of a blue bird hanging on the wall, then gently pushed the door open and departed.

Lu Jiajia's appearance that day was the most talked-about event.

More than two years prior, the mythical tale of Lu Jiajia slaying the Nine-Headed Infant with her sword on the barren plains had spread far and wide. Later, the tragic story of her sharing a life-and-death bond with her disciple, only to be separated by an abyss, also evoked profound sadness. Her beauty and appearance were a frequent topic of discussion among other sects. When Lu Jiajia, then barely in her teens, won the championship at the Four Peaks Sword Gathering, the finest portrait painter in the realm was invited to the peak to create a hanging portrait of the "Little Sword Immortal." Over the past two years, that painter, who was originally reclusive, had also risen to fame, with his doorstep worn out by those begging him to paint another portrait from memory.

Today, as the woman appeared before everyone with cool, understated elegance, it was as if she had stepped right out of a painting, making people realize the ultimate limitations of art.

Ning Changjiu, however, did not proceed to the Grand Sect Master Hall. He merely stood on a peak and observed from a distance for a few moments before turning to descend the mountain, heading toward the territory of Zhao.

Ning Changjiu, soaring on his sword like a rainbow, swept over the lush green fields and arrived in Linhe City.

Linhe City was now in a state of decline and disrepair. Had it not been for Zhao Xiang'er's strenuous efforts to support it, sending numerous people to assist with reconstruction and provide relief, the city might well have been deserted by now.

Ning Changjiu arrived at Ning Qinshui's old residence.

In a sense, this was where his current life had begun.

The old residence had long been altered beyond recognition. Most of the city's old shops were closed. On the bluestone street, a few merchants walked, leading their lean, exhausted horses that dragged heavy loads. Their hair was tied with coarse cloth, and their eyebrows and stubble were caked with dust.

Ning Changjiu went to the sandy river.

Han Xiaosu emerged from the water with a joyful splash, loudly exclaiming, "Benefactor! Benefactor!"

Ning Changjiu smiled faintly and said, "Your cultivation is impressive. It seems you haven't been idle these past two years."

Han Xiaosu bowed and replied, "It's all thanks to Sister Xiaoling's excellent teaching."

Ning Changjiu chuckled, "Indeed, I didn't teach you much back then."

Han Xiaosu quickly waved her hand. "Benefactor, that's not what I meant."

With a smile in his eyes, Ning Changjiu said, "Tell me about Junior Sister Xiaoling."

Han Xiaosu recounted the events of the past two years, though they had been largely uneventful, consisting mostly of trivial matters. Fearing Ning Changjiu would grow bored, she occasionally glanced up at him, only to find his expression utterly serious throughout.

"Does she often ask you about ghosts?" Ning Changjiu inquired.

Han Xiaosu nodded. "She must be missing Young Master dearly."

Ning Changjiu gazed at the city, once a capital of the netherworld, and thought of the Ancient Spirit Sect where she now resided. *Junior Sister is so intertwined with the netherworld lineage,* he mused. *After the three-year promise, I must go see her soon. It wouldn't do for her to become another Lady White Bone.*

After bidding farewell to Han Xiaosu, Ning Changjiu followed rumors heard in local teahouses, traveling all the way to a place called White City.

White City, along with its surrounding towns, had originally been ceded to the Jin Kingdom. Now, while all those territories had been returned to Zhao, White City strangely still flew the Jin Kingdom's flag.

Ning Changjiu entered the city.

This city was unlike the others; the war seemed to have left it untouched. It remained exceptionally lively, with inns and teahouses open for business. The most popular opera house even boasted a signboard said to have been personally inscribed by the King of Jin years ago.

White City earned its name from a legend claiming that two hundred years ago, a sage named Bai ascended to immortality from this very place. When the sage departed, he took nothing, and his white robe fell back into the city from the sky. Overnight, as if a snowstorm had swept through, all the bricks and tiles turned pure white.

This had been a cherished tale in the city for many years.

Ning Changjiu made his way to the legendary Flying Immortal Platform.

Upon reaching the Flying Immortal Platform, he discovered that the legend appeared to be more than mere folklore.

