Amid swirling clouds and mist, ornate eaves and interlocking roof beams loomed faintly. Rare flowers bloomed everywhere, and spiritual springs gushed from the ground. In some secluded corner, a little boy dressed in brocade and fine silk held a heavy, unsharpened iron sword, awkwardly thrusting it forward. His "Bird Throws Itself into the Embrace" form was a complete mess, and looked downright ugly.
"You've practiced a Qi Accumulation Realm Six Harmonies Sword Technique for so long and still can't master it. Your aptitude is practically dull-witted." Suddenly, a cold yet childish voice rang out behind the boy.
"Who?" The boy jumped in fright and hurriedly turned around. At the edge of the flowerbed stood a little girl about his age, her hands hanging at her sides. She was dressed in a neat, practical outfit, mostly bright yellow. Her features had yet to fully mature, but she was already exceptionally lovely and adorable. Her expression, however, was cool, her thin lips pressed together as she tried hard to look imposing and indifferent.
"Oh, it's you... I thought it was someone else..." The boy relaxed, but his face immediately flushed red. "How could you—how could you secretly watch someone practicing martial arts?"
The girl snorted. "Your third-rate skills aren't worth watching, even if you asked me to."
As if she'd been secretly watching!
Before the boy could say anything, she continued on her own, "No wonder you refused to practice martial arts with us. You were afraid of embarrassing yourself. With swordsmanship like that, I could master the entire set in just a few days, let alone one form."
The boy was both angry and humiliated. "What's it to you!"
"Hmph. In return for your warm hospitality earlier, I'll reluctantly give you some pointers and help you master it as quickly as