Bai Yu practiced the Meandering Stream Cut for another hour, slowly getting a better feel for the wrist movement and Qi manipulation required to alter the saber's path mid-swing. He made progress, occasionally hitting his intended secondary target, but consistency remained elusive. He then attempted the Cascading Rapids Slash, finding the rapid succession of downward cuts physically demanding, requiring precise coordination between his arm, waist, and Qi bursts. The River Reversal Counter felt entirely theoretical without an opponent, and the Flood Surge Advance needed more space and confidence than he currently possessed.
He lowered his saber, wiping a bead of sweat from his brow. Bai Yu was somewhat satisfied with the initial results, particularly with the deceptive potential of the Meandering Stream Cut. But he quickly realized that practicing against inanimate dummies had severe limitations. To truly master these techniques, especially the reactive River Reversal Counter and the dynamic Flood Surge Advance, and to truly refine the timing and precision of all of them, he would need real combat experience. He needed opponents who moved, reacted, and fought back.
"I think I need to go to the Wugong Forest," Bai Yu murmured aloud. This vast forest, located just outside Water Court City, served as a well-known hunting ground and practice ground for the city's martial artists. It teemed with various magical beasts, ranging from relatively weak creatures in the outer regions to truly formidable ones deeper within. As long as one didn't venture too deep, the outer edges offered valuable combat experience against live opponents without being overwhelmingly dangerous for cultivators in the Qi Refining or even Martial Master realms.
Bai Yu made up his mind. The forest offered the perfect solution. He cleaned his saber, secured it properly, and directly went to seek out his father in the main clan residence.
He found Bai Feng reviewing clan reports in his study. After respectfully announcing himself, Bai Yu stated his request.
"What? You want to go to the Wugong Forest already?" Bai Feng said, looking up in surprise. He put down his brush, considering his son's request. "Hmm," he mused, stroking his beard. "Real combat experience would indeed be good for consolidating your techniques and accelerating your growth... but are you sure you're ready? The forest, even the outer edges, can be unpredictable. It's too dangerous for you to go alone right now, especially having only just entered the Qi Refining Realm."
Bai Yu pleaded his case, explaining his reasoning – the limitations of dummy practice, the need to test his techniques under pressure, his confidence in his Azure Cloud Steps for evasion if needed. He argued passionately but respectfully.
Seeing his son's determination and acknowledging the validity of his points, Bai Feng eventually relented, but only under one firm condition. "Alright," he conceded, "I can see the benefit. But you will absolutely not go alone. You must take guards with you. Experienced ones."
He thought for a moment. "I know just the person. I will ask the 5th Elder, Elder Jian, to accompany you. He is a seasoned warrior, cautious, and skilled with the sword. He's also currently available... and frankly, he owes me a significant debt, so he will definitely agree. He will ensure your safety while allowing you sufficient space to gain experience."
Relief washed over Bai Yu. Having a Martial Master elder accompany him was more than he could have hoped for. "Thank you, Father!" Bai Yu said gratefully, bowing deeply.
On the next day, bright and early, Bai Yu arrived at the main clan gates, dressed in durable training clothes, his new saber strapped securely to his back. Waiting for him was an old man, likely in his late sixties, but standing straight and alert. He was tall and lean, with weathered features that spoke of countless battles. Long grey hair flowed neatly down his shoulders, tied back simply. A formidable sword with a faint, sharp aura – clearly a Spirit Grade weapon – rested at his waist. This was Elder Jian, the 5th Elder of the Bai Clan, a respected Martial Master known for his swordsmanship and calm demeanor.
Bai Yu approached respectfully. "Greetings, Elder Jian," he said, clasping his hands in a formal salute. "I am Bai Yu. I will be in your care today."
Elder Jian nodded, his sharp eyes assessing Bai Yu with open curiosity. "Young Master Bai," his voice was steady and calm. "The Patriarch has told me much about your recent... breakthrough. I admit, I am looking forward to seeing your performance in the forest." There was no condescension in his tone, only professional interest from an experienced warrior observing burgeoning talent.