Chapter 82: Sudden Realization
Chapter 82: Sudden Realization
Cheng Zitong nodded and said, "Yes, this is the very technique. Don't underestimate this sword style just because of its name. It's a universal power technique that can be applied to any sword art. It was once passed down in the north, but not as a complete lineage."
He pointed at the sword manual, "This one, however, is the true lineage. It clearly explains the essential power manipulation methods, the specific medicines to use, and their formulas. Only a few crucial medications are orally transmitted and not explicitly written down, which later generations don't know about."
"But that's not a big deal," he continued. "In the past, these things were rare and precious, so the process was meticulous to avoid any waste. Now, if you have the money, you can find almost any medicine you need."
He pushed another notebook towards Chen Chuan and said, "I've written the key points in this. Take it and study it. I'm a bit busy these days, so if you have any questions, just give me a call."
"Thank you, Teacher," Chen Chuan expressed his gratitude.
"I'll be on my way then. Take your time reading it."
After seeing Cheng Zitong off, Chen Chuan returned and flipped through both the notebook and the sword manual. That's when he realized that the Xuejun Sword was actually a 'Snow Lady Sword'—a 'Forbidden Weapon' forged using ancient methods.
This classification was due to the unique materials used in its creation, which included some special altered tissues.
The manual explained that a sword has a 'Blade Heart,' and once a swordsman cultivates this 'Blade Heart,' the sword comes to life. It can not only better withstand power but also self-repair when damaged, and it can even grow alongside its owner.
However, the annotations clarified that this was not literal; it was about the symbiosis between the altered tissues of the swordsman and the sword, not the sword coming to life. The repair process borrowed from the swordsman's own altered tissues.
In ancient times, some renowned weapons were passed down from master to apprentice or father to son. Often, only those who inherited the power techniques could achieve a harmonious resonance with the weapon. Over time, it was the person who adapted to the weapon, not the other way around.
Fortunately, the Xuejun Sword had no previous owner before it came into his possession, ensuring an immediate and exceptional fit. The drawback, however, was that he had to cultivate the sword himself.
There were two main approaches to this. The first involved the use of breathing techniques and power techniques while wielding the sword, a path he had unknowingly embarked upon, which explained the strange sensation he had been experiencing. However, this was a long-term process.
The second method, employed in the past, involved triggering the so-called 'Blade Heart' through extensive combat and slaughter. This was the fastest approach but also the most perilous. Those who chose this path rarely lasted long, as the risks increased with the intensity and frequency of ancient battles.
Modern swords were not without their merits; if one broke, you could simply replace it. This convenience was far superior to the swords of the past. Yet, masters understood that even the slightest difference in a weapon could impact performance. Modern weapons were disposable, and achieving the same harmony with them as with an ancient, handcrafted sword was nearly impossible.
Each method had its trade-offs, and it was up to the wielder to choose.
Chen Chuan had no choice, as disposable weapons also meant more financial burden, and he needed to save money for medication.
For now, a sword that could transmit power techniques was suitable enough. The future could be dealt with later.
From that day forward, he visited the Training Hall daily to spar with the Combat Department students, who specialized in this field and were highly skilled, providing him with valuable learning experiences.
One morning, after his training session, he made his way to the cafeteria, as it was a rest day. He planned to have breakfast and then visit his aunt's house.
Just as he was about to enter the Class A student dining area, he heard someone calling out to him from behind. Turning around, he recognized Fang ZhiMing, the male student he had entered the re-examination with. Fang waved at him, standing with a few companions.
Chen Chuan approached with a smile, greeting, "Fang, it's been a while."
Fang ZhiMing was excited to see him, "Chen, yes, we haven't seen each other since that exam day." He scratched his head, "You're a Class A student, so we don't usually train together."
During the exam, Fang had displayed great courage, but ultimately, he fell short of becoming a Class A student due to some minor deficiencies. This was a bit disappointing.
Chen Chuan also felt it was a pity, but without sufficient talent or the right mindset, being a Class B student wasn't necessarily a bad thing. While Class A students had a higher status, their tasks were undeniably more dangerous.
Fang ZhiMing seemed a bit embarrassed and handed Chen Chuan something, saying, "Someone asked me to give this to you. It's something my family requested, and I couldn't refuse."
