Posted on 6 October 2023.
“'Unequalled by all that have come before, peerless in present, singular in its creation, capable of parting the clouds above, and chasming the earth beneath.' …This is the sword I desire.”
“Does a sword such as this truly exist in the world?”
A sword, 3 feet and 7 inches in length, that weighs nothing.
It is not forged from any ordinary iron, but condensed from a shaft of sharp ice. It glows with a dim light, as if it is a strand of moonlight held in the wielder's hand.
Jingliu:
Traveling with you has stirred up my curiosity, what drove you to pick up the sword at such a young age?
Yanqing:
Well, I suppose there's no harm in telling you. At first, it was the general's stories about the previous Sword Champion.
He told me about her unparalleled skills, her unmatched prowess with a single blade. It inspired me that one day, I could earn that title myself.
Jingliu:
So, it was the allure of renown?
Yanqing:
I also wanted to live up to the general's expectations, and repay him for the gift of his teachings. Where would I be without him?
Jingliu:
Then, you wish to forge deeper ties.
Yanqing:
It's more than that.
One day, I'll run into battle alongside my Cloud Knight comrades, defending the Luofu, and striking down those who threaten us. Putting my abilities to their rightful use.
Jingliu:
In the end, it all comes back to fealty.
Yanqing:
What's with all the questions, Miss? Why did you choose the path of the sword?
Jingliu:
I, too, was once shackled by fame and fortune, impeded by bonds and loyalty, but in the end, the sword moves beyond such notions.
For the sword is just a sword, an instrument determining life and death. Nothing can tarnish its essence!
Only when you've walked the fiery trail, and cut through every impediment can you understand the purpose behind every swing of your sword.
Do you understand now, Future “Sword Champion?” I wield the sword to vanquish my enemies, nothing more.
And now our battle begins.