《Binding to Geniuses To Become Stronger》 Chapter 1

Chapter 1: Partner-Binding

4 Trantor: EndlessFantasy Trantion Editor: EndlessFantasy Trantion It was the year 276 of the Tang Dynasty. In Luojiang Academy of Luojiang City... ... Name: Fang Lang Combat Score Sword Mastery: 63 Spell Mastery: 26 Martial Arts Mastery: 30 Theory Score Poetry: 32 Policy: 41 Demon Tongue: 40 Total Score: 232 Luojiang Academy Rank: 736th ... A boy dressed in a green robe was seated on a prayer mat as he stared dispiritedly at the red paper on the table. The scent of paper and books permeated the study halls of Luojiang Academy. The piece of paper held his academy examination scores. The main cultivation discipline¡ªin his case, sword mastery¡ªwas scored over 100 while the others were scored over 50. The numbers were totaled and ranked¡ªthat was how the Tang Dynasty¡¯s Imperial Examination worked. He was ranked in the 700s within Luojiang Academy. By extraption, he would not even make it into the top 10,000 in the Tang Dynasty. If he sat for the cruel Imperial Examination in this state, he would result in a huge disgrace. Fang Lang was upset. He was a disappointment to every dimensional traveler. To be fair, he never cked in the 15 years spent in this foreign world but hard work could not make up for theck of talent and core1. ¡°Whatever. If I can¡¯t seed as a cultivator, I¡¯ll just inherit my father¡¯s farnd, five inns, and three market streets. Spending the rest of my life as a richndlord with no prospects doesn¡¯t sound too bad.¡± Fang Lang sighed a long sigh in frustration. Since the unification under the Tang Dynasty, they prioritized cultivation of strength by the first emperor to fend off attacks by other species. The practice was encouraged among the people to prepare for a potential war with the demons. The empire spent a significant amount of money and manpower to build elementary academies throughout the realm in hopes to kick start a generation of cultivators. The Imperial Examination was set up so cultivators could choose or be chosen by the cultivation sects that would provide further training. The Imperial Examination was one¡¯s chance to change their fate. It allowedmoners who had no ess to cultivation resources to climb the ranks, and only cultivators deserved the respect as leaders of the upper ranks. After all, a strong cultivator could travel to the ends of the Earth, chase the stars and moon, tten mountains, and end rivers. A popr saying in the Tang Dynasty went as such, ¡®Respect all cultivators, alive or in spirit.¡¯ Therefore, the triennial Imperial Examination attracted students from every part of the Tang Dynasty. It was their chance to prove themselves and grasp at a glorious future. The study hall was buzzing after the release of the academy examination results. Some students were ted, some were sullen, some wore prideful expressions¡ªa wide range of emotions were found in the study hall. The mentors were all smiles when they congratted the top students. In contrast, the bottom-ranking students got an earful. They did not spare the average Fang Lang a nce. The academy examination was not an urate simtion of the Imperial Examination¡ªthe real deal was only a month away. There was no miracle that could save Fang Lang¡¯s grades. After another round ofpliments to the high scorers, the mentors packed up their stuff and left. Once they were gone, the study hall exploded with activity like a fish pond after a handful of bait was scattered. A bunch of students crowded the top scorers, eager to curry favor. Fang Lang got up andzily rolled his head as he nced at the crowd. He felt no admiration nor envy¡ªthey were geniuses after all and deserved the glory. If this was the Imperial Examination, the people surrounding them would be the various sects of the Tang Dynasty, not mere peers. There was a pointed difference between choosing and being chosen by a sect. This world was realistic. Much like the college entrance exam from his previous life, but... It was crueler here. Fang Lang crumpled the red result paper into a ball and kept it in his sleeve. At the same time, a ringing sound echoed in his mind. ¡®Gene analysis in progress... Hematological analysis... Neurological analysis... 90%patibility. Criteria met, System binding initiated... ¡®System binding sessful. The System aims to aid the host in cultivation. ¡®Please open the System disy.¡¯ The System notification popped up. Fang Lang felt his heart jump. ... Host: Fang Lang Cultivation Discipline: Third-Grade Sword Disciple Level: LV1 Experience: 0/1000 Core: 36 (White) Cultivation Resource: 500 gold coins, 5 low-grade spirit crystals (usage limited to cultivation) Items: None Binding Partner: None (binding to a partner will grant the host 50% of the partner¡¯s cultivation inspiration and cultivation speed) Sole Passive Ability: Additional rewards may be granted when the host bonds with the binding partner over cultivation. ... Fang Lang¡¯s breathing picked up. He calmed down and scanned through the System messages. Theyout was simple with a notification board. Fang Lang skipped past the exnation about resources. He did notck resources. He was interested in the core. This was the first time Fang Lang was presented with a stark assessment of his innate talent and core. During his enrollment into the academy, Fang Lang had undergone the standard core test. The instrument had shone a faint white light¡ªFang Lang¡¯s core was white and no bonus marks would be granted to him. A person¡¯s core for cultivation was ssified by colors in the Tang Dynasty. ck, white, red, yellow, and gold were the five grades that could be professionally measured by the instrument. It was rumored that there were grades above gold but those were beyond the instrument¡¯s range. If one had a red core, an extra 10 marks would be added to the scores. Was it fair? Yes. A person¡¯s core was innate and it benefited a talented student¡¯s scores. Fang Lang returned his attention to the System. The System¡¯s emphasis was on partner-binding. A sessful bind would grant the host 50% of the binding partner¡¯s cultivation inspiration and speed. Fang Lang¡¯s eyes brightened¡ªthat was the key! Binding to a genius with a gold core would improve his cultivation speed by leaps and bounds, the vague cultivation inspiration was an added bonus. It was what Fang Lang always wanted. He clenched his fist as realization struck him. Perhaps the System¡¯s existence was to teach him about the benefits of striking up a rtionship with the talented. It was a way to make something out of himself. The System was made for double cultivation. Fang Lang kept his excitement in check and hid the System disy. He looked around the room and smiled at the crowd of green-robed students. He would benefit more from a partner who was naturally gifted, and he was in the right ce to find one. The academy had many talents. Luojiang Academy had ten study halls that housed 3,000 students. The Tang Dynasty mandated every cultivation academy to have the exact number of students. Each building held 300 students who were split into three floors, 100 students on each floor. Students of the same floor would know each other as ssmates. The establishment of elementary academies and the Imperial Examination was aimed to identify the cream of the crop. The academies attracted talents from all over the realm. There were things to learn from every single student attending the academy. However, Fang Lang did not want an average genius for his binding partner. ¡®What is the criteria for the binding partner?¡¯ Fang Lang posed the question in his mind. The System replied, ¡®The partner¡¯s core grade must be higher than the host.¡¯ Fang Lang was speechless. Was the criteria over the top? No. He was slightly offended. Fang Lang rose from the prayer mat and headed toward the red paper that was pinned onto the wall¡ªnames were written in gold. It was Luojiang Academy¡¯s honor roll. Those who made it onto the list were the top 50 scorers in thetest examination. A few of Fang Lang¡¯s ssmates were looking at the honor roll in awe and longing. Fang Lang caught sight of the red paper. He focused on the top three names. Among the three names, Fang Lang recognized one¡ªNi Wen. She was a fellow ssmate and the genius of their floor. Her name was in the third spot. Another thing to note, Ni Wen hailed from amoner family. The Tang Dynasty encouraged cultivation and built many academies but the reality was those who could afford to attend the sses and pursue cultivation were mostly the sons and daughters of the rich. In order to include themon people, the imperial courts had set aside 300 positions in every academy for the poor. The Imperial Examination was a way for them to change their fates. Nevertheless, it was difficult for themon folk to make it into the honor roll due to insufficient cultivation resources. The first two names on the honor roll were the sons of Luojiang City¡¯s elite families. They had resources in spades¡ªunlimited ess to spirit crystals and medicinal pills. For a poor student to be able to climb the honor roll in spite of the fiercepetition, she had to be blessed with innate talent and aptitude. Her cultivation speed must be terrifying! There was no doubt. Fang Lang would bind her. ¡®How does one bind to a partner?¡¯ he asked. He was still standing before the wall of honor. ¡®Ding! The current System is at LV1 so only one partner can be bound. The binding time is dependent on the chosen partner¡¯s natural talent and core. The stronger the partner, the longer the binding time. Please select your partner.¡¯ The System message appeared. Fang Lang thought for a moment and asked, ¡®Will there be any negative effects for the binding partner?¡¯ If the binding would negatively impact the person¡¯s abilities, then he would have to reconsider his options. The System answered instantly, ¡®After the binding, the partner will develop a familiarity with the host. This will increase the probability ofmunication between the host and the binding partner. The binding will have no effect on the partner¡¯s talents and core.¡¯ The exnation was reassuring. Fang Lang raised an eyebrow. The choice was clear and he proceeded without hesitation. ¡®I choose Ni Wen as my binding partner.¡¯ The System announced, ¡®Ding! The chosen partner, Ni Wen, is a ninth-grade spell disciple1. The estimated binding time is a full day and night. ¡®Ding! The binding is in progress.¡¯ Chapter 2

Chapter 2: Happy Cultivating

Trantor: EndlessFantasy Trantion Editor: EndlessFantasy Trantion Fang Lang left the academy. He weaved through the busy streets of Luojiang City, heading in the direction of the Fang Manor. The streets were nked by two rows of shops. Vendors lined the walkway while the crowd shuffled along. As the partner-binding was already in progress, Fang Lang did not bother to stay in the academy. He investigated the resources granted by the System as he walked. The mary system in the Tang Dynasty was fairly simple¡ª100 copper coins was equivalent to one silver coin and 100 silver coins made up one gold coin. In the modern world equivalent, one gold coin was approximately 1,000 bucks so 500 gold coins were equivalent to 500,000 bucks. As the spirit crystals were used in cultivation, it made them even more valuable. Spirit crystals could be purchased, but they were rare. One had to pay a visit to therge tradingpanies for a glimpse. The items could not be bought by themon folk. In Luojiang City, only the subordinates of the threergest tradingpanies were allowed to purchase the spirit crystals. If Fang Lang remembered correctly, a low-grade spirit crystal was priced around 100 gold coins. The spirit crystals were consumables. The spiritual energy within the crystal was important to the cultivator. Arge supply of spirit crystals could greatly increase a person¡¯s cultivation speed. However, the rate at which the cultivator absorbs the spiritual energy was dependent on their core. ¡®Where are these resources?¡¯ Fang Lang asked gingerly as he squinted his eyes. He was empty-handed. There was no way the gold coins and spirit crystals would just appear out of thin air. The System message popped out when the ludicrous thought crossed his mind. ¡®The host has no space essories, therefore the items have been deposited into the host¡¯s coin purse.¡¯ Fang Lang was surprised but there was a hint of disappointment in his eyes. When he read the first half of the System¡¯s message, he was hoping the System would give him a space ring. A space ring was not that umon but Fang Lang did not own one because there was a limited supply in the market. Under the decree of the Tang Dynasty Emperor, cultivation became popr with the masses. Gradually, cultivation-rted items were brought to light and sold in conventional markets. The Tang Dynasty¡¯s cultivation system was categorized into sword mastery, spell mastery, and martial arts mastery¡ªthese were the three main upations or disciplines. Each upation was then split into nine sses with nine grades, each ss had a unique name. These three masteries were the ones acknowledged in the Imperial Examination. There were other lesser-known upations but the Imperial Examination did not recognize them. The space ring was an item developed by the spell masters who specialized in space maniption. The teachers in the academy had given them a lecture about the theory of space maniption once. Fang Lang felt a heavyweight settle in his sleeve. He retrieved his coin purse and opened it¡ª500 gold coins and five spirit crystals filled the purse to the brim. Happiness filled his chest. He felt like a child who received candy. He secured the drawstrings of the purse and lightly tossed it into the air to feel the weight. Then, he returned the purse into his sleeve and skipped home. At the end of Chang Street, he made a left turn. A hundred steps away was an average-looking manor. It was the Fang Manor, Fang Lang¡¯s residence. Fang Lang¡¯s father, Fang Beihe, was a wealthyndlord in Luojiang City. He owned several plots of farnds, five taverns, and three workshops. Money was not an issue and Fang Lang considered himself lucky to be born in this family. Even if he fell off the path of cultivation due to his average core, he could still live afortable life. As he approached the red double doors, his father walked out of the manor with a portly middle-aged man. ¡°Lang¡¯er, right on time. This is Uncle Zhao. He came from Imperial City and will be in the city for a few days. Feel free to ask him questions about cultivation,¡± Old Fang said with a cheery smile. Uncle Zhao gave Fang Lang a kind smile and patted the young man¡¯s back. Small talk was made. ¡°Old Zhao, the journey from Imperial City must¡¯ve been tiring. It¡¯s rare to have you here in Luojiang City. Come, let me take you to the local entertainment house. Luojiang¡¯sdies are worth a try!¡± ¡°Hahaha! Old Fang, I¡¯m not that type of man. Let¡¯s drink and catch up, some music and maybe a fewdypanions will suffice.¡± The two men walked out of the manor with their arms linked on each other¡¯s sohulder like brothers. Their voices could still be heard from a distance away. Fang Lang rolled his eyes. He did not envy the romanticism of the two old men. Fang Lang headed straight for his room and took out the heavy coin purse. He emptied the contents. A ttering sound was heard as gold coins and spirit crystals fell out. The valuables shone and sparkled. He stared at the resources granted by the System and thought about the partner-binding that was in progress. His hopes of bing a strong cultivator were rekindled. ... The next morning was a bright and sunny day. Fang Lang woke up with bleary eyes. Quickly, he entered his cultivation state. The air was thickest with spiritual energy in the morning, hence it was the best time to cultivate. He retrieved an azure spirit crystal the size of his thumb nail from his coin purse and ced it on his palm. He rubbed the crystal and a chill emanated from his abdomen. He held the crystal between his two hands and sat cross-legged. He utilized the spiritual energy channeling method taught by the academy based on the Tang Dynasty¡¯s Sword Scripture¡ªthe fundamental reading of sword mastery. The pathways in his body opened and his spiritual senses tingled as he drew in the spiritual energy from the spirit crystals. Two hourster, Fang Lang ended the absorption process. He had only managed to absorb 10% of the spiritual energy contained within the crystal. It would take the whole day if he wanted to drain the crystal dry. His core scored 36, ssified as a white core. With his average talent, spiritual energy absorption was aborious process. Even if he had a pile of crystals, his cultivation speed would stillg behind those cultivation geniuses. Rumors had it that cultivators with gold cores had an intimate rtionship with spiritual energy. They could drain ten low-grade spirit crystals within two hours! The staggering difference in spiritual energy absorption showcased the disparity between the talented and the untalented. Fang Lang sighed. Suddenly, the System message popped up. ¡®Ding! Partner-binding sessful. Binding partner: Ni Wen.¡¯ The notification surprised Fang Lang but soon, joy overcame him. After a day and night, the System had finallypleted the partner-binding process. ... Binding Partner: Ni Wen Age: 15 Cultivation Discipline: Ninth-Grade Spell Disciple (First-ss Spell Mastery) Core: 80 (Yellow) Cultivation Speed: 5 low-grade spirit crystals/two hours ... Details about Fang Lang¡¯s binding partner appeared before his eyes. He ingested the information and gasped. The gap between them was huge. Previously, it had been difficult topare but with the System¡¯s analytics, the truth hit like a dagger to Fang Lang¡¯s heart. Ni Wen¡¯s skills were at the peak of a first-ss spell disciple. In contrast, Fang Lang was just a third-grade sword disciple. He was so far beneath Ni Wen. Fang Lang wanted to cry. All the days he spent cultivating... Was it all in vain? However, his sadness did not linger. Another System message popped up. ¡®Ding! A reward for the host¡¯s first sessful partner-binding, 3 pieces of 3X Amplification Card! ¡®Ding! Please confirm the switching of cultivation state.¡¯ The consecutive notification surprised Fang Lang. His eyes swept across the inventory section of the System disy. ¡®3X Amplification Card: Single-use. Rmended to use with a binding partner. Effectsst six hours.¡¯ Fang Lang¡¯s breathing picked up. ¡®Confirm!¡¯ ¡®Switching confirmed. Activationplete. You currently have 50% of the binding partner¡¯s cultivation inspiration and cultivation speed. With the 3X Amplification Card activated, you have 150% of the binding partner¡¯s cultivation inspiration and cultivation speed. Happy cultivating!¡¯ Chapter 3

Chapter 3: Ni Wen

Trantor: EndlessFantasy Trantion Editor: EndlessFantasy Trantion It was Fang Lang¡¯s first encounter with amoner genius¡ªNi Wen¡¯s¡ªcultivation state and also his first time feeling what it was like to be naturally gifted. There was a rumble in his mind and he saw a faint silhouette before him. The phantom was seated across Fang Lang¡ªits movement and breathing mimicked his. In the next moment, Fang Lang felt his spiritually insensitive body tremble. A strong suction force was forming within his body. The spiritual energy within the spirit crystal flowed like a river and rushed into him. It took less than 15 minutes for Fang Lang to absorb the remaining 90% of spiritual energy. Even the tiny wisps of spiritual energy present in the air were attracted to him. Crack! The spirit crystal in his palm made a cracking sound when all the spiritual energy was drained. Fang Lang opened his eyes. Without hesitation, he reached for another spirit crystal. Originally, Fang Lang had assumed the spiritual energy absorption rate was the biggest difference between the naturally talented and the average student. However, when he channeled the energy as per the Tang Dynasty¡¯s Sword Scripture, he realized the actual difference was in the way the meridians reacted to the cultivation methods. The difference was a sizable chasm. A white core and a yellow core were as different as night and day. The once obscure parts of the scripture became clear to Fang Lang¡ªas if a mental block was lifted, knowledge poured into him. Soon after, the second spirit crystal waspletely drained. Whoosh! Fang Lang opened his eyes when he felt an aura surrounding him. There was pressure building up in his skull and it threatened to bore a hole through the crown of his head. In the end, the pressure manifested in the form of spiraling green smokes. He exhaled a breath of stale air. A breakthrough in cultivation! Fourth-grade sword mastery! Fang Lang had been edging toward this breakthrough but if he relied on his own abilities alongside the two spirit crystals, it would have taken him at least a month to reach the fourth grade. The Imperial Examination was a month away. The breakthrough would have meant little in the grand scheme of things. ¡°Less than 30 minutes to absorb two low-grade spirit crystals... Is this the power of a genius?¡± Fang Lang gasped, surprised by the progress. Once the initial surprise was gone, eagerness took over. Ni Wen could exhaust five low-grade spirit crystals in two hours and he had 50% of her cultivation speed. If he used the 3X Amplification Card, he could achieve 1.5 times Ni Wen¡¯s abilities. Seven and a half spirit crystals in two hours! Supersonic speed. Fang Lang understood why Ni Wen could achieve ninth-grade spell mastery despite theck of cultivation resources. They had enrolled in the academy three years ago but she was so much further ahead of him in terms of cultivation. The girl was overambitious! She was cheating in life! Fang Lang opened his eyes, a grin stretched across his face. The advantages she had were his to enjoy. No time to spare, the 3X Amplification Cardsted only six hours. He got back to cultivating. Of the two resources given by the System, only the spirit crystals were of immediate use. The 500 gold coins woulde in handy in the future. After the breakthrough, Fang Lang followed the Tang Dynasty¡¯s Sword Scripture and stabilized the fourth-grade state. It took him 30 minutes toplete the process. Then, he proceeded to absorb another spirit crystal. One, two, three... The remaining three crystals were drained in less than two hours. Whoosh! Another familiar rush of energy! A spiral of green smoke lingered over Fang Lang¡¯s head. Fifth-grade sword mastery! After consuming three spirit crystals, Fang Lang¡¯s sword mastery leveled up! He opened his eyes and coughed out a breath of smoke that was shaped like a one-meter-long sword. The fluttering of his green robe stopped. He was flushed and sweat-drenched. The pain in his meridians spread. The consecutive breakthroughs overloaded his body. However, the minor side effect was a small price to pay for the leap in progress. A good rest would restore his body. Fang Lang was overjoyed by his rapid advancement. He stared at the five depleted spirit crystals in dismay. If he had more spirit crystals, he could easily reach the sixth grade. Unfortunately, he has a finite supply of crystals and his body needed time to rest and recuperate. A thought came to his mind. Fang Lang brought up the System disy. ... Host: Fang Lang Cultivation Discipline: Fifth-Grade Sword Disciple Level: LV1 Experience: 500/1000 Core: 36 (White) Cultivation Resource: 500 gold coins (usage limited to cultivation) Items: 3X Amplification Card (2) Binding Partner: Ni Wen (50%) Sole Passive Ability: Additional rewards may be granted when the host bonds with the binding partner over cultivation. ... Fang Lang¡¯s eyes were drawn to the experience statistic. 500 experience points? Where did thosee from? He had just refined five low-grade spirit crystals. Perhaps each spirit crystal provided 100 experience points? Fang Lang discovered something new about the System¡¯s level advancement. Happiness grew in his chest. After the System leveled up, he was allowed to bind more partners? Binding to Ni Wen already gave him an edge in terms of cultivation speed. If he had more than one geniuses bound, what was the limit? Expectations were abound as Fang Lang set his sights on the uing Imperial Examination. If he wanted to meet more geniuses, he would have to perform well in the Imperial Examination. The cream of the crop would be selected by the sects based on their examination results. To have a better chance of binding more geniuses, Fang Lang would have to join one of the top-tier sects. Thoughts ran through his head as he changed into a clean set of green academy robes. Although he understood the basic concept of leveling up, he was unsure if the experience points had to be gained through the cultivation resources provided by the System or if the experience points came from absorbing any spirit crystal. The answer would remain unknown for the moment. Fang Lang patted his uniform and kept his 500-gold-coin-heavy purse up his sleeve before leaving the room. He entered the main hall and found his father and Uncle Zhao having breakfast. There were some in vegetable dishes to go with the white porridge¡ªthe food was in. Old Fang slurped his porridge. He was surprised when Fang Lang entered the hall. ¡°Lang¡¯er, you¡¯re an hourte today,¡± Old Fang said. He was aware of Fang Lang¡¯s fervor for cultivation but there was nothing they could do about his core. He pitied his son but did not hinder his pursuit of cultivation. Fang Lang replied, ¡°Woke up in a good state today so I spent more time cultivating.¡± He grabbed a meat bun from the table and took a bite. He gave Uncle Zhao a polite smile before turning to his father, ¡°Old Fang, how many spirit crystals do we have here?¡± Uncle Zhao slowed down his porridge consumption and gave Fang Lang a look. He noticed the change in Fang Lang¡¯s aura. ¡°Spirit crystals? The Imperial Examination is in a month... Lang¡¯er, you want the crystals for a final push? Fine, although there¡¯s little hope for you in the examination, as your father, I shall support you!¡± Old Fang took another slurp of his porridge. He licked the chopsticks and said, ¡°There are ten low-grade spirit crystals in storage. You can have two of them, they shouldst you a month. I¡¯ll get someone to deliver them to your room.¡± Fang Lang gave Old Fang an incredulous look. Then, he smirked and said, ¡°Two? You call that support? Are you even my real father? I want all ten of them.¡± Fang Lang did not wait for a reaction. He left with the meat bun in his mouth, his green robe fluttering as he walked away. He headed for Luojiang Academy. ¡°Ten spirit crystals? Your white core will take a whole year to drain ten crystals!¡± Old Fang was confused by his son¡¯s statement. He ate another mouthful of porridge. The portly Uncle Zhao had some thoughts about the issue. He said with a smile, ¡°Yesterday when I saw my nephew, he was at the peak of third-grade sword mastery. Today, he appears to have reached the fifth grade. To gain two grades in a day... I believe he can exhaust the ten spirit crystals at this rate.¡± Hearing Old Zhao¡¯s words, Old Fang was stunned. ¡°My son... He...¡± The sudden rush of emotion made his spit out the porridge. ... At Luojiang Academy, seventh study hall, third floor. Fang Lang was on the prayer mat when the bell rang, signifying the start of ss. The teacher in charge of the third floor sat on a prayer mat behind the high table. He flipped open the book and banged the gavel. The lecture began. Seated among the students, Fang Lang pursed his lips. His attention was elsewhere. Ni Wen kept a low profile. Coming from a less fortunate background, she avoided the rich kids. Despite studying on the same floor, Fang Lang rarely interacted with the genius. If it were not for the partner-binding, Fang Lang might have never known the aloof genius despite sharing three years of schooling together. After the Imperial Examination, they would have each moved on with their lives and never meet again. Fang Lang¡¯s gaze swept through the rows of students and fell on Ni Wen. The young girl was kneeling on the prayer mat. She had delicate features that promised beauty in the future. Theck of a bnced diet gave rise to a paleplexion. The green academy robes hung loosely on her small frame. The young girl had her head up¡ªthe fair skin of her neck visible¡ªas she listened attentively to the lecture. Long eyshes fluttered as she took in the teacher¡¯s words. Fang Lang¡¯s stare did not go unnoticed. Ni Wen¡¯s acute spiritual sense alerted her of the attention. She brushed aside some stray hair and looked up. Their eyes met across the room. The eye contact startled Ni Wen. She felt a jolt of electricity in her chest. There was a sense of familiarity when she looked at Fang Lang, as if he was a good friend of many years. It was the first time Ni Wen felt like this. A blush rose to her cheeks and like a startled deer, she broke eye contact. She buried the odd feeling in her chest with some trepidation. Her mother¡¯s advice echoed in her head, ¡®Focus on studying and avoid the rich boys in the academy. Common folk like us can¡¯t afford to mingle with them.¡¯ Although the academy granted protection over themoners, the rich would prevail in a battle of attrition. Fang Lang¡¯s stare made Ni Wen wary. She was worried her mother¡¯s warning woulde true. ¡®Don¡¯t look at me. Don¡¯t look at me...¡¯ Ni Wen shrunk into her ill-fitting green robe. She bit her lip and prayed for trouble to leave her be. However, the sense of familiarity deep within lingered. She could not resist turning back... Their eyes met again. Fang Lang¡¯s finger tapped the desk. An easygoing and charming smile graced his lips, as if he had already counted on her to turn back. Ni Wen had a shocked expression. ¡®Stop looking at me!¡¯ The gentlemanly smile terrified her. ¡®Stop... Stop smiling at me!¡¯ Chapter 4

