The ash-laden winds stilled, as if the world itself were holding its breath.
Grand Elder Huo's single eye blazed like molten iron, the fire of countless battles condensed into that one gaze. He raised his right hand, forming two fingers into the shape of a sword. His voice, though calm, carried the weight of a verdict pronounced by Heaven itself.
"Lin Mu," the old warrior intoned, his tone both commanding and solemn. "Do not hold back. Not with your physique, not with your swords, not with your Dao. Today, you will fight me with everything you possess, for I too shall not restrain myself."
The words were neither boast nor threat, but a promise.
Lin Mu's golden eyes overflowing with energy narrowed, a faint smile tugging at his lips. He inclined his head in acknowledgment, his voice steady as the flowing river yet sharp as a drawn blade.
"Very well. Let this be no spar of mere swordsmanship. Let it be a clash of our entire cultivation. Our paths. Our Dao."
