Chapter 6: Learning Arts in the Easy Garden

Lin Yunfeng inquired, "Esteemed one, may I ask what extraordinary skills are present within the Easy Garden? Could you share some with us so that we may broaden our understanding?"

Lu Yun thought to herself that she must seize the opportunity to meet these two outstanding individuals and witness their demeanor. Glancing at the sky, Lu Yun recalled Lin Yunfeng, wondering how he had progressed over the past three months; he should have made rapid advancements as well

Ziyang Zhenren looked at Lu Yun, his eyes revealing a hint of admiration. Lu Yun's heart devoid of desires is precisely the most important aspect of cultivating the Dao. Yiyuan focuses primarily on the cultivation of the mind, placing great emphasis on the spiritual training of its disciples. Lu Yun's performance aligns perfectly with the essence of Yiyuan's teachings on mind cultivation, which is why he is deeply favored by Ziyang Zhenren

During the three months at Yang Courtyard, Lu Yun learned a great deal from the senior brothers. Among the many stories, the most frequently mentioned were those concerning Yi Garden, particularly the matters related to the Qian Kun Ear Courtyard. From the information Lu Yun gathered indirectly, the most renowned places within Yi Garden are the Qian and Kun Courtyards. Over the years, the Qian Courtyard has produced two of the most outstanding figures. One of them is Feng Yuanyang, who has already graduated and was a senior brother who entered the school sixty years ago. It is said that he once stood out among thirty of the most exceptional young masters from the six courtyards during the Martial Arts Conference, ultimately securing third place at that time, bringing unparalleled glory to Yi Garden.

The other individual is Li Hongfei, who is the most outstanding among all the disciples of this cohort, comparable in fame to Zhang Aoxue from the Kun Academy. He has captivated the entire Yi Garden and is a source of pride for everyone. It is said that both of them have already mastered the ninth technique of the "Twelve Techniques of Yi Tian" from Yi Garden, a feat that has never been achieved before, and they are now catching up to the legendary Feng Yuanyang of the past.

The gazes of the five masters in Yiyuan all rested on Lin Yunfeng and Lu Yun. In the end, apart from the Xuan Yu Zhenren, the attention of the other four was entirely focused on Lin Yunfeng. However, Xuan Yu Zhenren was carefully observing Lu Yun, feeling a strange sensation towards him. In his perception, Lu Yun should not be an ordinary person, yet upon closer inspection, he could not sense any aura of cultivation emanating from Lu Yun, which was indeed peculiar. With a slight frown, Xuan Yu Zhenren slowly shifted his gaze towards Lin Yunfeng.

Xuan Yu looked at him and smiled, saying: "No need for formalities, just sit down and talk. In fact, I often lie here alone, watching the drifting clouds in the sky, quietly contemplating some thoughts. You have been watching for quite a while; do you have any feelings about it? Please share them with me." After saying this, he also sat down on the grass and slightly reclined.

Subsequently, Master Ziyang personally imparted the entry-level incantations to the five individuals. Once they had memorized them, Master Ziyang spoke: "The cultivation techniques of our sect are renowned throughout the entire realm of cultivation, being among the most extraordinary and superior methods in existence. You must dedicate yourselves to your practice. Once you have fully mastered these twelve incantations, you will have the opportunity to ascend to immortality, living forever in harmony with the heavens and the earth. As for our sect's 'Twelve Incantations of Yitian,' they are actually a combination of two techniques merged into one. Once you have fully mastered these twelve incantations, you will have the opportunity to ascend to immortality, living forever in harmony with the heavens and the earth. The 'Twelve Incantations of Yitian' consist of 'Six Methods of Yitian' and 'Six Techniques of Yitian,' collectively referred to as the twelve incantations. The six methods primarily enhance one's own cultivation, laying the foundation for practicing the 'Six Techniques of Yitian.' Therefore, these six methods are of utmost importance. The entry-level incantation you are currently learning is the first of the six methods, so you must practice diligently. Once you have completed the six methods, it will be equivalent to having mastered the first six incantations of the 'Twelve Incantations of Yitian.' At that point, you will have reached the realm of controlling objects. Now, everyone, return to your practice. I will check your progress every ten days. I hope you will work hard. Go now."

