《YIN AND YANG: The Path of Two Blades》
Prologue: Forgotten Name
They used to call us balance.
Two blades. Two brothers.
Souls intertwined since birth.
We weren¡¯t born great.
We weren¡¯t chosen.
We had nothing¡ªexcept each other.
Still, our names carved themselves into history.
So how?
The narrative has been taken without permission. Report any sightings.
How did it come to this?
When did the path split beneath our feet?
Brother¡ what was it all for, if¡ª
If you¡¯re not here to see it?
If my blade¡ bears your blood?
They sing of my victories now.
Call me a hero.
Use my battles as lessons in classrooms and barracks.
They speak and speak¡
As if you never existed.
As if your name meant nothing.
Is this what you wanted, brother?
Sometimes¡ I wonder if you planned it all this way.
If so¡ª
You forgot the most important part.
I can¡¯t forget.
I could never forget.
I won¡¯t.
I still see you in every shadow.
I still hear your voice when the wind cuts deep.
And in every victory they celebrate¡
I still wonder if it should have been yours.
Chapter 1: Yin and Yang
Morning at Camp
The night was still, yet restless. A chilling wind whispered through the tents, carrying the distant murmurs of soldiers standing watch.
Lu Yin stirred¡ªwoken not by the cold or the murmurs, but by his brother¡¯s uneasy movements and muffled grumbles.
He sat up, watching his brother Lu Yang¡¯s face twist with ragged breathing.
He must be dreaming of the night we lost everything, Lu Yin thought.
A familiar ache settled in his chest. No tears came, but in their place was something heavier¡ªsomething unsaid.
In the quiet, he opened his lips and began to sing.
¡°The wind carries names lost to time,
The river flows though it knows not why.
Mountains rise where the echoes sleep,
But the moon still watches from the sky.¡±
¡°The stars will shine where footsteps fade,
The heart may stray yet finds its way.
Where the journey ends, none can see,
But lost ones return, as fate decrees.¡±
Lu Yang¡¯s breathing slowed. His body relaxed, the tension fading as the familiar melody reached him¡ªeven in sleep.
Lu Yin exhaled softly.
¡°We¡¯ll find out the truth no matter what¡ I swear it, brother.¡±
After the silent vow, he lay back down, forcing himself to sleep.
Tomorrow, their journey would begin.
¡°These tents are way too cramped. I barely got any sleep at all,¡± said Lu Yang.
¡°I couldn¡¯t tell, based on how loud you were snoring,¡± Lu Yin replied, smirking.
Yang chuckled. ¡°Whatever. We¡¯ve gotta hurry and gather with the others. We can¡¯t get left behind on the first day of the campaign.¡±
Both brothers stepped out into a sea of soldiers. Over five hundred men were gathering, donning armor and sharpening blades. Their regiment was headed to the northern frontier¡ªa land plagued by nomadic raiders long at odds with the Tang Dynasty.
A powerful voice split through the morning air.
¡°Soldiers! Today we march to the northern frontier to rid ourselves of the enemies who threaten our homes, our empire, our children!¡±
All eyes turned to the raised platform where the voice came from. A tall man stood there, his presence commanding attention like a mountain.
Lu Yin and Lu Yang immediately recognized him.
¡°Yin¡ that¡¯s General An Lushan, isn¡¯t it?¡± said Yang.
¡°Yes, brother. The very one whose name has been rising through all of China,¡± Lu Yin replied.
An Lushan continued, his voice like rolling thunder.
¡°It is our duty to defend this empire with our lives. This is your chance to change your destiny. Soldiers! Will your names be recorded forever in history, or will you fade into nothingness? Let me hear your ambition! Your passion! Your heart! TANG! TANG! TANG!¡±
The soldiers roared, shouting the name of their empire, their screams echoing across the mountains.
Lu Yang grinned. ¡°They say he might become one of the strongest generals in history. I want to spar with him.¡±
Lu Yin scoffed. ¡°Yang, don¡¯t get ahead of yourself. We¡¯ve got a long way to go before we can challenge the general.¡±
¡°You¡¯re selling us short. Teacher called us prodigies of the sword. Together, I actually believe we can win.¡±
¡°Just don¡¯t do anything stupid, Yang.¡±
¡°Sorry, brother. I¡¯m already ahead of you,¡± Yang said, smiling wide.
Lu Yin blinked. ¡°Wait¡ªwhat?¡±
But Lu Yang was already running into the crowd.
An Arrow of Faith
Lu Yang¡¯s heart pounded with excitement as he weaved through the mass of soldiers, eyes scanning for a way to stand out.
How do I get the general¡¯s attention?
His eyes locked onto an opportunity¡ª a high-ranking lieutenant near the general, casually holding an apple.
A grin spread across Lu Yang¡¯s face.
That will do.
Without hesitation, he snatched a bow and arrow from a passing soldier¡¯s back, leapt onto a supply cart, and nocked the arrow in one smooth motion.
Lu Yin¡¯s breath caught in his throat.
What is he doing?!
Time seemed to freeze as Lu Yang drew the bowstring. His stance was solid, his breathing calm. He wasn¡¯t an expert archer¡ªbut he didn¡¯t need to be.
He only needed one shot.
Lu Yin¡¯s mind raced.
