Chapter Ninety-Three Till the beloved returns, there shall be no parting (II)

　　It is said of old:　　"In Yangzhou oft dwell the Immortals;　　In later years I chanced upon one versed in hidden scriptures.　　Where now is the hand that turns back the lamp and fills the wine?　　How many return to Yangzhou City?"　　Now to the twelfth year of Kaiyuan (724 A.D.), Li Bai was twenty and four. At that time his progress in sword mastery was hindered, and thus there arose again within him the longing to wander afar. Yet, as the ancients have said, "While parents live, one should not travel far." Thus was Li Bai compelled to remain in solitude and sorrow. Oft at the depth of night he would rehearse his sword forms, yet ever without fruit.　　One day, Li Ke summoned Li Bai, saying: "Thy father will shortly set forth on a long journey of trade; thy younger brother Chenghao is yet tender of years, and thou must care for him well." Li Bai pledged earnestly: "Father, be at peace; thy son shall guard Chenghao without the least mishap."　　Soon after, Li Ke, having ordered all matters, journeyed westward to the lands of trade. That night, in the chill of early spring, under the moon in the courtyard, the sword's gleam shone like a silken stream. Li Bai performed his forms to their end, and the essence of the sword was about to emerge—yet the shadow faltered and ceased. Helpless, Li Bai sheathed his blade and sighed: "Once more defeated!"　　Days later, Li Bai heard that Jian'nan Academy w