The Great Scenery Plains, the Liu Household.
Returning to familiar ground left Liu Xingfang a little uneasy. Riding a thundercloud, he could already see the Liu Household's estate in the distance, along with the spirit mountains behind it.
He had not informed his parents beforehand, returning without a word.
His gaze turned toward a low spirit mountain nearby, Zhixu Mountain. Several cave abodes lay half-hidden amid its emerald greenery. This was where he had lived and cultivated in his youth, and where the Liu Household's lesser branch resided.
He withdrew his gaze and slowly descended from the sky. An azure cloud rushed out of the estate, carrying his elder cousin Bai Yuan.
Seeing who had arrived, Liu Baiyuan's face lit up with delight, and he called out from afar:
"Xing Fang!"
Liu Baiyuan was exceptionally handsome. A scholarly air about his brows and eyes softened his aristocratic bearing, making him seem approachable. He wore azure robes, and his fourth-level Qi Refining cultivation was notably well consolidated.
"Elder Cousin Bai Yuan."
Liu Xingfang also smiled as he approached. Over the years, he had lost nearly all the bearing of an aristocratic scion, acquiring a fierce presence instead. The eyes beneath his swordlike brows seemed as cold as a blade's edge.
He had not worn azure on this journey, changing instead into the [Treading Light] array robes his master had bestowed upon him. They were sapphire blue, with clouds, lightning, and heavenly steeds faintly appearing across them.
Liu Baiyuan discreetly studied his younger cousin, appreciation showing in his eyes as he smiled and led him into the courtyard.
The [Verdant Willow] stood quietly beside the pond, its leaves transforming into azure carp that swam through the air. A man sat in the pavilion-Liu Qiuqi-with a maid standing quietly beside him.
"Xing Fang