Chen Qing briefly tidied up the dust and fallen leaves when a knock came at the courtyard gate.
The one standing outside was Shen Xiuyong. Today, he was not wearing a tight-fitting outfit, but loose training robes.
"Uncle Shen." Chen Qing stepped aside to welcome him in.
"Nephew-Disciple Chen, I didn't interrupt your training, did I?"
Shen Xiuyong entered the small courtyard and smiled. "It seems your spear techniques have improved again, Nephew-Disciple. Your bearing has grown ever more steady and profound."
"You praise me too highly, Uncle Shen. I merely gained a little insight by chance."
Chen Qing led him inside and poured him some clear tea. "Did Uncle Shen come today because you have business with me?"
Shen Xiuyong accepted the teacup. After pondering for a moment, he said, "I came to give you a heads-up. I am preparing to... enter seclusion."
Chen Qing raised his eyes toward Shen Xiuyong. "Enter seclusion? Uncle Shen, you mean..."
"Exactly."
Shen Xiuyong nodded and drew a deep breath. "This seclusion is for the purpose of attempting to condense True Gang and break through to the Gang Jin realm!"
Chen Qing's heart stirred at the news.
Not long ago, Elder Yue Cheng of the sect had also attempted a breakthrough, only to fail at the final step. It was said that he had even damaged some of his vital energy. The matter had caused quite a stir within the sect and made the elders and stewards stuck at the peak of Embracing Dan Strength even more cautious.
He set down the teapot and said solemnly, "The threshold of Gang Jin is exceedingly perilous. Elder Yue Cheng's example is still right before us. Uncle Shen, you must be cautious upon cautious. Then I wish you success in this seclusion—may you succeed the moment