If he misses, we¡¯re dead. If the general misreads his intent, we¡¯re dead. Even if he succeeds¡ªthen what? Does he truly think we can take on an entire regiment?
Has he finally lost all reason?
With no hesitation, Lu Yang released the arrow. An arrow of faith.
The arrow whistled through the air, slicing toward the general''s direction. Soldiers turned, their eyes widening as they tracked its path.
The arrow struck¡ªbut what did it hit?
A perfect split.
Two halves of an apple tumbled through the air, bouncing off the dirt with a soft thud.
The once roaring camp fell utterly silent.
No one spoke. No one even breathed.
Then all at once¡ªheads turned toward the shooter.
Lu Yang stood tall, chin raised, grinning from ear to ear.
Murmurs spread. Some laughed. Others cursed. Some just stared in disbelief.
Then, his voice rang out.
¡°General An Lushan! I am Lu Yang! Let this arrow be a decree¡ªI will be your greatest soldier and strongest ally! Let me prove it now, by challenging you to a duel that will be remembered forever!¡±
¡°What better way to start off the campaign than with a legendary battle? Let us display to the soldiers what fighting for this empire really means.¡± Lu Yang shouted his challenge as loud as he possible.
The camp erupted.
Some soldiers jeered. "Arrogant child!" "You''ll die where you stand!" "Don''t be a fool!" Others watched in silence, the precision of the shot lingering in their minds.
Then An Lushan raised his sword.
Silence fell again.
¡°Lu Yang, was it? I will remember your name.¡±
His voice was calm. Unreadable. He let the moment stretch before speaking again.
¡°Do not mock this boy,¡± he said, scanning the crowd. ¡°Laugh, and you laugh at the fire that forges legends. Until you match his hunger, you will never be true warriors.¡±
This book''s true home is on another platform. Check it out there for the real experience.
He turned back to Lu Yang, a smirk forming.
¡°Very well. I accept your challenge.¡±
As Lushan¡¯s smirk deepened. He rested his sword against his shoulder, eyes never leaving Lu Yang.
¡°Lu Yang I admire your courage. Because of that, I will not crush you. Instead, let this be a lesson¡ª a friendly spar. There will of course, be a handicap. I find no interest bullying the weak. What do you say?¡±
The murmurs among the soldiers grew louder. A friendly spar? Even with a handicap, it was a ridiculous challenge.
But for Lu Yang, this was the opportunity of a lifetime.
To spar with a general ¡ª the man who could become the strongest in the empire¡ª was a guaranteed way to get their names remembered.
Lu Yang grinned. ¡°General, it would be an honor to accept your spar.¡±
He lifted his chin, his voice unwavering.
¡°As for the handicap, I will not face you alone. This duel will be between you¡ and both of us.¡±
He turned to gesture at Lu Yin.
For a brief moment, Lu Yin simply stared at his brother, blinking in disbelief. Had things really escalated this fast?
But just as quickly, he adjusted, his mind sharpening. He had spent his entire life stepping into his brother¡¯s reckless decisions. This would be no different.
With a single motion, he leapt up beside his brother, landing effortlessly on the supply cart.
Then, he bowed.
His movements were smooth, respectful, yet not submissive. When he spoke, his voice carried a calm, steady resonance ¡ª like flowing water.
¡°General An Lushan, I am Lu Yin, the twin brother of Lu Yang.¡±
His words came without hesitation, each syllable measured.
¡°I apologize if my brother''s actions were an offense to you or the empire. My brother and I will give our all to the empire and we will serve you with our lives on the line.¡±
He lifted his gaze, eyes sharp yet nonthreatening.
¡°Thank you for accepting my brother¡¯s challenge and we would be honored to spar with you.¡±
A flicker of curiosity passed through An Lushan¡¯s eyes. He studied Lu Yin for a long moment, his grip tightening on his sword.
Identical twins¡ yet completely different spirits, he thought.
He laughed with excitement.
¡°Lu Yang. Lu Yin. The honor is mine. I look forward to sharing the battlefield with the both of you. Now soldiers clear the way for these brothers.¡±
He raised his sword toward the crowd.
¡°Our spar begins now.¡±
A Spar to Remember
There were many mixed feelings in the camp about the general''s acceptance of the challenge but because of their respect for him, they reluctantly began to clear a path for the brothers. The brothers walked towards the general with many emotions in their heart. This was the start of their journey, and they could feel their goals getting closer.
¡°Lu Yin don¡¯t be afraid, we can¡¯t let his opportunity go to waste,¡± said Lu Yang.
¡°Afraid? Do you have no faith in your older brother, I am perfectly calm.¡± Lu Yin replied.
¡°I don¡¯t know Yin; you looked like you were going to have a heart attack when I shot that arrow.¡±
Lu Yin smirked, ¡°Very funny Lu Yang, your recklessness will get us killed one day, think of an actual plan next time.¡±
¡°Well brother, do you have any brilliant plans on beating the general?¡±
¡°¡¡ No.¡±
The brothers laughed and conversed with each other as if this wasn¡¯t one of the most important moments in their life. That was how much trust they had in each other but as they got closer to the generals, their faces turned deadly serious with focus and determination in their eyes.
¡°Brother, remember why we fight,¡± said Lu Yin.
