Adding Friends Can Make Me Stronger

As previously mentioned, however, Meng Changqing, being someone who had already grasped sword intent, had seen and understood much of this content during his fusion process. It was like a vast river of swordsmanship through which he navigated, capturing and forming his nascent sword intent.

Therefore, Mo Shukuang’s teachings couldn’t offer him much more. Still, everyone’s swordsmanship was unique, and studying others’ techniques always provided some improvement.

Additionally, Meng Changqing couldn’t be sure if this was Mo Shukuang’s true level of expertise, as he hid his cultivation. It was possible his swordsmanship was similarly concealed.

“Lan Chan, take Meng Changqing to the training grounds and show him around Spirit Peak,” Mo Shukuang said gently.

“Yes, Master,” Lan Chan responded respectfully, then turned to Meng Changqing, “Junior Brother Meng, please follow me.”

“Alright.” Meng Changqing nodded, bowed to Mo Shukuang, and left with Lan Chan.

“Did that kid understand my teachings, or was he just not interested?” Mo Shukuang wondered aloud as the disciples departed. He had paid close attention to Meng Changqing during his lecture. Though Meng appeared attentive, his eyes lacked focus, as if disinterested.

“Interesting.” Mo Shukuang mused.

Considering Meng Changqing’s monstrous talent of comprehending sword qi at the Aperture Connecting Realm, it wasn’t surprising.

Perhaps Meng had already understood everything I taught.

“Master, can I skip going to the Divine Radiance Hall? That old sword has a worse temper than mine. Wait, no, my temper isn’t bad. It’s the sword’s fault!” Mo Xiaoyu pouted.

“Are you sure?” Mo Shukuang chuckled, “That’s one of the top ten famous swords forged by the Duan family of Shenfeng Sea. It’s inherently awakened and has the potential to achieve sainthood in the future. Since our ancestor brought it here, it has been kept in this place, awaiting a worthy successor.”

“Top ten famous swords, huh…” Mo Xiaoyu was tempted.

The name alone sounded impressive.

“Alright, I’ll go talk to it again,” she said reluctantly. “But Master, why don’t you go?”

Mo Shukuang’s expression turned slightly awkward, as if recalling unpleasant memories.

“Mind your own business,” he feigned anger.

“Fine, grumpy old Master. Hmph!” Mo Xiaoyu pouted, stuck out her tongue, and ran off, leaving Mo Shukuang laughing.

Receiving such a talented disciple at this age was indeed a blessing. But thinking of that sword, he couldn’t help but curse, “Such a crappy sword! What’s wrong with being old? Why does it prefer the young?”

“Junior Brother Meng, your name has been known here for a long time. Initially, Master mentioned you several times a day and even wanted to take you as a disciple. But then, for some reason, he suddenly stopped talking about it,” Lan Chan said as they walked.

“Oh? Do you know why, Senior Brother Lan?” Meng Changqing asked, curious.

“I don’t know. Master wouldn’t discuss such matters with us,” Lan Chan replied apologetically. “But I’m sure it’s because there’s a better arrangement for you.”

“A better arrangement, huh…” Meng Changqing thought.

The elder guarding the Hidden Martial Pavilion had said something similar. But what could be better than being accepted as a disciple by a Peak Master?

The only higher position would be the Sect Master, but the Sect Master Peak didn’t practice swordsmanship, which was contrary to Meng Changqing’s path.

He decided not to dwell on it.

As his strength increased, he felt he was getting closer to the truth.

“There’s less than a month until the Three Sect Martial Arts Tournament. For now, you can stay here. If you need anything, just let me know. Don’t be shy,” Lan Chan said with a smile. “I prefer the freedom of friendship over the formalities of senior and junior. If you like, consider me a friend.”

The system’s voice sounded in Meng Changqing’s mind.

【Lan Chan has sent you a friend request. Do you accept?】

Meng Changqing was momentarily stunned. He had been wondering how to make friends with Lan Chan, and now Lan Chan had taken the initiative.

What a pleasant surprise.

“Senior Brother Lan, that’s exactly how I feel too,” Meng Changqing said, smiling sincerely. “I prefer the way friends interact.”

“Then let’s be friends.”

【Friend request accepted!】

【Current Affinity: One Star!】

【Acquired Attribute: First-Grade Root Bone!】

【Triggered Extra Reward: Attribute Selection Cards*3!】

Meng Changqing’s smile grew even more genuine. He had received the attribute he most wanted: First-Grade Root Bone.

The terrifying cultivation speed associated with it was evident from Mo Xiaoyu’s progress. Additionally, the extra reward of three Attribute Selection Cards was a nice bonus. Though not attribute acquisition cards, they were still very useful for future interactions and didn’t rely solely on luck.

Seeing Meng Changqing’s sincere smile, Lan Chan also smiled more brightly, feeling that his junior was simple and pure, and likely easy to get along with.

“That’s all for today. I live nearby,” Lan Chan pointed, “If you need anything, come find me.”

“Thank you, Senior Brother. I may have to trouble you often,” Meng Changqing replied.

“You’re welcome, Junior Brother. Please come by anytime.” Lan Chan smiled, then turned and left.

As his figure disappeared, Meng Changqing walked back, eager to integrate his new attribute: First-Grade Root Bone!