By Words of Many

By Words of Many is the fifth part of the Trailblaze Continuance chapter Finest Duel Under the Pristine Blue (I). It automatically begins after completing The Quieting of Quillons.
==Steps==
# Head to the Seat of Divine Foresight to see the general
# Admire the sword
# Talk to the others at the Seat of Divine Foresight
==Dialogue==
===Head to the Seat of Divine Foresight to see the general===
;(Idle quotes)
: Huaiyan: It's getting late...
: Jing Yuan: Please, stay a little longer, Elder Huaiyan.
: Jing Yuan: I've invited some guests from the Express.
;(Approach Jing Yuan and Huaiyan)
: Jing Yuan: Earlier at the Palace of Astrum, I introduced these guests from the Astral Express to you, Elder Huaiyan, but with all the people around, we only exchanged pleasantries. Now, I'd like to officially introduce them to you.
: Jing Yuan: These three braved great dangers, accompanying me to perilous places, defeating the chief culprit Phantylia, and uncovering the conspiracies of the Disciples of Sanctus Medicus. If you wish to know more, please feel free to ask us.
: Huaiyan: Well, I skimmed through the reports about the Arbor's rebirth from the Master Diviner Fu Xuan. She's been summoned to the Yuque for questioning. There are a lot of doubts within the Alliance about this whole situation...
: Huaiyan: ...But despite all that, I believe in you.
: Huaiyan: Since you joined the ranks, you have repeatedly achieved remarkable feats. After the High-Cloud Quintet each went their separate ways, despite the many criticisms within the Alliance, the Marshal still stood firm against the dissenting voices, and entrusted the Luofu to you.
: Huaiyan: Over the years, you've served the Alliance with loyalty and wisdom. You've taken down abominations in Thalassa, rescued the Xianzhou Yuque from a siege, and destroyed the demonic planet summoned by the Denizens of Abundance... I still remember those battles vividly.
: Huaiyan: There are fools who doubt your loyalty. They're happy to see the Divine Foresight fail because it gives them some kind of sick satisfaction. They haven't achieved anything of their own, so they feed off the failures of others.
: Huaiyan: But I've seen enough failures in my time. And I want to believe that your loyalty has never wavered.
: Dan Heng: So, General Feixiao of the Yaoqing is the only one investigating the Ambrosial Arbor Crisis on behalf of the Alliance?
: Huaiyan: No, no. I am, too.
: March 7th: This old man's words... always catch me off guard.
----
: Huaiyan: The Marshal ordered me to come to the Xianzhou Luofu, but the document only says: "Attend the Wardance and listen to Feixiao's questioning."
: What does that mean?
:: Huaiyan: The Marshal is well aware of Jing Yuan's purpose in holding the ceremony and understands the situation he is facing. She mentioned it because she believes both issues are important.
: Since it's the Marshal's orders, do we need to step aside?
:: Huaiyan: No need for that. You're all important witnesses. The Marshal is well aware of Jing Yuan's purpose in holding the ceremony and understands the situation he is facing. She mentioned it because she believes both issues are important.
: Jing Yuan: Thanks for your kindness and sincerity, Elder Huaiyan, but is it appropriate... to tell everyone here about the Marshal's orders?
: Huaiyan: By introducing the Express' witnesses to me alone, aren't you aiming to discern the intentions behind both my actions and Feixiao's, and whether there's any discord between us? Well, since I'm being open and honest with you, I encourage you young folk to do the same.
: Huaiyan: As for the Ambrosial Arbor Crisis, all I need to do is listen. General Feixiao will be the one asking the questions. To be honest, I'm more concerned about the timely start of the Wardance.
: Huaiyan: Oh, by the way, I've prepared a gift for the Wardance.
===Admire the sword===
;(Investigate case)
: Huaiyan: Yes, it's this case right here.
:This case gleams with a muted luster, crafted from a material neither wood nor metal. Its surface is masterfully woven with metallic threads, outlining an intricate pattern of lotus flowers.
: Huaiyan: There will be numerous contests and celebrations during the Wardance, and the main event will be the Ringmaster's Challenge.
: Huaiyan: The host will dispatch a skilled warrior to take on challengers from all over the cosmos, showcasing the excellent martial arts of the Xianzhou Luofu. When you mentioned that the Astral Express would be attending the ceremony, I thought the high elder of the Luofu would be the ringmaster...
: Jing Yuan: You humor me, Elder Huaiyan. The Healer Lady is just a young lady who knows nothing about martial arts. How can I assign her as the ringmaster?
: Huaiyan: I'm no match to you when it comes to joking.
: March 7th: What's this box for? Why don't you open it, General Huaiyan?