¡°Don¡¯t worry, I could never forget. Let''s make mother smile in the heavens today.¡±
The stage was set. The brothers had reached where the general and the lieutenants were gathered. They had already left enough space for the fight, and everyone gathered around to try and witness the spar that was about to take place.
¡°Lu Yang and Lu Yin, this is your only chance to change your minds. Are you sure want to fight me?¡± asked the general.
¡°We are sure,¡± said the brothers in unity.
¡°Then draw your weapons and let us begin¡ª also to make things interesting, if any of you land a single hit then I''ll make you both lieutenants right now.¡±
Immediate shock and surprise showed on everyone''s faces at this sudden additional challenge by the general. Both brothers for a second were lost for words. The general had done this for two reasons. Although this was a spar, he wanted to give the brothers high enough stakes to replicate the intensity of a real battle. This was the only way to draw out their full potential without fighting with the intent to kill. The second reason was because he was a hundred percent confident, he would not be hit. If they managed to somehow pull it off, then they deserved the ranks of lieutenant.
With one last look to each other, the brothers drew their swords. The general did the same in return. The spar was about to begin.
Just One Strike
Lu Yang didn¡¯t hesitate, and he immediately lunged towards the general with a speed no one expected.
He exploded forward and unleashed a flurry of well executed strikes leaving no time for the general to counterattack. His blade blurred with speed; each strike aimed at a vital opening. The ringing of blades echoed across the camp.
Each blow however was easily deflected by the general and he was never forced to move. Each blow was deflected with perfect precision and minimal movement, a true master of the sword.
Growing tired of defending, the general patiently waited for an opportunity.
Then¡ª an opening
Lu Yang aimed a desperate strike but in the blink of an eye¡ª
Clack!
The general parried his attack launching him to the ground beside his brother.
Thud. Lu Yang hit the ground with great force.
¡°Are you so scared that you cannot move. Will you watch your brother be defeated after such a flashy challenge,¡± the general taunted Lu Yin in an attempt to test his mental composure.
Lu Yin expression remained cold and unreadable paying no heed to the general¡¯s words. He reached down, pulling his brother up with one smooth motion. No words were exchanged. They didn¡¯t need to be.
The brothers moved again.
This time, they advanced together.
Lu Yang led and Lu Yin matched the pace of his brother step-by-step behind him. To the untrained eye, they were a single figure. But the general was far from untrained. He readied his stance.
Then¡ªsuddenly¡ª Lu Yin leapt.
His blade arced down toward the general from above and at the same time Lu Yang ducked low, slicing low at the general¡¯s legs.
A synchronized attack.
The general smirked. With a single breath, he leaped in the air to avoid the attack, but this was exactly what the brothers wanted.
Whish!
Two daggers flew toward him, one aimed at his chest, the other at the very spot he would land. A clever trap.
With a twist in midair, the general quickly reacted and avoided the first dagger. His sword flicked, knocking the second one aside as well but when he landed¡ª
A flicker of motion.
Lu Yang charged.
And in that moment, the general lost sight of the second twin.
My blind spot? the general thought.
He was right. Lu Yin moved like a shadow, stepping into the peripheral void where the general¡¯s vision could not reach. A perfectly timed strike¡ª one breath out of sync, and it would be over.
But then¡ª
The general closed his eyes and focused his hearing.
Step.
His sword snapped up¡ª clashing against Lu Yang¡¯s attack. At the same time, his hilt shot backward, slamming into Lu Yin¡¯s approaching blade.
The twin brothers froze in surprise momentarily.
¡°IS THAT ALL YOU GOT LU BROTHERS!¡±
The general¡¯s laughter rang across the field, his excitement undeniable. ¡°That was close! One error in that exchange just now would and you would be lieutenants! But now¡ª¡±
A shift.
The general changed his stance, his muscles coiling like a predator ready to pounce.
¡°It¡¯s my turn.¡±
The General Strikes
The moment he moved, the world seemed to blur.
With what seemed like the strength of a boar, a powerful slash came first. The brothers raised their blades¡ª only to be driven back, the impact rattling through their bones.
Another strike, and another¡ª each more powerful than the last. For the first time in the battle, they were on the defensive.
The general¡¯s blade moved with terrifying speed and precision, hit attacks alternating seamlessly between the two brothers, leaving no openings for counterattack. Each strike sent shock waves through their swords, leaving the fingers numb in pain. The brother''s opportunity seemed like it was about to come to an abrupt end.
Blocking the consecutive strikes began to put a toll on the brothers. The general¡¯s strike¡¯s caused pain throughout their bodies without ever dealing a direct strike.
Their arms felt as if they were being struck by thousands of needles.
Their legs trembled as if they were carrying boulders on their backs.
Their heads throbbed as if drums were being played inside their brains.
The image of defeat flashed strongly in their mind.
But then¡ª
Using a desperate burst of energy, Lu Yin moved.
After blocking a strike, Lu Yin spun behind his brother leaning his back against his.
By combining their weight, they managed to block the general¡¯s next attack without being pushed. This meant an opportunity.
Subliminally, Lu Yin signaled for his brother to duck.
He then using all his remaining strength to spin slashing his sword in the process. This slash was timed perfectly barely missing his own brother''s head. This strike showed the trust between brothers and their desperation for victory.