The Master Xuan Yu smiled and said: "Are you quite special? Today, upon seeing you, I realize that you have changed significantly compared to three months ago. At this moment, your cultivation has already become quite formidable. In just one hundred days, you have managed to master the first six techniques of the 'Twelve Techniques of Yi Tian.' This truly sets a new record for Yi Garden. If Zi Yang were to find out, he would undoubtedly be extremely pleased with his initial choice. Continue to work hard; I hope to see your presence at the upcoming Six Courtyards Martial Arts Conference." After saying this, Master Xuan Yu stood up and left.

Once everyone has completed their writings, they each inscribe their names and then submit them to a stone table in the center of the hall, awaiting collection by the four heads of the respective divisions present. Observing the group, Master Xuan Yu stated: "Let us begin now; you may all take a look at their results and then start making your selections. This process is already very familiar to you, so I shall not elaborate further." After speaking, he gazed at the outstanding disciples under his tutelage, his eyes revealing a hint of anticipation. This process is already very familiar to you, so I shall not elaborate further. After speaking, he gazed at the outstanding disciples under his tutelage, his eyes revealing a hint of anticipation.

Lu Yun returned to his room, lying quietly on the bed, lost in thought. His visit here had been remarkably smooth, which took him somewhat by surprise and left him with a sense of unreality. He harbored a desire to delve deeper into the supreme technique of Yiyuan, the "Twelve Techniques of Yitian," and he wanted to understand why Yiyuan, relying on this set of techniques, could remain unyielding in the world of cultivation for a millennium; he believed there must be some rationale behind it. Although he had only been here for two days, he had already distinctly sensed the intense factionalism within the cultivation world, far more fierce than he had imagined. Even within Yiyuan, the four separate courtyards were rife with open and covert struggles, characterized by a competitive relationship among them.

Here, the Xuan Yin Zhenren wore a sly smile on his face as he scrutinized Lin Yunfeng. Lin Yunfeng felt uneasy under his gaze, sensing something ominous. Xuan Yin Zhenren chuckled, "I hear you are the disciple of the Ghost Master, heh heh, interesting. That old ghost had a good relationship with me back in the day; we were quite close. Since you have chosen to study under me, I will take good care of you in honor of our old friendship. Heh heh, work hard, and do not disappoint me, or else, heh heh, you will find out later." Xuan Yin Zhenren's expression was filled with ill intentions, causing Lin Yunfeng to feel a chill run down his spine. He inwardly cursed the old ghost for being despicable, realizing that he would need to be cautious in the future.

Lu Yun's thoughts stirred, and a hint of surprise appeared in his eyes, but he quickly regained his composure, quietly gazing at the flowing clouds in the sky. Master Xuan Yu looked at Lu Yun, silently appearing beside him, and softly said: "Is there anything you have discerned while watching here alone?"

The Master Ziyang smiled and said, "Lu Yun, since Lin Yunfeng is going to the Yin Courtyard to learn the 'Demon-Slaying Sword', why not come to my Yang Courtyard to study the 'Fiery Heavenly Gang Sword Technique'? As long as you put in the effort, with your natural talent, you will surely become one of the most outstanding individuals in the Yi Garden in the future. What do you think? Take your time to consider; there is no need to rush your answer. I won't say much more. I have arranged accommodations for you, so you may go down and rest for now." With that, he stood up and led the two away.

Regarding the introductory techniques taught by Ziyang Zhenren today, he was not concerned at all. For him, it was entirely possible to skip the earlier stages and directly practice the more profound secrets that followed. However, he still decided to practice, as he had just arrived, and there were certain things that needed to be demonstrated for others.

Time always passes by unnoticed, slowly moving past us. Without a sound, without a ripple, it simply slips away in the blink of an eye. In the span of three months, Lu Yun effortlessly mastered the "Six Methods of Yitian" and, through inquiries with his senior brothers, learned the seventh formula of the "Twelve Techniques of Yitian," which he began to practice in secret.

Lu Yundan smiled lightly and said: "Everything comes naturally to me; I can learn anything, and that is not important to me. As for the result, we will know the day after tomorrow, won't we?"