Chapter 4: Cultivation Exchange

Trantor: EndlessFantasy Trantion Editor: EndlessFantasy Trantion Fang Lang rested his head on one hand and shed Ni Wen his best smile. The horrified expression on the girl¡¯s face did not stop her from turning back for a look. He felt rather speechless for her behavior. The academy genius was acting like a fool. Ni Wen¡¯s frequent nces to the back got the attention of other students which stirred up amotion. Seated on the dais, the mentor banged his gavel. ¡°Silence. There is one month until the Imperial Examination. Concentrate your efforts and don¡¯t lose focus. This is a chance for you to change your fate.¡± The mentor pointed out. Ni Wen knew the words were meant for her. She resisted the urge to look at Fang Lang but curiosity lingered. What was this unprecedented feeling of familiarity when they barely interacted? Once the mentor was satisfied with Ni Wen¡¯s attitude, he turned to Fang Lang. The mentor did not waste his breath on Fang Lang. Ni Wen had a good core and the potential to be selected by the elite sects in the Tang Dynasty after the Imperial Examination. Fang Lang... There was little chance the rich man¡¯s son would do well in the Imperial Examination. After graduating from Luojiang Academy, it was likely he would inherit the family¡¯s business and lead a boring butfortable life. The mentor ignored the boy. He continued giving pointers on theplicated aspects of the Tang Dynasty¡¯s Sword Scripture and the key points to focus on for the Imperial Examination. Fang Lang stopped staring at Ni Wen and listened to the mentor¡¯s exnation. From the front, a boy seven seats away was staring daggers at Fang Lang. Fang Lang was shocked. The boy was tanned and there was a glint of cruelty in his eyes. ¡®Liu Hao, fifth-grade martial arts disciple, academy ranking 378th, ss ranking 27th.¡¯ Fang Lang recalled the details about him. Liu Hao was amon folk like Ni Wen but he was nowhere near Ni Wen¡¯s level of talent. A fifth-grade martial arts disciple was far from a ninth-grade spell disciple. ¡°What a deadly re,¡± Fang Lang muttered under his breath, a smirk on his lips. Liu Hao met Fang Lang¡¯s eyes and did not back down. He mouthed something. ¡®Buzz off!¡¯ That was Fang Lang¡¯s interpretation. Fang Lang cocked an eyebrow. Was Liu Hao an admirer of Ni Wen¡¯s? They were both from the same social ss. Perhaps he treated Ni Wen as his exclusive property? Possessive much? Fang Lang only exchanged nces with Ni Wen and Liu Hao was already sending him warnings. The warning did not piss Fang Lang off¡ªhe was a sensible person after all. With a bright smile on his face, Fang Lang flipped Liu Hao the bird. Then, he turned away, ignoring the fuming Liu Hao. He rested his chin on his palm and paid attention to the mentor¡¯s lecture, his finger lightly tapping on the desk. Dang! Dang! Dang! The mentor who kept track of the passage of time sounded the bell. The mentor on the dais closed the Tang Dynasty¡¯s Sword Scripture. He took the teacup on the high table and lifted the lid. He sipped the liquid elegantly. He emptied the cup and chewed on some tea leaves before banging the gavel. ¡°What you read is the theory, cultivation also requires practice... The Imperial Examination epasses both theory and practical. Get ready and gather at the practice grounds.¡± The order was greeted with cheers from the ss. Students who were falling asleep during the lecture looked forward to actualbat on the practice grounds. The mentor left the room. The volume of chatter in the study hall rose. Fang Lang stood up and stretchedzily. His mood was infinitely better now that he had the ability to ovee his cultivation limitations. ¡®Ding! Guide mission: Engage in meaningful interactions with the binding partner, Ni Wen, about cultivation. For the first attempt, you will receive the Sword Draw Technique (Sword Mastery Specialty) as your reward.¡¯ Huh? The guide mission notification appeared in Fang Lang¡¯s mind. The mission reminded Fang Lang of thest detail in the System character panel, ¡®Sole Passive Ability: Additional rewards may be granted when the host bonds with the binding partner over cultivation.¡¯ Fang Lang smiled. He was passionate about cultivation and the reward was an extra bonus. In anguid pace, he walked toward Ni Wen. The girl was hunched over like a tortoise hiding its head. Ni Wen was curious about the reason behind the familiarity with Fang Lang. She swore she had never spoken to Fang Lang. As she turned around, she saw the boy walking toward her. Ni Wen made a distraught expression. Why was heing over? It was too sudden. ¡®Don¡¯t... Don¡¯te over!¡¯ Ni Wen was too surprised to revert to her original position. She screamed internally. Her internal struggles did nothing to stop Fang Lang¡¯s approach. Not minding the dusty floors of the study halls, the boy sat down across Ni Wen¡¯s desk. ¡°I¡¯m Fang Lang. Fang like a square, Lang like a wave.1¡± Fang Lang introduced himself to the frozen statue of a girl, a charming smile on his face. ¡°I... I...¡± Ni Wen kept a low profile in the academy. After ss, she always headed straight for home. The friction between the lower and upper sspounded with her mother¡¯s advice¡ªmade her reticent in school. She rarely interacted with the sons of the rich families. This was the first time she was socializing with a boy from the upper ss. Her nervousness made her tongue-tied. The best course of action was to abstain from any further interactions with Fang Lang. However, the undeniable familiarity whittled her resolve. Fang Lang kept the gentle smile on his face. Who knew the third-ranked genius in the academy was such an introvert? A part of it was likely due to the partner-binding¡ªthe process interfered with the girl¡¯s emotions. The System stated the process would not affect the partner¡¯s core or talents, but there would be some mental and emotional changes. ¡°Rx. I have some questions regarding cultivation and wanted to ask for your guidance. You¡¯re the prodigy of our ss after all.¡± Fang Lang lowered his posture to appear deferential¡ªthe smile on his face remained unchanged. His well-mannered attitude lowered Ni Wen¡¯s defenses. Anxiety bled out from her body. Ni Wen checked their surroundings for odd nces from the other students. Then, she said with her shoulders hunched, ¡°G-Go ahead. I¡¯ll try my best to answer.¡± She knew Fang Lang was not an academically promising student. She surmised his question would not be too difficult to stump her. The sooner she answered, the sooner she would be left alone. Fang Lang took Ni Wen¡¯s positive reply as progress. His expression changed from friendly to serious as he delivered his question. Ni Wen was d to witness the earnesty. ¡°When channeling the Tang Dynasty¡¯s Sword Scripture, I always feel my meridians clogging afterpleting a small circuit. There¡¯ll be a disruption in the flow of spiritual energy and the top of my head will smoke. The body bes ufortable and the meridians struggle to keep up...¡± Ni Wen¡¯s eyshes fluttered as she looked at Fang Lang with surprise. The question was very familiar. She had encountered the same issue recently when channeling the Tang Dynasty Spell Scripture and sought guidance from the mentors. Theplication was ultimately resolved. She was surprised Fang Lang came to her for help. Ni Wen could answer in confidence after her personal experience with the issue. Her hands were folded into her sleeves as she let out a knowing sound. A slender finger moved elegantly on the desk, tracing out the human meridians diagram. ¡°I¡¯ve looked into the Sword Scripture, the channeling for the small circuit is simr to that of the Spell Scripture. It¡¯s the basic cultivation technique used in the Tang Dynasty. The principle should be simr... ¡°Slow down the spiritual energy flow as it approaches the Shangxing acupoint. Keep it at the slowest flow between the Luhui acupoint and the Shangxing acupoint butyer your spiritual energy at the Qianding acupoint. At the apex, punch through the barrier at one go. This will minimize the load on the meridians and avoid smoking at the crown. However, this method requires a strong spiritual sense.¡± Ni Wen¡¯s voice faltered toward the end and she retracted her hand. Throughout her exnation, Fang Lang had a smile on his face. An asional nod was observed as he digested the words. The individual words were recognizable but the concept was a mystery to Fang Lang. Despite his cluelessness, he maintained a calm expression. ¡®Switch to the binding partner¡¯s cultivation state,¡¯ he thought. ¡®Ding! Switching sessful. Happy cultivating!¡¯ The System chimed. After the switch, Fang Lang had 50% of Ni Wen¡¯s cultivation inspiration. He had also activated the 3X Amplification Card in the morning. After the morning session with the spirit crystals and two hours of ss, he had another hour remaining. This meant Fang Lang had 150% of Ni Wen¡¯s cultivation inspiration. In the next moment, Fang Lang¡¯s eyes lit up. He found new meanings in Ni Wen¡¯s words as his mind made the connections. Thoughts and ideas came to him and he suggested certain improvements that could be made to Ni Wen¡¯s method. The surprise was evident in Ni Wen¡¯s eyes as she stared at the boy. ¡®He... He actually understands!¡¯ Ni Wen felt as if she had found her kin. A schr of her caliber! In Fang Lang¡¯s head, a System notification popped up and brought a smile to his face. ¡®Ding! The host haspleted the guide mission by engaging in meaningful interactions with the binding partner, Ni Wen, about cultivation. You have received the Sword Draw Technique (Sword Mastery Specialty) as your reward. ¡®The Sword Draw Technique will be incorporated through mental memory and muscle memory. The ins and outs of the technique will be revealed to the host. Happy cultivating!¡¯ Chapter 5

Chapter 5: The Boy Who Moved Like the Wind

Trantor: EndlessFantasy Trantion Editor: EndlessFantasy Trantion Sword Draw Technique... Sword Mastery Specialty? Fang Lang took a deep breath as his eyes lit up. A humming sound was heard. The message about the Sword Draw Technique appeared in his mind. Then, a peculiar memory yed out. ... Snow fell heavily in the Fang Manor courtyard. A boy dressed in a light robe stood amidst the snowfall. A sword hung at his waist. His palm rested on the hilt as he faced the ground, eyes closed. Exhale... The boy let out a misty breath and the snowkes were blown away. Time stilled and a piece of snowkeid frozen before his face. In a split second, the boy¡¯s eyes opened. His thumb pressed down on the hilt of his sword. The de sang. His movements were a blur. The snowke was split into two¡ªthe two halves fluttered down onto the ground. As the wind picked up, the snowfall increased. The boy took the opportunity to continue training. Day after day, year after year. ... ¡°Fa-Fang Lang, do you have any more questions? If there¡¯s nothing else, can I leave?¡± Ni Wen watched the boy who was lost in a daze. She lifted a slender finger and carefully poked at Fang Lang¡¯s shoulder. Fang Lang came back to his senses and stared at Ni Wen. As if shocked by electricity, Ni Wen retracted her finger. A grin formed on his lips. ¡°Nothing much for now. Can I pair up with you forbat practiceter? I have some questions.¡± Fang Lang¡¯s eyes sparkled expectantly. Meaningful interactions about cultivation with the binding partner would grant him more rewards! Fang Lang finally understood the passive ability. Before Ni Wen could answer his question, a loud m was heard a few seats away. ¡°Fang Lang! I¡¯ve had enough of you! Youe around and ask cultivation questions you¡¯d never encounter, and now you want to pair up for practice? You¡¯re just a useless son from a rich family. You¡¯re aware of your academy results, right? Know your ce.¡± Liu Hao mmed his hand down and pushed the desk away. A dark expression crossed his face. He walked toward Fang Lang with his fists clenched. He had been keeping an eye on Fang Lang. He restrained himself when Fang Lang approached Ni Wen and all the while, he kept an ear open to their conversation. Liu Hao was at his wits¡¯ end. As a student from amoner¡¯s background, he always stuck with Ni Wen forbat ss. He figured he would benefit from interacting with the genius. Fang Lang was stealing his opportunity. Liu Hao¡¯s outburst drew the attention of other students. Many students shot them a look of interest. The loud m startled Ni Wen. When she saw the dark-faced Liu Hao, her heart beat wildly. Fang Lang¡¯s eyebrow raised at themotion but he remained calm. He patted his green robe and greeted Liu Hao with a charming smile. With an eyebrow raised, he threw out a challenge. ¡°Wanna fight?¡± Fang Lang asked. Liu Hao was taken aback. Just like that? No argument? ¡®You¡¯re a third-grade sword disciple and you want to take me on?¡¯ Liu Hao thought. ¡®Are you out of your mind? Why don¡¯t you follow the customs?¡¯ Students gathered around them, eager to watch the drama unfold. It was an amusing sight to behold¡ªamoner picking a fight with a rich kid. The divide between the rich and the poor in the academy was ever present and it gave rise topetition between the two factions. Therefore, multiple pairs of eyes followed Liu Hao. A few students from the upper ss approached and stood behind Fang Lang as a show of support. Reluctantly, a few students from the lower ss came over to back Liu Hao up. ¡°Leave Ni Wen alone! She¡¯s a genius and the only hope for us poor people. Keep your hedonistic, good-for-nothing ways away from her!¡± Liu Hao threatened with his fist clenched. He was incredibly aggressive toward Fang Lang. He despised this untalented boy who had ess to all the resources. The room turned frosty as the insult hung in the air. The expressions of the upper-ss students who stood behind Fang Lang darkened. Hedonistic? Good-for-nothing? Liu Hao¡¯s opening salvo offended every rich kid in the room. A few geniuses who were born in rich families let out a chillingugh. They gave Liu Hao the stink eye. Liu Hao was unperturbed. Truthfully, he was not afraid of these rich kids. The academy had specific rules that protected themon folk. After the Imperial Examination, Liu Hao would join a sect and achieve greatness¡ªhe would have fewer reasons to be afraid then. That was why he dared to speak up. The atmosphere in the study hall was awkward. The tension between the poor and the rich intensified¡ªall it took was a spark to light the fire. Fang Lang was speechless. ¡®Is this boy emotionally retarded? Better keep it cool.¡¯ ¡°You wanna fight?¡± Fang Lang repeated his line. Liu Hao¡¯s lips twitched. ¡®Is that all you know?¡¯ Liu Hao thought. It felt like he was talking to a wall. ¡°Fang Lang, third-grade sword disciple, academy score 232, ranking in the 700s. Your ranking in the empire would be in the 10,000s. Please know your limits,¡± Liu Hao said as he unclenched his fist. He resorted to taking a jab at Fang Lang¡¯s academic results. The amused smile did not leave Fang Lang¡¯s face¡ªthere was no sign of anger. Fang Lang nced at the meek little girl by his side and allowed his smile to widen. His gaze fell onto Liu Hao¡ªmischief danced in his eyes. He repeated the same line. ¡°Wanna fight?¡± The same words were uttered. Was it human nature to be a copy reader? No, Fang Lang actually wanted to fight Liu Hao. Of course, he did not want a fight without rules. The amused smiles of the upper-ss students rooted Liu Hao to the spot. He felt pressured to ept the challenge when all the eyes were on him. Ultimately, he could not resist the goading from Fang Lang. ¡°F*ck! Come on! Let¡¯s fight!¡± Liu Hao raised his fists and clenched his jaw. The fifth-grade martial arts disciple channeled his vital energy as a fierce aura radiated from his body. Liu Hao¡¯s deration shocked Ni Wen out of her silence. ¡°Ah! Li-Liu Hao, don¡¯t fight!¡± She turned to meet Fang Lang¡¯s eyes. Fang Lang gave Ni Wen a small smile and nod. As if they were childhood friends, he patted Ni Wen on the head and said, ¡°Don¡¯t worry. If he wants a fight, I will do it.¡± Ni Wen did not shy away from his touch. Progress! The gentleness of his tone and words calmed Ni Wen¡¯s heart. After the in-depth discussion with Fang Lang about cultivation, she had subconsciously developed a trust in the boy. Most importantly, the hand on her head made her muscles tense. Her mind went nk and she stayed still. A visible blush rose from her neck to her face. She looked like a boiling kettle¡ªany second, steam would be rising from her head. Ni Wen¡¯s blush and Fang Lang¡¯s words made Liu Hao want to puke blood. F*ck! ¡®Get your dirty hands off her! You¡¯re the one who wanted to fight!¡¯ ¡°Fang Lang! Come on! One round! Or are you just all talk?¡± Liu Hao roared. His eyes were bloodshot. The loud voice broke Ni Wen out of her trance. She stared at Liu Hao in shock. ¡®Why are you shouting?¡¯ A sliver of smile appeared on Fang Lang¡¯s face. ¡°Let us head down to the practice grounds beforebat ss starts. If you lose, we¡¯ll switch partners forbat practice. Agreeable?¡± Anger coursed through Liu Hao. Fang Lang was exposed! He was after Ni Wen all along! This was what he wanted! Liu Hao did not back down. His fighting spirit ignited in the face of the opposite sex¡ªhe wanted to showcase his strengths. Fang Lang was just a third-grade sword disciple while Liu Hao was a fifth-grade martial arts disciple. In an actual battle, Liu Hao was confident he could defeat Fang Lang. Did Fang Lang have an ace up his sleeve? Some underhand tactic? ¡°You can¡¯t use spell charms or underhand tactics. You rich kids have the resources to buy a bunch of enhancements and that won¡¯t be a fair fight!¡± Liu Hao was angry but not dumb. Fang Lang pulled back the hand that patted Ni Wen¡¯s head. He said with a smile, ¡°Rest assured, I won¡¯t be using any spell charms or underhand tactics. If I am caught cheating, I will forsake my name and stay 10 meters away from Little Wen.¡± The words uttered, Fang Lang turned to leave for the practice grounds. The sleeves of his green robe swayed with his movements. The crowd of students was excited to watch the next episode. A duel was actually happening. Liu Hao clenched his fist and his knuckles made a cracking sound. ¡®Little Wen? Who gave you the right to use that nickname?¡¯ Anger clouded Liu Hao¡¯s judgment as he stomped downstairs, tailing Fang Lang to the practice grounds. Without spell charms, he was certain he could trump Fang Lang. Where did the third-grade sword disciple get his confidence? Chapter 6

Chapter 6: A Single Draw

Trantor: EndlessFantasy Trantion Editor: EndlessFantasy Trantion Fang Lang and Liu Hao had a duel! The news spread like wildfire through the third floor of the seventh study block. Fang Lang was not known by many in the academy. Although he was one of the rich, his family background was nothing noteworthy. Those who attended sses in the academy had to be either rich or destitute. On the other hand, Liu Hao was a well-known student owing to his reputation as one of the talentedmon folk students. The match was between a rich kid and amon folk student. Was themon folk student forced into this? The news spread quickly to the other study halls¡ªmany students were curious about the oue. Students made their way to the practice grounds, chattering as they went. ¡°Fang Lang? From the Fang family in Luojiang City? I heard he ranks in the 700s. A third-grade sword disciple... Is he even a good representative for the upper ss?¡± ¡°I heard the duel stemmed from jealousy and the girl is the third name on the honor roll, Ni Wen.¡± ¡°I don¡¯t think it¡¯s about jealousy. Fang Lang went to Ni Wen with some questions about cultivation. Then, Liu Hao came to stir up trouble.¡± ¡°Is it? What an attitude on amon folk genius.¡± ¡°Liu Hao is a fifth-grade martial arts disciple. If Fang Lang doesn¡¯t use any spell charms, he¡¯d be asking for a beating.¡± ... On the limestone path to the practice grounds, green-robed students were exchanging curious words and whispers. The students from the third floor of the seventh study block had taken their sides. A number of upper ss students followed Fang Lang while most of themon folk students went with Liu Hao. The two boys approached the practice grounds with their auras zing. Fang Lang was spearheading the group. His eyebrows were knitted together as he recalled the details of the Sword Draw Technique. The System said the technique was incorporated through mental memory and muscle memory. There were new memories rting to the Sword Draw Technique floating in his mind. Even his palm showed calluses from the sword training he supposedly went through in the past. Despite all this, he was still nervous. Liu Hao was a fifth-grade martial arts disciple who had a natural talent that Fang Lang could only dream of. As Fang Lang was deep in thought, a sh of green came into his vision. Someone was standing in front of him. ¡°Lang¡¯zi, are you confident?¡± It was a boy with a floppy mop of hair. He stroked his fringe as he asked the question. Fang Lang stopped thinking about the Sword Draw Technique and lifted his head. Yang Zhengyi was an eighth-grade spell disciple, the fifteenth name on Luojiang Academy honor roll. The Yang family and the Fang family were long-time family friends. Yang Zhengyi was a childhood friend and one of the few close friends of Fang Lang¡¯s. ¡°Hey, I¡¯m talking to you. Why would you pick a fight with a fifth-grade martial arts disciple if you don¡¯t want to lose? Have you lost your mind? With your family background and my support, you can get your pick of girls. Why don¡¯t we pay a visit to the entertainment house after ss? I¡¯ll show you that love exists in this world.¡± Yang Zhengyi looked like a true son of nobility with a folding fan in his hand. After each line, he flicked his head to move the fringe away from his eyes. ¡°Rx. I know what I¡¯m doing,¡± Fang Lang said. He patted Yang Zhengyi on the shoulder and smiled warmly. The two boys¡¯ eyes met and Yang Zhengyi flinched. Fang Lang was overflowing with confidence. ¡°Lang¡¯zi... You¡¯re giving off a different aura today!¡± Was this the power of love? Thwack! Yang Zhengyi pped the folding fan on his palm and nced at the faraway Ni Wen, then he looked at Fang Lang. Yang Zhengyi¡¯s stare was knowing. ... The blue sky over the practice grounds of Luojiang Academy was dotted with milky, white clouds. The practice area was paved with green tiles. Willow trees were nted along the sides¡ªthe leaves rustled in the wind. Combat ss had not begun but there were already students milling about. Some were doing stretching exercises while others were channeling their vital energy. In the third practice ring, the gathered students were split into two factions. Both parties were highly strung, as if an impromptu fight might break out any second. Fang Lang stood in the center of the fight zone. His head was downcast as he stroked the wooden sword he collected from the weapons shelf. The destructive power of a wooden sword was limited¡ªit was used for practice after all. The duel was voluntary so the academy would not stop them. After all, cultivation was a dangerous business and getting hurt was not out of the question. However, the loss of life was definitely prohibited. Hence, the weapons¡¯ choice was limited. Opposite Fang Lang, Liu Hao entered the ring. His hands were wrapped in leather and chains dangled from each fist. These were the specialized boxing gloves used by martial artists, the most destructive ones allowed by the academy to be used in duels. The students mored when they saw the boxing gloves. ¡®Liu Hao¡¯s not joking around!¡¯ The martial artist was a unique upation. Most martial arts disciples relied on their fists but some would pick up odd weapons like a warhammer, machete, nine-toothed serrated de and so on. Those who used their fists would be equipped with specialized boxing gloves. Sharps were attached to the boxing gloves to enhance their destructive powers. When Liu Hao was done wrapping the chains around his gloved fists, he sent Fang Lang a cold look. ¡°A third grader challenging a fifth grader... You must have some treacherous schemes up your sleeves. You rich kids are always ying tricks!¡± The usation left Liu Hao¡¯s mouth. He was not worried about the challenger¡ªa boy who only achieved third grade sword mastery after three years of study despite the family¡¯s wealth. He hated the rich for exactly this reason. Some of them had little talent and awful cores, yet they had ess to spirit crystals and other cultivation resources. The world was unfair! Liu Hao¡¯s emotions were running hot. He was not worried about offending the upper ss students. He had some innate talent and there was a chance he would be selected by one of the sects after the Imperial Examination. His social status would be elevated once he became a master. If he had the resources, he would be able to climb higher. Hence, the anger and jealousy. Liu Hao was sure Fang Lang had something nasty nned. Why else would a third grader challenge a fifth grader? If spell charms were not in y, Liu Hao could not think of a scenario where he would lose. He punched his chain-decorated fists together and said, ¡°You better not cry and begter.¡± His eyes were cold as he stared at Fang Lang. Fang Lang leaned on his wooden sword and gave the boy a flippant smile. ¡°Beg for you to not die?¡± Liu Hao frowned. The crowd of students were quiet. The frail-looking Ni Wen watched Fang Lang with a worried and anxious expression. This duel was happening because of her. She would feel incredibly guilty if anything happened to Fang Lang. Liu Hao noted Ni Wen¡¯s attention on Fang Lang, and theck thereof on himself. Rage burned in his chest. ¡®Ni Wen, as the third-ranking student, you¡¯re the pride of themon folk. Yet, you only have eyes for the rich! Fang Lang has nothing except money.¡¯ The duel began. ¡°Fang Lang!¡± Liu Hao shouted. Whoosh! The martial arts disciple¡¯s vital energy circted within his body. The energy made his sleeves billow out. The boy¡¯s aura shifted¡ªlike an enraged tiger, he let out a roar. Liu Hao took a step forward and a tremble spread across the floor. Then, he rushed toward Fang Lang with a wind-like speed. Gasps were heard among the crowd. Engulfed by his anger, Liu Hao¡¯s aura was approaching that of a sixth-grade martial arts disciple. Yang Zhengyi¡¯s expression changed. He flipped his fringe to a side. This was not good for the third-grade Lang¡¯zi. ¡®Lang¡¯zi, danger.¡¯ Huh? Suddenly, Yang Zhengyi¡¯s eyes widened in surprise. Fang Lang took a step back and assumed a sword-drawing position. His aura shifted into... He held the weapon like it was a prized sword. The surrounding winds coalesced into Fang Lang¡¯s sheathed sword. Yang Zhengyi heard a faint whineing from the sword. The wooden sword in Fang Lang¡¯s hand was shaking. The presentation also took Ni Wen by surprise. Her initial worry for Fang Lang ebbed as she watched the scene y out. It was not a mistake¡ªFang Lang was truly someone of her caliber. There was a frenzy in Liu Hao¡¯s eyes as he charged forward. At that moment, he directed all his hatred and jealousy for the rich into his strike. His blood boiled as he roared again and again. Five roars to indicate his status as a fifth-grade martial arts disciple. His vital energy red brightly. At thest step of the charge, the green tile at his foot broke into pieces. Liu Hao leapt into the air. His body was twisted at a 45-degree angle as his spiritual sense locked onto Fang Lang¡ªa fist aimed straight at the boy¡¯s head. A wave of energy radiated from the ring. The intensity elicited a gasp from the crowd. Fang Lang remained in his sword-drawing position, unperturbed by his surroundings. He was focused as the scene blurred... Snow was falling. He was the wind in a snowstorm, slicing through the ice and snow. Spiritual energy flowed through Fang Lang¡¯s body. His sword rattled with vigor, then the restraints broke. The de sang five times. Fifth-grade sword disciple! The audience was surprised by the turn of events. Then, a loud cheer broke out. When did Fang Lang ascend to the fifth grade? Everyone knew him as a third-grade sword disciple. Realization dawned upon every student¡ªFang Lang¡¯s ace up his sleeve was his miraculous advancement in cultivation! Unfazed by the revtion, Liu Hao made his strike. At the same time, Fang Lang lifted his head to meet Liu Hao with an eerie calmness. Two parallel universes ovepped in Fang Lang¡¯s eyes. Liu Hao shuddered as he saw himself reflected in Fang Lang¡¯s eyes... Liu Hao was himself, but also a snowke. The snowke was sliced in half. The de energy erupted. A cloud covered the sun. Fang Lang drew his sword. Liu Hao¡¯s spiritual sense was knocked back. Fast! Undeniably fast! The quickness of the sword draw was unimaginable. Sword Draw Technique, Sword Mastery Specialty! One draw. One hit. Liu Hao felt his fist collide with an unstoppable force. The sh was loud! The chains and leather were shredded. Blood welled out from the open cuts on his fist. Red droplets fell like flower petals, staining the floor. Liu Haoid a distance away on the ground. He clutched his hand in pain, teeth grinding. After a moment, he gave in and started groaning. Silence filled the battleground. The duel was concluded with a single draw. The audience was stunned. What was he ying at? How did he score so low with this sword technique? Fang Lang let out a breath of air. Sunlight streamed down as the clouds parted. He turned to find Ni Wen. With the worn-down wooden sword in hand, he gave her a nod. Bathed in the golden light, Fang Lang said softly, ¡°I won. See youter.¡± Chapter 7

