Marvel: The other side of the double-passing door is Devouring the Stars

Chapter 359 Witness the true swordsmanship!

After the entire swordplay was performed, the old man sheathed his sword and stood still, and the courtyard fell silent. Everyone was deeply impressed by the demonstration; it was not merely swordsmanship, but more like an art form, a philosophy.

"What beautiful swordsmanship!" Rowan exclaimed sincerely. "Every move seems alive, brimming with vitality."

"This is the power of enlightenment," the old man smiled. "When you truly understand the mysteries of nature, your cultivation will enter a completely new realm."

In the following time, the old man explained in detail to Luo Wen the various methods of cultivating enlightenment, from observing nature to understanding life, from meditation to practical training, explaining each aspect in great detail.

"The improvement of comprehension is not achieved overnight; it requires long-term accumulation and insight," the old man concluded. "But once you make a breakthrough, your cultivation will experience a qualitative leap."

In the afternoon, the old man taught Rowan some special techniques for using spiritual power. These techniques were not offensive, but rather auxiliary, such as how to use spiritual power to perceive the pulse of nature and how to establish a deeper connection with heaven and earth and all things.

"The highest level of spiritual cultivation is to become one with heaven and earth," the old man said. "When you reach this level, you will be able to sense the mysteries of the universe and understand the true meaning of life."

As the sun set, the exchange and teaching finally came to an end. Luo Wen felt he had gained a great deal, not only learning many practical skills, but more importantly, gaining a completely new understanding of cultivation.

"Grandmaster, thank you for your guidance." Luo Wen bowed respectfully to the old man. "Today's teachings will benefit me for a lifetime."

“It’s our responsibility as old folks to help young people grow,” the old man said kindly. “You’re a promising young man; if you persevere, you’ll definitely achieve great things in the future.”

Before parting, the old man gave Luo Wen an antique book: "This is my cultivation experience from my youth. Although it mainly discusses swordsmanship, many of its concepts are also helpful for cultivating spiritual power. You can study it slowly."

"This is too precious, I can't accept it," Rowan quickly declined.

"Take it," the old man insisted. "Knowledge only has meaning when it is passed down; keeping it with me will only allow it to gather dust."

On the way home, Yin Yue saw Luo Wen still engrossed in his studies that day and said with a smile, "It seems that your master likes you very much. That cultivation manual is one of his treasured possessions, and he has never given it to an outsider."

"My grandmaster was indeed a remarkable senior," Luo Wen remarked. "Today's gains surpass what I've achieved in the past few years of cultivation."

"So how do you plan to use what you've learned today?" Yin Hui asked curiously.

“I need to re-examine my training methods,” Rowan said thoughtfully. “Before, I only focused on improving my skills and strength. Now I understand that mindset and comprehension are equally important. I need to learn to observe nature, appreciate life, and make my training more comprehensive.”

Yin Yue nodded in agreement: "Grandmaster often said that cultivation is like life; one cannot only look at immediate gains and losses, but must have a long-term vision and a deep understanding."

That evening, Rowan carefully studied the cultivation insights the old man had given him in his room. Although the book was not thick, its content was extremely rich, every page filled with profound insights and valuable experience. Through reading, he gained a deeper understanding of the concepts he had learned that day.

One passage in the book left a particularly deep impression on him: "True strength lies not in those who possess the greatest power, but in those who understand the essence of power. Power is merely a tool; wisdom and insight are the hands that wield it."

Luo Wen closed the book, walked to the window, and looked at Silver Moon Lake outside. The lake water shimmered under the moonlight, and the distant mountains were as dark as ink in the night, the whole scene serene and beautiful. He began to use his spiritual power to sense the pulse of nature, following the method taught by the old man.

Gradually, he sensed the gentleness of the lake, the steadiness of the mountains, the freedom of the night breeze, and the purity of the moonlight. These sensations were not obtained through his eyes and ears, but rather experienced directly through his spiritual power. This was a completely new experience, giving him a deeper understanding of nature.

"I see," Rowan murmured to himself. "Cultivation is not just about increasing one's own strength, but also about learning to live in harmony with the world."

The following morning, Rowan was practicing his mental cultivation in the courtyard, following the method taught to him by the Sword Saint the day before. He sat cross-legged by Silver Moon Lake, eyes closed, focusing his mind, using his mental energy to sense the pulse of the surrounding natural environment. The gentleness of the lake, the steadiness of the mountains, the freedom of the breeze—these natural rhythms resonated with his mental energy.

