The Long Road of Martial Arts, Each to Their Own Path, Years Gone in the Flick of a Finger

Several days later, at dawn.

Deep within the Four Seas Merchant Guild stood a quiet courtyard ringed by green bamboo.

Elder Su stood with his hands behind his back, dressed in a blue robe whose hem stirred gently in the morning breeze.

Lin Chen and the other four stood silently before him.

Sunlight filtered through the bamboo leaves, casting dappled shadows across their faces. Each wore a different expression.

"You're all here."

Elder Su spoke slowly, his gaze sweeping over them.

"The contest for opportunities in Cloud Dream Marsh is over. The guild has learned of your performances."

With a wave of his right hand, five exquisite Storage Rings appeared and floated toward them.

"Each ring contains Spirit Stones, Pills, and other cultivation resources. Consider them your basic rewards."

Elder Su continued, "In addition, the guild has prepared a special reward suited to each of your strengths."

He looked at Ye Guyun.

"Ye Guyun, your spear techniques are fierce, and the spear art you created shows promise. The Martial Arts Pavilion holds the Prairie-Fire Spear Scripture, left behind by the Prairie-Fire Spear King. It records thirteen chapters on the essentials of spear techniques. You may consult it whenever you wish. Perhaps it will help you perfect your own path."

With that, Elder Su turned to Yan Feixue.

"Yan Feixue, your movement is unpredictable, but your offensive power is somewhat lacking. The pavilion has a copy of the Heavenly Demon Ninefold Record that can make up for that weakness. You have permission to study it."

Both bowed. "Thank you, Elder Su!"

Elder Su nodded slightly. When he looked at Ling Jianxin, he paused.

"Ling Jianxin, though you lost to Lin Chen, your talent for the Sword Dao is beyond doubt. I grant you the complete inheritance of the Frostglory Sword Art.