Chapter 1

In Gusu Cloud Recesses, sunlight filtered gently across the study hall's tatami mats. The young disciples sat in orderly rows, listening closely.

"Every gentry clan is unique," Lan Qiren says, grooming his gray goatee as he walked with patient steps, "in the color of their robes, their habits, their motto, the meaning behind their family name, the cultivation methods they practice, as well as the symbols they carry and the specialists they raise."

He paused before the class, his eyes steady.

"Let's begin with our own, the Lan clan.

Our robes are always blue and white—blue for calm and clarity, white for purity and uprightness. The cloud motif on our collars and sleeves represents our deep connection to the heavens and the flowing spirit. We keep our habits quiet and proper: no loud talking, no running, no carelessness.

Music, books, and reflection are preferred.

Our motto is 'Be upright, be honorable,' and our last name 'Lan' means orchid, which stands for humility and grace. In cultivation, we specialize in spiritual guides and musicians who use the guqin to direct spiritual energy with powerful melodies—unique to our clan."

He turned to another row.

"The Jiang clan of Yunmeng wears purple. Purple shows freedom and an open heart, but also power. Their emblem is the lotus stylized in embroidery, which symbolises the rivers signifying their steadfast yet ever-changing nature. They enjoy fishing, outdoor games, and lively, honest company.

Their motto is 'Live with principle, act with courage.' The name 'Jiang' means river, for flowing and never breaking, always moving forward. The Jiang clan is known for their swimming skills and sword cultivators who combine speed and flexibility with fluid, water-like techniques—masters of swift maneuvering unique among all the clans."

He gestured toward Jin Ling, whose golden robe gleamed under the light. The young master straightened immediately, chin lifting with unmistakable pride.

"The Jin clan of Lanling is known for gold, a symbol of wealth, pride, and beauty. Their peony flower motif stands for strength through grace and radiant power. They value respect and discipline and openly display their status.

Their motto is 'Value virtue, embrace harmony.' The name 'Jin' means gold, bright and impossible to ignore. Their cultivation focuses on swords and spiritual nets—specialists capable of weaving intricate traps to ensnare evil spirits and enemies, a skill uniquely honed in the Jin clan."

He lifted his hand to the quieter, sturdy group.

"The Nie clan from Qinghe wears dark brown or gray; brown reflects the earth and strength, gray steady endurance. Their symbol is the sabre crossed with a mountain peak, representing both toughness and unyielding spirit. Their habits are straightforward—honesty, a hearty appetite, and rigorous training.

Their motto is 'Stand firm, fight bravely.' The name 'Nie' means firm or unyielding. They are famed for their saber cultivation, emphasizing overwhelming power and fierce attacks. Their heavy weapons specialists are fearsome warriors found nowhere else."

His steps slowed as he approached Lan Sizhui. His voice, which had been even and measured, hardened just slightly—not overtly hostile, but the shift was unmistakable.

"The Wen clan of Qishan chooses red, symbolizing boldness, energy, and fierce leadership. Their emblem is the blazing flame, a mark of both destruction and renewal. Their ways are strong-willed, direct, sometimes strict.

Their motto is 'With might, comes order.' The name 'Wen' means warmth or culture—once the keepers of civilization and power. They specialize in fire and demonic arts cultivation, wielding overwhelming energy rarely matched by others."

He held his gaze near Sizhui for a moment longer before moving on, the air thick with unspoken memory.

"When you see the color, the clothes, the motto, the motifs, and the name—you can guess the clan and understand their heart. Each is different; that is what makes harmony possible."

The disciples—Jin Ling still glowing with pride, Sizhui quietly composed, Lan Jingyi alert, and Ouyang Zizhen thoughtful—nodded as the lesson settled in, each clan's traditions and distinctiveness clear in their minds.

As  Lan Qiren finished explaining the clans, Lan Jingyi couldn’t hold back any longer.

"But I have a doubt.. Senior Wei doesn't wear purple but black," Jingyi blurted out suddenly, tilting his head. "But isn't he Jiang clan? Shouldn't he wear their color too?"

Every time, mentioning wei ying's name gives him frustration out of nowhere and his whole face twists into ugliness..

Lan Qiren glanced up with frowned temple and twitching mouth, stroking his goatee. "That is his choice. The Jiang clan never restrains anyone's will."

Ouyang Zizhen's eyes lit up with innocent curiosity. "Oh! But Master Lan, the Jiang sect is famous for swordsmanship, right? Then why doesn't Senior Wei use a sword anymore? I've never seen him with one."

Jin Ling smirked, crossing his arms proudly. "Maybe he's just not good at swordsmanship. That's why he gave it up."

Ouyang blinked, looking genuinely confused. "But I heard someone say he stopped using it after he started demonic cultivation. Is that true?"

Jingyi gasped, eyes squinted with genuine confusion. "Wait, wait—so you're saying he gave up his sword for demonic cultivation? Like, he traded it? Or maybe sacrificed it?"

Jin Ling's face flushed with irritation. "Enough! You two don't know anything. How can you just talk like this without enough knowledge?"

Jingyi frowned, genuinely puzzled. "Then tell us! Why doesn't he use his sword if he's so good?"

Jin Ling's voice rose, pride and protectiveness flaring. "Are you calling him evil? He's more talented than anyone here. If you think he's evil, why do you all use his inventions, huh?"

Ouyang nodded earnestly, eyes wide. "That's right! He even created a whole new way of cultivation. That must mean he's really smart."

Jingyi leaned forward, speaking without thinking. "But is his way safe? Can it be used? I mean, doesn't everyone say it caused a lot of disasters?"

At those words, Lan Qiren's complexion suddenly turned pale, his breathing became uneven, and his hand trembled slightly as he gripped the desk—signs of rising qi deviation.

Zewu Jun, who had been standing quietly at the side, immediately noticed and stepped forward.

Just as Jin Ling opened his mouth to argue further, Zewu Jun's voice rang clear and firm.

"Enough."

The room fell silent instantly.

"As disciples of gentry clans, you must not speak carelessly about dense and sensitive matters without enough experience. Arguing, shouting, and placing blame on others are strictly forbidden in Gusu."

His tone softened slightly as a faint smile appeared. "Young Master Wei wears what he chooses. The Jiang sect does not restrain anyone's will. And Senior Wei is skilled at swordsmanship, just as your Hanguang Jun is."

Jingyi, still curious and oblivious, started again. "Then why doesn't he—"

"End of discussion," Zewu Jun interrupted sharply. "The rest can be addressed at a more appropriate time."

He turned and bowed respectfully to Lan Qiren, who gave a slow nod of permission.

Zewu Jun faced the class once more. "Since many rules were broken during today's lesson, you will all receive punishment. You may ask Hanguang Jun directly for your penalties."

He looked at Sizhui. "Sizhui, you will report today's details to him. Understood?"

Sizhui stood and bowed with a calm smile. "Yes, Zewu Jun."

"Very well. Class is dismissed."

The disciples bowed and began filing out quietly, Jingyi and Ouyang still whispering to each other with wide, curious eyes, completely unaware of how much trouble their innocent questions had caused.

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