The guidance he received from the Sword Saint yesterday was immensely beneficial, and he is now trying to put those theories into practice. He can feel a subtle change occurring in his mental power; it is no longer simply an accumulation of strength, but is beginning to possess some deeper quality.

"Rowan, how are you feeling?" Silver Moon's gentle voice interrupted his cultivation.

Rowan opened his eyes and saw Silver Moon standing not far away, holding a steaming cup of Silver Moon Tea. The morning light shone on her, making her radiate a gentle glow.

"It's a wonderful feeling." Rowan took the teacup and said gratefully, "I can feel my spiritual energy becoming purer, just like what the senior said yesterday, no longer just pursuing the increase of power, but seeking a qualitative improvement."

“My master’s guidance is truly invaluable,” Yin Yue said, sitting down beside him. “I’ve listened to his teachings since I was a child, but I always gain something new each time.”

The two were chatting happily when footsteps sounded outside the courtyard gate. Yin Hui strode in, a hint of nervousness on his face.

“Sister, someone is looking for you,” Yin Hui said. “It’s Lin Jianfeng. He says he wants to see you, and…” His gaze shifted to Luo Wen, “and your friend.”

Yin Yue's expression instantly became complicated, a mixture of helplessness and a headache. "Lin Jianfeng? How did he know I was back?"

"Who is Lin Jianfeng?" Luo Wen asked curiously.

Silver Moon sighed, "He's one of the more outstanding swordsmen among the younger generation of Swordheart Star, and also one of my admirers. He's been pursuing me since childhood, but I've never given him any response."

"Then what does he want from me?" Rowan asked, puzzled.

Yin Hui smiled wryly, "The news of your visit to our grandmaster yesterday has spread. Many people know that my sister brought back an alien friend. Lin Jianfeng might..."

Before she could finish speaking, a loud male voice came from outside the courtyard gate: "Yinyue, I know you're in there. Come out and see me!"

Silver Moon frowned and stood up. "Looks like we can't avoid it anymore. Let's go outside and see."

The three stepped out of the courtyard and saw a young man standing outside. He looked to be about twenty-five or twenty-six years old, tall and strong, dressed in a magnificent swordsman's outfit, with an exquisitely decorated longsword at his waist. He was handsome, but his eyes held a hint of arrogance and displeasure.

Behind him stood several young men, also dressed as swordsmen, who were clearly his followers.

"Lin Jianfeng, what are you doing here?" Yin Yue asked coldly.

Lin Jianfeng's gaze lingered on Yin Yue for a moment, a hint of infatuation flashing in his eyes, before turning to Luo Wen, his expression instantly sharpening. "Yin Yue, I heard you brought back an alien, saying he's your partner?" Lin Jianfeng's tone was clearly hostile. "I want to see what kind of person is worthy of being your partner."

Yin Yue sensed the provocation in his words and immediately said, "Lin Jianfeng, Luo Wen is my friend and a respected partner. I don't want you to be rude to him."

"Rude?" Lin Jianfeng sneered. "I just wanted to spar. As Silver Moon's partner, you shouldn't lack even this much courage, right?"

His gaze was fixed on Rowan, his eyes filled with a challenge. "So, do you dare accept my challenge?"

Rowan sized up the young swordsman before him, sensing the intense sword intent emanating from him. Although not as profound as that of the Sword Saint, he certainly possessed considerable strength, at least qualifying as a swordsman.

"Lin Jianfeng, this is provocation!" Yin Yue said angrily. "Luo Wen is a guest; this is extremely rude of you!"

“It’s alright, Silver Moon,” Rowan said softly, then looked at Lin Jianfeng. “I can accept your challenge. But I’d like to know, what are your reasons for challenging me?”

Lin Jianfeng was taken aback by Luo Wen's quick agreement. After a moment's hesitation, he said, "I want to prove that only swordsmen of our Silver Blue Empire are worthy of Silver Moon! What right does an alien have to be her partner?"

"I see." Rowan nodded. "Then let's have a spar. I'd like to see the strength of this young swordsman from the Silver Blue Empire."

Silver Moon wanted to stop her, but Rowan shook his head at her: "It's alright, I don't think there's any harm in sparring like this. Besides, the Sword Saint just gave me some pointers yesterday, so it's a good opportunity to put them into practice."