: Huaiyan: This sword case is intended for the Wardance's award. It's empty now, but in a few days, a precious sword will be delivered and stored inside.
: Huaiyan: I don't mean to boast about our skills, but this sword represents the pinnacle of the Zhuming's craftsmanship. It has a legendary history, full of heroic tales from foreign lands, tales that are too detailed to be summarized in just a few words. Since the delegation delivering the sword hasn't arrived yet, I'll just leave the case here for now.
: Huaiyan: I've been wondering... who would be worthy of such a sword? And then it hit me — I can award it to the champion of the Ringmaster's Challenge! The ceremony's champion is sure to be a perfect match for the sword.
: Huaiyan: Moreover, I hear that Yanqing is an excellent swordmaster, and that he will be representing the Luofu as the ringmaster, so it seems like a perfect gift for him.
: Jing Yuan: Thank you for your generosity, Elder Huaiyan.
: Yunli: If you want to give me a sword, just say the word, Grandpa. No need to beat around the bush.
: Huaiyan: You've got confidence, my girl, but I don't think you can best Yanqing.
: Yanqing: I know you're all about swords, Miss Yunli. It's just a shame that it's the sword that ultimately chooses its rightful master.
: Yunli: Yeah, and even if someone gets their hands on such a precious sword, it'll probably end up in someone else's.
: Yanqing: The outcome of our duel at the Alchemy Commission is still up in the air. Since you're interested, why don't you represent the Xianzhou Zhuming and challenge me in the ring?
: Yunli: That's exactly what I had in mind! Nobody knows who's gonna come out on top! It could be me, could be someone else... It'll probably be me, but whatever happens... it won't be him!
: Looks like Feixiao was right.
: It'll be either death or disaster when these two clash...
: March 7th: Not to be rude or anything... We've been watching their drama. I'm dying to find out who beats who.
: Huaiyan: Quiet down! We have other guests here! I've prepared this sword to add some excitement to the ceremony, not to have you two squabble. It's not a good look for the Alliance.
: Huaiyan: While you both seem confident that you'll win, you need to remember there can only be one winner and one loser in the ring, which could lead to hard feelings. Actually, I have an idea...
: Huaiyan: We don't know who the winner will be, and it might not be either of you, but if you're eyeing that prize, you'll need to work together. I want you to take on an apprentice who will take part in the Wardance and win at least one match.
: Yunli & Yanqing: How does that make sense?
: Huaiyan: In my humble opinion, while a Cloud Knight is commendable by securing victories, it's even more so to pass on your skills and spread the way of swordplay.
: Huaiyan: I'd be greatly pleased if this apprentice could represent the Express in the Wardance by displaying their Cloud Knight flair and prowess.
: Jing Yuan: Well, Elder Huaiyan's idea is quite interesting. Imparting swordplay skills requires teamwork, and both the winner and the loser will learn a valuable lesson regardless of the outcome. The question is, whom should the two of them take as an apprentice?
: March 7th: Huh? Who? Wait, me...?
: Huaiyan: I noticed just now that Miss March seemed quite interested in the outcome of your sword fight, so I thought why not teach her the art of swordplay?
: March 7th: ...Huh? Wait! Are you serious, General?
: March 7th: Why am I being dragged into this all of a sudden? I've never practiced swordplay before! I'm a total newbie! You really think I can learn it? You'll probably realize I have no hope and give up on me, and that'd be sooo embarrassing!
: Why don't you choose Dan Heng?
:: Dan Heng: Things are already complicated enough as they are, (Trailblazer).
:: Huaiyan: He strikes like lightning... Does Mr. Dan Heng really need anyone's guidance?
:: Huaiyan: As for Miss March... she's like a piece of jade in the rough, just waiting to be shaped.
: Why don't you choose me?
:: Huaiyan: Your talent is quite... unique. Are you also interested in swordplay?
:: Huaiyan: But you know, based on my years of judging people, you don't really need to dive into swordplay to boost your skills... and I doubt there's anyone out there who can really show you the way forward.
:: Huaiyan: As for Miss March... she's like a piece of jade in the rough, just waiting to be shaped.
: Just accept your fate, March!
:: (Trailblazer): Isn't this a perfect chance for you? I remember you mentioning that you wanted to learn some sword moves.
:: March 7th: Yeah, I did say that, but this is all happening so quickly, don't you think?
:: Huaiyan: Miss March is like a piece of jade in the rough, just waiting to be shaped. The Wardance is the perfect opportunity to see what heights she can reach.
: March 7th: I appreciate your kind words, General Huaiyan. But won't teaching me swordplay be a waste of Yanqing and Yunli's time? They should be preparing for the ceremony.
