Chapter 1

Chapter 1

18 years later.

In a remote and mysterious mountain cliff, deep within the gloom of a forest, lay a deep and secluded cave.

"Ha... ya... hua!"

On a wide stone platform within, several young men dressed in black and blue were practicing their martial arts, drenched in sweat. The light of their swords flashed, and the wind from their palm strikes whistled. The crisp sounds of clashing weapons echoed through the cavern. Torches flickered around the platform, illuminating their agile figures.

One of the blue-robed youths was particularly conspicuous. He held a treasured sword, its light like a rainbow. He had a square, chiseled face, fair as jade, with sword-like eyebrows and star-like eyes, an aquiline nose, and wide lips. His posture was as straight as a pine tree, his facial contours exuding a domineering masculinity. The eyes beneath his sword-like brows were sharp and spirited. His swordplay was fierce yet methodical, his forehead full and his build robust. His footwork was solid, and his movements with the sword were natural and graceful.

The blue-robed youth had a solemn expression, which seemed somewhat out of place in the gloomy atmosphere of the cave.

Deep within this cave was a world of its own. It had been excavated in layers, with pavilions and towers built within. People came and went, and it was brightly lit. The ceiling of the cave was adorned with man-made star patterns, making one feel as if they were under the open night sky when they looked up.

This strange and secluded cave was the headquarters of the secret demonic sect of the jianghu, the "Evil Moon Sect".

The Evil Moon Sect had a long history, but its members acted in great secrecy. The number of disciples in the sect had always been small, but every one of them was a master of extremely powerful martial arts. Their actions were unpredictable, and they were feared by all sects in the jianghu. Fortunately, the Evil Moon Sect rarely involved itself in the affairs of the mortal world. Although their methods were quite ruthless, the sect's members also followed the rules and principles of the jianghu. They often acted alone, and thus, they generally maintained a state of peace with the orthodox sects.

"Senior brother's Crescent Moon Sword Style has improved again. Truly, it's a cause for celebration. I, your junior brother, have benefited greatly from watching it. Thank you, senior brother!"

The blue-robed youth was practicing his sword on a platform in the cave, and a black-robed youth standing beside him spoke. This youth was very tall, with a delicate and somewhat feminine face, but he was also exceptionally handsome. His slender figure was over eight feet tall, but his eyes were deep and cold, and his expression was effeminate.

"It's alright. I just feel like I haven't been out to stretch my body lately. It's too stifling in this cave."

The blue-robed youth said as he put away his sword.
*****

This is a Preview.