With only time equivalent of blinking an eye to react, the general forced to leap backwards. This caused the separation the brothers needed to reset.
¡°Do you have the energy for one last attempt brother, we must land a strike here,¡± Lu Yin asked.
¡°You know I do brother. Let''s go¡±
With these final words, the brothers charged, the strong desire to win burning like flames in their eyes.
The general flashed a smile - he knew this would be the final exchange.
The brothers began their attack. They strung their strikes together like a masterful melody. Each strike chained and timed with each other as if they became one person.
All their training and hard work began to show, and the general was now sweating with intensity as he dodged each attack.
The soldiers were on edge, for the first time in the spar they were questioning who would be the winner.
Passion in each strike - the brothers continued drawing out every last bit energy they could muster. All they needed was one strike and they were so close.
They could feel victory in the grasps of their hands ¡ª
But then ¡ª something strange happened with the general.
A strange force pulsed through the air. The general¡¯s veins bulged, his body emanating an unseen pressure.
The very earth beneath them shook when ¡ª
Swoosh!!
An invisible force exploded outward, hurling the brothers through the air like leaves in a storm. It was as if an unseen tidal wave had crashed upon them, their bodies utterly powerless against its might.
What happened? The general hadn¡¯t moved.
Only the elite lieutenants knew the answer. This was Qi, something only masters of martial arts could wield.
Their intensity and pressure made me instinctively use Qi to protect myself. To have forced me to use that is spectacular. Their futures are unimaginable, the general thought.
The brothers struggled and struggled but they couldn¡¯t recover from the strike. Their bodies refused to move, drained of all strength, as if their very life force had been snuffed out. They had given it their all but, in the end, their first true battle would end in defeat.
Chapter 2: The Journey Begins
The General''s Squad
After the spar, An Lushan turned to the gathered soldiers.
¡°Back to your preparations! We depart soon!¡±
The soldiers obeyed, but the fight left them in shock, wonder, and curiosity.
The general walked toward the fallen brothers and extended a hand to each.
¡°You fought well, Lu Brothers¡ªone I will not forget.¡±
¡°Thank you, General An Lushan,¡± the brothers said in unison, taking his hands.
With a powerful tug, he pulled them both to their feet. Then, he turned to a lieutenant¡ªa tall woman with a powerful yet elegant presence. Her muscular frame showed experience, but her features carried a sharp beauty.
¡°Li Yi, tend to their injuries.¡±
The woman sighed, crossing her arms. ¡°Already putting me to work, Lushan? There are other medics, you know.¡±
¡°There are. But these brothers aren¡¯t just regular soldiers anymore. They¡¯ll be joining the main squad.¡±
¡°The main squad?!¡± Lu Yang blurted, unable to hide his excitement.
¡°That¡¯s right. From now on, you¡¯ll both train directly under me.¡±
Lu Yang clenched his fist, slamming it into his palm despite his injuries. ¡°We¡¯re honored, General! We won¡¯t lose our next fight with you.¡±
The general laughed. ¡°Don¡¯t forget¡ªwe¡¯re allies, Lu Yang. But I look forward to it.¡±
Lu Yin, calmer yet just as satisfied, bowed his head slightly. ¡°We look forward to your teaching. We won¡¯t let you down.¡±
¡°General, what was that last strike you used? You didn¡¯t move, yet we were blown away. How did you do that?¡± Lu Yang asked.
An Lushan gave a small smirk, then turned serious.
¡°That wasn¡¯t a strike in the way you¡¯re thinking,¡± he said. ¡°It was Qi.¡±
¡°Qi?¡± Lu Yang blinked.
Lu Yin furrowed his brow, remembering the pressure that hit them like a wave.
The general sheathed his sword.
¡°Qi is the energy that flows through all living things. Most people use it without ever realizing it¡ªwhen they breathe, move, or fight. But true warriors learn to feel it¡ guide it¡ weaponize it.¡±
He paused, his eyes narrowing.
¡°What you felt wasn¡¯t power from my body. It was my intent, projected through Qi. When a fighter¡¯s will and spirit align, Qi answers them.¡±
¡°So it¡¯s like invisible strength?¡± Lu Yang tilted his head.
¡°Not strength. Force of being.¡±
An Lushan¡¯s voice dropped a note.
¡°There¡¯s a lot to understand about Qi. Using it is a task few achieve. You¡¯re not ready yet.¡±
Lu Yin nodded. ¡°But we will be.¡±
An Lushan smiled faintly.
¡°I know. That¡¯s why I¡¯ve decided to train you.¡±
Just then, Li Yi stepped forward with a satchel of medical tools. Without warning, she flicked both brothers on the forehead¡ªhard.
¡°Ow! What the¡ª?!¡± Lu Yang flinched.
¡°That¡¯s for scaring me earlier,¡± Li Yi said flatly. ¡°Your little arrow stunt could¡¯ve gotten someone killed.¡±
¡°Then why¡¯d I get flicked too?¡± Lu Yin asked, rubbing his head.
Li Yi smirked. ¡°You¡¯re identical twins. How was I supposed to tell the difference?¡±
She was right. They mirrored each other perfectly¡ªexcept for one detail. A small birthmark sat on each of their foreheads, forming the two halves of a Yin-Yang symbol.