: March 7th: Plus, I heard that each swordmaster has their own special moves. What if they let something slip while teaching me? If everyone knows each other's tactics, won't that make it hard to catch people off guard during the Wardance?
: Yunli: That's considerate of you, March 7th. But don't worry. It'll take you at least a decade of hard training before you can even start learning special moves. No need to freak out – a few Zhuming swordplay tricks will mean you'll be more than equipped.
: March 7th: R-really?
: Dan Heng: Looks like March's curiosity has been piqued.
: Huaiyan: Heh, the whole point is to know each other's moves. Defeating your opponent in just one move? How boring would that be! Plus, what really decides a swordsman's fate isn't some "special move" — it's the solid fundamentals.
: Jing Yuan: So, Miss Yunli has already agreed. What do you say, Yanqing?
: Yanqing: General... I haven't graduated yet. How can I be qualified to teach swordplay to others?
: Yunli: So, you're admitting your defeat, huh? If you're not even confident to teach, why don't you let me be the ringmaster instead?
: Jing Yuan: Yanqing, teaching an apprentice is also a way of honing your own skills and gaining insights. You've been an apprentice for years, it's about time you looked at swordplay from another perspective.
: Yanqing: I see, General. Then count me in!
: Jing Yuan: Now that Yanqing has agreed too, it all comes down to Miss March giving her nod.
: Dan Heng: It's up to you to make the final decision, March.
: Time for you to become the best swordmaster on the Express.
:: (Trailblazer): At least that way, I won't have to worry about you accidentally shooting me in the butt all the time.
:: March 7th: Hey, I've never missed my target!
: It won't be a walk in the park, that's for sure.
:: March 7th: Yeah, while I'm smart, learning swordplay sounds like a whole lot of work.
:: (Trailblazer): It'll be great learning swordplay. That way, I won't have to worry about you accidentally shooting me in the butt all the time.
:: March 7th: Hey, I've never missed my target!
: It's all up to you, though.
:: March 7th: I understand.
: March 7th: Then I'm on board! Thank you for your kindness, General Huaiyan.
: Huaiyan: Great! Starting tomorrow, Yanqing and Yunli will teach you the basics of the Cloud Knights' swordplay.
: Huaiyan: Yunli and I are will head out and purchase some sword practice equipment for Miss March. Think of it as a little initiation gift.
: March 7th: Ahaha, you're too kind... Wait, you're giving me a gift? Shouldn't it be the other way round?
:
: March 7th: Ah... General Huaiyan's gone. Wait, why does something feel off about what we talked about?!
===Talk to the others at the Seat of Divine Foresight===
;(Talk to Yanqing)
: March 7th: Uh... I think we strayed off topic. How did things even get to this point?
: Yanqing: Yeah, I brought you here because the general said he had some important matters to discuss. But how in the world... did Yunli and I suddenly become Miss March's swordplay mentors?
: Dan Heng: Because... General Huaiyan wants us to stick around on the Luofu for some time.
: But aren't we here to attend the ceremony, anyway?
: Dan Heng: But from his point of view, we're no different from all the other tourists who may leave at any time.
: Dan Heng: Since the Crew's actions were mentioned in the Luofu's operations log were given to the Alliance, he probably wants to see firsthand if we're as capable as the report claims, or if we're just some made-up excuse to save face.
: Dan Heng: And he wants to see it for himself during the Wardance, which is why he even dragged Yunli into this. What began as a simple contest between two swordmasters... has now evolved into you two collaborating to mentor March.
: Jing Yuan: Elder Huaiyan is still that tricky general who likes to give everyone a headache.
: Jing Yuan: My apologies. Truth be told, I invited all of you to the ceremony because I wished for you to act as my witnesses. I apologize for not disclosing this information earlier.
: Jing Yuan: In the coming weeks, I'll also invite all of you to a meeting with General Feixiao, where you may need to answer her questions and clear up any doubts she might have. So, please be prepared for the meeting.
: No worries. Answering a few questions is no big deal.
:: Dan Heng: Don't worry, General. No matter what happens, I'm prepared to stay here as the Express' witness, and answer any questions.
: Perhaps we should just pack up and leave tonight?
:: March 7th: Did we do something wrong? We really did save the Luofu, so why do you want to sneak off like we're fugitives?
:: Dan Heng: Don't worry, (Trailblazer). No matter what happens, I'll stay here as a witness and answer any questions she might have.
: Jing Yuan: Thank you, everyone.
: Yanqing: General! I know there isn't much I can do to share your burden, but...
: Jing Yuan: Hm?
: Yanqing: As the Luofu ringmaster, I won't let anyone defeat me in the Wardance!
: Jing Yuan: I know.
----
:
: Yukong: The illustrious Merlin's Claw waiting for me, and for so long, too? It's quite an honor. It's been a while, General Feixiao.