"Since you agree, let's begin." Lin Jianfeng drew his longsword. "But let me make it clear beforehand: sword sparring inevitably involves some injuries, so don't regret it later."

His words clearly carried a threatening tone, making Silvermoon even more worried. But Rowan maintained a calm expression.

"I understand, in friendly competition, some minor clashes are inevitable," Rowan smiled calmly. "But I believe that with your composure, you should know what it means to stop when you've reached your limit, right?"

Lin Jianfeng's expression changed slightly; he hadn't expected Luo Wen to be so composed. "Hmph, don't blame me for being ruthless later."

The courtyard wasn't big enough, so the group went to a nearby training ground specifically for sparring. The ground was flat, and there were spectator stands around it; it was a common place for swordplay sparring on Swordheart Star.

The news spread quickly, and nearby residents and swordsmen flocked to watch. For them, witnessing a duel between a genius swordsman like Lin Jianfeng and an alien martial artist was indeed an interesting event.

Yinyue's parents also arrived at the scene. Seeing the situation, Yinshuang asked worriedly, "Yinyue, are you sure everything's alright? I know Lin Jianfeng's personality; I'm afraid he won't give up easily."

“I’m worried too, but Rowan insists on sparring,” Silver Moon said, biting her lip. “Besides, I think he should be confident.”

In the center of the training ground, Luo Wen and Lin Jianfeng stood facing each other. They were about the same height, but their demeanor was completely different. Luo Wen appeared calm and composed, while Lin Jianfeng exuded a distinctly aggressive aura.

"Before we begin, I'd like to explain the rules." The training ground administrator walked to the center. "This is a friendly spar; it's to the point of exhaustion, and no one should be killed. The spar will end immediately if either side concedes defeat or if the administrator determines the winner."

“Understood.” Rowan nodded in agreement.

Lin Jianfeng nodded, but the fighting spirit in his eyes did not diminish in the slightest.

"Then, let the sparring begin!" The administrator stepped aside.

Lin Jianfeng immediately assumed an attack stance, his longsword pointing at Luo Wen. "Let me see the strength of an alien warrior!"

No sooner had he finished speaking than he moved, charging towards Rowan like an arrow released from a bow. His longsword, carrying a sharp gust of wind, aimed straight for Rowan's chest. This move was extremely fast and had a tricky angle; it was clearly one of his signature techniques.

Rowan did not rush to retaliate, but calmly observed his opponent's sword moves. The teachings of the Sword Saint senior yesterday made him understand that a true strongman is not eager to show off his strength, but must first understand his opponent and then find the most appropriate way to deal with him.

Lin Jianfeng's swordsmanship was indeed excellent, with sharp moves and pure sword intent, making him a typical representative of the orthodox swordsmanship of the Silver Blue Empire. However, Luo Wen also discovered his weakness—he focused too much on the power of his attacks, neglecting variation and flexibility.

"Ding!" Luo Wen used his mental power to condense an invisible shield, blocking Lin Jianfeng's attack.

Lin Jianfeng was startled to feel his sword being blocked by a strange force. He knew about the abilities of mental power cultivators, but this was the first time he had experienced it firsthand.

"Interesting," Lin Jianfeng sneered. "But these little tricks won't stop me!"

He changed tactics, abandoning direct attacks and instead began to circle around Rowan, searching for openings. His swordsmanship became more agile, launching attacks on Rowan from various angles.

Luo Wen remained calm, using a protective circle formed by his mental energy to deal with the opponent's attacks. However, he was not merely passively defending; while defending, he carefully observed the characteristics of Lin Jianfeng's swordsmanship.

After several rounds, Lin Jianfeng realized that his attacks were ineffective and began to get impatient. The murmurs from the audience also added to his pressure.

"This alien's defenses are truly impressive."

"Lin Jianfeng seems unable to do anything about him."

"It seems that those who cultivate spiritual power are not just famous for nothing."

Hearing these comments, Lin Jianfeng's expression grew increasingly grim. Losing face in front of Yin Yue was the last thing he wanted to see.

"Since all you know is defense, then I'll show you real swordsmanship!" Lin Jianfeng took a few steps back and began to gather his strength.

His sword intent suddenly became sharp, and the longsword in his hand began to emit a faint light. This was an advanced technique in the Silver Blue Empire's swordsmanship, which could materialize sword intent and greatly enhance attack power.

(End of this chapter)