Chapter 7: Hidden Genius

Trantor: EndlessFantasy Trantion Editor: EndlessFantasy Trantion A deadly silence filled the practice ring. The audience only regained their senses after Fang Lang spoke. Chatter erupted like a handful of pearls striking a jade tray. The fifth-grade martial arts disciple¡ªthe little genius of themon folk¡ªwas defeated in one stroke! In a matter of seconds! Who could have predicted? Fang Lang¡¯s good friend, Yang Zhengyi was not exempted. His hand was part way through his fringe as he stared in shock. A single strike decided the match. It was a clean win for Fang Lang. Amazing! Fang Lang left to return the wooden sword after speaking to Ni Wen. The wooden sword had too many scratches to be reused. Among the crowd, the talented students narrowed their eyes. Some felt threatened by the show of power. ¡°Fang Lang... Was he hiding his skills all this time? Third grade to fifth grade. That quick draw technique would have taken at least ten years to master.¡± ¡°As the Imperial Examination approaches, all sorts of hidden talents will be revealed.¡± ¡°Interesting. So Fang Lang has decided to reveal his cards now.¡± The students exchanged wary nces as theirpetitiveness got the better of them. The triennial Imperial Examination was thest stop for average students. For the naturally talented, it was a tform to showcase their skills! Fang Lang¡¯s performance riled up the students¡¯ fighting spirit. Survival of the fittest, and the battle promised to be an interesting one. Fiercepetition in the Imperial Examination was encouraged to validate the students¡¯ three years of cultivation study. When Yang Zhengyi recovered from his stupor, he frowned. Fang Lang greeted the girl and left without saying a word to him. Nevertheless, the duel had excited Yang Zhengyi. He ran his fingers through his hair and jogged after Fang Lang. As for Liu Hao, he had surreptitiously crawled out of the practice ring. The crowd slowly dispersed. Fang Lang¡¯s words made Ni Wen blush. Her head was a bit dizzy with the blood rush. ¡®Wait... Wait a minute. I have to practice with Fang Lang? Maybe I should just sit out on practice? Mother said I shouldn¡¯t get involved with the rich kids.¡¯ Ni Wen¡¯s head was down as she contemted her decision. Fang Lang¡¯sst strike was seared into Ni Wen¡¯s mind, so was the bright smile he gave her in front of the whole crowd. The solution appeared in Ni Wen¡¯s mind, ¡®I¡¯ll practice with him, but I won¡¯t say a word.¡¯ She clenched her fist and nodded, determined to follow through with her promise. ... The willow trees alongside the practice grounds swayed in the light breeze. Silhouettes moved under the shade of the trees. If Fang Lang was here, he would see a familiar figure under the shade. It was the man whom Old Fang apanied to the entertainment house, Uncle Zhao. Uncle Zhao stood respectfully beside a slender figure. Next to them was an old man with a hunched back. His beard was as white as his robe. The three people drew their gazes away. Uncle Zhao wore an odd expression while the slender figure had her dark brows knitted together, deep in thought. The old man stroked his white beard, a smile on his face. ¡°That sword draw is interesting. If it was a disciple of the Sword Guild, I won¡¯t be surprised. Who knew Luojiang Academy had a student of this caliber?¡± the young, slenderdy said after a deep breath. Then, she fell silent. After a while, her eyes lit up. The bottleneck had been ovee and her thoughts flowed fluidly. ¡°Now I understand what Master Cui meant by not underestimating people.¡± The slenderdy bowed before the hunchbacked man. The old man waved his hand. ¡°Youngdy, this is not my doing. This is a normal duel between two Luojiang Academy students.¡± He turned to Jiang Linglong and sighed. The golden cores were truly entric. By chance, they happened to witness a surprising duel between two students. ¡°That boy¡¯s sword technique would¡¯ve taken at least ten years of gruelling practice. It¡¯s one of the strongest sword techniques. Although he¡¯s just a fifth-grade sword disciple, having this technique in his arsenal would give him a significant boost.¡± Jiang Linglong had an attractive look of admiration on her face. The old man who was addressed as Master Cui stroked his beard. He did not gainsay Jiang Linglong. ¡°The boy is Fang Lang?¡± ¡°The son of Luojiang City¡¯s Fang Beihe?¡± ¡°Why didn¡¯t we hear of him sooner?¡± Master Cui smiled as he looked at Fang Lang disappear into the crowd after his win against Liu Hao. The confidence and calmness Fang Lang disyed after his win was admirable. The old man and the slenderdy continued walking. The boy¡¯s sword technique was phenomenal but his cultivation grade was too low. The technique would boost his examination score but a fifth-grade sword disciple stood little chance in being picked by the Tang Dynasty¡¯s elite sects. A normal sect, maybe. Fang Lang was ced at the back of their minds. If one could not get into the top-tier sects, the path forward was predictable, impressive sword technique or no. Jiang Linglong and Master Cui chatted as they ambled along the path. Uncle Zhao followed Jiang Linglong¡¯s footsteps but the shock and awe on his face still remained. He recognized the boy in the ring. It was Fang Lang! The boy was a third-grade sword disciple when they met, but within a day, he had reached the fifth grade. The sword technique he just used was extraordinary. The boy¡¯s performance contradicted Old Fang¡¯s mediocre evaluation of his son. A distance away, Jiang Linglong turned her head. Her eyebrows were scrunched up as she hollered, ¡°Zhao Wuji, stop daydreaming. I still have to make a trip to the Jade Pavilion after this. Keep up!¡± ¡°Yes!¡± Uncle Zhao snapped out of his daze and picked up his pace. ... Fang Lang ced the brittle wooden sword back onto the weapons shelf. The old mentor in charge of the weapons shelf raised an eyebrow but did not demand forpensation. The mentor had witnessed Fang Lang and Liu Hao¡¯s duel and saw the sword skill deployed by the former. ¡°If you were equipped with a steel sword, that strike would have taken off the opponent¡¯s arm, a clean slice through the bone.¡± The mentor took a drag of his tobo pipe and smiled. fgv A surprised expression crossed Fang Lang¡¯s face, then he smiled. ¡°He¡¯s a ssmate. Mercy where it¡¯s due.¡± More importantly, the academy did not allow steel swords. Fang Lang exchanged the damaged wooden sword for a new one. The words shocked the mentor. ¡®Mercy where it¡¯s due...¡¯ He took another drag of his pipe and blew out a cloud of smoke. A smile graced his face as he said, ¡°Good child. That¡¯s a good attitude to have. The heart matters when ites to cultivation.¡± The mentor tapped his tobo pipe against the weapons shelf. Fang Lang gave the old mentor a nod. With his new wooden sword, he turned to leave for the practice grounds. The duel gave him a taste of the Sword Draw Technique. Fighting Liu Hao was a waste of time. It did not yield him any passive rewards so he wanted to end the duel as quickly as possible. He wanted to secure a clear win. The power of the Sword Draw Technique was a big surprise. Engaging in meaningful interactions with the binding partner would gain him special rewards. The passive ability excited Fang Lang and he was eager to train with Ni Wen. Combat practice should count as a meaningful interaction, right? The bell sounded to signal the end of break time. On the practice grounds, the students from the third floor of the seventh study block gathered. After some lecturing, the mentor ordered them to practice with their partners. The students dispersed¡ªgreen robes pped like windswept leaves on the practice grounds. At one corner, Fang Lang and Ni Wen faced each other. Ni Wen held a withered wooden staff. Fang Lang gave her a gentle smile. Ni Wen¡¯s heart rate picked up. She tucked her head into her robe, too shy to face Fang Lang. ¡®Just practice, no talking!¡¯ A distance away, Yang Zhengyi flipped his fringe away as he red at Fang Lang. The boy had grown wings and abandoned him to spar with Ni Wen. Yang Zhengyi was the 50th on the honor roll! Was he notparable to Ni Wen? Cough... Ni Wen was in the top three. Perhaps he did not hold a candle to her. Yang Zhengyi was saddened by the thought and he aimed to take his frustrations out on his opponent. The mentor gave the order. Two rows of students faced each other. ¡°Thank you for the guidance.¡± The perfunctory greeting resounded throughout the practice area. In the next moment,bat practice began and enthusiastic shouts broke out. Brimming with youthfulness, the teenagers assumed their fighting stances. There were smiles all around. Chapter 8

Chapter 8: Jackpot

Trantor: EndlessFantasy Trantion Editor: EndlessFantasy Trantion Luojiang Academy was the only academy in Luojiang City that taught students about cultivation. Theories and lectures were a part of cultivation but so wasbat practice. Combat was a heavyponent of the Tang Dynasty¡¯s Imperial Examination. For example, Fang Lang¡¯s cultivation discipline was sword mastery and it was graded over 100. Theory andbat each took up 50 points. In the most recent academy examination, Fang Lang scored 47 points for the theoretical assessment and 16 points forbat, making up a total of 63 points. He was only a third-grade sword disciple back then so the lowbat score was justified. He was aware of his shorings, and thus worked hard to score well in the theoretical assessment. The light breeze blew across the green-tiled practice ring. Students faced each other off, showcasing theirbat talents. de energy sizzled, spells erupted and vital energy surged. Fang Lang held the wooden sword and took a bow. Once the formalities were done, his aura changed. The third-ranking student in Luojiang Academy, Ni Wen! The most talentedmon folk student in Luojiang City. The gap between him and Ni Wen¡¯sbat abilities was unknown. The opportunity hade for him to test his skills and the newly-acquired the Sword Draw Technique. Sensing her opponent¡¯s battle spirit, Ni Wen entered herbat state. Fang Lang had trumped Liu Hao with a single strike. Ni Wen was surprised by his technique¡ªit was quick and merciless. It would have taken years to train. ¡°Little Wen, be careful.¡± Fang Lang smirked and palmed the handguard of the wooden sword. He did not perform the Sword Draw Technique from the get-go. The explosive technique required a buildup of spiritual sense and the deployment exhausted his reserves. Therefore, he could only perform it once. In the previous match, Fang Lang had nned to catch Liu Hao unprepared. The same trick would not work on Ni Wen. Moreover, this wasbat practice. His goal was to learn new skills. ¡®Switch to the binding partner¡¯s cultivation mode,¡¯ Fang Lang thought. In his mind, the System message popped up. ¡®After switching, you will receive 50% of the binding partner, Ni Wen¡¯s cultivation inspiration and cultivation speed. Will you use the 3X Amplification Card?¡¯ ¡®Let¡¯s skip the 3X Amplification Card.¡¯ Fang Lang did not want to waste the remaining two 3X Amplification Cards. ¡®Switching sessful. Happy cultivating!¡¯ The System was silent after the notification. Fang Lang secured his grip on the hilt of the wooden sword and in a blink of an eye, he charged forward. Ni Wen¡¯s weapon of choice was a wooden staff. The staff channeled the energy into spells. When inbat mode, Ni Wen¡¯s shyness abated. She was stern and focused. With her spiritual sense awakened, the sleeves of her green robe billowed out. She waved the wooden staff and the spiritual energy formed a shapeless barrier before her. The mentors always warned: in a fight between spells and sword, the spell master must maintain distance from the sword master for survival¡¯s sake. The tactic was often abused by spell disciples. Unsurprisingly, Fang Lang nned to close the distance between them. At the start of theirbat practice, the mentor who was in charge of Fang Lang¡¯s ss watched them from afar. His hands were folded within his sleeves. Mentor Wen was rumored to be an aplished cultivator from the top academy in Imperial City, Sansheng Academy. ¡°The 700-ranked Fang Lang defeated Liu Hao in one strike?¡± Mentor Wen did not witness the duel but the chatter from the students caught his attention. Therefore, he kept an eye on Fang Lang and Ni Wen. ¡®His tactic is correct. A sword master must aim to get within attacking distance of a spell master. Unfortunately, Fang Lang¡¯s movements and techniques are average at best and hecks thebat experience. Ni Wen is the third-ranking student in the academy. Even if she suppresses her cultivation to the fifth grade, Fang Lang won¡¯t stand a chance.¡¯ Mentor Wen¡¯s eyebrows twitched. Fang Lang¡¯s performance was not awful, but it was mediocre. Mentor Wen was a bit disappointed. However, he did not leave right away. He wanted to check out the finishing blow Fang Lang dealt Liu Hao. As the fight progressed, Mentor Wen was pleasantly surprised by his observations. Fang Lang¡¯s sword-fighting abilities were gradually improving before his eyes. The intricate details regarding sword mastery that Mentor Wen spoke of in ss were being incorporated into Fang Lang¡¯s fighting style. ¡®He¡¯s not at Ni Wen¡¯s level but he has talent! Interesting. The boy has never shown potential until today. The little genius has been hiding all this while?¡¯ Mentor Wen¡¯s mood only improved as he spectated. ¡°Attack from the bottom left, a strong thrust. Avoid collision with the spiritual energy barrier to conserve energy.¡± The advice echoed in Fang Lang¡¯s ears. Fang Lang took a moment to internalize the words. A look of understanding crossed his face. With the help of his binding partner¡¯s cultivation mode, his body was able to adapt and move ordingly. A satisfied nod by Mentor Wen, followed by asional fighting tips. Fang Lang was sweating buckets as he tried to close in on Ni Wen. The waves of spiritual energy and the barrier protected the girl. Whenever Fang Lang sessfully tore down one barrier, Ni Wen would have retreated to a safe distance away. Despite his struggle, Fang Lang was enjoying thebat practice. After switching cultivation mode, he felt his cultivation inspiration increase. His sword skills andbat experience benefited greatly from this duel. Fang Lang¡¯s eyes sparkled even as sweat rolled down his face. He set his foot down and the green tile trembled. ¡°Be careful.¡± Fang Lang breathed out the stale air. The wooden sword was sheathed in a sh. His spiritual sense adjusted. The blowing wind was merged with the de energy. His spiritual sense locked onto Ni Wen. Aware of the danger, Ni Wen gripped her weapon with both hands. Fang Lang rushed toward the spiritual energy barrier and in the collision, he used the Sword Draw Technique. The de sang. Quick! Incredibly quick! The boy was like the wind, cutting through the falling snow. From a distance, Mentor Wen had his hands out of his sleeves. He kept silent, not wanting to disturb Fang Lang¡¯s rhythm as the boy went on the offensive. Disbelief shone in Mentor Wen¡¯s eyes. ¡®This is a wholly different technique! A far cry from what he has shown before. A masterstroke! It¡¯s as if the mediocre strikes before was to set up this final strike.¡¯ The technique Fang Lang performed was top-notch¡ªit was the peak for a sword mastery disciple. All his energy and focus was concentrated into this single strike, like a blooming flower. From this sword strike, Mentor Wen could imagine the years of practice the boy endured. Most importantly, Fang Lang had delivered the blow at a strategic angle. The timing was right! Mentor Wen no longer had his hands folded. The passing wind ruffled his sleeves. A distance away, Ni Wen was startled by the Sword Draw Technique. In the sh, she heard a ripping sound. Her spiritual energy barrier had been struck down. Strong! Liu Hao¡¯s defeat was understandable. Ni Wen felt her body tense. Her danger sense was triggered and her control over her cultivation slipped. It broke through the fifth grade and ascended to the sixth, seventh, eighth, ninth! Blood drained from Ni Wen¡¯s face. Oh no! A hum. A faint glow appeared above the wooden staff. The sleeves of Ni Wen¡¯s green robes rippled as a strong wave of spiritual energy shot out like a ring with her as the epicenter. Fang Lang¡¯s attack was dwarfed by the wave. He was forced back a few steps before tumbling onto his butt. The outburst drew attention. A ninth-grade spell disciple¡¯s show of power would not go unnoticed. Ni Wen went to Fang Lang¡¯s side. She crouched down and asked, ¡°A-Are you alright? Your attack was strong and... I... I¡¯m sorry, I lost control.¡± Regret and apprehension were evident from her pale face. Her fingers were white from the death grip on her wooden staff. Fang Lang answered kindly, ¡°Don¡¯t worry. I¡¯m fine. It¡¯s not your fault.¡± Sweat-drenched and exhausted, he still managed to present her a warm smile. ¡®Ding! The host has engaged in meaningful interactions with the binding partner, Ni Wen, about cultivation. You will receive Spirit Step (Sword Mastery Specialty) as your reward. ¡®The Spirit Step will be incorporated through mental memory and muscle memory. The ins and outs of the technique will be revealed to the host. Happy cultivating!¡¯ Jackpot! Fang Lang was stunned for a moment. Then, the smile on his face widened. Chapter 9

Chapter 9: Cultivation-Rted Transactions

Trantor: EndlessFantasy Trantion Editor: EndlessFantasy Trantion Jackpot! Fang Lang had anticipated it. The passive ability granted him rewards when he had meaningful interactions with Ni Wen. The duel was counted as a meaningful interaction. If Ni Wen had not used her ninth-grade power, Fang Lang would have followed up with an attack that would take her down after the spiritual energy barrier was disabled. Unfortunately, the girl did not practice proper etiquette. Fang Lang did not dwell on the issue. There was a gap in power between them. Ni Wen was a ninth-grader while he was only recently elevated to the fifth grade. Regardless, the duel had improved Fang Lang¡¯s control over his fifth-grade sword skills. His physical body adapted to his newfound power. Most importantly, he had gained real lifebat experience and another technique. Fang Lang shut his eyes¡ªcountless scenes of himself practicing the Spirit Step shed through his mind. Momentster, the memory transfer stopped. Fang Lang felt changes in his legs. Fang Lang let out a heavy sigh and switched back to his own cultivation mode. Being in his binding partner¡¯s cultivation mode consumed a lot of Fang Lang¡¯s determination and focus. Hence, he did not maintain that state for long. ¡°I¡¯m sorry!¡± Ni Wen said sincerely after snapping out from the trance induced by Fang Lang¡¯s smile. Fang Lang acknowledged her apology with a smile and nod. Mentor Wen walked over to the pair, a broad smile on his face. ¡°Master.¡± Fang Lang and Ni Wen greeted their mentor with a bow. Mentor Wen patted Fang Lang on the shoulder. ¡°Good job. Your foundation is somewhatcking but if you can achieve the seventh or eighth grade, you might stand a chance in the Imperial Examination with your theoretical assessment score.¡± Mentor Wen thought it was a pity. With only one month to the Imperial Examination, it was impossible for a person with Fang Lang¡¯s core to reach the seventh or eighth grade, even with the help of spirit crystals. Climbing the higher grades required more spirit crystals. Fang Lang replied with a smile, ¡°To seed will be my luck, to fail will be my fate.¡± Mentor Wen chuckled. ¡°That¡¯s a good mentality to have at your age. You¡¯re not without hope...¡± He looked Fang Lang up and down as he pondered. Then, his expression hardened. ¡°Two weekster, the Sword Guild will host the Gathering of Swords. Sword disciples from all 200 academies1 are encouraged to participate. Earning a spot in the top three will give you a 20 points head start in the Imperial Examination. That shouldpensate for your grade.¡± The Gathering of Swords? Fang Lang took a deep breath. His eyes glimmered at the opportunity. Unknown to his mentor, it was possible for Fang Lang to reach the seventh or eighth rank within one month. However, the additional 20 points were interesting. The event sounded like the International Mathematical Olympiad of the modern world¡ªa win would be beneficial. Mentor Wen smiled. ¡°Don¡¯t feel too pressured. The Gathering of Swords only focuses on technique, not the cultivation grade but it will still be difficult to make it into the top three. All the academies are invited, including the well-established ones like Changan Academy. Luojiang Academy¡¯s performance for the past few years have been disappointing so our chances are slim.¡± He pped Fang Lang on the back. ¡°Luojiang Academy has little expectation for this year¡¯spetition. Headmaster Cui has handpicked someone and gave me the remaining two slots. I¡¯ll put your name in. This is your opportunity to shine, seize it! What do you say?¡± Mentor Wen asked Fang Lang. It was an opportunity. Fang Lang had nothing to lose. He could switch cultivation speed and cultivation inspiration with the System¡¯s help but the higher he scored for the Imperial Examination, the better. ¡°Thank you, Master. I¡¯m willing to try,¡± Fang Lang answered sincerely. It was a rare opportunity. Mentor Wen was d to hear that. His expression softened and he nodded. ¡°Come to the Mentors¡¯ Office tomorrow. I¡¯ll introduce you to the two other students who will be joining the Gathering of Swords.¡± Fang Lang nodded in response. Mentor Wen lectured Ni Wen about the inappropriateness of herbat practice etiquette then walked away with his arms folded. Ni Wen resumed apologizing to Fang Lang. The agreement was to maintain her cultivation at the fifth grade during battle. The sudden burst of ninth-grade power could have badly injured Fang Lang. The mistake was wholly on her part. Fang Lang stared at the girl, speechless. It was water under the bridge, yet this dummy was still apologizing. Fear struck Ni Wen¡¯s heart. Her mother had told her many stories about vengeful plots executed by the rich. What if Fang Lang held a grudge? Amoner like Ni Wen would not be able to pacify him. Ni Wen would be conscience-stricken if the issue caused trouble for her mother. As the girl¡¯s apologies carried on, a System notification rang in Fang Lang¡¯s head. ¡®Ding! Guide mission: Perform your first cultivation-rted transaction with the provided resource. You will receive a random reward.¡¯ Fang Lang was surprised by the sudden pop-out. Another guide mission toplete. The first mission encouraged him to interact with Ni Wen¡ªthis one prompted him to use the gold coins he received. Cultivation-rted transaction... Fang Lang¡¯s eyebrows furrowed. The task was simple enough¡ªspend money on something rted to cultivation. The System¡¯s provisions were mainly meant for improving his cultivation. Historically, the poor went into academia while the rich trained in martial arts. The practice of cultivation was akin to martial arts¡ªa costly endeavor. There were many ways to spend money on cultivation. One could purchase some high-grade medicinal pills, weapons or cultivation tools. All the items required money but money did not guarantee essibility to the items. The mission was easy. Money was easy to spend. The edge of Fang Lang¡¯s lips twitched¡ªhe had a n. He ced his hand on the apologizing Ni Wen¡¯s head. The girl stiffened as a blush crept up her face. She stood motionless. ¡°Little Wen, if you wish to make amends,e with me on a shopping trip after ss,¡± Fang Lang said with a smile. He wondered if shopping for cultivation items would be considered as a meaningful interaction. There was no harm in trying. ¡°Shopping?¡± Ni Wen was concerned. She had to literally pay for her mistake? ¡®I don¡¯t have money,¡¯ she thought. She was just amoner. Nevertheless, Ni Wen took her tattered coin purse out from her green robe. Her eyes reddened as she opened her purse. Fingers trembling, she retrieved three copper coins. It was all she had to her name. She offered the three copper coins to Fang Lang. ¡°I... That¡¯s all I have.¡± Ni Wen was near tears when she spoke. ¡®I can¡¯t afford topensate you.¡¯ Fang Lang was silent. ¡®What is this?¡¯ Then, realization struck him. He frowned. Fang Lang was not a scammer. He was not about to take her money over a silly ident. ¡°Keep your money. Use it to buy food for yourself. We¡¯ll meetter at the academy gates,¡± Fang Lang said with finality and left with his battered wooden sword. With the three copper coins in hand, Ni Wen pursed her lips as she watched Fang Lang¡¯s silhouette disappear. Chapter 10

