On June 7, 5521 of the Yuangguang Calendar, the sun blazed like fire in a cloudless sky.
In the waters near Linghua Island.
A Two-Masted Ship flew a flying crane banner, identifying it as a vessel from Spirit Crane Island among the eastern islands. The island did not produce spirit cranes or immortal cranes; rather, it took its name from the Flying Crane Sword Technique practiced there. For that reason, Yang Wufeng, master of the Flying Crane Sect on Spirit Crane Island, had actually raised a flock of white cranes, which did suit the setting.
"Master, Linghua Island is just ahead!"
A disciple came forward to report. Yang Wufeng nodded and asked, "How are those two pairs of white cranes? They're our gift to Linghua Island. We mustn't be careless!"
"Eldest senior brother has watched over them the whole way. Naturally, they're safe and sound!"
Yang Wufeng nodded with a smile. "With your eldest senior brother handling things, I can certainly rest easy!"
He looked into the distance again. "Linghua Island truly is a land of outstanding people and blessed ground, to have nurtured such a powerful sect. When will our Flying Crane Sect become as strong as Linghua Island?"
He sighed. Linghua Island was already ahead, and a small boat came out to meet them. Their guide had arrived. Once the small boat drew close to the Flying Crane Sect's ship, the blue-robed cultivator standing at its bow bounded aboard in a few swift steps.
The newcomer was Chen Qifeng. Liu Yu had assigned tasks to all the Fourth-Generation Disciples. Those who had joined long ago and reached the Meridian Opening stage, including Chen Qifeng, Zhao Qijin, and Wan Qizhi, were serving as guides.
"Senior, I am Chen Qifeng, a fourth-generation disciple of the Linghua Sect. I have been