Lu Yin pointed. ¡°The marks on our foreheads are how you tell us apart. We each bear a different half of the Yin-Yang symbol. I am Lu Yin.¡±
Li Yi raised an eyebrow. ¡°Hmph. Well, I¡¯m Li Yi. Lieutenant¡ªand the best medic in all of China.¡±
¡°I don¡¯t know many medics who injure their patients before treating them,¡± Lu Yang muttered.
¡°Would you like another flick, Lu Yang?¡±
¡°No¡ª! I mean¡ It¡¯s a pleasure to meet you, Miss Li Yi.¡±
¡°Good. Now let¡¯s get you patched up.¡±
She knelt and began wrapping their wounds with swift precision. It felt like standard treatment, but afterward, the brothers noticed their fatigue and pain fading rapidly.
¡°Maybe you really are the best, Li Yi,¡± Lu Yang admitted, stretching.
She gave a satisfied nod. ¡°Of course I am. Now get moving. The others are waiting.¡±
The brothers followed Li Yi toward a cluster of horses and soldiers.
Waiting there was An Lushan, along with three remaining lieutenants¡ªall watching the newcomers with measured eyes.
The general turned as they approached.
¡°Lieutenants, these brothers are now traveling with us. They¡¯ve earned their place among the main squad.¡±
The soldiers took turns studying them. Then¡ª
¡°Aye, Lu Yang! You¡¯re the one who ruined my snack earlier. I was enjoying that apple, you know.¡±
A large, broad-shouldered warrior stepped forward, arms crossed. His sheer size made him tower over most men, but his face held a surprisingly lighthearted expression.
Lu Yang chuckled. ¡°I apologize, Lieutenant. It was a necessary sacrifice.¡±
The man huffed. ¡°Huh? Is my apple a joke to you?¡± He glared for a long moment¡ then grinned.
¡°Whatever. I¡¯ll forgive you this once. I¡¯m Shi Siming¡ªlieutenant and weapon master for the squad.¡±
The next lieutenant stroked his beard, nodding at them with approval. His weathered face and sharp eyes marked him as a veteran who had seen many battles.
¡°You brothers sure know how to make an entrance. I remember when I had such fire in my younger days. I¡¯m Lieutenant Yin Zhongkan, also a combat instructor for the soldiers.¡±
He narrowed his eyes. ¡°Your technique shows promise, but don¡¯t think for a second that raw talent is enough to survive war.¡±
Lu Yin bowed respectfully. ¡°We¡¯ll do our best to learn from you, Lieutenant.¡±
Yin Zhongkan nodded. ¡°We¡¯ll see.¡±
The last lieutenant was a slender young man who, at that moment, had his head buried in a book¡ªcompletely absorbed and not paying attention to the conversation.
An Lushan sighed. ¡°Liu Fang!¡±
The young man startled, dropping his book before scrambling to pick it up. ¡°Ah! Y-Yes, General?¡±
An Lushan shook his head. ¡°Introduce yourself.¡±
Liu Fang stood and turned toward the brothers, brushing dust off his robes.
¡°Your fi-fight was¡ very interesting to analyze. It is nice to me-meet you. I¡¯m Liu Fang, lieutenant and record keeper.¡±
Lu Yang tilted his head. ¡°Record keeper?¡±
¡°Yes,¡± Liu Fang nodded. ¡°I document troop formations, battlefield movements, war logistics¡ and, um, whatever else needs analyzing.¡±
Shi Siming snorted. ¡°He means he spends more time in books than on the battlefield.¡±
Liu Fang frowned. ¡°I assure you, strategy is just as important as brute force, Lieutenant Siming.¡±
Shi Siming smirked. ¡°Right, right. And yet, I¡¯m still the one protecting you.¡±
The brothers couldn¡¯t help but smile at the squad¡¯s natural chemistry. They weren¡¯t just a fighting unit¡ªthey were a family.
An Lushan crossed his arms, his gaze sweeping over his assembled warriors.
¡°Now that introductions are settled¡ªmount up. We ride for the northern frontier.¡±
Old Man Fu
The arduous journey to the northern frontier would take the regiment about twenty days to complete. As the soldiers marched forward, the general rode alongside the Lu brothers, discussing their upcoming training.
¡°General Lushan, what will you teach us first?¡± Lu Yang asked, his tone eager. ¡°How will we train?¡±
An Lushan studied them for a moment, then posed a question instead.
¡°First, ask yourselves this¡ªwhat is your biggest weakness? What are you lacking the most?¡±
Lu Yang blinked. ¡°Biggest weakness?¡±
Lu Yin frowned, already deep in thought.
¡°Yin, you figure it out. That¡¯s too much thinking for me,¡± Lu Yang groaned.
¡°Maybe your biggest weakness is the lack of a brain, brother,¡± Yin joked.
Taken from Royal Road, this narrative should be reported if found on Amazon.
An Lushan chuckled, shaking his head. ¡°I know it¡¯s a vague question but reflect on it as we travel today. The answer will shape what I teach you next.¡±
Shi Siming, overhearing the conversation, chimed in.