Chapter 10: I Want Something Pricier

Trantor: EndlessFantasy Trantion Editor: EndlessFantasy Trantion Thest bell of the day rang. The silence of the academy was reced by a whirlwind of chatter. Young voices filled the study blocks like raindrops hitting the roof. At the gates of Luojiang Academy, green-robed students were milling about and shooting the breeze. Ni Wen stood at the entrance like an unblemished lotus flower. There was a hint of worry in her expression. The asional questioning nce from other students made the girl blush and she rounded her shoulders to make herself appear smaller¡ªit was a pitying sight. At that moment, Liu Hao and a fewmon folk students walked out from the academy. He caught sight of Ni Wen and after some hesitation, decided to approach her. He was wondering if she wanted to walk home together. He had only taken a step when Fang Lang came into the scene. Beside Fang Lang was Yang Zhengyi¡ªthe boy who was constantly flipping his hair. Liu Hao arrested his forward movement. Fang Lang, who was already beside Ni Wen, lifted his head and met Liu Hao¡¯s eyes. An inexplicable fear filled Liu Hao¡¯s heart¡ªlike an invisible force was pressing down on him. He thought of the duel they had hours ago and left with his tail between his legs. He retreated without even greeting Ni Wen. ¡°Lang¡¯zi, you¡¯ve outdone yourself. Your sword strike traumatized Liu Hao,¡± Yang Zhengyi said with a chuckle as he flipped his hair. ¡°You¡¯ve been holding back. A fifth-grader now, Uncle Fang must have spent a significant amount of spirit crystals on you.¡± Yang Zhengyi was not too surprised by Fang Lang¡¯s advancement in cultivation. As the Imperial Examination loomed, it made sense for the Fang family to provide Fang Lang spirit crystals for his cultivation. Fang Lang did not deny the fact. ¡°Let¡¯s make a move. Follow me to the shops,¡± Fang Lang gave Ni Wen a smile and said. There was no objection from Yang Zhengyi. He brushed his fringe and prattled on. Ni Wen stayed rooted to the spot. Fang Lang¡¯s head swiveled and he cocked an eye at Ni Wen. ¡°Little Wen, hurry up.¡± Ni Wen had no choice but to follow the two boys. Each step she took was hesitant and timid. The trio left the academy and stepped onto the busy main street of Luojiang City. As they traveled, Yang Zhengyi kept the chatter going. Meanwhile, Fang Lang was focused on the guide mission. A few steps behind the boys, Ni Wen was silent. Momentster, Yang Zhengyi got tired of talking. He unfolded his fan and fanned himself¡ªthe artificial breeze kept his fringe in the air. ¡°Lang¡¯zi, what are you looking for? Where are we going?¡± Yang Zhengyi asked, curious. Fang Lang stopped and raised a hand, pointing at an expensive-looking store. ¡°That¡¯s the one.¡± Yang Zhengyi and Ni Wen followed his finger and read the signboard of the shop he indicated. Their eyes widened. ¡°The Jade Pavilion?¡± Yang Zhengyi was shocked. Ni Wen was stunned. The Jade Pavilion specialized in space rings. Yang Zhengyi did not expect Fang Lang to be looking for space rings. As amon folk genius, Ni Wen had heard about the Jade Pavilion but she never imagined she would enter such an establishment with only three copper coins to her name. Ni Wen was distraught. Unfazed by the extravagance, Fang Lang stepped into the shop without hesitation. A high-end shop was still a ce ofmercial interest. Fang Lang was here to purchase goods, why should he be scared? All cultivators in the Tang Dynasty agreed on the basic cultivation inventory: medicinal pills, a flight sword and a space ring. These items were essential to any respectable cultivator and symbolized a cultivator¡¯s identity. Since the System wanted Fang Lang to make a cultivation-rted transaction, it was wise to choose one of the above. The first two items were not considered for practical reasons. Students were not allowed to take the performance-boosting medicinal pills before the Imperial Examination. If caught, a penalty would be imposed on the student¡¯s result¡ªthe more severe cases would entail disqualification. One was required to pass the Flying Sword Examination¡ªequivalent to the driving test of the modern world¡ªto wield a flight sword. Therefore, Fang Lang went with the third option, the space ring. The Jade Pavilion in Luojiang City shared the shop lot with others but it stood out with its resplendent decor. The floor was covered with a red velvet carpet that was incredibly soft to the touch. The shop smelled like sandalwood and the pleasant fragrance was calming. An attractive woman dressed in a fitting qipao appeared just as the trio entered the Jade Pavilion. She walked over, red lips curled into a broad smile. She greeted them warmly with a touch of pride in her tone, ¡°Wee to the Jade Pavilion. I am the person in charge here. Do you have a pre-order slip?¡± In his previous life, Fang Land had frequented luxury shops so he was not surprised by the treatment. Yang Zhengyi and Ni Wen were taken aback. The talkative Yang Zhengyi put on a brave face and said nothing. On the other hand, Ni Wen let her fear show through herrge eyes. The woman saw the varied expressions but maintained her professionalism when serving them. ¡®Every person who enters the Jade Pavilion is to be treated with the utmost respect.¡¯ That was the Jade Pavilion¡¯s policy. Fang Lang answered, ¡°No, I don¡¯t. I¡¯d like to browse your selection of space rings, if that¡¯s possible?¡± The attractive woman gave him a polite smile and led him into the shop. ¡°Of course. However, without advanced booking, you can only purchase space rings of less than two cubic meters. You¡¯ll need a cultivator of at least second ss to vouch for you to buy a space ring of two cubic meters and above. Follow me,¡± Manager Yu said with a smile. The trio followed the elegant woman in. Soon, they arrived at a rosewood disy bench. On the bench, rings were seated in red cushions, neatly packed into individual rosewood boxes. The gemstones embedded in the rings sparkled under the light. Yang Zhengyi took a deep breath, tantalized by the shiny gems. Ni Wen did not dare to breathe, utterly dumbstruck by the disy. These items were beyond her everyday life. Amoner like her would never think to enter the Jade Pavilion. With a smile, Manager Yu brought out three boxes, each box held a space ring of unique design. ¡°This is the Mystic 3570, North Wind. It came from the Jade Pavilion in Imperial City. A masterpiece by the fourth-ss spell master, Master An Nai. It holds one cubic meter of space...¡± The woman introduced the products with an unhurried tone. From their mannerisms, she could tell Fang Lang was the leader. After the introductions, Fang Lang nodded. He asked, ¡°How much is the most expensive model?¡± The question caught Manager Yu off guard. A momentter, slender fingers plucked out a silver band with flower carvings. She showed it to Fang Lang. ¡°This is the Mystic 3061, South Sky. It sells for 300 gold coins.¡± The numbers did not impress Fang Lang. He nned to spend all 500 gold coins at one go and max out the System¡¯s experience to level up. The one-cubic-meter space ring did not meet his expectations, price-wise and feature-wise. Fang Lang shook his head. ¡°Do you have something pricier?¡± That question rubbed Manager Yu the wrong way. Her eyes narrowed and her lips were pulled taut. She surmised Fang Lang was in the shop to stir up trouble. Yang Zhengyi flipped his hair a tad too forcefully and nearly pulled a neck muscle. Ni Wen hid behind Fang Lang, her face aghast when she heard the price tag. ¡®300 gold coins was too cheap?¡¯ ¡®Who am I? And what am I doing here?¡¯ ... At the second floor of the Jade Pavillion, the fragrant smell of tea permeated the air. Musical instruments yed in the background. The Spring Cloud Chamber was used to receive honored guests. There were three figures seated within the Spring Cloud Chamber. The owner of Luojiang City¡¯s Jade Pavilion was happily introducing avish space ring to Jiang Linglong. The ring had spell carvings that glowed like it was alive with spiritual energy. Out of a sudden, Manager Yu entered the room respectfully. She bowed apologetically at Jiang Linglong and Zhao Wuji for her interruption. The shop owner frowned. ¡°What¡¯s wrong?¡± he asked calmly despite the annoyance he felt. He trusted Manager Yu would only interrupt them if there was something important. Manager Yu replied with her head lowered, ¡°The young master from the Fang family is here. He wants a space ring of 500 gold coins in value.¡± The shop owner raised an eyebrow. ¡°500 gold coins is not too steep a price. Just show him the higher value space ring models.¡± Was there a need for this interruption? Manager Yu licked her lips and said, ¡°The young master is a first-ss sword disciple without a pre-order slip. He doesn¡¯t have a cultivator of at least second ss to vouch for him. The most expensive one-cubic-meter space ring we have costs 300 gold coins.¡± The shop owner understood the predicament. The Jade Pavilion did not look down on any patrons¡ªit was a rule the shop owner stood by. He tried to think of a solution. After a while, his gaze fell on Jiang Linglong and Zhao Wuji. He shook his head and told Manager Yu, ¡°Tell him, without a cultivator of at least second ss to vouch for him, he can¡¯t buy a space ring of more than one cubic meter. It is the Jade Pavilion¡¯s rule.¡± With that order, Manager Yu nodded and turned to leave. However, before the manager could leave, Jiang Linglong spoke up, ¡°The boy¡¯s name is Fang Lang?¡± Her fingers were busy fiddling with the space ring. The image of the boy in the practice ring of Luojiang Academy came to her mind. It was the boy with the impressive sword technique. Interesting. He was an interesting fellow. Beside her, Zhao Wuji was equally as puzzled. ¡®Why is Fang Lang here in the Jade Pavilion?¡¯ ¡°It must be fate. He helped me with something. Owner Xiao, grant Fang Lang a permit. Old Zhao here will vouch for him,¡± Jiang Linglong said as she slipped the space ring onto her forefinger. The Spring Cloud Chamber was silent for a moment. Manager Yu turned around in surprise. Zhao Wuji was equally as shocked. He did not expect Jiang Linglong to make such a request. Owner Xiao gave the youngdy an incredulous look. The trivial matter was beneath someone of her status, yet she decided to lend a helping hand. Chapter 11

Chapter 11: A Danger to the Lady?

1 Trantor: EndlessFantasy Trantion Editor: EndlessFantasy Trantion Silence enveloped the Spring Cloud Chamber in the Jade Pavilion. Jiang Linglong had one hand syed as she appraised the space ring that was on her forefinger. Then, she lifted her head to look at the others. ¡°What are you waiting for?¡± Jiang Linglong cocked an eyebrow. Despite her young age, she had an authoritative aura. Zhao Wuji was the first to react. He took a bow and smiled. ¡°I was surprised by your words...¡± The shop owner quickly regained his wits and said to Manager Yu, ¡°Allow the young master to make his purchase. Master Zhao has vouched for him. Manager Yu... Never mind, I¡¯ll personally see to it.¡± The shop owner stood and bowed at Jiang Linglong before leaving. The portly Zhao Wuji rose from his seat. ¡°Go on. Meet me when you¡¯re done,¡± Jiang Linglong said as she removed the ring from her finger. She ced it back into the rosewood box. To the youngdy, the matter was insignificant. She had witnessed Fang Lang¡¯s sword strike in Luojiang Academy. In her eyes, it was a praiseworthy technique that deserved a reward. Manager Yu, the shop owner and Zhao Wuji left the Spring Cloud Chamber. The trio made their way to the main hall of the Jade Pavilion. Fang Lang was surprised to see a familiar face in the group. ¡°Uncle Zhao,¡± Fang Lang greeted enthusiastically. It was an unexpected meeting. His father said Uncle Zhao came from Imperial City and was someone of note. Fang Lang wondered about his status. Zhao Wuji greeted them with a smile and nod. ¡°You¡¯re here to buy a space ring? Old Fang mentioned nothing about this. I hear you¡¯re looking to buy a space ring of two cubic meters and above. I can vouch for you.¡± Owner Xiao introduced himself with a smile. ¡°I am the owner of the Jade Pavilion in Luojiang City.¡± Pleasantries were exchanged between Owner Xiao and Fang Lang. Manager Yu stood behind the two men, poised and professional. A polite smile was on her face as she guessed at the rtionship between Fang Lang and the youngdy in the Spring Cloud Chamber. They must be close for the youngdy to request for the favor. Fang Lang was d for the turn of events. He was ready to resign to his fate and purchase two one-cubic-meter space rings. The appearance of Uncle Zhao was a blessing. Beside him, Yang Zhengyi and Ni Wen were dumbfounded. The talkative Yang Zhengyi found no words. Ni Wen was hunched over in her oversized green robe. Her heartbeat raced as she watched the important figures of the Jade Pavilion serve the young Fang Lang¡ªher self-esteem took a hit. Fang Lang nced back and saw the hiding Ni Wen. The sadness on her face caught his eye. Then, he put on a warm smile and patted her on the head. ¡°This little space ring is nothingpared to your talent and core. After the Imperial Examination, your results will have the elite sects at your feet. They will offer you things beyond a simple space ring. The road before you is as vast as the ocean, as bright as the stars.¡± Fang Lang painted a hopeful future for Ni Wen. The gentleness of his voice prompted Ni Wen to look up. Her racing heart calmed as she stared at Fang Lang. ¡®My future is as vast as the ocean, as bright as the stars.¡¯ Stars sparkled in Ni Wen¡¯s eyes, forming a gxy as she looked forward to a dazzling future. Afterforting Ni Wen, Fang Lang continued his discussion with the shop owner. There was arge selection of rings once the one-cubic-meter restriction was lifted. Without a doubt, the price only went higher from there. The 500 gold coins in Fang Lang¡¯s coin purse was not a jaw-dropping figure. Ultimately, he chose a basic model that housed five cubic meters¡ªthe design and features of the ring were simple. Owner Xiao taught Fang Lang the spiritual sense connection. Once a connection was secured, the space ring would be bound to Fang Lang, barring anyone else from essing its space unless the protection rune was broken by a strong attack. ¡°After the binding, the ring will notify you when you store money and spirit crystals. Storing other items will not trigger a notification. Furthermore, the ring is carved with two basic runes. The first is a defensive rune that will activate when you¡¯re in danger. The second is an offensive rune that requires your spiritual sense to awaken it.¡± The additional features were why the space rings from the Jade Pavilion were popr. It justified the need for a second-ss cultivator to vouch for the purchase. Fang Lang nodded and handed over 500 gold coins. Owner Xiao did not bother to count them. He passed the coins to Manager Yu for storage. ¡®Ding! The host has performed a cultivation-rted transaction andpleted the guide mission. A random reward has been added to your inventory.¡¯ The System¡¯s notification popped out. Fang Lang was bbergasted by the random reward. Then, a second message appeared and lightened his mood. ¡®A friendly announcement: Your experience bar is full. You have leveled up!¡¯ He suppressed the joy in his chest. The System disy was shown. Host: Fang Lang Cultivation Discipline: Fifth-Grade Sword Disciple Level: LV2 Experience: 0/10000 Core: 36 (White) Cultivation Resource: 5,000 gold coins, 50 low-grade spirit crystals (usage limited to cultivation) Items: 3X Amplification Card (2), ck Reward Egg (1) Binding Partner: Ni Wen (50%), Empty (50%) Sole Passive Ability: Additional rewards may be granted when the host bonds with the binding partner over cultivation. Level up! Fang Lang scanned through the details and took a deep breath. Gaining a level gave him more cultivation resources. A ten-fold increase! Most importantly, a binding slot was unlocked. It was a shame that with the partner-binding, he could only gain 50% of the partner¡¯s cultivation speed and cultivation inspiration. The disappointment was short-lived. Fang Lang surmised the 3X Amplification Card would make up for it. He believed as he leveled up, he would one day be able to receive 100% of the partner¡¯s cultivation speed and cultivation inspiration without the 3X Amplification Card. The space ring purchase was worth it. His theory was right... Exhausting his cultivation resources allowed him to level up. The System was a Child of Wealth1! Fang Lang¡¯s smile widened. Many new rewards came with leveling up and Fang Lang did not rush to investigate the ck Reward Egg. It was an odd item that puzzled him. Owner Xiao and Manager Yu were not surprised by Fang Lang¡¯s excitement. It was his first space ring after all so the emotions were expected. Zhao Wuji struck up a conversation with Fang Lang. ¡°Lang¡¯er, the sword technique you used duringbat practice today wasmendable.¡± The words elicited a curious expression on Fang Lang¡¯s face. ¡°Uncle was in the academy today?¡± Zhao Wuji blinked and said, ¡°I was apanying my charge to the academy and chanced upon your duel. I can see from your technique that you¡¯ve been practicing hard. Your father was right.¡± He patted Fang Lang on the shoulder and said, ¡°Thedy has said good things about you.¡± Fang Lang¡¯s eyebrows went up. ¡°Ady?¡± He had pegged Old Zhao as an important man who came from Imperial City but he was just an attendant? A faint smirk appeared on Zhao Wuji¡¯s face. He turned around and nced at the direction of the Spring Cloud Chamber. ¡°She is joining this year¡¯s Imperial Examination. There¡¯s probably less than ten candidates who could rival her in terms of core and talent. You¡¯re lucky to have gotten her attention. She¡¯s the one who ordered me to vouch for you,¡± Zhao Wuji said with a chuckle. Fang Lang was stunned by the man¡¯s words. Excitement thrummed in his veins. Zhao Wuji¡¯s revtion reyed in his mind. Thedy was in possession of a rare core! The empty binding slot in the System disy made Fang Lang grin. ¡°She is most gracious. Uncle Zhao, yourdy has done me a good deed. I wish to personally thank her for today. May I know thedy¡¯s name?¡± A broad smile stretched across Fang Lang¡¯s face while his eyes sparkled in anticipation. Zhao Wuji¡¯s smile slowly disappeared as he studied the change in Fang Lang¡¯s expression. The boy¡¯s smile was off-kilter. A danger to thedy? Chapter 12

Chapter 12: Smash the Reward Egg

Trantor: EndlessFantasy Trantion Editor: EndlessFantasy Trantion Fang Lang had spent time figuring out the identity of Zhao Wuji. The man appeared straightforward but he exuded a certain strength. Fang Lang could tell the man¡¯s cultivation was not weak. The fact that Zhao Wuji praised the mysteriousdy¡¯s cultivation prowess meant she must be exceptional. Zhao Wuji was an honest man and Fang Lang¡¯s smile made him uneasy. He could sense something fishy about the boy. He became cautious. In the end, Fang Lang was not allowed into the chamber. The shop owner blocked his view, a charming smile on his face. Fang Lang¡¯s sincerity did not grant him ess to the mysterious Imperial Citydy who sat in the Spring Cloud Chamber. The door of the chamber blocked his view. The physical barrier reminded Fang Lang of his ce¡ªhe and thedy were of two different worlds. The gap between them was like the sky and the ground. Fang Lang knew he was not yet worthy to meet thedy. The excitement in his heart quelled and his eagerness was toned down. He maintained a small upturn of the lips. This arrangement was like a bucket of cold water, extinguishing his System-driven cultivation ardour. However, Fang Lang did not let this stumbling block affect him. He believed time was essential for growth and eventually, he would achieve greatness. ¡°Mydy, thank you for your kindness today. I will always remember this good deed. My name is Fang Lang, Fang like a square, Lang like a wave.¡± Fang Lang faced the doorway of the Spring Cloud Chamber and folded his hands. He bowed respectfully. He stood with his back straight, showing no weakness in his spine. His bow was neither obsequious nor supercilious. Zhao Wuji and Owner Xiao said nothing but they sensed the boy¡¯s roiling vitality. Inside the Spring Cloud Chamber, Jiang Linglong adjusted the jade ring on her finger. The essory was in the 10,000 gold coins and above price bracket. The boy¡¯s words of gratitude made her smile. ¡°It is a small matter. We¡¯ll meet again if fate has ns,¡± Jiang Linglong said. She did not reveal her name. She admired the boy¡¯s dedication to his swordsmanship. A decade of training was something she might not be able to aplish. Outside the chamber, Fang Lang nced at the door that was guarded by the portly Zhao Wuji. The stolen nce revealed a pair of deep, enchanting eyes. Behind Fang Lang, Yang Zhengyi and Ni Wen held their breaths, too afraid to disturb the air with their breathing. Thedy did not disclose her identity and he did not push. He wore an easy smile as he turned to leave. Yang Zhengyi and Ni Wen caught up with him. The sunset bled into the horizon, painting the sky a palette of colors. When the trio exited the Jade Pavilion, Yang Zhengyi pped his forehead and brushed his fringe back. He took in a big gulp of air. ¡°Lang¡¯zi... That was intense! Who is inside the Spring Cloud Chamber? That was one solid wall, even the shop owner blocked our view.¡± As if a restriction was lifted, Yang Zhengyi¡¯s loquaciousness came back in full force. Questions about the mysteriousdy were abound. In contrast, Ni Wen kept her head down as she trailed behind the two boys. Fang Lang walked on, a small smile gracing his lips. They arrived at the end of Chang Street. This was where Ni Wen parted ways with the two boys. She extracted one hand from her sleeves and gave them a timid wave. Head lowered, she uttered a soft, ¡°See you tomorrow.¡± Then, she turned around and jogged away, disappearing into one of the alleys. The direction she headed was toward the darker side of Luojiang City. The dimming rays of sunlight made the girl¡¯s blush redder than it was. ... As the firstnterns of the night were lit, Fang Lang arrived at the Fang Manor. Thete hour meant Fang Lang had missed his father. Old Fang had already left for the entertainment house. He ate the dinner prepared by the servant girl. Then, he strolled along the courtyard. In the center of the courtyard was a pond and a pavilion. The star-filled sky was reflected in the water. Fang Lang pulled his arms over his head, stretching his muscles. He was a bit disappointed. The shopping trip with Ni Wen was not counted as a meaningful interaction. It seemed the System left no loopholes for him to take advantage. ¡®The cultivation resources have been added to the host¡¯s space essory. Please have a look.¡¯ The System notification appeared. Fang Lang squinted his eyes. The space ring on his forefinger tingled as it reacted to his spiritual sense. A disembodied voice spoke, ¡°Your space ring has received 5,000 gold coins and 50 low-grade spirit crystals.¡± The voice did not belong to the System¡ªit came from the space ring. Fang Lang rubbed the ring and smiled. He phased into the five cubic meter space and saw the 5,000 gold coins and 50 low-grade spirit crystals. Those were given to him by the System after leveling up. Fang Lang exited the space. A ck egg floated before his eyes. It was the random reward from the guide mission¡ªthe ck Reward Egg. The previous rewards were always clearly stated so this new reward system piqued his curiosity. ¡°An egg... What is it for?¡± Fang Lang asked. ¡®Ding! This is a Reward Egg. Reward Eggse in six different variants: ck, green, silver, gold, diamond and rainbow. Smash it to receive the prize within,¡¯ the System exined. A light flickered in Fang Lang¡¯s eyes. Was this a game of luck? It was reminiscent of lucky draws from his previous life. He raised his hand and a gold hammer appeared. With an expectant smile, he brought the hammer down onto the ck Reward Egg. Crack! The shell cracked and light burst through the seams. The ck egg shell slowly disappeared. ¡®Congrattions! Your reward is the Specialized Flight Sword Maneuver Skill and a Flying Sword Examination pass. The Flying Sword Examination pass is legally obtained. The host¡¯s name has been included in the Tang Dynasty¡¯s registration. Rest assured.¡± The reward made Fang Lang¡¯s eyes widen. He received a token with a rune carving. The rune was used to activate the flight sword¡¯s spell and allow the wielder to use it as a means of transport. The Specialized Flight Sword Maneuver Skill was incorporated through mental memory and muscle memory. Like the Sword Draw Technique, Fang Lang felt the transformations in his body and mind¡ªhe was turned into an old driver. Memories of flying with a flight sword were embedded into his mind. Through the new memories, Fang Lang learned that even a sword disciple had the right to fly as long as they passed the Flying Sword Examination. As the art of cultivation progressed, cultivators discovered the use of runes. Carving runes into the sword turned it into a mode of transport. As long as the carving was not damaged, anyone with a Flying Sword Examination pass and sufficient spirit crystals could operate a flight sword and roam the sky. The speed offered by the rune was quicker than any sword masters¡¯ sword flying technique. As the practice became widespread, a flight sword became an essential part of an established cultivator¡¯s arsenal. From the knowledge he received, Fang Lang understood the flight sword was akin to a car of the modern world. He smacked his lips in excitement but remembered hiscking resources. He did not own a flight sword. At this point, the skill and pass were useless. Moreover, this reward would not aid him in the uing Imperial Examination. Flight was not part of the examination metrics. Realistically, additional Amplification Cards would have been a better reward. He was slightly disappointed. He abandoned his stroll in the courtyard and went to his room with ns to cultivate. Although he had the System¡¯s help, Fang Lang knew he had to put in the effort to get stronger. There was an empty slot for the partner-binding. He could bind two geniuses at one time but in that moment, he had no target for the second binding. The mysteriousdy in the Spring Cloud Room appeared in his mind. Zhao Wuji¡¯s description had left a deep impression in Fang Lang and he wished to remember her by a name despite not knowing her identity. Inside the room, there were ten low-grade spirit crystals set atop the table. Old Fang had given Fang Lang the requested resources. A warmth filled his chest. He kept the spirit crystals aside. ¡°I should end the cultivation early today. I have to drop by the Mentors¡¯ Office tomorrow to get more info about the Gathering of Swords.¡± Fang Lang breathed out the stale air. He emptied his thoughts and calmed his emotions. ¡°Switch to binding partner¡¯s cultivation state,¡± Fang Lang said. ¡®Ding! Switchingplete. Happy cultivating!¡± The System notification popped up a momentter. Fang Lang reached into the space ring and took the spirit crystals provided by the System. He began the absorption process. Whoosh! Fang Lang felt the spiritual energy flow into his meridians from the spirit crystal. The night darkened. The moon was curved like a fish hook. Fang Beihe came back to the Fang Manor smelling like booze. When he passed the courtyard, he saw the candlelight in Fang Lang¡¯s room¡ªthe boy was cultivating. Fang Beihe spent much of his time on his business and building connections. All of it was to give his untalented son a backup n. If his son failed the Imperial Examination, there was still a future waiting for him back home. Every parent hoped for their child¡¯s sess. Under the moonlight, Fang Beihe leaned against the wall of the courtyard. The stench of alcohol wafted from his breath and clothes. There was a proud smile on his face. Chapter 13