The Flying Immortal Platform's structure was incredibly complex. Its seemingly chaotic etchings concealed thousands of formations, similar to miniature flying arrays, all interlocked to form a grand array. It bore some resemblance to the array created by Ye Chu back then.

While Ye Chu's array was designed to cleave through the heavens, this one was more intricate, resembling a staircase extending from the human world to the sky.

Ning Changjiu was unable to comprehend this array.

However, he could confirm that two hundred years ago, someone had indeed ascended and departed from White City.

What was the connection between this and Zhao Xiang'er's decision to leave only the Jin Kingdom's flag in this particular city?

Ning Changjiu stood on the Flying Immortal Platform, glancing sideways. The entire snow-white city lay almost completely within his view.

There was only one road connecting White City to Zhao.

It stood like an isolated island, starkly out of place.

After standing on the Flying Immortal Platform for a while, Ning Changjiu turned and descended from the elevated structure.

He explored many ancient sites within the city, then, in an inn, he overheard people discussing the Sword Sage Sect's Grand Sect Master Ceremony.

"I heard that Peak Master Lu, whose beauty is unparalleled in Nanzhou, has returned?"

"Unparalleled? Do you really dare say such things just because this isn't overtly Zhao territory? While Lu Jiajia's renown is great, who has truly seen her? Our Emperor single-handedly slew the King of Jin, and that was witnessed by all!"

"There's no need to argue about this. It's said that Immortal Lu is still a friend of our Emperor."

"I have indeed heard about this, and there are even rumors that Immortal Lu's beloved disciple is the Emperor's fiancé..."

"While that claim is absurd, if it were true, that person would truly be blessed by the heavens... What a pity he couldn't enjoy such fortune."

"Now that Immortal Lu has returned to the peak, she must have moved on from that relationship. Such an immortal woman will likely remain chaste for life."

Ning Changjiu listened to the chatter, finished his tea, and gazed out the window.

The soldiers on the city watchtower changed shifts. Those who had previously descended into the city now arrived here, gathering around a table. Ning Changjiu suddenly noticed that each of them had a new flag tucked into their waist — the flag of Zhao.

Ning Changjiu's brows furrowed slightly.

Throughout the afternoon, he traversed many cities in Zhao, stopping only when he reached the imperial city.

By the time he returned to Tianku Peak, the first day of the Grand Sect Master Ceremony had already drawn to a close.

The second and third days were designated for the Four Peak Masters to engage in sword discussions and compete for the position of Sect Master.

As Ning Changjiu ascended the mountain, he spotted Lu Yuanbai hiding at the foot, drowning his sorrows in drink. Beside him, a male disciple playfully teased, "Uncle Lu, when do you plan to pass the Peak Master position to Lerou?"

Lu Yuanbai lamented, "That little girl only bullies her uncle! If she's truly capable, she should go challenge Lu Jiajia instead!"

The male disciple chuckled, "Being able to bring our Master back, Senior Sister Lerou's contributions are indeed indispensable."

Lu Yuanbai sighed, "It's for the best. That infatuated woman has finally reached the end of her infatuation. Alas, from now on, Lu Jiajia's Dao heart will be clear, her path of cultivation undisturbed, and entering the Five Paths will only be a matter of time. Our Tianzong is truly on the verge of a great resurgence."

The disciple, filled with longing, murmured, "The Five Paths..."

Lu Yuanbai quipped, "Indeed. But in the future, you must be vigilant. We absolutely cannot allow disciples who feign weakness to take advantage of immortals to rise to power again."

Ning Changjiu silently ascended on his sword.

Outside the Peak Master Hall, Ning Changjiu found the door closed to him.

"Why are you back so late?" Lu Jiajia asked coldly. "Which vixen did you go to see?"

Ning Changjiu replied, "I never thought Jiajia would ask such a question."

Lu Jiajia snorted, "Don't change the subject."

Ning Changjiu truthfully replied, "I went to Zhao."

Lu Jiajia raised her delicate brows and asked, "Did you see her?"