¡°Where did you two learn how to fight anyway? Your foundations are too polished to be self-taught.¡±
¡°For the last ten years, we were trained and raised by a man named Renfu,¡± Lu Yin replied.
At the mention of the name, An Lushan¡¯s brow furrowed slightly.
Renfu? Why does that name sound so familiar? the general wondered.
He hesitated for a moment before asking, ¡°Renfu, you say? Was he a court official?¡±
Lu Yang laughed outright. ¡°Old Man Fu, a court official? No way. That old man was just a wandering scholar who did whatever he pleased.¡±
An Lushan¡¯s expression remained unreadable. ¡°Hmm¡ well, he must have been an amazing swordsman. I could see it in our spar.¡±
The brothers fell briefly silent. Lu Yang¡¯s fist clenched at his side, tension rising in his shoulders.
Sensing the shift, Lu Yin spoke up. ¡°Renfu was more than amazing. His skill still frightens me. He was a master at fighting¡ but he was an even better man.¡±
Lu Yin¡¯s expression darkened.
¡°Renfu¡ passed away shortly before we enlisted.¡±
Li Yi¡¯s interest sharpened instantly. ¡°Passed away? From what?¡±
Lu Yang¡¯s voice came out bitter. ¡°Some ¡®mysterious illness,¡¯ they said.¡±
Li Yi¡¯s eyes narrowed. ¡°Mysterious illness? What were his symptoms?¡±
Lu Yang answered before Lu Yin could. His voice was tight with anger. ¡°There were none.¡±
The group paused slightly, absorbing the weight in his words.
Lu Yang¡¯s knuckles turned white. ¡°Old Man Fu was the healthiest elder I¡¯ve seen. Those useless doctors couldn¡¯t even give us a proper explanation for his death.¡±
Lu Yin placed a calm hand on his brother¡¯s shoulder. ¡°Yang¡ relax.¡±
He turned to the others. ¡°The doctors studied him for days, but no cause of death was ever found.¡±
Yin Zhongkan exhaled; his voice tinged with experience. ¡°Death truly comes in all forms¡ but I¡¯m sorry for your loss.¡±
Lu Yin bowed his head slightly. ¡°Thank you, Lieutenant.¡±
But Li Yi wasn¡¯t satisfied. Her mind raced with possibilities.
No symptoms? Completely healthy to sudden death?
Li Yi¡¯s medical knowledge made her question everything. She glanced at An Lushan, wondering if he, too, felt the strangeness of the situation.
The general broke the silence.
¡°Although I never met him, I know he would be proud to see your actions today.¡± His voice was firm, carrying a weight of certainty.
He nodded to both brothers. ¡°Carry his name forward. Let your blades be his legacy.¡±
Lu Yang took a deep breath, fire returning to his eyes. ¡°Understood, General.¡±
The mood lightened slightly as An Lushan gave them a final warning.
¡°Let me be clear¡ªmy training won¡¯t be easy. Whenever we aren¡¯t traveling, you¡¯ll train.¡±
Liu Fang finally looked up from his book. ¡°General, sleeping will also be necessary for their growth.¡±
An Lushan sighed. ¡°Yes, Liu Fang, I know.¡±
The group chuckled as they pressed forward, their first day of travel stretching ahead.
Fighting Styles
Later that night, once the regiment had set up camp, An Lushan gathered the brothers and the lieutenants.
¡°Yin and Yang,¡± the general said. ¡°Have you come up with an answer to my question?¡±
Lu Yang answered without hesitation. ¡°Ultimate attack! We need more power!¡±
Lu Yin palmed his face in disappointment. ¡°That¡¯s it, Yang? After an entire day of thinking?¡±
¡°You don¡¯t even know if it¡¯s right or wrong yet, Yin,¡± Lu Yang grumbled.
¡°It¡¯s wrong,¡± the lieutenants all answered in unison.
Lu Yang scoffed. ¡°Well what¡¯s your answer, Yin?¡±
Lu Yin folded his arms. ¡°What we lack the most is unpredictability. The general predicted every one of our attacks because we have no unique style. Renfu only trained us in the foundational core and basics of swordplay¡ªno identity, no specialization. What we lack is our own style. Am I right, General?¡±
An Lushan¡¯s eyes glowed with approval. ¡°Impressive, Yin. You are correct. What you brothers lack is the defining trait of every elite warrior¡ªa unique way of fighting. The first step to growth is crafting your own path.¡±
¡°That¡¯s pretty much what I said, Yin. You just made it sound fancier!¡± Yang blurted out.
The general smirked. ¡°And yet¡ Yin is correct.¡±
Lu Yang sighed. ¡°Fine, fine. So how do we create our own style?¡±
¡°That answer¡ you must find on your own.¡± An Lushan then motioned toward his lieutenants. ¡°But there is something that may help. Let them show you what true fighting styles look like.¡±
Li Yi sighed, rolling her shoulders. ¡°So that¡¯s why I¡¯m not enjoying some precious sleep right now. You brothers are already causing me too much trouble.¡±
Shi Siming smirked, resting his massive glaive across his shoulders. ¡°Come on, it¡¯s been a while since we let loose. Don¡¯t tell me you¡¯re scared to embarrass yourself in front of the new recruits, Yi.¡±
Li Yi scoffed, flicking a stray strand of hair behind her ear. ¡°Scared? Hmph! I¡¯ll gladly demonstrate¡ªby giving you a beating, Siming.¡±
An Lushan let out a hearty laugh. ¡°Well, it¡¯s settled. Yi and Siming will give us a demonstration for your first lesson. Watch closely and see for yourselves what having a fighting style truly means.¡±
Shi Siming grinned, eyes glinting with excitement. ¡°Now we¡¯re talking!!¡±
The general stepped forward, dragging his sword across the dirt to carve a wide circle into the earth.