: Feixiao: It's been thirty years since we last saw each other, right, Yukong?
: Yukong: Yes, back then, you were the vanguard of the Yaoqing's Verdant Knights, and I was a pilot of the Luofu's . Who would have thought that upon meeting again, you'd be a general, and I'd have given up flying... Really does feel like a lifetime ago.
----
: Yukong: Well, I wouldn't say I haven't seen you in thirty years. After all, your great victories are announced through the Yellowbell Resonance System every day, so I'm well aware of your great feats... How's your health holding up?
: Feixiao: Still stable, I suppose. Do you still remember the medic who saved me in battle?
: Yukong: That healer with the odd name and peculiar temperament... What was his name again? Was it Pichu? Or Kaqiu?...
: Feixiao: Jiaoqiu. He's been my retainer and personal healer, delegated by the Alchemy Commission from the Xianzhou Yaoqing. Over the years, he's dedicated himself to managing my "condition." It's thanks to him that I'm still in good health today.
: Feixiao: Given my background, I'm happy to have made it this far.
: Yukong: I'm relieved to know that you're safe and sound. Well then, since you and Elder Huaiyan are here, I imagine you must have received orders from the Marshal?
: Yukong: As your friend, may I ask how the Alliance intends to punish the General of the Luofu?
: Feixiao: The Arbor's rebirth has frightened the elders who lurk behind the scenes... They fear the resurgence of abominations, much like what happened thirty years ago.
: Feixiao: Although the report from the Luofu explained all the details, we don't know if the Ruin Legion really invaded, or how exactly the Stellaron Hunters and the Astral Express became involved. This puzzle has many missing pieces.
: Feixiao: As you know, the fugitive Jingliu, who mysteriously disappeared many years ago has resurfaced. This time, she has brought along an outworlder and a coffin, claiming to offer the Marshal "a method to fight against the Aeons."
: Feixiao: The Luofu Preceptor has also leveled accusations against Jing Yuan for neglecting the Alliance's principles. She asserts that Jing Yuan enabled the exiled Imbibitor Lunae to reenter the Luofu, thereby unlocking the Lunarescent Depths within Scalegorge Waterscape, which in turn disrupted the Vidyadhara's dutiful watch over the Ambrosial Arbor.
: Feixiao: It is for these reasons that I have come here to the Luofu today.
: Feixiao: Well, duty calls. Perhaps I shouldn't have mentioned all of this to an uninvolved person. But since we once fought together, I didn't want to keep you in the dark. Perhaps pretending you didn't hear any of this would be for the best.
: Yukong: I understand. I'm sorry, I was out of line. I know I shouldn't be defending General Jing Yuan right now... but, well, you know how I am.
: Yukong: The Luofu has enjoyed centuries of stability since the end of the Sedition of Imbibitor Lunae, much of which can be attributed to General Jing Yuan's masterful strategizing.
: Yukong: Unfortunately, for long-life species, enduring through the ages always culminates in a failure that undoes all previous achievements — a moment that our adversaries relish.
: Feixiao: That's true. And that's why I'm also here for another purpose — to visit Hoolay.
----
:
: Yukong: Hoolay? You mean that Hoolay? The borisin Warhead? The same Hoolay who has been imprisoned in the Shackling Prison for over seven centuries?
: Feixiao: "The nemesis of the foxians, who will never be forgiven and shall be imprisoned until the end of the cosmos..." I can't quite remember the exact wording, but yes, the very same Hoolay.
: Yukong: Usually only emissaries from the Xianzhou Yaoqing's Sky-Faring Commission visit him once every century. Why do you have to visit him now, of all times...?
: Feixiao: The foxians and the Alliance made a pact to combat the abominations, aiming to achieve justice and free their kin. That werewolf monster is to be forever imprisoned in the dark recesses of The Shackling Prison, facing unending retribution.
: Feixiao: Given the situation on the Luofu, those on the Yaoqing are concerned about Hoolay's imprisonment. I'm afraid that the routine visit every century is no longer sufficient to ease their concerns.
: Feixiao: That's why I was sent here — to reassure them.
----
: Yukong: It's all bad news.
: Feixiao: Well, not everything. There might be a silver lining. By the way, I've found some clues about the thing you asked for.
: Yukong: Tell me more!
: Feixiao: The Verdant Knights followed the route you mentioned and discovered the wreckage of the Whistling Flames ship. Unfortunately, there were no survivors, and no cargo.
: Yukong: ...
: Feixiao: However, someone had already been on the scene before we arrived.
: Yukong: Our people? Or someone from the IPC?
: Feixiao: No, neither. Yukong, have you heard of a person named ?
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