A World Within, Whose Hand Killed?

[You took a Yin-Yang Medicinal Bath, absorbed its medicinal effects, strengthened your sinews and body, and gained a deeper understanding of Yin and Yang. Waning Sun Blood-Draining Sword proficiency +398

[You bathed and swam together. Waning Sun Blood-Draining Sword proficiency +415]

Madam Wen said, "You are still young, and your primal yang has yet to mature. Your bones and sinews have not fully settled. Yet you have somehow forged yourself a decent frame, though it was all through your own fumbling, without any method to speak of. If you encounter a true heaven-blessed genius, your foundation will inevitably prove weak."

"Li Xian, from this day onward, you will be my sword-bearing man. You may hand the commander's position to that Ding—or anyone else. I doubt they would dare do anything about it."

"I will help you temper a fine set of bones and forge you a fine foundation. You do not like that?"

Madam Wen saw the complicated expression on Li Xian's face.

Li Xian thought, Having received such a great favor, I will have to repay it someday. Madam Wen, Madam Wen, this truly leaves me so conflicted. He did not fear calculations of gain and loss, but he feared sincerity.

Li Xian said, "Li Xian is terrified."

Madam Wen smiled. "You should indeed be terrified. Did you think I, Wen Caitang, was someone anyone could approach? You are the first. From now on, remember only this: you will accept my kindness, and you will heed my words."

Madam Wen's palm lightly stroked Li Xian's cheek, gradually moving downward until she gripped the bones of his hand. Applying slight pressure, she carefully tested his innate frame. "Under heaven, only the children of great lineages can receive one-on-one body-forging methods."

"A martial artist's body is their foundation. The