In our Yin and Yang Academy, over the past one hundred years, we have never produced any outstanding talents, which is why we have been firmly overshadowed by the Qiankun Academy and cannot compare with them. When it comes to cultivation methods, everyone is essentially the same; we all practice the foundational technique "Yitian Twelve Secrets." Based on this foundation, while the sword techniques may differ, as long as one puts in the effort and cultivates to a certain level, the power will be quite similar. Therefore, as long as everyone works hard and dedicates themselves, there is hope to catch up with the two academies. I hope everyone will strive to surpass them and bring glory to our Yang Academy. To give you more time for cultivation, I plan to start teaching you the introductory mantra today, so you can begin your practice immediately and strive for early success.

Lu Yun held a pen, contemplating which academy to enter. He understood that the best one here was actually the Qian Academy, but he had also heard in the past few days about a once-in-a-century talent, Li Hongfei, emerging from Qian Academy. He did not wish to compete for the spotlight with him. After pondering for a while, he wrote the two characters "Yang Academy" on the paper. Meanwhile, Lin Yunfeng beside him wrote "Yin Academy," as that was his dream.

Leaving the Yang Courtyard, Lu Yun walked slowly, observing the students of the Yi Garden in the distance, each engrossed in their studies, diligently applying themselves. This stirred a feeling within Lu Yun. In the hearts of these students, perhaps they harbor no other distractions; their sole focus is on their studies, aspiring to benefit the world and the people in the future. They truly are innocent young scholars! For their purity, Lu Yun felt an indescribable sentiment, perhaps this is also a form of dedication, a kind of joy, is it not? In the hearts of these students, perhaps they harbor no other distractions; their sole focus is on their studies, aspiring to benefit the world and the people in the future. They truly are innocent young scholars! For their purity, Lu Yun felt an indescribable sentiment, perhaps this is also a form of dedication, a kind of joy, is it not?

Quietly gazing at the white clouds in the sky, Lu Yun slowly lies on the grass outside the garden, a solitary figure lost in thought. Not far away, a silhouette gradually approaches him, and as they look at Lu Yun on the ground, a glimmer of light appears in the person's eyes

Lu Yun and Lin Yunfeng walked out of Yitian Pavilion together. Lin Yunfeng said: "Lu Yun, you must work hard. In the future, we will roam the world together, slaying demons and capturing ghosts, enjoying the beauty of Shenzhou. I will come to see you when I have time, and we will strive together. As long as we work hard, there is hope. I am also thinking about participating in the Six Academies Martial Arts Conference in two years. How impressive that will be! Hehe, I will definitely make it, and you should strive for it too. I hope we can make it together to attend that conference. Take care, I will wait for you." After saying this, he looked at him and slowly turned to leave.

After observing for a while, Lu Yun realized that the young men and women here all possessed a certain level of foundation in their cultivation, each with varying degrees of skill, and none were ordinary individuals. It seemed that the Yi Garden also had criteria for selecting disciples. Those without a solid foundation starting from scratch would require a significant amount of time, which would greatly impact Yi Garden's reputation in the realm of cultivation. Perhaps every cultivation sect operates this way; aside from those disciples raised from a young age who begin laying their foundations early, all other disciples must have a certain level of foundation to be accepted. Those without a solid foundation starting from scratch would require a significant amount of time, which would greatly impact Yi Garden's reputation in the realm of cultivation. Perhaps every cultivation sect operates this way; aside from those disciples raised from a young age who begin laying their foundations early, all other disciples must have a certain level of foundation to be accepted. I might be one of the exceptions among them.

The four院主 approached the stone table together, slowly separating the preferences of the twelve selected disciples in order to recruit the disciples they desired. Soon, the preferences were sorted out: among these twelve, four wished to enter the Qian院, four to the Kun院, seven to the Yin院, and seven to the Yang院. Of course, some individuals had written down preferences for two different院, which is why there were so many entries, with many being duplicates.