Ning Changjiu shook his head. "I just went out for a walk and to look around. If I truly wanted to see her, wouldn't I need Jiajia's approval first?"

"Stop lying," Lu Jiajia said, not believing him one bit.

"Jiajia, please open the door," Ning Changjiu said. "I'll come in and tell you."

"You didn't know how to come back all day, and now you do?" Lu Jiajia retorted.

Ning Changjiu said helplessly, "Jiajia, if you don't open the door, I'll have to shout loudly."

After a moment, the door creaked open slightly. Ning Changjiu stepped inside, following behind Lu Jiajia, and helplessly remarked, "It's only been half a month, and I'm already being interrogated like this just for going out. No wonder those Sword Immortals only experienced the freedom of traveling thousands of miles by sword in their youth."

"It's not that I'm afraid you'll go bother other women," Lu Jiajia said.

"What do you mean by 'bother'?" Ning Changjiu asked.

Lu Jiajia stopped, bit her lip slightly, her expression tinged with resentment. "Earlier today, I..."

Her face flushed as she spoke, and she walked irritably toward the cold jade bed, her words trailing off.

Ning Changjiu chuckled softly, recalling Senior Sister's words. He continued to temper Lu Jiajia's body and forge her sword, refining the integration of her sword spirit and physical form to an even greater perfection.

After everything concluded, Lu Jiajia, though her body was cool, was also glistening with fragrant sweat.

Behind the hall, water trickled, and the moon's reflection shimmered and fragmented in the hot spring pool.

Inside the Peak Master Hall, candles were lit. Lu Jiajia sat before a bronze mirror, her long hair still damp.

"Help me with my makeup," Lu Jiajia commanded.

Ning Changjiu paused slightly. "How would I know how to do that? Jiajia, you're incredibly beautiful without any makeup. Why would you need to paint yourself like a vixen?"

Lu Jiajia chuckled, "I thought you knew everything."

Her words carried a hint of sarcasm, and Ning Changjiu, provoked by the clumsy remark, rolled up his sleeves. "Alright," he said, "today, your master will teach his disciple how to apply makeup."

A smile played on Lu Jiajia's arched eyebrows. She gracefully picked up a makeup brush from the table and handed it to him.

Having, after all, learned drawing from Zhang Qieyu for three months, Ning Changjiu harbored some mistaken notions about his own artistic skill.

He picked up the brush and began applying makeup to Lu Jiajia.

Yet, Lu Jiajia's face was already flawlessly immortal; how could it be painted to be more beautiful?

So, he chose a different approach, intending to paint her ugly, just to see if his artistic skills could indeed overcome Lu Jiajia's inherent beauty.

In the end, shrieks of pursuit echoed through the hall.

Ning Changjiu was chased frantically around the hall by Lu Jiajia, whose face was painted like a clown.

The night passed.

Lu Jiajia angrily washed off the makeup.

The second day of the Grand Sect Master Ceremony featured the highly anticipated Peak Master Sword Debates.

Ning Changjiu was originally uninterested, but compelled by Lu Jiajia's insistence, he changed into different attire, subtly disguised himself, and blended into the seating area reserved for a minor sect.

The sword debate comprised two parts: expounding on the Dao and actual sword combat.

Lu Jiajia's opponent in the first round was Xue Xunxue.

Not even Xue Xunxue herself believed she had any chance of winning.

Thus, the two beautiful women of Tianzong, rather than engaging in a fierce sword contest, instead performed a dance with their swords for the assembled guests.

White robes and red skirts intertwined in the air, like flood dragons of snow and fire gracefully entwining overhead. They carved patterns and scattered "snow" within the thick clouds, illuminating the vast white clouds until they appeared ablaze.

Neither of their swords was heavy, and their sword techniques were equally light, agile, and swift, striking and withdrawing instantly.

Lu Jiajia's Bright Ripple Sword had been destroyed; her current one was newly forged. The sword's body was flexible and resistant to breaking, its blade hard, sharp, and durable, with steel patterns like snowflakes. It was an excellent sword, though its grade could not compare to the immortal sword of Hanging Sun Peak.

