Chapter 153 - Fourth world 2.

The morning mist had not yet lifted from Mount Hua when the first sound of a sword cutting through the air travelled across the training grounds. It was followed by another, then another, until the quiet mountain seemed to wake up one sharp note at a time. Pale sunlight spread over the high ridges, turning the mist silver at the edges. Waterfalls poured down the steep cliffs into clear green pools, their steady roar mixing with the calls of birds hidden among the old pines. The halls of Mount Hua stood along the mountain paths, built from dark wood and pale stone, with curved roofs that looked almost black against the brightening sky. Blue-and-white banners hung from the railings, each carrying the sect's simple sword emblem. Farther down the slope, the medicinal gardens were already busy. The scent of crushed leaves and warm soil drifted upward from the valley, while a thin ribbon of smoke rose from the kitchens where breakfast was being prepared.