Chapter 13: I Am God-Like, I¡¯ll Carry the Team

Trantor: EndlessFantasy Trantion Editor: EndlessFantasy Trantion The next day. As the morning sun rose, the dewdrops on the foliage evaporated. Fang Lang sat cross-legged on the bed. Scattered around him were the remnants of spirit crystals¡ªtheir spiritual energy drained dry. It was the result of one sleepless night. His eyes opened. After following Ni Wen¡¯s suggestion to alter the spiritual energy flow, Fang Lang saw improvement in his cultivation. There was less smoke forming at the crown of his head. The spiritual energy in his body red but he was unable to reach the sixth grade sword mastery. It was just a single grade advancement but the effort it took suggested future breakthroughs would be all the more tedious. Based on his estimation, to reach the ninth grade within such a short time would require more than 50 low-grade spirit crystals. If he did not achieve the ninth grade before the Imperial Examination, it would be difficult to stand out as a candidate and be selected by the elite sects. The pressure was on. Fang Lang had ambition. He wanted to be one of the geniuses who had their picks of top-tier sects, not just an average student who hoped to be chosen. After a night of cultivation, his spiritual sense and physical body were at their limits. He left his room for some morning fresh air to revitalize the cells in his body. He walked toward the main hall. Zhao Wuji was serving himself a bowl of porridge. Old Fang and Old Zhao were in the midst of a light-hearted discussion. Fang Lang was surprised to see Zhao Wuji but he kept a smile stered on his face. Old Zhao gave the boy a lookover as he put on a reluctant smile. The odd tension between Fang Lang and Zhao Wuji was noticeable. Old Fang periodically nced between the two but said nothing. After breakfast, Fang Lang bade his father goodbye and left the Fang Manor. He stepped onto Chang Street to get to Luojiang Academy. ... In Luojiang Academy, Fang Lang walked up to the second floor of the Mentors¡¯ Office. The wooden flooring made his footsteps audible. Within the building, mentors ambled in the corridor with their teaching ns in hand. They were surprised to see Fang Lang there but no one approached him. Mentor Wen¡¯s break office was the eighth room on the second floor. When Fang Lang arrived, there was already a crowd inside. The tiny room was clearly not meant for meetings and Fang Lang¡¯s arrival made it even more cramped. There were three other people excluding Mentor Wen. One of them was an old man with white hair and a white beard. He sat on a chair with a wise and gentle expression. The two remaining figures were a boy and a girl. The boy wore a green academy robe. Fang Lang¡¯s entrance caught the boy¡¯s attention. After a cursory nce, the boy looked away. The boy was graceful and exuded the confidence of a genius. The girl had a veil over her face, showing off nothing but her eyes. She had a slender figure and attractive eyes. Jiang Linglong looked at Fang Lang and her eyes betrayed no emotions. Fang Lang felt a certain familiarity when he looked at the girl. The old man saw Fang Lang and smiled. Fang Lang felt a shiver up his spine. He bowed and greeted, ¡°Headmaster Cui.¡± The old man was the headmaster of Luojiang Academy. Rumor had it he was a fourth-ss spell master who was well-versed in forbidden spells. A mere flick of his wrist could bring forth unimaginable powers. ¡°You¡¯re Fang Lang? I¡¯ve heard good things about you.¡± Headmaster Cui nodded and smiled. He was there under the willow trees of the practice grounds when Fang Lang delivered the breathtaking sword strike. The boy had left an impression in the old man¡¯s mind. Mentor Wen stood respectfully beside Headmaster Cui. A sh of surprised crossed Mentor Wen¡¯s eyes when he heard thepliment from the headmaster. ¡°Headmaster, these two students are my picks for the Sword Guild¡¯s uing Gathering of Swords. ¡°This is Liu Bubai from the first study block. He is a ninth-grade sword disciple and seventh-ranking on the honor roll. ¡°This is Fang Lang. A fifth-grade sword disciple from the seventh study block.¡± Mentor Wen continued the introduction. ¡°Then, we have the headmaster¡¯s pick, Lady Jiang Pei. The three of you will represent Luojiang Academy in thepetition.¡± The old man rested his palms on his knees. Wrinkles stretched across his face as he smiled kindly. ¡°The Sword Guild invites participants from 200 over academies throughout the Tang Dynasty. In the past, Luojiang Academy has achieved great results in the Gathering of Swords but the recent years have been tough on us. Most candidates can¡¯t even get through the first stage. I hope you work hard and make us proud,¡± the old man said encouragingly to Fang Lang and Liu Bubai. The headmaster¡¯s encouragement motivated the sword genius, Liu Bubai. He gave the old man a respectful bow. Meanwhile, the veiled Jiang Linglong¡ªwho was using the alias, Jiang Pei¡ªonly gave a slight nod of acknowledgement. The headmaster smiled and rose from his seat. He was hunched over as he leaned forward to give Fang Lang a pat on the shoulder. ¡°Young man, give it your best shot.¡± Headmaster Cui gave him a smile, then left. The room was left with four upants. Mentor Wen faced the veileddy and asked, ¡°Lady Jiang, the headmaster says you¡¯re a genius sword disciple from Imperial City. Care to borate on your cultivation?¡± The atmosphere shifted at those words. Jiang Linglong¡¯s eyebrows scrunched up, then rxed. She nodded slightly and said, ¡°Sword master.¡± Mentor Wen raised an eyebrow. A 15-year-old sword master¡ªno doubt she was a genius from Imperial City. Fang Lang¡¯s pupils narrowed. From the two words, he recognized the lilt of the voice. This was thedy in the Spring Cloud Chamber. Hearing thedy¡¯s origin and cultivation status, Liu Bubai let his head fall. He faced thedy and nodded reverently but she ignored him. Liu Bubai¡¯s expression darkened. He was the top sword disciple in the current batch of students, hence his big ego. The rejection from Jiang Linglong was a ssh of cold water to Liu Bubai¡¯s face. Liu Bubai did not care about Fang Lang. He figured the fifth-grade sword disciple was included to fill the team. After all, with the uing Imperial Examination, not many would be willing to sacrifice precious time to participate in the Gathering of Swords. Mentor Wen paid little attention to the awkwardness among the students. He looked at Fang Lang and said, ¡°You might only be a fifth grader but you have a solid foundation in sword mastery. You stand a chance in thepetition. Don¡¯t focus too much on scoring points for the Imperial Examination. This is an opportunity for you to learn. ¡°Lady Jiang Pei and Liu Bubai are good role models to learn from.¡± Mentor Wen admired Fang Lang¡ªhe was born with an average core but through hard work and dedication, he was able to master an impressive sword technique. Although cultivation was heavily dependent on a person¡¯s core, hard work and determination were also required to achieve greatness. ¡°Master, although the Gathering of Swords only takes into ount a person¡¯s sword techniques, a low cultivation grade makes it difficult to master the relevant skills. Fang Lang is just a fifth-grade sword disciple. ¡°Don¡¯t worry too much. Lady Jiang Pei and I can¡¯t help you in the individual event but you stand a chance in winning the teambat as part of Luojiang Academy,¡± Liu Bubai said shrewdly with his arms crossed. He gave Fang Lang a reassuring nod. The meaning behind Liu Bubai¡¯s words were obvious¡ªhe was looking down on Fang Lang. ¡®I am god-like. I¡¯ll carry the team. Everyone should stay down and stay quiet.¡¯ At that point, Jiang Linglong shot Liu Bubai an incredulous look. She was aware of Fang Lang¡¯s sword technique¡ªit was one of the best she had ever witnessed. The Gathering of Swords would be undoubtedlypetitive as the focus was on the techniques and skills instead of the cultivation grade. Who would end up carrying the team? It was difficult to say. Fang Lang responded with an easygoing smile. Liu Bubai was not a bad person¡ªhis ego was simply too big. As the conversation ran its course, Mentor Wen stood up and said to the trio, ¡°Let¡¯s end the discussion for now. Once sses end in the afternoon, let¡¯s meet at the practice grounds. I¡¯ll run through some basic drills and the rules and regtions for the Gathering of Swords. Now, hurry on to your sses before the bell rings.¡± Fang Lang and the two other students left the Mentors¡¯ Office. Liu Bubai patted Fang Lang¡¯s shoulder. Although he said nothing, Fang Lang knew the boy meant to reassure him. With that unspoken gesture, Liu Bubai left with his head held high. With the veil hiding her features, Jiang Linglong did not exchange words with Fang Lang and Liu Bubai. She was like an untouchable snow lotus meant to be admired from afar. Fang Lang watched the silhouette of Jiang Linglong and smirked. ¡®Jiang Pei.¡¯ Finally, he had her name. 15 years old, second-ss sword mastery, sword master. That innate talent... It was phenomenal. Just when Fang Lang thought he was stuck, here came a genius to his rescue. That empty partner slot would finally be filled. He had met the mysteriousdy and gotten her name. Why hesitate? Fang Lang decided to bind her. ¡®System, perform partner-binding on Jiang Pei,¡¯ Fang Lang thought as he watched the retreating figure. ¡®Ding! Partner-binding in progress... ¡®Ding! Target could not be identified. Please try againter.¡¯ Fang Lang was confused. There had been a mistake and his joy was short-lived. Chapter 14

Chapter 14: Three of You, Come at Me

Trantor: EndlessFantasy Trantion Editor: EndlessFantasy Trantion The partner-binding was unsessful. Fang Lang was speechless¡ªthedy was using an alias. He made a mistake. Fang Lang had a grasp of the System¡¯s binding requirements¡ªdirect visual contact with the target and the true name were needed to initiate a partner-binding. He rubbed his nose. He did not expect thedy to use an alias in the presence of Headmaster Cui and the mentors. This gave weight to the youngdy¡¯s social status and identity. ¡®Why is she using a fake name to join the Gathering of Swords? Does she have an ulterior motive?¡¯ Fang Lang spent some time mulling over the issue, then abandoned his line of thought. It was none of his business. All he had to focus on was his own performance. The mysteriousdy¡¯s name would be revealed to him sooner orter. ¡®I wonder if I can win thepetition with the Sword Draw Technique and the Spirit Step.¡¯ Fang Lang took a deep breath. The pressure was ever-present even when he had these two sword techniques. The Gathering of Swords had more than 200 academy¡¯s sword disciples participating. What hidden talents would be revealed in thepetition? Dang! Dang! Dang! The academy bell rang. There was shuffling in every study hall as students took their seats, back straight and attentive. Fang Lang entered his floor and greeted Ni Wen with a wave. The girl who sat a distance away shrugged her shoulders bashfully. From the other end of the room, Yang Zhengyi shot Fang Lang a look. He flipped his hair, making a smacking sound. The mentor who was in charge of delivering the martial arts lecture struck the gavel. ss began with some insights into the Tang Dynasty¡¯s Martial Arts Scripture. ... The day passed quickly with lessons after lessons. When thest bell rang, the green-robed students left in groups. The students were like a collection of leaves falling from trees, transported everywhere by the river flow. Fang Lang did not leave the study hall. When the bell rang, he approached Ni Wen with the Tang Dynasty¡¯s Martial Arts Scripture in hand. ¡°Little Wen, I¡¯m unclear about this part. Can you help me with it?¡± Fang Lang asked with a friendly smile. Ni Wen eyed him warily but did not turn him down. ¡°Sure... I¡¯ll do my best to answer.¡± Fang Lang sat cross-legged on the prayer mat across Ni Wen and pointed at the question. ¡°When a martial arts master and a sword master are at two ends of a strong spell master¡¯s fiveyer spiritual energy barrier. In one day, the sword master breaks oneyer with his sword, the martial arts master breaks oneyer with his fist. The sword master¡¯s damage doubles each day while the martial arts master¡¯s damage halves. On which day will the two cultivators break through the barrier and meet?¡± Such questions truly frustrated Fang Lang. After skimming through the question, Ni Wen had the solution. She raised a slender finger and began drawing on the desk. With a patient tone, she exined the trick to the question. Fang Lang did not bother to switch cultivation modes for these theoretical questions. ¡®Ding! The host has engaged in modest interaction with the binding partner. You have been rewarded with one Grade-Rush Card Fragment!¡¯ The System notification popped up. He read the item description. ¡®Grade-Rush Card Fragment: Collect five pieces toplete the Grade-Rush Card. It can be used to break through any bottlenecks in skill, technique or cultivation training.¡¯ Useful! Fang Lang was d with the reward. Little Wen was a gem. He would pay Little Wen a visit everyday. A short discussion¡ªbe it meaningful or modest¡ªwould allow him to gather these fragments. Then, cultivation training would be easier. Fang Lang did not spend too long at Ni Wen¡¯s desk. He told Ni Wen he could not walk her home as he had a training session for the Gathering of Swords. He did not bother to inform Yang Zhengyi. When the bell rang, Yang Zhengyi had met up with some ssmates and headed for the entertainment house with the excuse of needing mental and physical unwinding. Fang Lang did not oppose that school of thought. ... The setting sun was a bright me in the sky¡ªcrimson sshed across the horizon. When Fang Lang arrived at the practice grounds, the elegant Jiang Linglong was already under the willow trees. She was dressed in a green robe, face covered with a veil. The wind blew and green silk floated in the air. The sunset, willow trees anddy were like a painting. Fang Lang was stunned for a moment. When he recovered, he smiled at thedy despite not knowing her real name. A distance away, Zhao Wuji and the mentor in charge of the weapons were smoking their tobo pipes. Zhao Wuji felt a difort when he saw Fang Lang. ¡®Something about the boy ticks me off. Feels like he harbors ill will toward thedy.¡¯ Zhao Wuji¡¯s neutral expression belied the wariness in his heart. He was thedy¡¯s escort and he would make sure she returned to Imperial City safe. If there was anything amiss¡ªfor example, having thedy¡¯s heart stolen by some unscrupulous teenager¡ªZhao Wuji would be beaten up by the young men back home. That was after suffering a horrible death at the hands of his master. ¡®Fang Lang, you better watch yourself.¡¯ Zhao Wuji watched the boy with eagle eyes, the tobo pipe dangling at the edge of his lips. As if sensing the attention, Fang Lang turned and spotted Zhao Wuji. He gave the man a bright smile. The presence of Zhao Wuji confirmed Fang Lang¡¯s suspicions. Thisdy was the mysterious person who was inside the Spring Cloud Chamber. Fang Lang did not approach the youngdy. In addition to her aloof demeanor, her aura made her surroundings ufortable¡ªstanding beside her was akin to being rubbed against a thorn armor. He had met her in person and to secure a binding, he only needed thedy¡¯s name. He carefullyid out his ns. Soon, Liu Bubai joined them. He had changed into a set of training clothes. His head was raised high like a proud swan. He had an impressive sword in his hand. The sheath was studded with a variety of gemstones. The guard of the sword had rune carvings and a red tassel. The swordplemented the appearance of a talented sword disciple. Mentor Wen emerged and eyed the proud Liu Bubai and his borate outfit. An amused smile graced Mentor Wen¡¯s lips and he turned to look at Jiang Linglong. He had no visibility on Headmaster Cui¡¯s arrangement with the youngdy but he figured it was for the best interest of Luojiang Academy. It was likely to improve the academy¡¯s standing in the Gathering of Swords. ¡°I¡¯ll brief you on the Sword Guild. Perhaps one of you will be taken in after the Imperial Examination.¡± Mentor Wen held the wooden practice sword and smiled. Liu Bubai lifted his head even higher. The mentor must be talking about him. Jiang Linglong was unperturbed¡ªonly the veil moved with the blowing breeze. Fang Lang had on his usual charming smile. ¡°The Sword Guild is the ninth-ranked sect in the Tang Dynasty. They have more than 10,000 disciples, split between the inner sect and the outer sect. The sect leader is Xuanyuan Taihua, a first-ss official in the imperial courts, also known as Tang Dynasty¡¯s First Sword. The sect¡¯s biggest achievement is the suppression of the demon portal that connected the demon world and the Tang Dynasty. The collective effort ensured the safety and peace in the regions around the Sword Guild,¡± Mentor Wen said. Liu Bubai listened with eagerness. Jiang Linglong was quiet, unmoved by the tale. Fang Lang squinted his eyes. He was curious about the mentioned demon portal. ording to the books, the Tang Dynasty and the demon world were disconnected from each other¡ªa barrier stood in between the two worlds. Since time immemorial, the only way to ess the other world was to use these portals¡ªeven the ninth-ss cultivators could not bypass the barrier. Rumors had it that the barrier between the two worlds was evidence of a cultivator who surpassed the powers of the ninth ss. Fang Lang was incredibly curious but Mentor Wen did not borate more on the topic. Mentor Wen prodded the ground lightly with the wooden sword. ¡°The Sword Guild hosts the annual Gathering of Swords to encourageworking among the younger sword disciples. It also helps students who are going to sit for the Imperial Examination. ¡°Thepetition has two categories: single and team. It follows a best-of-three system. Being in the top three for the single match will earn you 20 points in the Imperial Examination. The top three teams will see that every team member gets an extra 10 points. ¡°In total, you can gain 30 points which will give you a significant lead in the Imperial Examination. Traditionally, the talented sword disciples who are sitting for the Imperial Examination will train hard in hopes to secure the 30 points.¡± A fire burned in Liu Bubai¡¯s eyes and his fighting spirit was ignited. Fang Lang and Jiang Linglong retained their original expressions. Mentor Wen smiled and lifted the wooden sword. His eyes fell on Fang Lang, then Jiang Linglong, then Liu Bubai. ¡°Now, let¡¯s begin our training so I can evaluate your swordsmanship. Without using your cultivation,e at me. If you can nudge me from my position using only your sword, we will end the training. Else, each of you will have to perform 3,000 sword strikes before you leave.¡± Mentor Wen grinned. The fingers on his left hand stroked the de of the wooden sword. A clear ring echoed despite the sword being made of wood. The sword cry was ferocious like a dragon. The sound broke the silence of the practice grounds in the sunset. Chapter 15

