Cloud Dream Marsh.
An open valley lay between two low hills. Vegetation was sparse, and gray-white rock lay exposed across the ground.
Lin Chen stood at the valley entrance, watching the man approach.
The newcomer was tall and broad-shouldered, with a thick back and a long saber in one hand. He radiated a fierce, forceful aura.
"Duan Gang."
Lin Chen recognized him at once.
Before entering Cloud Dream Marsh, Duan Gang had been a saber wielder at the peak of the Profound Martial Fifth Layer. His Mountain-Splitting Saber Technique was well known.
Rumor had it that he had once slain two Profound Martial Realm heretical cultivators in a single battle, earning himself a fearsome reputation.
Now, it seemed he had found another opportunity in this treasure land and broken through to the Profound Martial Sixth Layer.
"Daoist Duan, what brings you here?" Lin Chen asked.
Duan Gang spoke, his voice deep as a pounding drum and echoing through the valley.
"I wouldn't presume to instruct you. I was fortunate enough to break through, and my saber skills have improved. I came to find an expert against whom I could test what I've learned."
He paused, battle intent rising in his eyes like flame.
"I'm not yet a match for Ye Guyun or Ling Jianxin, and Yan Feixue is elusive, her whereabouts hard to trace. That leaves you, Daoist Lin."
Across from him, Lin Chen understood.
Duan Gang wanted to use him as a stepping stone to prove his saber skills—and make a name for himself in the process.
"So you came to spar with me, Daoist Duan?" Lin Chen raised an eyebrow.
"Exactly!"
Lin Chen shook his head. "Sparring alone would be rather dull."
He looked up at Duan Gang and continued, "We've met in a treasure land, where everyone