But now, Lu Jiajia herself *was* the sword.

Not only among the Four Peaks, but she was also very likely the finest sword in all of Nanzhou.

There was no doubt among those present about the outcome of this sword contest. Nevertheless, when the sword techniques reached points of exquisite subtlety, people still cheered loudly.

Xue Xunxue was already quite powerful; Lu Jiajia, as her junior, was simply stronger.

Ning Changjiu watched Lu Jiajia's figure, her snowy robes fluttering on the Four Peaks Sword Ground. Although Xue Xunxue's sword always moved with the force of lightning and raging currents, Lu Jiajia's sword was too fast and precise. No matter where Xue Xunxue's attack originated, she could effortlessly deflect it.

To those with lower cultivation, it was a splendid and exciting contest, but to masters, it was a one-sided crushing defeat.

As Ning Changjiu sat, someone suddenly struck up a conversation beside him: "Where are you from, young brother? I haven't seen you around before."

The one who addressed him was a male disciple in black, with an unremarkable appearance.

However, those accompanying their sects to the grand ceremony were generally outstanding individuals, so Ning Changjiu did not underestimate him. He smiled faintly and said, "I am Zhang Jiu, a disciple of the Sword Sect. Our sect has quite a few members, so there were no seats left for me, and Uncle Yazhu arranged me here. I hope I'm not bothering you."

"And I am He Guang," the disciple replied with a bow, his voice tinged with admiration. "So you're a Sword Sect disciple! Your sect is now the largest in Nanzhou—truly enviable."

"Not at all, not at all," Ning Changjiu chuckled. "May I ask what sect you belong to?"

The disciple, who introduced himself as He Guang, scratched his head, seeming a bit embarrassed to speak. After a moment of hesitation, he replied, "Our sect is in a remote and humble place, truly quite small. Being invited here is merely good fortune."

"So, your esteemed sect is..."

"The Joyful Union Sect."

"Oh..." Ning Changjiu drawled, "I've long admired your sect. I've always wanted to befriend your disciples and learn some of those secret techniques that align with the great completion of heaven and earth. It's just a pity your sect is so mysterious, hidden from the world. I didn't expect to have the good fortune of meeting you today."

He Guang, seeing his sincere face and believing him, cupped his fists. "As expected of a Sword Sect disciple, you truly have insight. Other sects, though not much larger than ours, treat us as if we're a heterodox cult... The great completion of heaven and earth, tsk tsk, Brother Zhang truly hit the nail on the head."

After a few humble words, Ning Changjiu leaned in closer and asked, "Dare I ask, Brother He, if your sect possesses any secret techniques you could share? I'm quite interested in them."

He Guang asked curiously, "Has your esteemed brother married?"

Ning Changjiu replied, "Not yet, but I do have a fiancée in Zhao."

"She must be from a noble family, I presume..." He Guang said enviously. "Truly, as expected of a major sect disciple! In our Joyful Union Sect, we have to wait until we're of age, and then wives are randomly assigned within the sect. I wonder what kind of wife I'll end up with."

Ning Changjiu said, "Judging by your noble countenance, you'll surely win the most beautiful junior sister in your sect."

He Guang cupped his hands. "Thank you for the good wishes, brother. However... most of these sect's secret techniques are forbidden from being passed on."

Ning Changjiu pondered for a moment. "I also possess forbidden secrets that I'm not allowed to transmit. How about..."

The two exchanged glances, then discreetly moved to the very back of the crowd and began to exchange insights.

He Guang, perhaps fearing the Sword Sect disciple might look down on him, decided to demonstrate a skill first: "I'll begin by teaching you how to discern if a woman is a virgin."

"I'd be glad to hear the details."

He Guang then began explaining the intricacies, starting with gait and moving on to subtle movements. As he spoke, the sword match on the field had already concluded, with Lu Jiajia winning without suspense.

After He Guang finished explaining the method, he began to discreetly point out examples among the crowd.

Ning Changjiu listened with great interest, finally unable to resist asking, "Then, regarding Immortal Lu...?"