Chapter 15: A Strike to Heaven and Earth

Trantor: EndlessFantasy Trantion Editor: EndlessFantasy Trantion The sunset set the horizon ame. A beast pped its wings and took flight into the dying sunlight. At the practice grounds of Luojiang Academy, Fang Lang¡¯s pupils narrowed as he stared at the wooden sword pointing at him. Mentor Wen had a faint smile on his face. To one side, Jiang Linglong was spurred by Mentor Wen¡¯s words. A well-sculpted eyebrow arched challengingly. Liu Bubai was not one for subtlety. He nodded and dered, ¡°Master, get ready to lose!¡± He did not use the exquisite sword in his hand. Instead, he picked up one of the academy-issued wooden swords. Fang Lang and Jiang Linglong each held a wooden sword. A distance away, Zhao Wuji and the mentor in charge of the weapons squatted by the weapons shelf, tobo pipes between their lips. The old mentor squinted his eyes as smoke blew out from his nose. He smiled and said, ¡°Old Wen Seven¡¯s gonna toy with them. Every year around this time, he will show off his skills and crush the egos of the academy¡¯s top-ranking sword disciples. Hopefully, the kids can survive his training.¡± Zhao Wuji put on an honest smile. ¡°Old Wen Seven? The seventh-ranked in the Imperial Examination who joined the Sword Guild, became a sword master and left the sect for a woman? The one who stayed in Imperial City and became a mentor in Changan Academy? The Schrly Sword Master, Wen Ting?¡± ¡°That¡¯s the bastard,¡± the old mentor said with a chuckle. The old mentor looked at Mentor Wen with some pity in his eyes¡ªWen Ting¡¯s beard had grown scraggy as time caught up. ¡°It¡¯s a shame. Wen Ting had so much promise back then. If he had stayed with the Sword Guild, he would have ascended to the fourth ss now.¡± Zhao Wuji sounded equally rueful when he said, ¡°The fault lies not with him. The woman he chased after... She was a force that shook the earth to its core. He¡¯s not the only man who fell for her irresistible charms.¡± Amon topic was uncovered. The two men began discussing the women of their times,dies who had half of the Tang Dynasty at their feet. ... In the practice ring, Liu Bubai led the charge with his burning ego. Although his cultivation was a far cry from that of his mentor, he had confidence in his sword techniques. He just had to make Mentor Wen move one step. Without cultivation in y, he believed the difference in their sword skills was minor. The dying embers of the sun made Liu Bubai¡¯s de look like it was on fire. ¡°Master, forgive me.¡± With the wooden sword in hand, Liu Bubai felt like he ruled the world. He was born for the sword. Whoosh! The wooden sword was swung at the speed of light, making the air crackle. As the sword neared Mentor Wen, Liu Bubai¡¯s eyes narrowed and he changed up his footwork. The attack shifted direction as seamlessly as a snake¡ªit was pointed at Mentor Wen¡¯s abdomen. The de energy was contained in the swift strike. From a distance, Fang Lang¡¯s eyes narrowed¡ªLiu Bubai¡¯s pride was justified. The technique he used would have knocked out the pre-System Fang Lang in one strike. Jiang Linglong¡¯s eyes reflected no emotions. The bottom half of her face was shielded by the veil. ¡°Too slow, too weak. Was all the rice you ate for naught?¡± Mentor Wen gave Liu Bubai a cold stare. The wooden sword whipped out in a precise fashion. Whack! Whack! Two strikes. Liu Bubai¡¯s wooden sword sailed through the air and ttered onto the ground. The counterattack was so swift, Liu Bubai did not even see the draw. Fast! Unwilling to give up, he retrieved his wooden sword and lunged from a different angle. He moved with the speed of a dragon tearing through the air. On the other end, the wooden sword in Mentor Wen¡¯s hand moved like it was alive. Sparks flew as the des shed against one another. Liu Bubai lost grip of his sword. From the start to end, Mentor Wen did not move a step. ¡°Rubbish. ¡°Three of you,e at me together.¡± Mentor Wen threw the wooden sword back at a pale-faced Liu Bubai. ¡°Sword fighting is all about technique. You have to cherish every opportunity to strike, attack with power and strength. More importantly, you must have good vision,¡± Mentor Wen lectured impassively. At that moment, the trio of students felt the intense aura that radiated from Mentor Wen. They felt like they were up against the legendary First Sword¡ªwith a wall of glinting swords aimed at them, ready to strike them down. Light danced in Jiang Linglong¡¯s eyes. Underneath the veil, red lips curled into a smirk. ¡°You¡¯re the infamous Schrly Sword Master in Imperial City, Wen Ting.¡± Whoosh! Jiang Linglong drew her sword¡ªthe de left afterimages like rainfall during spring. The battle excited Fang Lang. ¡®System, switch to binding partner¡¯s cultivation mode!¡¯ Fang Lang ordered. He realized this was a rare learning opportunity. ¡®Ding! Switching sessful. Would you like to use the 3X Amplification Card?¡¯ the System replied. Fang Lang hesitated. Should he use the Amplification Card? After some deliberation, he made a decision. ¡®Use it!¡¯ Fang Lang clenched his jaw. ¡®Ding! The 3X Amplification Card has been activated. The host has 150% of the binding partner, Ni Wen¡¯s cultivation inspiration and cultivation speed. Happy cultivating!¡¯ The System went silent after thest announcement. Fang Lang felt his mind pause. Then, the blurry motion of Jiang Linglong and Mentor Wen¡¯s des rified in his vision. He was blessed with half of Ni Wen¡¯s talents and core. Fang Lang could keep up with them! Jiang Linglong¡¯s attack was relentless¡ªthe de shot out like the spring rain. Then, with a flick of her wrist, the attack shifted into the flooding summer rain, the neverending autumn rain and the bone-piercing winter rain. Mentor Wen easily deflected Jiang Linglong¡¯s attack but surprise shed across his eyes. ¡°This is the Four Season Form. I think I know who you are,¡± Mentor Wen said as he parried the blows raining down on him. He had a measure of respect for thedy and it showed on his face. ¡°I am nothing but a pupil studying under you. Please, treat me as such.¡± Jiang Linglong¡¯s voice was without inflection but there was a hint of arrogance underlying her words. From another corner, Liu Bubai joined in the fight. The fervent exchange of blows between Jiang Linglong and Mentor Wen riled Liu Bubai up. The neer appeared to possess skills that were slightly above his level. When Liu Bubai entered the fray, Mentor Wen slowed down his movements. His sword moved like a schr¡¯s brush, snaking through the air with uracy and precision. Strong! This fight was a test of skills and techniques. There was no cultivation in y. Mentor Wen weed the attacks with ease, as if he could take on two more Jiang Linglongs without breaking a sweat. Fang Lang was enjoying the battle on the sidelines. With his partner¡¯s cultivation mode and the Amplification Card activated, Fang Lang was absorbing the three fighters¡¯ skills and techniques. He was enriching himself! It was a great feeling. He would never have gotten the chance to experience this with his awful white core. He tightened his grip on the wooden sword and bent down into a lunging position. The wind rustled. Fang Lang¡¯s robe fluttered with the breeze. In the middle of the ring, Mentor Wen¡ªwho was sessfully fending off Jiang Linglong and Liu Bubai¡¯s attacks without moving a step¡ªsensed the iing danger. Mentor Wen shifted his attention to Fang Lang. There was a sparkle in his eyes. He knew of the boy¡¯s Sword Draw Technique. The technique was a culmination of years of practice. He was eager to see it unleashed. A series of images shed through Fang Lang¡¯s mind. Memories rting to the Spirit Step rose to the surface. ... The boy in his memories was moving against the rushing river currents. Every step he took kicked up sshes that reached three feet far. He was pulled under many times by the merciless currents, thrashed senseless as the river tried to drown him. Day after day, year after year. Until one day, he mastered the Spirit Step. When his foot touched the river, de energy cut through the water currents and the boy moved upstream like a wily snake, disappearing into the distance. ... The images faded away from Fang Lang¡¯s vision. In a sword-drawing position, Fang Lang ran circles around Mentor Wen. His footsteps were silent and he blurred in motion. Liu Bubai nearly vomited as he tried to keep track of Fang Lang. The boy¡¯s movement was uncanny. Jiang Linglong changed her pose. She stared intensely at Mentor Wen as her expression became serious. Mentor Wen felt as if he had locked eyes with a venomous snake. A distance away, the two pipe-smoking men¡ªZhao Wuji and the mentor guarding the weapons shelf¡ªsquinted their eyes. In the ring, Fang Lang finally drew his sword! Whoosh! With the power of the winds, Fang Lang¡¯s de struck out like lightning. Quick, urate, powerful! All of his energy rested within this single blow. An explosion sounded through the air. Mentor Wen¡¯s pupils narrowed. His movement was fluid as he picked up speed. Right after deflecting Liu Bubai and Jiang Linglong¡¯s attacks, he made an upward sh. ck! The two wooden swords shed in midair. Fang Lang set a steady foot down and leveraged the strength in his attack. de energy rushed through his feet and Fang Lang blurred. Mentor Wen¡¯s de followed Fang Lang as if he had eyes at the back of his head. With a forceful push, he deflected the ultimate Sword Draw strike. However, he was unable to parry the de energy that shot out from Fang Lang¡¯s Spirit Step. Mentor Wen was forced to lift a leg and turn his body to avoid the hit. He spun around like an elegant butterfly. He sighed internally¡ªFang Lang had exposed the mentor¡¯s weakness. Jiang Linglong saw an opening and rushed in like a summer hurricane. Liu Bubai quickly followed suit. Mentor Wen drew his wooden sword back and chose to parry the devastating attack delivered by Jiang Linglong. Without tapping into his cultivation, his bodycked the energy to keep up with the fight. Liu Bubai¡¯s wooden sword emerged. It was aimed at the mentor¡¯s chest. Mentor Wen curled his body inwards and in the process, lost his bnce and took a step back. Liu Bubai was shocked. Then, joy erupted on his face. Victory! He was the strike that cleaved heaven and earth! Liu Bubai was unmistakably the sword genius of their time! The sunset painted the sky in an amalgam of colors. A hush fell over the practice grounds. Liu Bubai¡¯s excitedugh was the outlier. The veiled Jiang Linglong watched Fang Lang who stood behind Mentor Wen. There wereplex emotions in her eyes. Mentor Wen wore an awkward smile as he rubbed his nose. He nced at Fang Lang who was catching his breath on the floor. There was a grin on the boy¡¯s face. In the distance, Zhao Wuji and the old mentor studied the panting Fang Lang. In their minds, the oue was clear. The boy had used the wind to bring out his de energy. With the Spirit Step, he had dealt the decisive strike. Chapter 16

Chapter 16: My Hardworking Son

Trantor: EndlessFantasy Trantion Editor: EndlessFantasy Trantion All eyes save for Liu Bubai were on Fang Lang. Mentor Wen rubbed his nose awkwardly. It was just one step but for a man of his status and ranking, the retreat was embarrassing. Jiang Linglong¡¯s eyes were fixated on Fang Lang. She had thought the Sword Draw Technique was the ace up his sleeves but she was wrong. Thatst strike he delivered was the difficult-to-master Spirit Step. Fang Lang had used the Spirit Step to get close and opened up an avenue of attack. Training for the Spirit Step was rigorous and dangerous if one was not careful. Yet, the boy had mastered the skill. How much had he suffered to learn the ways of the sword? The gentle breeze moved the veil on Jiang Linglong¡¯s face. She watched Fang Lang, her eyes filled with curiosity and admiration. Some people were not born gifted but through unnatural determination and dedication, they achieved greatness¡ªthat, itself, was a talent. Liu Bubai was still chuckling to himself. He was victorious! He was the genius sword disciple! He was Luojiang Academy¡¯s first sword! Notwithstanding the course of events, if he had not delivered that final blow, they would have lost the match. Liu Bubai was surprised by Jiang Linglong¡¯s swordsmanship. As for Fang Lang, the boy showed some promise. Regardless, Liu Bubai was the one who seized the opportunity and made the decisive strike. Ultimately, Liu Bubai was the main driving force! Fang Lang¡¯s performance was impressive nheless. Liu Bubai walked up to Fang Lang and leaned on his wooden sword. Liu Bubai extended one hand to help Fang Lang up. ¡°You did well. Keep it up for the Gathering of Swords. Lady Jiang Pei and I will carry the team to victory,¡± Liu Bubai reiterated his earlier words. His chin was lifted in an arrogant tilt. He was satisfied with Fang Lang¡¯s abilities. The veiled Jiang Linglong raised an eyebrow in response. Unwilling to suffer through the awkwardness, she collected her wooden sword and walked away. Zhao Wuji took a final drag of his tobo pipe before catching up with his charge. They left the practice grounds. Mentor Wen gave the haughty Liu Bubai an odd look. ¡°In the next three days, you¡¯re toe to the practice grounds before and after ss. I¡¯ll be personally teaching you the skills and techniques. On the third day, I¡¯ll bring you to the Gathering of Swords after sses end.¡± Mentor Wen dismissed them with a wave. The Schrly Sword Master¡ªwhose sword techniques were the epitome of the discipline¡ªwas forced back by a group of 15-year-olds. Every breath he took was filled with embarrassment. Fang Lang stood with a broad smile on his face as he switched back to his own cultivation state. This practice fight had been incredibly beneficial. With his nose to the air, Liu Bubai turned and left handsomely in his training attire. Fang Lang could not help but admire the boy. Liu Bubai had an unwavering confidence. However, his talent and core was nowhere near that of the mysteriousdy. Even Ni Wen had a better core than him. Otherwise, Fang Lang would have bound Liu Bubai. Fang Lang stretched his muscles and left the practice grounds. He headed straight for the Fang Manor. The 3X Amplification Card was in effect for six hours and the match had taken half an hour at most. Fang Lang could not afford to waste the remaining hours. Fang Lang made a beeline for his room and began cultivating. Dinner was less important at this point. The absence of Fang Lang surprised his father and the old man went to check on him. He cracked open a slit in the door and saw Fang Lang clutching a spirit crystal. Tears welled in Old Fang¡¯s eyes when he witnessed his son skip meals for his cultivation. Old Fang had learnt of his son¡¯s participation in the Gathering of Swords¡ªit was a sign that his son¡¯s hard work paid off. ¡°My son¡¯s efforts have brought him today¡¯s sess...¡± The moon crept slowly while the stars illuminated the sky. Old Fang rubbed away the tears of joy and left the Fang Manor. He had clients to meet at the entertainment house. ... With the help of the 3X Amplification Card, Fang Lang absorbed the spirit crystals at a rate 1.5 times faster than Ni Wen. He did not use the ten spirit crystals provided by Old Fang. After all, using the System¡¯s resources to improve his cultivation would lead to the System leveling up. There was no need to use the family¡¯s spirit crystals. When the fourth spirit crystal was drained, Fang Lang felt a wisp of smoke at the top of his head. He followed Ni Wen¡¯s instructions and controlled the flow of spiritual energy. There was less green smoke indicating lower resistance in the meridians as the spiritual energy traveled through his body. Whoosh! Fang Lang opened his eyes¡ªthere was a sh of light. The spiritual energy coursed through him like a wave, threatening to break through his skin. Sixth grade! He exhaled the stale air. Within three days, he had elevated himself from the third grade to the sixth grade. It was something unimaginable prior to the System¡¯s interference. Feeling the power of the spiritual energy in his body, Fang Lang got up and assumed a sword-drawing position. He held no sword but he went through the motions of drawing one. An invisible force sliced through the air. His de energy extended three feet. Tiny explosions sounded in the air. Fang Lang was ecstatic. He felt more confident joining the Gathering of Swords. With the sixth grade unlocked, his physical abilities were also enhanced, allowing a better execution of sword techniques and skills. ¡°As a sixth-grade sword disciple, I should be able to rank among Luojiang Academy¡¯s geniuses... I wouldn¡¯t mind beingst among the talented.¡± Fang Lang took a deep breath. The average grade of the top 200 students in Luojiang Academy was the sixth grade¡ªFang Lang had achieved the minimum requirement. Combined with his ster theory scores, he should be able to rank well in the uing Imperial Examination. Theponents like poetry were nothing to Fang Lang. He had knowledge from his past life aiding him. ¡°A sixth grader is not enough. To stand out in the Imperial Examination, I must ascend to the ninth grade!¡± Fang Lang curbed his excitement and resumed his cross-legged position on the bed. He held the spirit crystal and resumed the absorption process. ... The next day, Fang Lang arrived at the academy earlier than usual. The veiled Jiang Linglong was already there. ¡°Morning!¡± Fang Lang greeted with a smile after devouring the meat bun he brought along. Jiang Linglong recalled the Spirit Step performed by Fang Lang and hesitantly gave the boy a nod. It was a sign of acknowledgment. Fang Lang was happy with the slight change in treatment. He was not in a rush¡ªthere would be time to get to know each other. The atmosphere turned slightly awkward as they stood on the practice grounds in silence. Minutes passed before Liu Bubai showed up. He was dressed in training clothes again, carrying the fancy sword on his back. The tassel swished in the wind as he walked toward them like a merry knight. Liu Bubai had nomon topic with Jiang Linglong so he struck up a conversation with Fang Lang. The majority of the conversation was Liu Bubai telling Fang Lang to stay calm and not panic when he carried the team to victory. Liu Bubai was remarkably confident in his abilities. Mentor Wen showed up soon enough. He started their training with the same exercise they did the day before. This time, Mentor Wen did not fool around. The same trick by Fang Lang did not work as the mentor easily countered his Spirit Step. ¡°Your Spirit Step is a rare technique. Very few in the sword discipline have mastered the Spirit Step. However, once you reveal it, your opponent will be anticipating it. You¡¯ll have to find the opportunity or make an opening!¡± Mentor Wen said to Fang Lang as he showed them the various sword techniques. Fang Lang had switched to Ni Wen¡¯s cultivation mode but forgone the 3X Amplification Card. There was only one card left and he was reluctant to use it. Even without the 3X Amplification Card, Fang Lang gained a lot through the morning training. More students were arriving at the academy so Mentor Wen ended the training session. Jiang Linglong disappeared without a trace, leaving the sweat-drenched Fang Lang and Liu Bubai. They walked back to their respective study blocks and waited for ss to start. The three days were spent on one intensive training after another. The group met up with Mentor Wen before and after ss. The busy schedule meant Fang Lang only had break time to approach Ni Wen for modest cultivation-rted interactions. He was rewarded with two Grade-Rush Card Fragments for his effort. He needed two more toplete the card. At night, Fang Lang dragged his tired body back to the Fang Manor. After a hasty dinner, he went into his room and began the absorption process with the spirit crystals. Although he had to prepare for the Gathering of Swords, he could not neglect his cultivation. The Imperial Examination was more important than thepetition. In the three days, Fang Lang was stretched taut like a rubber band as he pushed himself to his limits. Chapter 17

Chapter 17: A Sophisticated Flight Sword

Trantor: EndlessFantasy Trantion Editor: EndlessFantasy Trantion Time flowed like sand through fingers. In the blink of an eye, it was the evening of the third day. As thest bell of the day rang, students rushed out of the study halls. Fang Lang, Ni Wen, and Yang Zhengyi left the study hall and headed for the practice grounds. Yang Zhengyi flipped his fringe and said, ¡°Lang¡¯zi, I¡¯m rooting for you! I¡¯m sitting out on the entertainment house today just to stay here and give you moral support. Do your best and get into the top three!¡± Ni Wen followed the two boys in silence like a soundless shadow. She was not the type who wanted attention. She was surprised when she heard Fang Lang was joining the Gathering of Swords. After some hesitation, Ni Wen cheered, ¡°Fang Lang... Good luck!¡± The encouragement surprised Fang Lang. He gave the girl a warm smile and patted her head before stepping onto the practice grounds. As the sun set, Yang Zhengyi and Ni Wen watched Fang Lang walk away. The sunset was dazzling but the fire in Fang Lang burned brighter. They watched the boy grip his sword¡ªhe looked like he was ready to tear a hole through the night sky. ... Mentor Wen was early. He was dressed in an elegant white robe with a sword box on his back. His sword was secured within. The messy beard had been shaved off and he looked more alert than he ever did¡ªhis aura came to a boil. The Schrly Sword Master was back. Fang Lang was taken aback by Mentor Wen¡¯s appearance. On the other hand, Jiang Linglong barely lifted her eyebrows at the transformation. She was well aware of Mentor Wen Ting¡¯s background and his past rtionship with the Sword Guild. The Schrly Sword Master was attending an event hosted by the Sword Guild. He would not want to appear weak in any way. All three students were set and ready to depart with Mentor Wen. The Gathering of Swords was held at the Sword Guild¡¯s sanctum. This was Wen Ting¡¯s first time leading the team. Previously, he only participated in the intensive training. However, this year, Headmaster Cui had personally ordered him to lead the team. It was not said but Wen Ting knew he was the protection detail for Jiang Pei. ¡°Let us not embarrass Luojiang Academy in the Gathering of Swords. This year, the Sword Guild has invited 200 academies. Luojiang Academy is in the top 50 academies so I expect you to survive at least until the second stage,¡± Mentor Wen said matter-of-factly. There was no leniency in his tone. This was his first return to the Sword Guild and he wanted to avoid embarrassment. Many from the Sword Guild knew him or knew of him. Besides, after three days of intensive training, he had faith in the team¡¯s ability tost till the second stage. Once the motivation speech was over, Mentor Wen raised his hand. The ck space ring with a lotus flower carving glimmered on his finger. It was a premium space ring from the Jade Pavilion that likely cost a fortune. A humming sound. A bright sh. Space rippled and a flight sword appeared above the space ring. It floated in the air of the practice grounds. Fang Lang and Liu Bubai were mesmerized by the item. A flight sword! It was the dream of every cultivator. ¡°That¡¯s a Trident model made by the Sky Cloud Sect. It¡¯s detailed with runes researched by fourth-ss spell masters. At maximum power, the flight sword can travel 1,500 miles per hour. The flight sword consumes ten low-grade spirit crystals for two hours of operation,¡± Liu Bubai rambled on as he stared intently at the flight sword floating in the air. A shiver passed his body. The words were a load of gibberish to Fang Lang but it sounded impressive. Liu Bubai¡¯s enthusiasm for the flight sword reminded Fang Lang of the car enthusiasts from his past life. Mentor Wen nced at Liu Bubai. ¡°You know your stuff. You like flight swords? Do you have a Flying Sword Examination pass?¡± Liu Bubai nodded. ¡°I do! I went to the imperial courts and got minest year.¡± A smile graced Mentor Wen¡¯s lips. ¡°If you sessfully rank in the top three for the Gathering of Swords, I will lend you my flight sword for two hours.¡± Liu Bubai¡¯s breathing picked up and the fire in his eyes burned like a star. Fang Lang covered his gaping mouth while Jiang Linglong remained expressionless. Mentor Wen smiled and produced his Flying Sword Examination pass. He stepped onto the flight sword and inserted the pass into the slot at the guard. Hum. Spiritual energy emanated from the flight sword as it grew in size to amodate four passengers. Liu Bubai and Jiang Linglong stepped onto the flight sword with ease and sat down. Fang Lang gingerly took a seat on the odd transport. A circr rune appeared on his body¡ªprotection against the air pressure and piercing sounds. ¡°Sit tight, we¡¯re departing.¡± Mentor Wen stood at sword grip. At the end of his sentence, a high-purity spirit crystal appeared in his hand. It was a mid-grade spirit crystal, equivalent to 100 low-grade spirit crystals. The mid-grade spirit crystal was fed into the opening at the sword guard. The fuel activated the runes on the flight sword. The humming was louder. The burst of energy disturbed the surrounding air. A circr rune bloomed from the sword guard and began spinning at the sword tip. The flight sword stabbed through the rune. The rune continued to spin and the sound of spinning cogs could be heard. The flight sword made a cry and levitated. Spiritual energy was expelled from the rune. The flight sword pierced through the sky. The departure was signaled by an ear-splitting roar as the sword took flight like a majestic bird, shooting across the sky. A multicolored sh tore through the sunset in the horizon. ... In the realm of the Tang Dynasty, the Sword Guild sat within Mount Shu. The lofty mountain rose steeply above ground like an emerging sword, towering over the ins. Pces and towers glittered on the mountain peak, akin to a sword tip reflecting light. The heart of civilization was thrust into the clouds. The sophisticated flight sword hummed as the rune spun. Eardrums reverberated with the sword¡¯s operation. Atop the flight sword, Fang Lang, Liu Bubai and Jiang Linglong gazed upon the majestic and mystical city that sat among the heavens. This was where the Sword Guildid¡ªthe venue of the Gathering of Swords. ¡°The Sword Guild is thergest sect in the Tang Dynasty that caters to sword mastery. They rank in the top ten sects and only take in ten talented disciples from each Imperial Examination,¡± Mentor Wen said. He guided the flight sword through the clouds and toward the za on Mount Shu¡¯s peak. They were not the only ones riding in. Around them, a multitude of flight swords zoomed past. Theynded on the za. de energy rumbled as the flight swords descended. Gradually, the roaring of the runes simmered down. These were the participants gathered from academies all across the Tang Dynasty and everyone flew in on flight swords. Fang Lang¡¯s body trembled with adrenaline as he sat on the flight sword. This was not the Imperial Examination but the opportunity to cross swords with talents from the realm excited Fang Lang. ¡°Get down,¡± Mentor Wen said with a smile. The trio hopped down and Mentor Wen put away the sophisticated flight sword. As they disembarked, a gant woman with a sword box on her back strode over. ¡°Are you guys from Luojiang Academy? Come with me. You guys get to rest tonight, thepetition starts tomorrow.¡± The woman spoke perfunctorily. When she noticed Mentor Wen, her expression hardened. The students felt the coldness of the woman¡¯s gaze. ¡°What are you guys looking at? She¡¯s just an old acquaintance. We made a pact to stay in the Sword Guild years ago. Unfortunately...¡± Mentor Wen said in a bittersweet tone as he took a trip down memoryne. The gant woman who was leading the way turned around and gave Mentor Wen a death re. ¡°Wen Ting, you lied to me then and you dare speak of the past? I¡¯ll stab you.¡± Mentor Wen gave the woman a sheepish smile. ¡°Huang Ying, you wouldn¡¯t.¡± Mentor Wen was right in his assessment. The Sword Guild member, Huang Ying, showed her displeasure. She almost drew her de at Mentor Wen. Quickly, she brought the group to the temporary residence. Although she radiated an unfriendly aura, she still helped with checking in. Fang Lang took the room token and searched for his amodation. As he was opening the door, the next-door neighbor came out. A tall, slender and handsome boy leaned against the doorframe. He studied Fang Lang silently. ¡°Which academy are you from?¡± the neighbor asked. Fang Lang smiled gently and said, ¡°Luojiang Academy.¡± The boy raised an eyebrow and nodded. ¡°Beijiang Academy, Song Qingyun, ninth-grade sword disciple.¡± ¡®He¡¯s revealing his grade?¡¯ Fang Lang spent a moment thinking, then said, ¡°Luojiang Academy, Fang Lang, sixth-grade sword disciple.¡± ¡°Huh? Sixth grade?¡± Song Qingyun frowned and the interest in his eyes dimmed. He figured the sixth-grade sword disciple was likely sent here as a filler. Of course, Song Qingyun kept the thought to himself. With an impassive expression, he bid the other boy goodbye and went back into his room, all interest lost. Chapter 18

