On the third day after the Sword Ruins closed.
In the northern Snow Region, where the Clear River Sect was located.
After weathering countless hardships, Liu Chu finally returned to the sect without mishap.
Though his strength had improved considerably, what awaited him was not praise from his masters or congratulations from his Fellow Disciples, but a reprimand from the Hall of Law Enforcement.
Only after taking several heavy paddlings did he make up for the offense of leaving the Clear River Sect's training party midway and venturing out alone.
Had every member of the Clear River Sect's training party not returned safely, with no casualties, his disregard for the rules would likely have earned him an even harsher punishment.
After receiving his punishment.
Liu Chu clutched his burning backside and limped with difficulty to the back mountain of the Inner Sect.
"Third Martial Uncle—ow—my backside has been beaten into a blooming flower!"
From far away, Liu Chu began calling out, hoping to win a little sympathy.
But to his surprise, with a creak as the door opened.
No fewer than four figures emerged from the main hall of Third Martial Uncle Han Su's courtyard.
"F-Fourth Martial Uncle!"
"Fifth Martial Uncle, Sixth Martial Uncle!"
Liu Chu's face instantly flushed with embarrassment. Scratching his head, he hurriedly saluted them. "You're... you're all here."
Thinking that his loud commotion had clearly violated the rules and might earn him another lecture, Liu Chu quickly said to the only woman among the four, "Fourth Martial Uncle, it's only been a few days, yet you've become even prettier!"
"Enough with that glib tongue!" Qiong Hua laughed lightly. "Haven't you been paddled enough?"
"Enough, enough," Liu Chu said hastily. "But these are my heartfelt words. A woman like Fourth Martial Uncle, so graceful and elegant, with