The outer sect still hadn't stopped talking about the last duel. An Yun, the so-called "Shameless Trickster," had not only survived a duel with the Ice Lotus—he'd embarrassed her.
Most thought he'd keep a low profile.
But An Yun had other plans.
---
The Approach
After morning cultivation, he walked directly into the Sword Faction courtyard, where Qingxue trained alone, her sword dancing like wind on snow.
She noticed him immediately. Her sword paused in midair.
> "Come to mock me again?"
> "No," he said seriously. "I want another duel."
She raised an eyebrow. "You already lost the last one. You just didn't realize it."
He smirked. "Maybe. But this time, I have a better reason."
---
The Proposition
> "Your techniques… they're different. Refined. They're not from the common manuals given to outer disciples. You're the daughter of a powerful elder—your martial arts foundation is leagues above ours."
She stayed silent, watching him carefully.
> "So?" she said, voice cool.
> "So I want to fight you again. Watch your moves. Feel them. Learn."
She blinked. "You want to use me to grow stronger?"
> "Exactly," he said shamelessly. "And in return, I'll give you a proper fight. No tricks, no games. Just skill."
There was a beat of silence—then she *laughed*. A rare sound, like silver bells in the cold wind.
> "You're insane. And arrogant."
> "Both are better than being boring."
---
She Agrees… With a Condition
> "Fine," she said, sheathing her sword. "One duel. One condition."
> "Name it."
> "If I win… you'll serve as my sparring partner for one month. No complaints. No tricks."
He grinned. "Deal."
> Because even if I lose… I'll get exactly what I want.
---
Training Begins
Their second duel became a spectacle. But this time, An Yun fought seriously—no jokes, no distractions. He analyzed every slash, footwork pattern, and energy circulation.
His rare body, combined with his scammer's mind, allowed him to grasp the core essence of her movements mid-fight.
Even when she overwhelmed him, he didn't back down—he adapted.
By the end of the duel, he collapsed, bruised and panting.
She stood over him, victorious but… impressed.
> "You're reckless… but talented."
> "So I'm in?" he grinned.
> "One month. Be ready tomorrow."
---
An Yun's Plan in Motion
As her sparring partner, he'd have:
- Daily exposure to elite sword techniques.
- Time to analyze high-tier martial movements.
- And a growing bond with one of the strongest outer disciples.
In his room that night, he cultivated in silence, replaying the fight over and over in his mind.
> Sword path, eh? Maybe not my main road—but for now… I'll master it faster than anyone else.
He smirked to himself.
> Qingxue… You're strong. But one day, you'll beg me to stop holding back.