He Guang cursed angrily, "Foolish! Immortal Lu is the foremost female Sword Immortal in Nanzhou; she is undoubtedly a virgin! How can you, a disciple, ask such a question? Are you trying to defy your master and dishonor your ancestors?"

Ning Changjiu nodded repeatedly, urging him to calm down, and then began exchanging some sword techniques and Daoist methods with He Guang.

Meanwhile, Lu Jiajia, on the sword field, unintentionally glanced over, wondering what Ning Changjiu was chatting about. Of course, at that moment, she had no idea what new experiences awaited her in the nights to come.

The next match was between Jing Yangxia and Xue Lin, a contest that also held no suspense.

During this time, Lu Jiajia silently disappeared for a period. Ning Changjiu also excused himself to "relieve himself" and was gone for a while. Approximately half an hour later, Ning Changjiu returned, and coincidentally, moments later, Lu Jiajia's figure also reappeared outside the sword arena.

The first day's sword contests concluded swiftly. The following day would feature the highly anticipated duel between Lu Jiajia and Jing Yangxia.

That was the most anticipated match within the Sword Sect.

And Ning Changjiu knew that this sword contest, too, would hold no suspense.

Another day and night passed in a blink.

Ning Changjiu exchanged insights with the male disciple named He Guang. He Guang clicked his tongue in admiration, "Brother Zhang, judging by your expression, you had another night of passion last night, didn't you? Which senior or junior sister from your sect was it? Point her out to me."

Ning Changjiu praised, "Brother He, what keen eyesight you have!"

He Guang smugly replied, "Of course... Uh, wait, didn't you say your fiancée is in Zhao? How can that be..."

Ning Changjiu was momentarily speechless.

He Guang suddenly understood, looking even more admiring. "The Little Sword Immortal of the Sword Sect, and a royal daughter of the human realm—you truly enjoy the blessings of having multiple partners! Brother Zhang, what is your true background...?"

Ning Changjiu replied, "My sect forbids private Daoist partnerships, so I'm afraid I cannot disclose that, brother."

He Guang expressed his understanding.

The two resumed their conversation.

Ning Changjiu realized that this disciple was no ordinary talent; he possessed unique insights into the matter of "Joyful Union." His perspectives were exceptional, ranging from the yin-yang resonance between heaven and man to the fusion of one's true self and outer self in the heart and soul.

Only when the epoch-making battle commenced did they both turn their attention to it.

Lu Jiajia, clad in snow-white robes with a sword at her waist, stood opposite Jing Yangxia, who wore frost-like linen robes with a sword on his back. They exchanged no words, yet a subtle, dense sword intent, like cicada wings bathed in heavenly light, already enveloped the sword arena, illuminating it with countless intersecting refractions.

"Lu Jiajia, though you are a junior, I will not yield to you because of that," Jing Yangxia stated.

Lu Jiajia performed a sword salute. "Peak Master Jing, please draw your sword."

Jing Yangxia sighed, "Two years ago, when the Purple Heaven Daoist Sect arrived at the peak, I comprehended three sword intents during life-or-death struggles. At the time, these intents were incomplete. Afterward, I traveled through Nanzhou's great rivers and mountains, finally giving form and spirit to these three sword essences."

Lu Jiajia's expression turned solemn. "This junior would like to hear the details."

Jing Yangxia's linen robes fluttered. His rough hand covered the scabbard at his waist, then slid up inch by inch until he suddenly gripped the sword hilt. The moment he did so, autumn frost seemed to settle between his aged brows and eyes. By his side, streaks of white light fluttered, indistinguishable as either frost or sword.

Lu Jiajia likewise gripped her sword scabbard. As Jing Yangxia gripped his hilt, her left thumb simultaneously pushed, drawing her sword half an inch from its throat. A chilling gleam immediately emanated, sharp and piercing.

The arena fell silent, the very clamor of the wind seemingly extinguished by the swords.

The two stood motionless, each gathering momentum, neither drawing their sword first.

"Who do you think will win?" He Guang asked.

"Lu Jiajia, of course," Ning Changjiu said.

He Guang exclaimed in surprise, "How bold! You dare to call your Peak Master by her full name!"