Chapter 18: The Team¡¯s Ace

Trantor: EndlessFantasy Trantion Editor: EndlessFantasy Trantion Fang Lang stared at the shut door in surprise. Clearly, he had been snubbed. Although the boy from Beijiang Academy did not outwardly express it, Fang Lang could read between the lines. Song Qingyun was dismissive of him. The Gathering of Swords attracted talented sword disciples from every academy¡ªthe average talent and core gathered here was expected to be superior. Fang Lang was an odd ball here. Fang Lang shrugged off the dismissal and entered his room. He shut the door firmly. The room prepared by the Sword Guild was furnished with the basic utilities: teapot, table, chair and bed. It reflected the Sword Guild¡¯s emphasis on hardship and hard work. This was not a ce for luxuries and extravagant pleasures. Fang Lang had no intentions of resting. The Imperial Examination loomed and he could not afford to rest and indulge. He pulled out the spirit crystal and sat cross-legged on the bed. Switching to Ni Wen¡¯s cultivation mode, he began cultivating. ... The sky was clear the next morning. It was the grand opening of the annual Gathering of Swords. Participants from academies all across the Tang Dynasty roused from their sleeping quarters. The night of rest had refreshed them and they readied themselves for a day of activity. Chosen to represent their academies, they were the most talented sword disciples the academies had to offer. Every single one of them was fascinated by the Sword Guild¡ªit was their dream to join the sect after the Imperial Examination. On the za of Mount Shu, the students flocked to their respective mentors and stood in silence. Fang Lang, Liu Bubai and Jiang Linglong gathered before Mentor Wen. The mentor was at ease. There was a towering pce on the za. A bright sh struck down from the sky, calling the attention of the audience. A young man with a shock of white hair stepped off the flight sword. He was dressed in a white robe and the sword he rode on reflected the colors of a rainbow. His descent from the clouds was effortlessly cool¡ªde energy radiated from his body. The humming died down as he stepped onto the pavilion that oversaw the za. His eyes scanned through the crowd of students. A hushed murmur traveled through the audience. ¡°That¡¯s the vice leader of the Sword Guild, the White-Haired Sword Demon, Chao Xiaojian,¡± Mentor Wen informed his students. Other academy mentors were doing the same. Chao Xiaojian delivered his speech from the pavilion like a master orator. The speech was short and sweet, and without further ado, he announced the opening of the Gathering of Swords. Thepetition was to begin with the teambat. Once the first round of lots were drawn by the mentors, Chao Xiaojian left as abruptly as he came. Mentor Wen walked back to the group with a rxed expression. He showed them the result. ¡°For teambat, the 200 academies are equally split into four groups: Heaven, Earth, Dark and Light. We¡¯re in the Dark group this stage, facing Xuzhou Academy. Among the 200 academies, they¡¯re considered below-average. Who will be fighting first?¡± Mentor Wen smiled. The easygoing tone of Mentor Wen suggested victory was imminent and Liu Bubai volunteered. However, the mentor ignored Liu Bubai and set his sights on Fang Lang. ¡°You¡¯ll do it, Fang Lang.¡± Fang Lang was shocked by his mentor¡¯s choice. Immediately after Mentor Wen¡¯s deration, Fang Lang heard the System chime. ¡®Ding! Target mission: Cultivation is not limited to training. It involves the bloodlust and mortality on the battlefield. Use your sword skills and defeat your opponent in the Gathering of Swords. Defeat 18 opponents and you will be rewarded with the Dual Sword Technique (Sword Mastery Specialty). ¡®Mission progress: (0/18)¡¯ Liu Bubai was displeased with the mentor¡¯s decision. He argued, ¡°Master! Why don¡¯t you pick me?¡± Mentor Wen stared at the whining boy. Fang Lang woke from his daze, eyes sparkling at the opportunity to start his mission. The goal was 18 wins. Fang Lang had to defeat 18 participants. It was a mission of variable difficulty. If Fang Lang was pit against a strongpetitor, then the mission would fall through easily. He had to pick and choose his battles, and this was an opportunity he would not give up. ¡°Old Liu, you¡¯re the ace of Luojiang Academy. Don¡¯t misinterpret our mentor¡¯s choice, the ace has to be kept hidden, not revealed in the first battle. You should conserve your energy for the strong opponents like Changan Academy, so the others underestimate us,¡± Fang Lang exined with a smile. ¡°Let in old me handle this.¡± There was a lull in the conversation after Fang Lang spoke. Mentor Wen¡¯s lips twitched as he looked at Fang Lang. ¡®You don¡¯t really mean that, do you?¡¯ Jiang Linglong hid a half smirk beneath the veil. Realization dawned on Liu Bubai, his eyes wide. Fang Lang was right¡ªthere was nothing he could argue. Absolutely right! Liu Bubai turned to Mentor Wen and saw an indecipherable look on his face. Then, the mentor nodded in agreement. Liu Bubai took in a deep breath as he felt the weight of responsibility rest on his shoulders. He had delivered the decisive strike that fell Mentor Wen. He was the ace of the team. ¡°Understood. Old Fang, go ahead. I¡¯ll make sure we stay under the radar.¡± Liu Bubai patted Fang Lang on the shoulder while Fang Lang gave him a solemn nod. The two boys acted as if they were sworn brothers who bonded over battle. Beside them, Jiang Linglong rolled her eyes. Mentor Wen cracked a smile. ¡°Fang Lang, Bubai is right. Give your all. It¡¯s fine if you lose, the team will back you up,¡± Mentor Wen said with humor, side-eyeing Jiang Linglong. ... The Dark group was assigned to the seventh battle ring. The teams from Xuzhou Academy and Luojiang Academy gathered at opposite ends of the battle ring. In the fight zone, there was an umpire¡ªa disciple of the Sword Guild. The man was a highly-skilled third-ss sword master who could easily restrain the participants should the need arise. Xuzhou Academy sent out their representative. Fang Lang took the steel sword presented to him by Mentor Wen and entered the ring. It was a battle of sword skills and techniques. This was not practice but an actual battle. There was no room for hesitation. The Gathering of Swords did not permit murder but anything else was allowed. ¡°Xuzhou Academy, Sun Ming, ninth-grade sword disciple.¡± The opponent was a tall and well-builtd with a broadsword. Fang Lang was dressed in his green academy robes. He cupped his fist with his other hand and greeted, ¡°Luojiang Academy, Fang Lang, sixth-grade sword disciple.¡± The reaction from his opponent was simr to that of the Beijiang Academy student Fang Lang ran into the day before¡ªsurprise followed by disappointment. Sun Ming¡¯s expression wasced with mirth. The boy was sure he would win this fight. Although their cultivation grades did not matter in the Gathering of Swords, achieving a higher grade boosted one¡¯s physical prowess. A person with a stunted cultivation likely meant their sword skills were subpar. ¡°Luojiang Academy sent a sixth-grade sword disciple? Is this an act of self-destruction? Free points for me, I guess.¡± Sun Ming gripped the steel broadsword and cackled. Then, in a sh, he hauled the broadsword and lunged. The air crackled as the sword cut through with speed and strength. Fang Lang was unperturbed by the taunts. He gripped his steel sword and moved with the Spirit Step, his body blurred into motion. Sun Ming struck out multiple times with the broadsword but none connected with Fang Lang. Suddenly, Fang Lang appeared behind Sun Ming. Their backs faced each other. The sword tip was pressed against Sun Ming¡¯s waist and blood spread from the wound. ¡°Yield.¡± Sun Ming was too slow to keep up with Fang Lang¡¯s Spirit Step and agile strikes. However, the boy refused to yield. A sh of red crossed his eyes as he swung his broadsword around. Fang Lang leaped away from the iing danger but the de tore through his robe. Some blood was spilled. If he had been half a second slower, he would have been cleaved in half. The strike shook Fang Lang but he recovered swiftly. ¡°Are you testing mypassion?¡± Fang Lang took a deep breath. This was an actual battle, not a yfight. In the battlefield, there was no room for mercy. At that moment, Fang Lang learned something meaningful about cultivation. In a battle between cultivators, one¡¯s intent dictated the oue. Showing mercy could easily lead to one¡¯s downfall. Deaths weremon when cultivators fought. Fang Lang did not want to die, he had only recently received the System¡¯s blessing. He wanted to be strong so he had to be merciless here. The battle continued. Fortunately, Fang Lang had the advantage when it came to skills and techniques. Swords shed! Time seemed to stop for a moment. Fang Lang and Sun Ming crossed paths. Then, Fang Lang appeared behind Sun Ming. This time, he stabbed the unyielding boy without hesitation. Blood ran down the length of his steel sword. ¡°Yield!¡± Xuzhou Academy¡¯s mentor shouted from below the ring. The umpire quickly dered the match results as Fang Lang retrieved his sword. Sun Ming was carried away by his teammates. Fortunately, the Sword Guild had recovery pills on standby. Fang Lang remained in the battle ring. As blood dripped from his sword, he said, ¡°Who¡¯s next?¡± ¡®Mission progress: (1/18)¡¯ Another student from Xuzhou Academy stepped into the ring, enraged and vengeful. He only mentioned the name of his academy before charging forward. Fang Lang smiled and activated his Spirit Step. He moved like an illusion. A few strikester, the second participant from Xuzhou Academy was taken down with a blow to the thigh. The bone broke and blood sprayed. He was transported away from the ring. The third participant entered the ring. He was the ace of Xuzhou Academy and the sight of his injured teammates made his blood boil. He started the match without uttering a word. His anger roared like an inferno. Fang Lang took a calm step back and assumed the sword-drawing position. On the sidelines, Mentor Wen was surprised by the continuous battle. ¡®Fang Lang aims to take down all three participants?¡¯ Mentor Wen did not interfere. He wanted to see the boy¡¯s potential. Faced with the third opponent¡¯s hidden sword technique, Fang Lang did not use his Spirit Step. Instead, he went for the Sword Draw Technique. One with the wind, one strike to end it all! Whoosh! The third student from Xuzhou Academy saw his sword sail through the air, ttering a distance away. He had been disarmed. One strike to end the enemy¡ªit was the ultimate technique for a sword disciple. ¡°Yield!¡± shouted the Xuzhou Academy mentor, his dismay evident. He did not want to risk Fang Lang¡¯s cruel streak and see another student stabbed. Luojiang Academy was a terror in the battle ring! Chapter 19

Chapter 19: I Am the One Carrying the Team

2 Trantor: EndlessFantasy Trantion Editor: EndlessFantasy Trantion ¡°Victory for Luojiang Academy,¡± the umpire announced in the battle ring. He gave Fang Lang a long stare. Fang Lang¡¯s technique had surprised the Sword Guild disciple. Based on the technique, the boy must be at the top of his sword ss. The fact that he defeated the Xuzhou Academy team was not surprising, given he had these techniques. However, it was unusual for a sixth-grade sword disciple to have such skills. To defeat three opponents in a row was also impressive. The umpire did not bat an eye at the blood spilled on the battle ring floor. Cultivation was a matter of life and death. The Sword Guild was located near a demon portal¡ªit was not a vacation spot. It was thebined effort of the Sword Guild disciples that held the demon horde at bay. Every year, no less than ten fatalities resulted from engagement with demons and the numbers for the injured were much higher. Therefore, the umpire was unaffected by the gore. In his eyes, the injuries sustained were minor and the academy students needed the exposure. Fang Lang stood in the battle ring, green robes fluttering. He held the steel sword in his hand and smiled. He had to defeat 18 opponents¡ª15 more to go. Five teams in total. This match gave Fang Lang a taste of cruelty. Cultivation beyond the academy was rife with bloody battles. Fang Lang had to ept the reality of cultivation¡ªit was not the idyllic career he pictured. The shift in perspective was the most important insight he gained from this round. Mentor Wen gave Fang Lang a proud smile. He had noticed the change in Fang Lang¡¯s attacks¡ªfrom the merciful to the methodical. The change was an improvement. A true cultivator showed no mercy. Cultivation was a life-longmitment and everyone was only entitled to one life. To cultivate was to take charge of one¡¯s life. Show no mercy in the battle ring, the umpire would be witness to the particrs should there be any foul y. It was a hat-trick for Fang Lang. The match oue caught the attention of other participants¡ªthe looks given by them were not the friendliest. Liu Bubai was ecstatic. He looped an arm around Fang Lang¡¯s neck and said proudly, ¡°Great performance. I see you¡¯ve learned a lot from me.¡± ¡°It¡¯s nothing, they¡¯re a below-average academy,¡± Fang Lang replied smiling. Jiang Linglong was pensive as she looked at Fang Lang. ¡°Mentor Wen, it¡¯s my turn next,¡± she spoke up. Mentor Wen was taken aback by the request but nodded in agreement. Soon, the break was over and Mentor Wen went to draw the second lot. They got the same venue¡ªDark group, seventh battle ring. Luojiang Academy was against Annan Academy, a mid-tier academy. Face still covered by a veil, Jiang Linglong entered the battle ring, steel sword in hand. Her slender figure attracted the eyes of many boys. Standing in front of her was a dashing boy with a winning smile. ¡°Annan Academy, Chen Liangtian, ninth-grade sword disciple. Why cover your face? You have such pretty eyes, your face must be a sight for sore eyes. If you lose, can I get a date while we¡¯re here?¡± the boy from Annan Academy said jovially. Jiang Linglong responded with a monotonous, ¡°Luojiang Academy, Jiang Pei.¡± That was all she said. Sinct. Sword raised, Jiang Linglong executed the Four Season Form. While the technique was ineffective against Mentor Wen, the same could not be said for the Annan Academy sword disciple. Thwack! The sweet talkernded outside the battle ring with shes all over his chest. Blood ran down his torso. Thedy held the sword in a diagonal fashion, steely eyes showed no remorse. ¡°Next.¡± Below the fight zone, murmurs were heard. Mentor Wen felt a headache forming. ¡®Another hat-trick?¡¯ Youngsters these days were so impatient. However, hot-blooded sword disciples were a weed problem. Chin up, Liu Bubai crossed his arms and pursed his lips. ¡°The ace should stay hidden until the end. No rush, no rush. I¡¯m the ace. They can go all out but I must conserve my energy for the important battles!¡± In the battle ring, Jiang Linglong achieved the same oue as Fang Lang¡ªthree victories in a row. Thedy exited the ring with her head held high. Fang Lang met her eyes and got a nod from thedy. The oue was not the least surprising to Mentor Wen. Jiang Linglong¡¯s sword techniques rivaled Fang Lang¡¯s and her cultivation grade even gave her a slight advantage. Beside him, Liu Bubai¡¯s eyes sparkled. He turned to Mentor Wen and said, ¡°Master¡ª¡± Before he could finish his sentence, Fang Lang interjected. ¡°Master, I¡¯ll fight in the next match. Liu Bubai is our team¡¯s ace, we shouldn¡¯t expose him this early on.¡± Liu Bubai¡¯s mouth gaped. ¡®You¡¯re not wrong but I want to fight too. I want to show off in the battle ring too,¡¯ Liu Bubai thought. An uncanny smile appeared on Mentor Wen¡¯s face. ¡°Alright.¡± Their mentor had spoken so Liu Bubai resigned to his fate. The boy straightened his posture and kept his head high, exuding the arrogance of an academy¡¯s ace sword disciple. ¡®I¡¯m a genius. If I step onto the battle ring, it¡¯s to deliver the decisive strike!¡¯ ... Fang Lang stepped up for the third match against another mid-tier academy. There was little suspense in the ring. With the Sword Draw Technique and Spirit Step, Fang Lang easily defeated all three participants. One third of the missionpleted. Jiang Linglong volunteered for the subsequent match, unwilling to let Fang Lang have all the fun. Liu Bubai wanted to argue his case but a look from Jiang Linglong shut him right up. The next bout concluded with an effortless sweep by Jiang Linglong. Luojiang Academy went through four bouts undefeated. The consecutive victories garnered the attention of other teams in the Dark group. The talented geniuses from the top academies sized up thepetition. They too could execute hat-tricks. Luojiang Academy¡¯s performance had vastly improved fromst year and the team was a formidable contender in the Gathering of Swords. As thepetition carried on, the opponents the team faced only got stronger. Despite that, Fang Lang and Jiang Linglong maintained the steady rhythm of defeating all three participants before rotating out. Liu Bubai was not given the opportunity to step onto the battle ring even once. Tears pricked at his eyes but he did not lower his head. He retained the grace and uppity of an ace. Energy thrummed underneath Liu Bubai¡¯s skin. Sword Draw Technique! Spirit Step! Fang Lang unleashed his skills in the ring. After 15 minutes of battle, Fang Lang spotted an opening and delivered the final blow. The opponent was flung to the ground, face stricken with fear. Standing below, the rival mentor turned ashen. Fang Lang achieved another three consecutive wins. His breathing wasbored and his sword hand trembled. It had been a fierce fight but he secured a win regardless. The happiness he felt was indescribable. ¡®Mission progress: (18/18) ¡®Ding! Congrattions, you havepleted the target mission and received the Dual Sword Technique (Sword Mastery Specialty). ¡®The Dual Sword Technique will be incorporated through mental memory and muscle memory. The ins and outs of the technique will be revealed to the host. Happy cultivating!¡¯ The frenzy of the battle kept Fang Lang upied and hepleted the target mission in the first stage of thepetition. The first stage of thepetition ended. Luojiang Academy pulled through the first stage without much difficulty. Liu Bubai was agog. ¡®When will it be my turn?¡¯ He was benched for the whole first stage. What did he do? Nothing. He contributed nothing to their first stage victory. The situation did not sit well with him. He was the genius sword disciple of Luojiang Academy, Liu Bubai. He was supposed to be the one carrying the team. He could not sit by and let Fang Lang and Jiang Pei show off their skills. He must fight in the second stage! It was imperative! His talents must not remain hidden! Chapter 20

Chapter 20: Why Aren¡¯t You Holding Me Back?

Trantor: EndlessFantasy Trantion Editor: EndlessFantasy Trantion Fang Lang and Jiang Linglong¡¯s performance attracted many spectators from other academies. Their consecutive victories in the Dark group was testament to the pair¡¯s sword skills and techniques. They were undoubtedly near the top of the leaderboard. The individual event had not even begun and students from the other academies could already feel the brutality of the Luojiang Academy representatives. The first stage of the teambat ended. Five teams among the 50 that were in the Dark group sessfully entered the next stage. Only one team would emerge victorious among the five. Then, the winning team would enter the third stage and battle the winners of the Heaven, Earth and Light groups and the top three would be determined. Stage one of the teambat already took up the whole day. Mentor Wen gathered the trio and gave them a rundown of the four teams in the second stage. ¡°Within the Dark group, our biggest obstacle is Donglu Academy. They stand toe to toe with the prestigious Changan Academy. If we can win against Donglu Academy, the others will pose no problem.¡± Mentor Wen analyzed. Liu Bubai and Fang Lang nodded while Jiang Linglong maintained a neutral expression. ¡°Master Wen! I¡¯ll take the first duel with Donglu Academy, and no, none of you can convince me otherwise,¡± Liu Bubai loudly eximed. He refused to sit back and win without contributing¡ªit was not his way. However, a part of him was willing to step down if Fang Lang and Jiang Linglong insisted on the ace remaining hidden. Fang Lang hadpleted his target mission and had no reason to stop the boy from fighting, so he kept silent. Jiang Linglong did not speak up. The awkwardness lingered in the air. Liu Bubai looked between Fang Lang and Jiang Linglong. ¡®Why aren¡¯t you guys holding me back? Aren¡¯t you worried that the ace will be revealed?¡¯ A smirk formed on Mentor Wen¡¯s face. ¡°Sure. The first match of the second stage will be yours, Liu Bubai. Remember to be cautious, Donglu Academy is a force to be reckoned with,¡± Mentor Wen advised before dismissing the group. The three students split up, each heading back to their own room to recuperate for tomorrow. ... Fang Lang arrived at his room. After a day ofbat, he had gained a lot of experience and insights. The mental and physical exhaustion weighed him down. He noticed his neighbor¡¯s door was open. There were two other participants inside chatting with Song Qingyun. Fang Lang and Song Qingyun exchanged a look. Song Qingyun gave him a slight nod before continuing his chat with his friends. The two students noticed Song Qingyun¡¯s half-hearted greeting as the neighbor¡¯s door closed. Their curiosity was piqued. ¡°Who was that? Which academy is he from?¡± Song Qingyun gave them a small smile. ¡°Luojiang Academy¡¯s sixth-grade sword disciple.¡± His friends were astonished. ¡°A sixth-grade sword disciple joining the Gathering of Swords?¡± ¡°Well, thepetition doesn¡¯t focus on cultivation. It¡¯s more about the sword skills and techniques.¡± ¡°True, but with a low cultivation grade, how strong can he be?¡± Song Qingyun agreed with the sentiment. The sixth-grade sword disciple was likely just here to fill the third spot on the team. ¡°Luojiang Academy was in the Dark group, right? I think I heard they got into the second stage,¡± one of the students said. ¡°What¡¯s his name?¡± Song Qingyun recalled. ¡°Fang Lang, if I¡¯m not mistaken.¡± ¡°Fang Lang? I think that¡¯s him. Luojiang Academy only sent out two participants for the first stage, a boy and a girl. Both are fearsome fighters who single-handedly took out all three participants for every team. They had a perfect kill for the first stage. Fang Lang was one of the two who fought. His bloodlust is strong!¡± the student said. Song Qingyun was bewildered. A sixth-grade sword disciple defeated three opponents in a row? What sort of sword techniques did he have? Song Qingyun turned to look at the shut door and wondered if he made a wrong judgment. ... Inside the room, Fang Lang was oblivious to the gossip about him. He switched into Ni Wen¡¯s cultivation mode and began absorbing the spirit crystal. Even amidst the Gathering of Swords, Fang Lang had to keep up his cultivation training. As time passed, the number of drained spirit crystals around Fang Lang increased. He had gone through 20 of the 50 spirit crystals provided to him by the System. Fang Lang was at a bottleneck¡ªthe spiritual energy throbbed in the meridians of his body, making his vessels stretch. He was on the cusp of breaking into the seventh grade. The basic channeling instructions from the Tang Dynasty¡¯s Sword Scripture appeared in his mind. With Ni Wen¡¯s yellow core and the supply of spirit crystals, Fang Lang was able to improve his cultivation quickly. Whoosh! The air around Fang Lang reverberated. He had reached the seventh grade! After three days of persistent cultivation, he was finally sessful. The sky was dark when he opened his eyes. There was a pleased smile on his face. Then, the smile transformed into a frown. The climb from sixth to seventh grade had taken up arge amount of spirit crystals. Beyond the seventh grade, the ascent would be significantly more difficult even with Ni Wen¡¯s core. There were only twenty-odd days left until the Imperial Examination. Fang Lang wondered if he could make it to the ninth grade. Cultivation was an arduous journey. He had to look for a second partner to bind to in order to boost his cultivation speed. The night was peaceful. Fang Lang rose from his bed and walked to the window. He stared into the luminous moon and let out a deep sigh. Determination shed across his eyes. ... The second stage of the teambatmenced the next day. Fang Lang, Liu Bubai and Jiang Linglong arrived at the battle ring assigned to the Dark group. Mentor Wen was already there. Although Donglu Academy was a tough opponent, he showed signs of concern, in line with his easygoing attitude. He had faith in his team. A distance away, Donglu Academy¡¯s mentor and team gazed at their opponents. The mentor instructed sternly, ¡°This year¡¯s Luojiang Academy is a formidable force. They got through the first stage without any defeats. Their students destroyed multiple teams without even tapping out. Do not underestimate them. Although we achieved simr results as them, we must remain cautious.¡± After a moment, he said, ¡°The consecutive wins have ignited Luojiang Academy¡¯s fighting spirit. We have to win the first match and break their streak. That will hammer their confidence and help with the subsequent matches. ¡°Lin Yun, you¡¯re up first.¡± The order made the team members gasp. ¡°Master, Lin Yun is our ace. Is it wise to reveal him in the first match today?¡± The students of Donglu Academy were puzzled. In the end, they epted their mentor¡¯s strategy. The strappingd called Lin Yun grinned slyly at his mentor¡¯s decision. There was a cruel glint in his eyes as he said, ¡°Finally, it¡¯s my turn. My de has been parched for too long.¡± The mentor frowned. ¡°This is apetition. Don¡¯t cause any unnecessary deaths.¡± ¡°I know.¡± Lin Yun waved off the warning. He swung a rusty steel sword around and approached the battle ring. The umpire announced the start of the second stage. In the first battle ring of the Dark group, Lin Yun from Donglu Academy entered the ring. Mentor Wen kept to his word and sent out Liu Bubai. Liu Bubai was decked out in a fighting robe with his fancy sword in hand. He patted Fang Lang¡¯s shoulder and said with a smile, ¡°Don¡¯t worry. Like I promised, I¡¯ll carry the team.¡± With a flourish, Liu Bubai leaped onto the battle ring. Chapter 21

