The gateway into the sword pillar opened. Chang Xiuming took a deep breath, reined in the melancholy on his face, and strode inside.
The scene before him changed abruptly, as though he had entered another world. A misty sea of clouds swirled around rolling mountains, dotted with sword pillars.
Accustomed to the sight, Chang Xiuming bowed and saluted with a trace of urgency. "Senior Sister, this junior brother has an important matter to report to Master. I hope Senior Sister can make an exception."
Shang Qingmeng sat cross-legged upon a meditation cushion, her expression tranquil, her gaze like still water—cool and profound. "What is it?"
"It is of great importance. I can only tell Master..."
"If there is nothing else, leave."
Shang Qingmeng cut him off without a shred of courtesy, leaving no room for negotiation. She did not grant him any special favor simply because he was her junior brother from the same sect.
Chang Xiuming's expression grew grave as he said in a low voice, "This junior brother has received reliable news. Daoist Jiehai has recently been stirring restlessly and has contacted a group of Demonic Beings and crooked cultivators. he seems intent on harming our Sword Heart Studio. Unrivaled Palace has invited us to a sword-fighting contest, leaving the Sect Gate undermanned. I fear Daoist Jiehai may suddenly strike."
Shang Qingmeng nodded slightly, her tone as calm as ever. "The Nine Absolute Sword Formation is active. Sword Heart Studio is as impregnable as a fortress, foolproof in every way. If Daoist Jiehai dares to invade, he will not return alive."
"Even so, Daoist Jiehai is an Old Devil who has been around for years. The Daoist is full of schemes and vicious methods, and he bore a grudge against Master long ago..."
Worry appeared on Chang Xiuming's