The Sword-Hiding Fairy

The blue-robed disciple led them to the Guest-Welcoming Pavilion nearby.

A white-robed disciple was already waiting inside with a brush. Spread across the desk were a blue-covered register, a wolf-hair brush, and a dish of ink that had yet to dry.

The blue-robed disciple cupped his hands to him, then turned to Yang Xiao and Yan Tieyi.

"The mountain has its rules. May I ask you both to present your documents?"

Yan Tieyi took the gold-stamped invitation from his robes and handed it over.

The white-robed disciple accepted it with both hands. After examining it carefully, he recorded their names in the register with the wolf-hair brush.

"Forgive the discourtesy. Please, go ahead."

Once the blue-robed disciple had confirmed everything was in order, he bowed and led the way.

Beyond the mountain gate, the stone steps forked.

The main path climbed straight up. A narrow trail branched into the woods on either side, each guarded by someone.

Quite a few people came and went along the main path, their robes a jumble of colors, their bearing just as varied.

Yang Xiao looked around as he walked.

Everything before him felt new.

Ahead, a cultivator in green carried a long, slender sword on his back. Its scabbard was pitch-black, its tassel hanging to his waist.

To the left, a burly man wore a butcher's knife at his hip, old blood on its hilt hardened into a dark red patina. Farther ahead, someone carried a long halberd across his shoulder, a faded red tassel dangling from its tip as he strode with his head high and chest out.

Beyond them, several young men from prominent families had gathered together, jeweled longswords at their waists.

Just then, the flow of people ahead slowed.

A young man in brocade stood on the steps, turned