The Ziyang True Person's eyes revealed a look of admiration as he smiled and said, "Good, you have ambition. Come, let us return to the Yang Courtyard. Today, I will teach you the cultivation techniques of our Yi Garden. I hope you will work hard in the future, and I believe that soon you will have the hope of catching up with those senior brothers from before." After saying this, he led the way and walked towards hetushu .com .com, with Lu Yun closely following behind, both disappearing around the corner.

Lu Yun was taken aback and quickly stood up, saying: "It turns out to be Master Zhang, I did not know that you would come, and I hope you can forgive me for my rudeness."

Lu Yun looked at these people and sighed softly in his heart, finally understanding why many cultivation sects are quite strict in recruiting disciples. The path of cultivation is easy to enter but difficult to exit; while it may be easy to gain entry, achieving great success is incredibly challenging. After all, it is a struggle against fate, going against the heavens. Not everyone possesses the determination and perseverance to succeed in cultivation. If mere effort could lead to immortality, then the entire cultivation world would be filled with countless immortals, wouldn't it? Yet, in reality, how many in the current cultivation world have truly attained enlightenment? Very few, indeed!

Lu Yun let out a sigh of relief; that was quite intense. He had clearly sensed that the renowned Master Xuan Yu was probing his aura, and he was genuinely afraid of being discovered by this highly esteemed cultivator in the realm of immortality. Fortunately, he managed to pass the scrutiny. Slightly raising his head, Lu Yun carefully observed these individuals. He understood that these young people might one day become his fellow disciples, so he began to memorize their facial features for future recognition.

After a period of discussion, among the twelve disciples, two beautiful young women were accepted into the Kun Academy by Master Jingyue, while among the remaining eight male disciples, the one with the highest cultivation was admitted to the Qian Academy. The remaining seven were divided as follows: three entered the Yin Academy and four entered the Yang Academy. Thus, the recruitment of disciples for this ten-year period was finally completed. The four slots in the Qian Academy were filled, and the Kun Academy had six, the Yin Academy had twelve, and the Yang Academy also had twelve, all fully recruited. The next recruitment will not begin until two years later.

The other four individuals who came with Lu Yun also possess considerable cultivation, having all reached the fourth and fifth levels of mastery, which can be regarded as rapid progress. In the past, this group of five disciples would have been considered quite impressive.

Ziyang Zhenren returned to his residence and, looking at Lin Yunfeng and Lu Yuan, said: "You two are quite fortunate; the garden master has already agreed. In two days, you will be able to participate in the selection process along with ten others. At that time, you will know which garden you have been admitted to."

The Master Xuan Yu looked at everyone and spoke: "This will be the last opportunity for this cohort to recruit disciples. The fact that the twelve of you can enter my Yi Garden for cultivation is a matter of fate for each of you. I hope you will cherish this opportunity and not miss it. In the time to come, you will need to cultivate with unwavering determination and seriousness, striving to surpass yourselves and enter the wondrous realm of cultivation, contributing your efforts for the world and for Yi Garden. Become chivalrous heroes who roam the world, vanquishing demons and upholding justice, protecting the peace of the common people. In the time to come, you will need to cultivate with unwavering determination and seriousness, striving to surpass yourselves and enter the wondrous realm of cultivation, contributing your efforts for the world and for Yi Garden. Become chivalrous heroes who roam the world, vanquishing demons and upholding justice, protecting the peace of the common people. Work hard; you are all the future talents of Yi Garden, striving for your ideals." After finishing, he exchanged a glance with the four院主, signaling that they could leave.

Among all the selected disciples, except for Lu Yun and Lin Yunfeng, who only wrote one place, the other ten each wrote down two separate courtyards. Therefore, at this moment, those individuals are faced with a choice, and the initiative lies in the hands of the four courtyard masters. Master Ziyang smiled as he pulled Lu Yun to his side and said to him: "Very good, work hard in the future, and you will surely have a day to stand out. I am looking forward to you bringing glory to our Yang Courtyard, which will help wash away the bad reputation we have had for many years due to the lack of outstanding disciples. Your natural talent is exceptional, making you a good candidate for cultivation. Although you have not yet entered the door, I believe you will definitely bring glory to our Yang Courtyard in the future."