¡°The rules are simple. Whoever steps out of this circle first¡ªloses.¡±
Li Yi adjusted her grip on her weapons: a large, polished staff and a small pouch of medical needles. ¡°Watch closely, Yin and Yang. It¡¯s an honor to watch the beautiful Li Yi in battle.¡±
Shi Siming cracked his knuckles and adjusted his stance, letting his glaive rest effortlessly on his shoulder.
Only now did Lu Yin and Lu Yang take in the full extent of Shi Siming¡¯s arsenal. His massive glaive was only the most eye-catching of many. Strapped to his back, belt, and armor were at least half a dozen weapons¡ªa pair of axes, a short-handled war hammer, throwing knives, and even a dagger tucked into his boot.
A walking armory, Lu Yin thought.
Shi Siming grinned as if reading their expressions. ¡°Don¡¯t blink, or you¡¯ll miss the fight. I¡¯ll make sure to end this quick.¡±
Both lieutenants stepped into the circle and readied their stances.
The brothers felt something stir in their chest.
For the first time, they would witness what it truly meant to have a fighting style.
Li Yi vs Shi Siming
As the fight was about to begin, the general crossed his arms and spoke to the brothers.
¡°You two are in for a rare sight. This matchup may be the best demonstration of fighting styles imaginable.¡±
¡°Why do you say that, General?¡± Lu Yang asked.
An Lushan smirked. ¡°Li Yi and Shi Siming have completely different philosophies when it comes to combat. Their drastic contrast will highlight their styles even further.¡±
As he finished his sentence¡ª
Shi Siming charged.
He swung his glaive in rapid succession, each arc of his blade a seamless, brutal chain of attacks. The force of his strikes sent small gusts of wind rippling through the air, making it look impossible to counterattack. Li Yi was pushed back step by step, her feet nearing the edge of the circle.
¡°You really are trying to end this quick, Siming,¡± she called out, barely fazed.
Though she was on the defensive, her movements were deliberate. Her staff spun expertly, redirecting each of Shi Siming¡¯s powerful swings rather than meeting them head-on. With every strike he unleashed, he drained more of his own stamina.
The general¡¯s voice cut in. ¡°Do you see it now? Shi Siming is known as the unstoppable weapon master. He¡¯s centered his fighting style around relentless offense¡ªadapting, attacking, and overwhelming his opponents before they can even think.¡±
¡°And Li Yi is the opposite?¡± Lu Yin asked, eyes narrowing in realization.
An Lushan nodded. ¡°Correct. Li Yi¡¯s philosophy is to exhaust and disable her opponent. She waits for the perfect moment to strike, turning an enemy¡¯s own strength against them.¡±
Lu Yang scratched his head. ¡°Huh¡ it¡¯s starting to make a little sense.¡±
¡°Keep watching,¡± the general urged. ¡°The real lesson is just beginning.¡±
Li Yi¡¯s feet slid dangerously close to the edge of the circle. One more strike, and she would be forced out.
Then¡ªher staff spun.
With pinpoint precision, she struck Shi Siming¡¯s wrist.
Thump!
His glaive flew from his grasp, tumbling outside the circle.
¡°What a turnaround!¡± Lu Yang exclaimed, heart pounding.
¡°He¡¯s without his main weapon now, she has the advantage now,¡± Lu Yin observed.
An Lushan chuckled. ¡°Main weapon? He isn¡¯t called a weapon master for no reason. There isn¡¯t a single weapon on Earth that man can¡¯t use.¡±
Without hesitation, Shi Siming reached to his waist and pulled out a pair of battle axes. In a flash, he was back on the offensive, his attacks just as fierce as before.
¡°Your fighting never ceases to annoy me,¡± Li Yi gritted her teeth, tightening her grip.
¡°That little move of yours was cute,¡± Shi Siming grinned, ¡°but this fight¡¯s already over.¡±
¡°I don¡¯t think so.¡±
With a sharp exhale, Li Yi spun her staff wide in a wide defensive arc, absorbing his strike and sending the power right back at him.
Shi Siming staggered backward, barely keeping his footing.
An Lushan smirked. ¡°Ripple of the Flowing Staff.¡±
Lu Yang blinked. ¡°Huh? What is that?¡±
¡°That move has become something of a legend,¡± the general explained. ¡°It¡¯s the perfect embodiment of the saying, ¡®the best defense is a good offense.¡¯¡±
¡°They¡¯re incredible¡¡± Lu Yang muttered, eyes gleaming with admiration.
Lu Yin nodded. ¡°Shi Siming is truly a master of weapons, adapting instantly. But Li Yi turned his own strength against him. This is what having a fighting style means, isn¡¯t it?¡±
¡°Exactly,¡± said the general. ¡°Their styles are extensions of themselves¡ªborn from years of discipline, experience, and adaptation.¡±
¡°But the fight isn¡¯t over yet,¡± Lu Yin added. "I wonder how it''ll end."