Chen Chuan received the call and took a look. It was a business card from a certain commission company, indicating that someone wanted to get in touch with him. The company was quite capable, as they had even found the connection to Fang Zhi-ming.
He asked, "How long have you had this?"
Fang Zhi-ming thought for a moment and replied, "It's been about seven or eight days. I can't even enter the Class A student dormitory, so I figured you'd come to the cafeteria for meals, and that's why I've been waiting here every day."
Chen Chuan nodded in understanding. He knew that times were tough, and everyone was struggling. "Fang, you've been thoughtful. Next time you need me, you can just call the dormitory directly."
Fang Zhi-ming's eyes lit up, and he said, "Really? That's great!"
The two chatted for a while longer before bidding each other farewell.
Fang Zhi-ming returned to his companions. One of them said, "Xiao Fang, you weren't kidding. You really do have a friend who's a Class A student."
"Great! After we graduate, we'll have someone we can talk to in higher places."
Fang Zhi-ming shook his head and said, "I haven't thought that far ahead. I think it's better if friends don't discuss those things."
"You're being foolish! You must take advantage of this connection. Keep in touch when you have time."
Fang Zhi-ming made a noncommittal sound, but he didn't really listen. In his heart, friends were friends, and even though his family had asked him to deliver the card, he would never do anything that might cause harm.
After breakfast, Chen Chuan rode his bike out of school. He went to a mall in the central plaza and bought a watch, which was quite useful for checking the time.
He missed having a phone in his previous life, not only for the time but also for the news. Now, with limited channels, he felt cut off from much of the information.
After buying the watch, he also purchased some small toys and a hand cream for his aunt. He then decided to get a python belt for Nian Fu Li and rode his bike back home. When he met his aunt, he returned the watch, and Yu Wan said, "Your uncle has an old one. You can use this one for now, Chan'er."
Chen Chuan lifted his hand and smiled, "Auntie, I bought one, so you can keep the old one."
Yu Wan said, "Make sure to buy a good one next time. You never know when you might need it."
Chen Chuan assured her, "Auntie, I'm still a student. Something simple is good enough." He looked around and noticed that the radio was on, but Nian Fu Li was not there. He asked, "Isn't Uncle here?"
His aunt replied, "He just got a call and had to go to the bureau. He might not be back for lunch, so let's eat without him."
Chen Chuan said hello and handed the hand cream to Yu Wan, "Auntie, this is for you."
Yu Wan took a look and said, "Chan'er, why waste money? It's not easy for you to earn money. Can't you just buy things for yourself?"
Chen Chuan smiled, "Auntie, money is meant to bring happiness. If it brings joy to the family, isn't it worth spending?" As he spoke, he gave the toys he bought to his cousins, and the two little ones, with their sharp eyes, had been circling him since early morning.
Yu Wan sighed, "No more of this next time."
Chen Chuan laughed and played with his cousins for a while. As it neared lunchtime, the family gathered around, chatting and laughing. Suddenly, the phone rang urgently, and Yu Wan rushed to answer it. "Hello? Yes, yes, what's the matter? Okay, okay, take care of yourself."
After hanging up, Yu Wan's face showed concern. She told Chen Chuan, "Chan'er, your uncle won't be back. It seems like there's a big case."
A big case? Chen Chuan pondered, recalling that Nian Fu Li had only used this term on a few rare occasions in the past.
Just then, the radio, which had been playing sentimental prose, suddenly broadcasted a burst of noise, followed by the announcer's voice: "We interrupt this program for a breaking news bulletin. At 9:32 this morning, a bank on Liyuan Road was robbed. The perpetrators are armed with guns and are currently engaged in a shootout with patrol officers at the street corner.
At 9:55, Vice President Fang of the Council Bureau in Quanzhou District was robbed by a group of fugitives at his private residence. It is suspected that his family members have been taken hostage, and the perpetrators have shot and injured multiple security personnel..."
Chen Chuan listened intently, and at that moment, the phone rang again. Yu Wan hurriedly picked it up, holding the receiver to her ear. After listening for a moment, she covered the mouthpiece and said, "Chan'er, it's for you."
Chen Chuan took the call, and the voice of Cheng Zitong came through, "Chan'er, are you home?"
"Yes, teacher," Chen Chuan replied.
Cheng Zitong's voice became serious, "You need to return to school immediately. It's an urgent matter."
...
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(End of Chapter)
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