The last syllable of the name was swallowed by the sound of a sword.

In an instant, it was as if ancient thunder descended from the sky, splitting the thick clouds above the center of the sword arena.

The Azure Heaven Sword clanged as it left its scabbard, drawing a complete arc before him. Its light, as pure as water when drawn, formed a circular arc of sword intent that coalesced into a field, continuously expanding outwards. Simultaneously, the thick clouds in the sky were scattered, and countless rays of heavenly light descended, perfectly enveloping Jing Yangxia and making the Azure Heaven Sword in his hand gleam as brightly as frost.

As the sword intent expanded into a domain, Jing Yangxia roared, "Slay the Python!"

The heavenly light emitted by the Azure Heaven Sword transmuted into tangible sword intent. Jing Yangxia lowered his body, and the sword in his hand slashed diagonally along his form. This was the opening move of the Tianzong's "Great River Entering the Ditch" style, yet he forcibly converted it into a specific form and intent. Just as the sword intent was about to scatter like rain, with a sudden twist and gather of his hand on the hilt, it transformed from a sky-wide downpour into a roaring water dragon.

This sword strike captivated nearly everyone's gaze in the arena.

Just as the sword intent began to manifest, Lu Jiajia moved. Her movement was even simpler, unbelievably so!

It was the act of drawing a sword.

No one clearly saw her draw her sword from its scabbard. They only saw a flash of white light before their eyes, followed immediately by a thunderous roar. But that thunder did not originate from the blade; it erupted from within the scabbard. What exploded simultaneously with the sword's unsheathing was the nurtured intent held within the sheath!

The white light flashed and vanished.

In this brief instant, before the wind even had time to stir her hair, the snowy white sword light, extending for dozens of feet, appeared before Jing Yangxia.

The moment the water dragon collided with the white light, the clouds in the sky instantly resembled dry, cracked earth during a great drought. At the same time, their figures leaped, colliding into the clouds.

The edges of the unfathomably thick clouds were instantly shredded, while their center was churned into a massive vortex.

Two figures darted through the clouds, drawing either straight lines or vast arcs. In this high-level confrontation between Purple Court Realm masters, celestial phenomena were also stirred, and within mere breaths, strong winds raged over the Four Peaks, subtly hinting at an impending mountain storm.

This battle was recorded in the history of Nanzhou's sword arts, known as the "Three Azure Heaven Swords."

Jing Yangxia unleashed three sword strikes in total: Slaying the Python, Devouring the Dragon, and Moving the Mountain.

Although these were known as the "Three Azure Heaven Swords," this was merely a respectful designation in historical records, not an indication that he was the ultimate victor.

The fierce winds intensified, lightning flashed within the clouds, and then the true rumble of thunder carried through.

Ning Changjiu suddenly stood up and walked toward the main hall.

"Brother Zhang, where are you going?" He Guang noticed his departure.

Ning Changjiu said, "It's going to rain. Let's head to the hall and await the Sect Master's succession ceremony."

He Guang frowned, thinking to himself, *That could also be the Azure Heaven Hall. How are you so certain it's the main hall of your Tianku Peak?*

The moment this thought arose, two figures floated down from the clouds.

They returned to their initial stillness, with no clear victor.

The weather was gloomy. The scattered clouds re-converged toward the center, resembling a gray tide.

In the oppressive atmosphere, a single, insignificant raindrop suddenly fell from the clouds.

When the first raindrop had fallen halfway, Lu Jiajia extended a finger and precisely cut it through the center. Then, she retracted and flicked her jade-like finger, sending the droplet hurtling toward Jing Yangxia.

Jing Yangxia's aged gaze lifted. He flicked his sleeve, extended a finger, and thrust it toward the flying raindrop.

*Splish.*

Between Jing Yangxia's fingers, half of the raindrop was enveloped by his sword energy, held condensed. The other half slid past the side of his finger, striking his collar and leaving a faint water stain.

"Peak Master Jing, you yielded."

Lu Jiajia sheathed her sword.

With a *whoosh*, a torrential downpour began.