At this moment, Master Xuan Yu spoke: "Alright, since everyone is already here, let us begin. In order to solicit opinions from both sides, this time, as in the past, each person will write down on paper the sect they wish to learn from. You may write down two, but no more than two. Finally, the four sects will recruit their preferred disciples based on the circumstances. Let us begin!" After saying this, he looked at the twelve selected disciples, his eyes revealing a hint of inscrutable depth.

Lu Yun smiled faintly: "Thank you for your concern, Master. I will certainly work hard to strive for glory for the Yang Institute." Ziyang Zhenren patted his shoulder and turned to leave

The Master Xuan Yu gazed at the sky and smiled slightly, saying: "Everyone has different dreams and various aspirations. The path of cultivation is arduous, yet it can bring some goodwill to the cultivator. Some are determined to become heroes and benefit the people, thus they cultivate to enhance their abilities for the sake of the nation and its citizens. Others seek immortality, and cultivation is their only path, so they choose to pursue the Dao. There are also those who, driven by personal desires, utilize the methods of cultivation to obtain the power they desire, enabling them to do as they wish. Some wish for immortality, and cultivation is their only path, so they choose to pursue the Dao. Additionally, there are those who, out of curiosity, also choose this path. Have you ever considered what your own purpose is?"

Lu Yun gazed faintly into the distance and softly said, "I have come, perhaps for a wish." Just a brief sentence, nothing more.

In the following ten days, Lu Yun truly dedicated himself to his cultivation, making rapid progress. Within this short span, he had already mastered the first technique. On this day, Master Ziyang brought the five newcomers to a large courtyard, where countless individuals were engaged in their own cultivation. All of them were disciples of the Yang Academy, and many appeared to be in their sixties or seventies, yet they were still fervently practicing.

Lu Yun watched him leave, a hint of contemplation appearing in his eyes. There seemed to be something hidden in his words, but unfortunately, Lu Yun could not decipher it at the moment. He gently closed his eyes, accepting that everything would unfold as it should, and wondered why he needed to care so much. Those who cultivate the Dao place great importance on the natural course of events, do they not? Being overly attached will not yield any results.

Lu Yun glanced around carefully, and the number ninety-seven automatically appeared in his mind. For him now, ever since he cultivated the "Limitless Universe" technique passed down by his ancestors to the sixth level of "Infinite Extension," many results would immediately manifest in his mind without him needing to observe them. It was extraordinarily miraculous and profoundly mysterious. This was an ability that his previous five superior techniques did not possess. Cultivating the "Limitless Universe" made Lu Yun extremely sensitive to many things around him, allowing him to automatically know the outcomes effortlessly, giving him a sense of clarity about all things in the universe. This brought him immense joy, as the technique, uniquely created by his ancestors over six thousand years, was truly unparalleled and the best in the world.

Lin Yunfeng, upon hearing this, stuck out his tongue in surprise and said: "I didn't expect that the Easy Garden has so many extraordinary skills, this is truly wonderful. I came specifically to learn the 'Demon-Slaying Sword' from the Shadow Courtyard; the others can be left for them to learn. Lu Yun, what do you want to learn? Please share your thoughts."

Lu Yun saw him lying down and also lay down, quietly looking at the flowing clouds and said: "Looking at the clouds in the sky brings a sense of tranquility to my heart, reminding me of many past events. The path of cultivation is filled with wonders, yet it has also made me feel much hardship. Throughout the ages, how many have truly been able to cultivate into immortals and ascend to the heavens? With so many people in the world pursuing cultivation, what exactly are their goals? Throughout the ages, how many have truly been able to cultivate into immortals and ascend to the heavens? With so many people in the world pursuing cultivation, what exactly are their goals? Strengthening the body, seeking fame and fortune, acting as a hero in the world, or pursuing longevity? Perhaps many people are actually blind in their hearts; they simply follow others into cultivation because they see everyone else doing it. But in the end, is that what they truly desire? Perhaps not?"