Li Yi steadied herself, the momentary separation was all she needed. She reached into her pouch and pulled out a dozen gleaming needles.
With a flick of her wrist, they soared through the air like silver streaks.
Shi Siming¡¯s eyes widened as he dodged frantically. ¡°Tch¡ if even one of those lands, I¡¯m done for.¡±
¡°Wait, why is he so worried about small needles? Theres no way it can hurt a big guy like him.¡± Lu Yang blurted out.
An Lushan laughed. ¡°You¡¯d think so, wouldn''t you? But in Li Yi¡¯s hands, those needles are far more dangerous than you realize.¡±
Lu Yin turned is attention to the general. ¡°How so?¡±
¡°Li Yi isn¡¯t just a skilled fighter¡ªher dream is to be the greatest doctor in China. She¡¯s incorporated her medical knowledge into her fighting style.¡±
Lu Yang¡¯s eyes widened. ¡°Wait... you¡¯re saying¡ª¡±
¡°Li Yi has perfectly memorized every pressure point in the human body. If those needles hit where she intends, they¡¯ll paralyze him temporarily.¡±
¡°That¡¯s insane!¡± Lu Yang shouted.
¡°Exactly why you should stay on her good side,¡± the general teased.
Back in the circle, Shi Siming was forced closer and closer to the circle''s edge, barely dodging the relentless barrage.
He made a snap decision¡ªtossing his axes aside, he pulled out throwing knives and launched a counterattack.
Blades clashed midair, canceling out the needles.
Then¡ª
Shi Siming dashed forward and pulled out a short-handled war hammer.
The momentum had shifted once again.
Li Yi¡¯s sharp eyes tracked the daggers flying toward her. She had to adjust her stance quickly, deflecting the last blade just in time. But in that brief moment¡ªShi Siming was already charging.
A full-force sprint.
A war hammer gripped in both hands.
Li Yi reacted instantly. She dug her feet into the dirt, bracing her stance, pole raised to intercept the attack.
But she¡¯d made one fatal mistake.
Li Yi momentarily forgot the win condition. Her mind was solely focused on countering the hammer¡¯s devastating power.
It was a feint¡ªhe never planned to use the hammer at all.
With a wild grin, he hurled the hammer forward, abandoning it mid charge.
Li Yi''s eyes widened¡ªtoo late.
Shi Siming launched himself into the air. With all his strength, he twisted and drove his leg forward in a powerful kick.
BAM!
Li Yi managed to block just in time, avoiding a direct hit¡ªbut a direct hit was never Shi Siming¡¯s goal.
The sheer force of the impact sent her sliding back across the dirt.
Her mind raced. She tried to dig her heels to slow down¡ªbut there was nothing she could do.
And then¡ª
The dust cloud rose.
Silence fell over the spectators.
Through the swirling dust, everyone strained to see where Li Yi had stopped.
As the dust finally settled, the result became clear.
Li Yi stood tall, her expression unreadable¡ªbut just behind her, the tip of her boot crossed the line.
She had lost.
¡°Son of a¡¡± Li Yi muttered, clenching her fists. She sighed. ¡°This one¡¯s yours, Siming. Well played.¡±
Shi Siming let out a booming laugh. ¡°You really had me sweating there, Yi. Every time we fight, I remember why I hate going against you.¡±
An Lushan stepped forward, voice echoing in the night.
¡°Let this be your first real lesson, brothers. The path to true power begins with forging a style that aligns with who you are. One that reflects your spirit¡ªnot just your sword.¡±
Lu Yin and Lu Yang stood in silent awe, before nodding in unison.
¡°We understand, General.¡±
Lu Yang practically sprinted over to the two lieutenants, thrilled by the fight he had just witnessed.
¡°That was incredible, Li Yi. Your defense is unreal¡ªI don¡¯t think I¡¯d even be able to touch you right now.¡±
Li Yi smirked, stepped forward¡ªand before Lu Yang could react, caught him in a firm headlock.
¡°Of course you wouldn¡¯t, Yang.¡±
¡°Ack¡ªwait! Hold on! I give! I give!¡± Lu Yang flailed, laughing as he pried himself free.
He turned to Shi Siming, eyes still gleaming with curiosity.
¡°And you! How can you attack so ferociously without tiring? And how many weapons can you even use?¡±
Shi Siming grinned, crossing his arms proudly. ¡°That¡¯s just what it takes to be a lieutenant, Yang.¡±
Lu Yin, now beside them, inclined his head in gratitude.
¡°That was an excellent display of skill. Thank you both for your guidance.¡±
Shi Siming nodded, his usual grin softening just a bit.
¡°Of course, young Yin. You two getting stronger increases all of our chances of survival later on. So don¡¯t waste what we teach you.¡±
Li Yi stretched her arms and yawned. ¡°Ugh. Now that my job¡¯s done, I¡¯m going to get some sleep.¡±
The brothers stood in the dimly lit camp, still absorbing what they had witnessed.
Tonight, they had seen a glimpse of what true mastery looked like.
And the fire in their hearts burned brighter than ever.