Chapter 12: The Fundamentals of Swordsmanship

Days passed one by one, and Ning Rongrong gradually grew accustomed to the cultivation she had initially resisted. After taking the whale resin and enduring its side effects, her physical condition improved significantly. At this stage, few knew the precise effects of the whale resin, which seemed to be a bargain for the Seven Treasure Glazed Tile Sect.

Ning Rongrong’s soul power finally reached level ten. However, this substance could not be taken excessively due to its side effects, to avoid dependency.

Ning Xi did not rush to acquire soul rings either, as choosing the right soul ring was important. Besides sword training, she practiced focus control and spiritual power.

Spiritual power was crucial!

Ning Xi’s days were intense; she had to find time to teach others how to make soul-guiding devices, so learning progress was slow.

Unknowingly, three months had passed.

Ning Xi opened her eyes, a faint gleam flickering in them as she rose from her meditative posture. She resumed practicing swordsmanship—the basic sword technique.

She had completely mastered the fundamentals, and the sword qi she unleashed was sharp and formidable. Yet, to a formidable Sword Douluo, it was still not quite adequate.

Her slender figure moved gracefully, wielding her sword with flowing motions. Her dark hair fluttered in the breeze, her posture elegant, radiating a paradoxical blend of coldness and gentleness.

The day was spent entirely on training and meals.

…

The first rays of morning sunlight streamed over the tall courtyard walls, bathing the tranquil garden in light. The air was filled with a faint floral fragrance, and a gentle breeze brought a touch of coolness.

Ning Xi stood in the center of the courtyard, her silhouette strikingly beautiful in the morning light. She gripped the Seven Kill Sword tightly, its blade gleaming with a cold, piercing light under the sun, as if telling tales of its extraordinary nature.

She took a deep breath and slowly closed her eyes, concentrating all her soul power into the sword.

Her breathing grew steady and deep, as if merging with the natural surroundings. After a moment, she opened her eyes sharply, a fierce gleam flashing like a sword’s edge.

“Hah!” Ning Xi uttered softly, leaning forward slightly as the sword tip thrust out like a venomous serpent.

The sword’s tip left a faint afterimage in the air, as though even the atmosphere was torn by the strike.

Then, with a wrist flick, the sword swept horizontally, unleashing a fierce sword wind. Like a tempest, the overwhelming force made nearby flowers and grasses sway gently in its wake.

—

Ning Xi’s movements quickened, her swordsmanship becoming more skilled. She darted through the sword shadows, each motion precise.

Her swordplay was not only powerful but rhythmic and melodic, each stroke telling a story.

Her technique had reached a consummate level; every move was imbued with immense strength and profound insight.

But this was still just the basic swordsmanship; she needed to learn the ultimate Seven Kill Sword technique of a Sword Douluo.

“Thrust, chop, slash, parry, stab, smash, wipe…”

Ning Xi’s swordsmanship flowed like drifting clouds and flowing water—smooth and natural.

Her sword traced elegant arcs in the air, each stroke filled with intense momentum and precise control.

Her swordplay possessed not only strength but spirit, as if each stroke was conversing with the air and resonating with the earth.

“Good!” A crisp cheer sounded nearby, and Ning Xi immediately halted her movements.

Turning around, she saw the Sword Douluo standing at the courtyard entrance, a satisfied smile on his face.

“Master, when did you arrive?” Ning Xi bowed slightly, a hint of delight on her face.

The Sword Douluo stepped into the courtyard with measured pace, his gaze fixed on the Seven Kill Sword in Ning Xi’s hand, admiration flickering in his eyes. “Ning Xi, your progress is remarkable. Having mastered the basics to such perfection is excellent.”

A trace of humility appeared on Ning Xi’s face. “Master, I still have many shortcomings and need your guidance.”

The Sword Douluo nodded, his eyes deepening. “Solid foundation in basic swordsmanship is the first step toward becoming a top-tier swordsman.

But swordsmanship is not just technique; the sword intent is even more important.

You have mastered the basics; next, you must learn to integrate sword intent into your techniques.”

Ning Xi nodded, determination shining in her eyes. “Master, I will strive hard.”

“But don’t put too much pressure on yourself, or you’ll burn out.”

“I understand,” Ning Xi replied.

The Sword Douluo smiled faintly. “Well, I came today to tell you that Rongrong has also reached level ten. We plan to take you both to acquire your soul rings tomorrow morning. What do you think?”

Ning Xi nodded. “Thank you, Master.”

To protect, to grow stronger!

They had refrained from rushing to obtain soul rings to focus on cultivating soul power and spiritual strength.

Now was the time to claim their soul rings.

“Rongrong has also been diligently training her focus control these three months. You’ve done well. I know you’re different from the others, so I won’t pry,” the Sword Douluo said earnestly.

Perhaps it was because of Ning Xi’s mother’s passing that she was so reserved.

He mused, recalling how Ning Xi had always been sensible and composed, often lost in thought or reading before awakening her martial soul.

He sighed softly. This child…

Ning Xi listened quietly and simply nodded in agreement.

She would never reveal her true strength to others.

“I understand.”

…

At dawn, the sun’s first light touched the misty mountains faintly visible in the haze.

Birds sang joyfully, the air was fresh with a fragrant scent. Dew sparkled, and a cool breeze brushed gently.

The world was peaceful and beautiful, teeming with life.

The Sword Douluo stood tall and upright in the courtyard center, a towering presence like an insurmountable peak.

His gaze was stern yet carried a gentle aura.

Ning Rongrong and Ning Xi stood on either side, both a mix of nervousness and excitement.

Rongrong’s face showed a trace of anticipation, her eyes occasionally glancing toward Chen Xin, seeking comfort and encouragement.

Ning Xi appeared steadier, her gaze firm and tinged with hope.

“Today, I will venture into the Star Dou Forest to obtain your first soul rings,” the Sword Douluo’s voice was steady and powerful, echoing throughout the courtyard.

“Old rascal, you’re going to get soul rings for Rongrong and them—how can you leave me out!” The Bone Douluo’s cheeky voice rang from behind the group.

“Uncle Sword, let Uncle Bone come with you; it’ll be better to protect Xi’er and the others,” Ning Fengzhi stepped ahead of Bone Douluo, walking over to the Sword Douluo.

The Sword Douluo pondered for a moment, then glanced at both of them and nodded, “Very well.”

After all, Ning Xi and Ning Rongrong were Ning Fengzhi’s most beloved daughters, and the place they were going to was no ordinary forest—it was the perilous Star Dou Forest.

This was what Ning Xi had told the Sword Douluo last night—the Star Dou Forest was far more dangerous than other forests.