Ziyang Zhenren glanced at the five disciples beside him and said with a light smile: "Everyone here is a disciple of our Yang Sect. Among them are both the current and newly admitted disciples, as well as many from previous generations, all diligently cultivating here. In fact, there are many outstanding disciples in the Yang Academy who have already reached a certain level of cultivation and have gone out into the world to practice, eliminating evil and vanquishing demons. The disciples here are merely those who have not yet attained sufficient cultivation or are wholeheartedly seeking the Dao, hoping to achieve enlightenment and ascend. Today, I brought you here with the hope that over the next three months, after I have imparted to you the complete techniques of 'Yitian Liufa', you will cultivate here. If you have any questions, you can ask these senior brothers. Those who progress rapidly may also learn the subsequent 'Yitian Liuju' from them. Three months later, I will return to check on your progress and, based on your individual levels of cultivation, create corresponding cultivation plans tailored to your situations to accelerate your advancement. Three months will pass in the blink of an eye, so I hope you will work hard. Remember, if you do not understand something, ask them; you might learn many unexpected things from them." After speaking, a profound meaning appeared in Ziyang Zhenren's eyes.

Lu Yuncheng said in a deep voice: "Rest assured, I will not let you down. I will participate in the Six Courtyards Martial Arts Conference in two years, definitely! Let's work hard, my partner." After speaking, he glanced at the Ziyang Zhenren beside him, revealing a hint of determination.

Two days passed in the blink of an eye. Early in the morning, Master Ziyang sent someone to take the two of them to Yitian Pavilion. At this time, the garden master, Master Xuanyu, and the head of the four courtyards were already seated inside. Standing in the room were ten young men and women, among whom there were two young women, both beautiful and around sixteen or seventeen years old, radiating youth and drawing considerable attention. The remaining eight young men were also between sixteen and twenty years old. The arrival of the two immediately attracted everyone's attention, and all eyes were focused on them. Lu Yun slightly lowered his head, making an effort to conceal his spiritual energy and aura.

Two days passed quickly. During these two days, Lin Yunfeng and Lu Yun developed a deep friendship, and their relationship became very close. Lu Yun was quite fond of Lin Yunfeng's quirky personality and felt a strong sense of familiarity with his playful eccentricity. Over the course of these two days, they thoroughly explored Yiyuan and became familiar with its environment. At this point, they had a general understanding of Yiyuan, knowing that there were over 1,300 students in total, but only about 200 of them were actual cultivators, while the rest were ordinary disciples.

Ziyang Zhenren looked at Lin Yunfeng and understood his thoughts. However, he did not expose them, merely smiling slightly and saying: "In our Yi Garden, the 'Twelve Techniques of Yi Tian' are the most formidable, and this is a technique that every disciple must cultivate. As for the level of achievement, that depends on each individual's talent and effort. The four academies of Yi Garden are the Qian, Kun, Yin, and Yang academies. Among them, the Qian academy is renowned for the 'Dragon-Slaying Sword Technique,' which commands respect throughout the entire cultivation world and is one of Yi Garden's most domineering skills. The Kun academy is the only separate academy for female cultivators in Yi Garden, famous for the 'Phoenix Dance in the Nine Heavens' sword technique, which is known throughout the world. The Yin academy is famous for the 'Demon-Slaying Sword,' which is well-known among mortals. As for my Yang academy, it is renowned for the 'Fiery Heavenly Gang Sword Technique,' which is respected across the world. In due time, you will have the option to choose, but not everyone can have their wishes fulfilled. However, there is not much difference; regardless of which technique you learn, as long as you put in the effort, you can reach the same level of attainment.

Returning to the Yang Courtyard, Master Ziyang looked at the five new disciples received today, a hint of a smile appearing in his eyes; they are the hope for the future. Master Ziyang said: "In the Yiyuan, as everyone may know, among the four major courtyards, the Qian Courtyard ranks first, followed by the Kun Courtyard, while our Yang Courtyard is on par with the Yin Courtyard. Why is this the case? What is the main reason for this? To put it simply, it is because each generation of disciples in the Qian and Kun Courtyards has outstanding talents, consistently leading the way and taking the spotlight, bringing unparalleled glory to the Yiyuan in the realm of cultivation. Why is this the case? What is the main reason for this? To put it simply, it is because each generation of disciples in the Qian and Kun Courtyards has outstanding talents, consistently leading the way and taking the spotlight, bringing unparalleled glory to the Yiyuan in the realm of cultivation.