Azure Sky Peak, True Abode Hall.
Xu Xuan quietly looked down at a refined old man. He was an elder of the Liu Household, at the eighth level of Qi Refining, who had come expressly to offer his congratulations.
Liu Xingfang stood nearby, his expression open and composed. After greeting his elder, he remained respectfully at the side.
Three days had passed since Xu Xuan emerged from seclusion, and the Liu Household had sent someone to visit.
Xu Xuan was somewhat surprised that the visitor was not Liu Baiyuan. The old man before him was named Liu Baiming, a figure from two generations back, of the same generation as the old patriarch of the Chen Household.
Naturally, Xu Xuan dared not slight him. The Liu Household was on good terms with the abbey, and Liu Xingfang's connection brought them closer still.
"Xingfang has made considerable progress during his years of cultivation at the abbey. Abbot Xu must have guided him well."
Dressed like an old scholar, Liu Baiming carried himself with refined grace. Seeing his younger kinsman stirred considerable emotion in him.
Xingfang has actually cultivated sword essence. This Abbey Master truly has some ability.
Attaining sword essence meant one had crossed the threshold and entered the hall of mastery, a rare accomplishment. If Liu Xingfang reached Foundation Establishment, he would become a pillar standing firm against the current.
"You flatter me, senior. Xingfang is exceptionally gifted. I only offered a few pointers; it was his own keen comprehension that did the rest."
Below him, Liu Baiming's expression shifted slightly. He glanced at Liu Xingfang, recalled the household head's instructions, and asked no further questions.
"I came to congratulate you on your breakthrough, Abbey Master. Our household head prepared Spirit Treasures well in advance and intended to come personally, but