Sensing the faint yet unmistakable force of Blood Qi within Lu Qing's body, Mago felt as if his world had been upended.
The last time he saw Lu Qing at the Grand Bazaar, the boy was nothing more than a frail, sallow-faced youth who knew nothing of martial cultivation. Yet here he was now, a Qi and Blood Realm martial artist!
How was this possible? It hadn't even been a month!
In less than a month, he had transformed from an inexperienced boy into a Qi and Blood Realm warrior? Mago's understanding of cultivation was profoundly shaken. He was astounded by Lu Qing's rapid progress.
During his previous visit to the Grand Bazaar, there was no trace of martial cultivation on Lu Qing. As a Tendons and Bones Realm martial artist himself, Mago was certain of this.
But now, the shock he felt was even more intense. He could hardly fathom how Lu Qing had managed to become a genuine martial artist in such a short time.
When he had begun his own martial training at thirteen, it had taken him five full years to barely step into the Qi and Blood Realm by eighteen, and that was with his family's support. Even then, his family had praised his diligent efforts and quick progress.
For Mago, hailing from a side branch of his family with fewer resources, becoming a martial artist by eighteen was a significant achievement, indicating his talent.
Yet now, in front of Lu Qing, all his previous pride seemed utterly insignificant. Achieving Qi and Blood Realm in less than a month—this speed would surpass even the so-called martial prodigies meticulously nurtured by prominent families in the city.
Seeing Mago's dumbfounded expression, Lu Qing couldn't help but ask, "Master Ma, are you alright?"
Mago snapped back to reality, struggling to compose himself before forcing a smile. "I'm fine. It's just that the changes in you, Young Master Lu, have taken me by surprise."
"Oh, I've been cultivating with my master recently, training my body. After some time, I made a bit of progress, making you laugh at my feeble attempt," Lu Qing said modestly.
This remark left Mago speechless. If this was "a bit of progress," what did his twenty years of effort, only to barely enter the Tendons and Bones Realm, amount to?
However, a thought crossed Mago's mind. Indeed, Lu Qing's master was the renowned physician, Old Doctor Chen. Even the County Magistrate praised this mysterious figure. Perhaps Lu Qing's swift advancement was related to his master's guidance.
While these thoughts raced through his mind, Mago's smile remained unchanged. "Young Master Lu, you are too modest. To achieve Qi and Blood Realm at your age, even in the city, you would be considered a genius."
"You seem to know a lot about the city, Master Ma?" Lu Qing asked curiously.
It was no surprise to Lu Qing that Mago could identify his Qi and Blood Realm status. A martial artist with substantial cultivation naturally exuded vigorous Blood Qi and a strong spirit, unless one practiced a unique concealment technique or had exceptional control over their essence and spirit to hide their martial identity.
"I wouldn't say I know a lot, but I did live there for a few years," Mago replied vaguely.
"I see," Lu Qing nodded, not prying further into why Mago, once living in the city, now resided in the small Grand Bazaar.
"Since you lived in the city, Master Ma, you must be well-informed. I have a dilemma that I hope you could help me with."
Mago's interest piqued. He had been seeking a way to grow closer to Lu Qing, and now the opportunity had presented itself.
"What troubles you, Young Master Lu?"
"I wish to purchase a battle blade, but there are none available at the Grand Bazaar. Do you know where I might find one?"
"A battle blade?" Mago was taken aback.
"Yes, I've recently taken an interest in blade techniques, but I lack a suitable weapon," Lu Qing explained directly, seeing no need to be coy since Mago had already identified his martial status.
Mago found nothing unusual about Lu Qing's desire for a weapon. For a martial artist, seeking a well-suited weapon was entirely normal.
"As for a good battle blade…" Mago pondered, "You would likely only find one in the city. There are a few shops there with good reputations."
"Only in the city?" Lu Qing hesitated.
"Indeed. Most skilled blacksmiths gather in the city. While there are blacksmiths in rural areas, they mainly produce crude farming tools. Crafting a battle blade requires high-level forging skills that rural smiths typically lack," Mago explained.
Seeing Lu Qing's hesitation, Mago's mind raced.
"Have you never been to the city, Young Master Lu?" Mago asked.
Lu Qing sighed, "To be honest, Master Ma, I have not. Furthermore, my master forbids me from going to the city on my own before I finish my training."
Old Doctor Chen had never said such a thing, but Lu Qing found it useful to use his master's authority to handle Mago.
"A master's orders are not to be disobeyed. This is indeed a bit tricky," Mago sympathized.
Noticing Lu Qing's reluctant expression, Mago knew the timing was right.
After a moment of feigned hesitation, he offered, "If you trust me, Young Master Lu, I could purchase a battle blade from the city on your behalf."
"Really?" Lu Qing's eyes lit up but then quickly dimmed with doubt. "Wouldn't that be too much trouble for you, Master Ma?"
Seeing Lu Qing's eager yet hesitant look, Mago found it amusing. Young people were so transparent.
He chuckled, "It's no trouble at all. We get along well, and it's a small favor. It wouldn't bother me."
Lu Qing's expression shifted, showing signs of inner struggle.
Finally, as if making a significant decision, he said, "Then I must trouble you, Master Ma."
Suppressing a smile, he asked, "What kind of battle blade are you looking for, Young Master Lu?"