The match did not only benefit the students—it enlightened Emery as well. It had given him rare insight into the harmony between the Laws of Earth and the Sword that helped him glimpse a deeper layer of his own Dao.
When the match ended, Emery sat alone in quiet reflection, spent a few hours dwelling on it before he began exchanging insights with the Master, discussing the comprehension he had gained over the past two decades.
Three days later, he finally emerged from meditation with a new understanding of the sword art. He wished to stay longer, but he knew there was little more he could learn—unless he intended to spend months of training under Master Atika.
"The sword path you've chosen… you won't learn much more from me," she said calmly. Then, she added, "If you wish to advance, seek the Heaven and Earth Sword Sect. They may have what you seek."
