The next day.
Inside the small courtyard where Liang Zhu lived at the Profound Seclusion Abode.
"Little Zhu, a spirit herb in my medicine garden is about to ripen, so I won't be able to get away tomorrow. I'm afraid I won't be able to act as your guardian during your trial at Cloudfloat Grotto."
"I've also asked your Seventh Martial Aunt and the others. Right now, your First Martial Aunt's healing has reached a critical stage. Your Seventh Martial Aunt and Third Martial Uncle are doing everything they can to help her heal, so they can't leave either."
"But don't worry, Little Zhu. I've already informed the Sect Master. He'll certainly choose a guardian for you before you enter Cloudfloat Grotto for your trial."
After listening once more to the voice transmission in the jade slip, Liang Zhu's expression dimmed further.
At the same time, her fingers began incessantly stroking the silver bracelet Azure Fish had become on her other wrist, as though she were petting a spirit beast.
The jade bracelet formed by the Azure Fish Sword also kept letting out low sword hums.
After a long while, Liang Zhu drew back the fingers stroking Azure Fish. She first sighed softly, then shook her head hard and said with a resolute gaze:
"Azure Fish, it doesn't matter if the senior who helps guard me isn't from Seven Peaks."
"As long as he can help me cross the bridge safely, even if it takes a little longer, I'll definitely take first place in this trial."
As she said this, Liang Zhu looked out the window.
Directly opposite her little courtyard was the Sword Platform where her master, Dugu Qingxiao, often practiced his swordsmanship.
After staring at the Sword Platform for a long time, Liang Zhu finally withdrew her gaze.