Chapter 21: It¡¯s Okay, I¡¯ll Carry Us to Victory

Trantor: EndlessFantasy Trantion Editor: EndlessFantasy Trantion The weather was gloomy that day. Gray clouds spread across the sky like droplets of ink in water. The atmosphere was depressing, suffocating even. On the great za of Mount Shu. The Dark group was assigned to the first battle ring. The ring was surrounded by crowds of spectators. In contrast to the silence of the first stage, the second stage had the undivided attention of many. Participants who were eliminated in the first stage came with their mentors to observe the second stage matches. The students stood to learn a lot from these matches. The first round was between the teams in the Dark group¡ªthe two academies that dominated the first stage with perfect scores. The battle was between Luojiang Academy and Donglu Academy. Donglu Academy was a well-established academy that stood toe to toe with Changan Academy. Naturally, anticipation thrummed through the crowd as they waited for the exciting battle. Outside the battle ring. Dressed in white with his sword on his back, Mentor Wen scrunched his brows as he stared at Lin Yun, who was standing in the ring. The veiled Jiang Linglong narrowed her eyes. ¡°This student from Donglu Academy...¡± Before she could finish, Mentor Wen turned to her and asked, ¡°You feel it too? That boy, Lin Yun... The stench of blood is strong on him.¡± Jiang Linglong nodded solemnly in agreement. Fang Lang overheard their conversation and instantly stopped smiling. ¡°He has killed before?¡± Mentor Wen shot him a nce. ¡°Killing surprises you? Cultivation is not a sentimental practice.¡± Mentor Wen¡¯s simple reply made Fang Lang gulp. Fang Lang looked up and saw Liu Bubai standing across Lin Yun¡ªa solemn expression crossed Fang Lang¡¯s face. Fang Lang thought, ¡®Does this mean there¡¯s a possibility Liu Bubai will lose?¡¯ What a tragedy... To meet such an opponent in his maiden match... Fang Lang had a moment of silence for Liu Bubai. The teen who wanted to carry him to victory had awful luck. ... In the ring. Dressed in a martial robe, Liu Bubai gripped his fancy sword with elegance and held his head high with confidence. ¡°Luojiang Academy, Liu Bubai, ninth-grade sword disciple.¡± Standing across him was Lin Yun from Donglu Academy¡ªthe boy was grinning ear to ear. ¡°Such tender and delicate skin you have. I bet you¡¯ll squeal melodiously when my de cuts you.¡± Liu Bubai looked up, eyes squinting. His body tensed as he sensed the malice. ¡°Donglu Academy, Lin Yun.¡± Lin Yun dragged his rusty de behind him and licked his lips. He did not announce his cultivation grade. There was a half-hearted smile on his face. Liu Bubai cared not about the formalities. He lifted his fancy sword and stood in his battle stance. After three days of special training with Mentor Wen, Liu Bubai¡¯s sword mastery had improved tremendously, and so had his confidence. Even so, Lin Yun still intimidated him. Dark clouds billowed in the sky. Thunder roared among the clouds. The wind whistled as it blew, rustling the sand and soil on the ground. The fight began. Liu Bubai unsheathed his de with a loud ring. Neither participants were using cultivation techniques. With only their swords, the battle was already fraught with danger¡ªone wrong move could lead to death. Liu Bubai¡¯s attacks rained on Lin Yun like a storm but the boy managed to block every single attack with his rusty de. ¡°Too slow. Too weak. Is this the standard of Luojiang Academy? How disappointing!¡± Lin Yun¡¯s face was partially shielded by his rusty sword as he stared down Liu Bubai¡¯s relentless attacks. Lin Yun let out a derisive snicker. Liu Bubai¡¯s expression was cold. As he doubled his efforts in attacking, his expression soured. Lin Yun had abundantbat experience. He was able to block every attack by Liu Bubai with minimal effort. If it came down to a battle of endurance, Liu Bubai was wasting his energy while Lin Yun was conserving his. At the same time, Lin Yun was constantly taunting Liu Bubai in an effort to provoke him. Liu Bubai forced himself to keep calm¡ªthe sword in his hand did not waver. After all, his reputation as Luojiang Academy¡¯s sword mastery genius was not baseless. Liu Bubai¡¯s determination did not go unnoticed. Unamused, Lin Yun pouted. In an instant, Lin Yun got out of his defensive stance. A bloodthirsty aura surrounded him, like that of a raging tiger. It took Liu Bubai by surprise and startled him. Lin Yun took the chance to move in. The heavy rusty de was thrust forward. It was aimed straight at Liu Bubai. Liu Bubai¡¯s expression changed. He drew back his sword and blocked the attack. ng! The shing des rang loudly. Liu Bubai felt his sword hand go numb as he stumbled a few steps back. Lin Yun¡¯s weapon was heavier. Liu Bubai struggled to hold up against the attack. In the past, Liu Bubai would have been knocked out by such a strike. Fortunately, his sword technique had improved greatly after the special training¡ªhe was able to switch from offense to defense in an instant. He spun his light sword, forming an imprable shield. ¡°Oh? So you do know how to block.¡± A sinister grin appeared on Lin Yun¡¯s face¡ªhis demeanor suggested he was confident in the match oue. Like a sly jackal, he watched as his prey walked into his carefully ced trap. Lin Yun thrust his rusty de forward with his backhand. Liu Bubai fended him off with his sword. However, Liu Bubai¡¯s expression shifted a secondter. Liu Yun threw his weapon at him. The metal hilt curved in the air and struck Liu Bubai¡¯s head. His skull was cracked open! The bloodstained hilt bounced off and returned to Lin Yun. Blood sttered onto Lin Yun¡¯s face and excited him. Thunderclouds rumbled in the sky, creating a depressing atmosphere. Stunned by Lin Yun¡¯s hit from the heavy sword, Liu Bubai moved his head. Fresh blood stained the battle ring floor. ¡°You¡¯re not surrendering so soon, right?¡± Lin Yun heaved his heavy sword and put on an exaggerated expression. Liu Bubai lifted his head and gripped his sword. Surrender? Impossible. This was his first match! Before the match started, he had told Fang Lang he would carry them to victory. It would be embarrassing to lose so badly in the first match. Would he be the weakling who has to be carried to victory? There was no way he would let that happen! That was not his style! ¡°Come on,¡± Liu Bubai said coldly as he wiped away the blood and tightened his grip on his sword. Lin Yun grinned. Immediately, he charged at Liu Bubai. The aura he exuded was intense. He dragged the rusty de behind him and swung it at full force. Lin Yun¡¯s every move was reflected in Liu Bubai¡¯s eyes. Liu Bubai stepped aside and struck his sword at the ground. The de bent at an extreme angle. This was Liu Bubai¡¯s ace up his sleeve. As the de glowed, Liu Yun felt its threat. He lifted his sword as the beam of light shot toward him. The shot took an abrupt turn and hit him square in the chest. Liu Yun¡¯s chest burst open¡ªblood erupted from the wound. He looked down at his bloodied chest and smiled maniacally. Whoosh! Lin Yun sped up. Just as before, he swung his heavy sword downward at Liu Bubai¡¯s head. Liu Bubai countered with a thrust but Lin Yun did not attempt to dodge¡ªdeath did not scare Lin Yun. Liu Bubai¡¯s face turned ashen. His only choice was to block with his de. Lin Yun used the same technique again. The hilt hurled toward Liu Bubai and struck his skull again. Blood sshed everywhere! The hilt bounced back and Lin Yun threw it again, hitting Liu Bubai on the head again! Thud! Thud! Thud! Once, twice, thrice! The sound of cracking bones filled the ring. The crowd around the ring instantly fell silent. They werepletely stunned. The bloody scene sent shivers down the students¡¯ spines. Outside the ring. Mentor Wen¡¯s pupils narrowed. An intense aura surrounded his body. Jing Linglong had a veil over her face which shielded her expression. However, Fang Lang could see her gaze turn colder and colder. Fang Lang clenched his fists. The air was filled with the cloying stench of gore. Lin Yun¡¯s maniacalugh sounded from the ring. It was nothing but a game to him. Liu Bubai clenched his teeth, unwilling to yield. Stubbornly, Liu Bubai held on to his sword even when Lin Yun continued to use his long-range sword technique to strike at Liu Bubai¡¯s badly-damaged skull. Blood pooled on the battle ring, yet the pale-faced Liu Bubai refused to yield. The umpire from the Sword Guild would not intervene until Liu Bubai was in a fatal situation. The gory scene silenced the crowd. Outside the ring. Mentor Wen mmed his hand, cracking the battle ring floor. ¡°We surrender,¡± Mentor Wen uttered in a low voice. Right after the surrender, the umpire from the Sword Guild appeared in front of Lin Yun and grabbed his blood-soaked weapon. ¡°That¡¯s enough. First round, victory to Donglu Academy,¡± the umpire announced after ncing at Lin Yun. Meanwhile, Liu Bubai swayed on his feet. His face was bruised and swollen¡ªfresh blood flowed down his cheek from a cut on his forehead. ¡°Come on... Come at me!¡± Liu Bubai yelled. Swoosh! Swoosh! Fang Lang and Jiang Linglong appeared beside Liu Bubai at the same time. Both students wore sullen expressions. ¡°Should I?¡± Fang Lang and Jiang Linglong asked simultaneously. They were both surprised. Then, Jiang Linglong¡¯s eyshes fluttered and she took a step back. At that point, Mentor Wen had entered the battle ring. He stuffed a strong-smelling medicinal pill into Liu Bubai¡¯s mouth and carried Liu Bubai out of the fight zone. As they shuffled along, the bruised and swollen Liu Bubai ignored his own injuries to speak to Fang Lang. Despair filled his eyes. ¡°Lang¡¯zi, I couldn¡¯t carry you to victory...¡± Fang Lang gave him a cheery smile and relieved Liu Bubai of his sword. With a sword in each hand, Fang Lang said, ¡°It¡¯s okay. You should lie back and rest.¡± Closing his eyes, Liu Bubai did not reply. ¡®I¡¯m tired. Just end it all,¡¯ he thought. Mentor Wen stared at Fang Lang. With gentle footsteps, Jiang Linglong sauntered toward Fang Lang and uttered softly, ¡°No mercy?¡± Fang Lang simply replied, ¡°Sure.¡± Shortly after, Jiang Linglong exited the ring. Lin Yin stood in the battle ring with a sinister grin on his face. Blood dripped from his rusty sword. ¡°I heard the Luojiang Academy team fancies scoring hat-tricks. What a coincidence. I¡¯m like that too.¡± Thunder tore through the skies of Mount Shu. Finally, the wrath of the bellowing dark clouds was released. Large droplets of rain fell from the gray clouds. They showered everything below. Pitter-patter. Pitter-patter. With a sword in each hand, Fang Lang stared at Lin Yun. He tightened his grip, his face expressionless as he lifted his chin. ¡°Luojiang Academy, Fang Lang. Seventh-grade sword disciple.¡± Chapter 22

Chapter 22: Overpowered

Trantor: EndlessFantasy Trantion Editor: EndlessFantasy Trantion The Dark Group was set in the first battle ring. The number of spectators surrounding the ring increased steadily. They were pulled in by the suspense in the atmosphere and the heady scent of blood. Liu Bubai did not stand a chance against Lin Yun¡ªLin Yun¡¯s sword mastery was miles ahead of Liu Bubai . However, that was not the issue. What bothered Fang Lang the most was the undignified manner of Liu Bubai¡¯s defeat. Lin Yun had repeatedly smashed Liu Bubai¡¯s skull with the sword hilt. It was an insult to a sword disciple¡¯s perseverance. Fang Lang saw Liu Bubai as a friend. The boy was confident in his sword mastery, perhaps he was too conceited... Nheless, he was good-natured with his determination to carry Fang Lang to victory. Fang Lang merely smiled each time Liu Bubai announced his intentions. Fang Lang could only imagine the damage this match had done to the boy. The world of cultivation was cruel. Everyone was struggling to reach the top and the only way up was to step on others. After a period of restraint, the torrential rain was finally let loose. Raindrops hit the floor and soaked the battle ring. Outside the ring. Jiang Linglong produced an oil-paper umbre out of nowhere and held it over her head. As the rain drummed on her umbre, she stared at Fang Lang, frowning. She was confused as to why Fang Lang wanted to fight this battle. She was aware of Fang Lang¡¯s sword techniques which ranked among the top sword disciples, but Lin Yun¡¯s skills were on a different level. Lin Yun¡¯s techniques were clearly honed for ughter. Judging from Fang Lang¡¯s past performance with the Spirit Step and Sword Draw Technique, there was no guarantee he could defeat Lin Yun. Nheless, Jiang Linglong did not argue with Fang Lang. She had a feeling Fang Lang would surprise her yet again. Her gaze shifted to the two swords in Fang Lang¡¯s hands. A de in each hand... Besides the Sword Draw Technique and Spirit Step...he had other techniques up his sleeves? Another surprise? ... Song Qingyun scrunched his brows. It was not yet Beijiang Academy¡¯s turn to battle but the news from his ssmate about Luojiang Academy¡¯s performance had piqued his curiosity¡ªhe decided toe and spectate. He wanted to know if the boy next door, Fang Lang, was truly as impressive as the rumors about him. ¡°Lin Yun of Donglu Academy... The boy who was rumored to be banished to Donglu¡¯s demon world to learn cultivation? The disciple of Donglu¡¯s God of des?¡± ¡°The boy ughters men, demons, and devils alike... A cold-blooded fellow.¡± Song Qingyun knew of Lin Yun¡¯s reputation¡ªeven the ace of Beijiang Academy would be in a tight spot if their opponent was Lin Yun. Both Changan Academy and Beijiang Academy were keeping a close eye on Lin Yun. Thus, when Song Qingyun saw Fang Lang enter the ring, he subconsciously shook his head. Perhaps Fang Lang was truly as prodigious as the rumors made him seem; perhaps with his sixth grade sword mastery, he managed to single-handedly eliminate other academy teams. However, the probability of Fang Lang winning against Lin Yun was slim to none. ... Rain began to pour. Fog enveloped Mount Shu. The mist and rain made the scene look like a dream. In the battle ring on the summit. ¡°A seventh-grade disciple? Are you looking down on me?¡± Lin Yun scoffed at Fang Lang¡¯s introduction. A cruel glint shed in his eyes. Nevertheless, Lin Yun was not about to underestimate him. If a seventh-grade disciple dared to set foot in the ring, he must have some trick up his sleeves. If Lin Yun was someone who underestimated his opponents, he would have died a long time ago in Donglu¡¯s demon world. Amidst the downpour, Lin Yun¡¯s silhouette moved. Dragging the rusty sword behind him, he strode toward Fang Lang. His de cut the fallen rain droplets in half. The sudden storm darkened the atmosphere. Lin Yun abruptly stopped his advance. The puddles beneath his feet sshed approximately a meter high. He picked up his rusty sword and pointed it at Fang Lang. Lin Yun loved the rain¡ªhis sword techniques were stronger in the rain. Boom! The air around his swordpressed and then exploded. The surrounding rainwater turned into a semi-transparent de that rushed at Fang Lang. Fang Lang held both des in a reverse grip. The rain had made strands of his hair stick to his forehead. His eyes were alert. Sharp des, sharp eyes. He marched forward. Suddenly, his silhouette floated. Spirit Step! His movements were too quick to follow! Fang Lang was extremely calm. He knew Lin Yun was a formidable foe, butposure was vital when facing a strong opponent. ¡°Switch to binding partner mode,¡± said Fang Lang. A notification by the System indicated a sessful switching. His vision was enhanced. In the binding partner mode, Fang Lang had Ni Wen¡¯s core. This was not only useful for cultivation¡ªa strong core came with advantages duringbat. A strong core allowed one to keep up with their opponent¡¯s speed and anticipate theirbat strategy. Rain continued to pour. Thunder shook the ground. Rain droplets fell to the ground and sshed everywhere, shrouding the summit of Mount Shu within a thick mist. ¡°Are you here for revenge? For that pretty boy?¡± Lin Yun swung his rusty de. He felt the pressureing from Fang Lang. However, Lin Yun was fearless. The rusty sword in his hands trembled and expelled a gust that was sharp as a de. Fallen raindrops were sliced clean in half by the de of air. The de of air whistled loudly as it continued toward Fang Lang. Lin Yun did not use any cultivation techniques. The de of air was purely from his physical strength! Fang Lang¡¯s body moved like an illusion. With his Spirit Step, he avoided the de of air by angling his body. Finally, Fang Lang and Lin Yun closed the distance and they crossed swords! In the rain, Fang Lang leaped into the air and swung the steel sword in his right hand downward with full force. ng! Lin Yun raised his muscr arm and blocked the attack with his rusty de. A wide smile appeared on his face. His eyes glowed like a predator eyeing its prey. ¡°I¡¯ll give you a first-hand experience of the pain that pretty boy felt.¡± With a flick of his hand, the hilt of Lin Yun¡¯s rusty sword curved around Fang Lang¡¯s sword to strike at his head. It was the same trick Lin Yun used to embarrass Liu Bubai. Fang Lang had anticipated this move. He swung the sword in his left hand and blocked the attack. The friction caused sparks to fly. Fang Lang lifted his foot and swung it forward like a de. Instantly, de energy shot out from his foot. Lin Yun¡¯s pupils narrowed. His body spun on the spot¡ªkicking up a whirlwind of rainwater¡ªand avoid the cutting de energy. Fang Lang¡¯s expression remained neutral¡ªhe was unfazed. Memories bloomed before his eyes like a lotus flower. ... The memory of the Dual Sword Technique spread within his mind like ck ink. On a stormy day in the courtyard of the Fang Manor. Drenched by the rain, Fang Lang held a sword in each hand. He swung them around persistently. de energy filled the air as the des rained down¡ªevery drop of rain was sliced by his des. The flurry of des formed an imprable shield above his head. With two des in hand, Fang Lang fought the rain. He stabbed with his left hand and sliced with his right¡ªtwobat styles utilized simultaneously. Day after day, year after year. ... Amidst the rain, Fang Lang lifted his head up abruptly, sending beads of water flying. Swish! His two swords were unsheathed. The des glowed. Countless rain droplets fell from the sky. Lin Yun¡¯s breath caught in his chest. He felt as if a sharp object was wedged in his throat, cutting his heart and lungs. Lin Yun could not toy with Fang Lang as he did with Liu Bubai. Fang Lang was vastly different from Liu Bubai. He lifted his rusty sword and held it in front of his body. With a de in each hand, Fang Lang swung at him continuously. ng! ng, ng! The two swords struck again and again, not giving Lin Yun a second to catch his breath. Fang Lang¡¯s movements flowed like water. Two different des, two differentbat styles, yet they were wielded and executed by the same person. It was as if Lin Yun was forced into the depths of an abyss. He struggled to catch his breath. Fang Lang¡¯s attacks crashed in like waves, one after another! Fast! Too fast! There was no dy between each blow. Even the pouring rain was deflected by Fang Lang¡¯s dual swords. The rain could not touch him! Lin Yun was forced back! Step by step, he backed away. ... In the first battle ring for the Dark group. Dead silence filled the ring. The torrential rainstorm roared but the crowd could only hear the rhythmic shing of des in the ring. The audience felt their breath catch with each strike. The umpire from the Sword Guild widened his eyes and watched intently. He was afraid his inattentiveness could lead to Lin Yun¡¯s demise. The boy would be minced by Fang Lang¡¯s unrelenting dual sword attack. Jiang Linglong stood under the umbre. The veil over her face fluttered gently in the wind. For the first time, surprise and amazement shone from her beautiful eyes. ¡®Is this... Fang Lang¡¯s trump card?¡¯ she thought. Further away from the battle ring, Song Qingyun of Beijiang Academy dropped his jaw. The shock and astonishment were evident in his expression. Mentors from other academies had also turned their attention to the fierce battle. They were rendered speechless. After Mentor Wen took Liu Bubai to treat his wounds, he rushed back to the ring as quickly as he could. He was greeted with this scene amidst the storm. A shocked and bewildered expression appeared on his face. ¡°Sword Draw Technique, Spirit Step, Dual Sword Technique... How did he learn all these? That little bastard... Is he a monster?¡± Chapter 23

Chapter 23: Stab After Stab

3 Trantor: EndlessFantasy Trantion Editor: EndlessFantasy Trantion On the summit of Mount Shu, the storm continued. Despite the weather, the Gathering of Swords continued as fiercely as ever. The vice leader of the Sword Guild, Chao Xioajian, wore his long white hair down. Even as the torrential rain fell, not a droplet of waternded on his body. He stood on a single raindrop, observing thepetition behind the curtains of rain. Alongside Chao Xiaojian were seven elders of the Sword Guild¡ªthey floated silently in the air. They had their eyes fixed on thepetition taking ce on the summit of Mount Shu. They witnessed countless young sword disciples demonstrating their sword mastery. ¡°There is unrest behind the Sword Guild¡¯s demon portal. The sect leader, Xuanyuan, is dealing with the demons under the Emperor¡¯smand. The Imperial Examination is approaching and the Emperor will not tolerate any imperfections.¡± Chao Xiaojian announced softly. His voice was tender. The de on his back was ck as ink, contrasting his snow-white hair. In the pouring rain, he appeared like a lonesome old man. The seven sword masters behind him nodded in unison. Every one of them had advanced sword mastery¡ªthe curtain of rain parted above them. Since the sect leader was busy with the demon world, the Sword Guild was left to Chao Xiaojian. The sword masters listened to Chao Xiaojian¡¯s n. As they listened, several sword masters noticed something was off. Chao Xiaojian¡¯s voice had stopped. They looked up and found Chao Xiaojianpletely immersed in the ongoingpetition in Mount Shu. In his eyes was the reflection of a young teen wielding a sword in each hand. The boy was like a wolf, and the des were his teeth. ¡°Who is that?¡± Chao Xiaojian¡¯s voice boomed, drowning out the thunderous storm. The sword masters exchanged nces. How would they know who the academy student was? At the same time, they were surprised by Chao Xiaojian¡¯s interest in a mere student. The man¡¯s position was only second to the sect leader. As Chao Xiaojian watched the battle, he smiled suddenly. ¡°The boy¡¯s got talent. Invite him.¡± ... ng! ng, ng! The storm-like attacks made Lin Yun pantboriously. Rainwater flowed down his face. Nheless, the vicious glint in his eyes remained as he red fiercely at Fang Lang. Lin Yun had been unable to counter Fang Lang¡¯s attacks. Fang Lang¡¯s two swords left him with no opportunity to strike back at all! Lin Yun had underestimated his opponent and allowed Fang Lang to go on the offense¡ªhe did not anticipate this. Anger and fury filled his heart. Fang Lang¡¯s expressionless face fanned the mes of anger in Lin Yun¡¯s chest. He had never been overpowered by any disciple of the same generation. After all, he was Lin Yun, the disciple of Donglu¡¯s God of des! When his master first asked him to participate in the Gathering of Swords, he was reluctant. After all, with his experience in the demon world, he would stomp on all the novice students. Thus far, he never fought seriously. However, Fang Lang was a new encounter. Yun Lin felt the intense threat. Without any cultivation in y, Lin Yun was being crushed by Fang Lang¡¯s sword mastery skills! Fang Lang¡¯s storm-like attacks evoked a certain fear in his heart¡ªa fear that he might lose. ¡°Lose? How can I possibly lose?¡± Would he lose to a mere student? He was Lin Yun! He could never lose! Lin Yun roared. After being overpowered for so long, he suddenly went on the offense. He reached out his hand with no fear of death. He grabbed the swinging de in Fang Lang¡¯s left hand. sh! Blood sshed everywhere! The falling rain made the blood on the battle ring run. Lin Yun paid the price in pain to stop Fang Lang¡¯s Dual Sword Technique. ¡°You think you deserve to win?¡± A tinge of blood-red appeared in Lin Yun¡¯s eyes! With one hand, he swung his rusty de in an arc. Rainwater sshed upward, forming blossoms of water. Fang Lang was very agile, but Lin Yun knew if he couldnd a single blow on Fang Lang, the match would be over. A single strike with his heavy sword would disable Fang Lang. Fang Lang, too, was aware of this fact. He kept hisposure. Spirit Step activated. The rainwater beneath his feet rippled and sshed outward like lotus petals. Fang Lang leaped. He gripped the sword caught by Lin Yun and crouched into a sword-drawing position. Sword Draw Technique! Fang Lang sailed through the air,ing face to face with the raging wind and violent storm. With the explosive power of the Sword Draw Technique, Fang Lang was able to retrieve the sword caught in Lin Yun¡¯s hand. sh! Blood sprayed as Lin Yun howled in fury. He let go of Fang Lang¡¯s de instantly. Otherwise, his palm would have been shed open. ¡°Do you have a death wish!¡± Lin Yun stared at the floating Fang Lang with a savage look. His rusty de was thrust out abruptly. It flew straight toward Fang Lang¡¯s waist. Up in the air, Fang Lang was an easy target¡ªall his weak spots were exposed. The sudden turn of events made the audience gasp. Many had their hearts in their throats. All eyes were fixed on the ongoing battle. Even the curtains of water that rained down from the sky could not mask the anxiety in their eyes. Veins were starting to show on Jiang Linglong¡¯s hand as her grip tightened on the umbre. Mentor Wen, too, was frowning. In the ring, the umpire from the Sword Guild held his breath. Spiritual energy simmered around his body. He was ready to step in to prevent any deaths. Suddenly, the battle took an unexpected turn! High up in the air, Fang Lang twisted and spun like a windmill, two swords in hand. Droplets on his de sprayed out as he swung the swords downward. His des showered down like a waterfall. The swords collided with Lin Yun¡¯s rusty de! With the momentum of his spinning body and the strength of his Sword Draw Technique, Fang Lang struck away the rusty sword. Both of Fang Lang¡¯s palms were torn open. Blood poured out, yet his expression was calm. With steady footsteps, he executed the Spirit Step like in his memory¡ªrunning against the river currents. The rain on the floor sshed explosively, blossoming into crimson flowers. The sshing water hid Fang Lang¡¯s de energy. It struck Lin Yun¡¯s body and the boy grunted as he stepped back. Fang Langnded on the ground, creating a wall of water almost a meter high. His grip remained firm on his two swords as he charged forward. Swish, swish, swish! His des danced at an rming speed. With great precision, he stabbed Lin Yun in the chest repeatedly. The des entered and exited. Again and again, he stabbed! Blood spilled out. Lin Yun stumbled backwards. His vicious eyes were fixed on Fang Lang through the curtain of blood and rain. Lin Yun looked as if he was carving Fang Lang¡¯s face into the depths of his memory. ¡°Donglu Academy surrenders!¡± The mentor from Donglu Academy narrowed his eyes and yelled from outside the ring. If anything were to happen to the God of de¡¯s disciple, the mentor would never return to Donglu again. The umpire from the Sword Guild stepped in and blocked Fang Lang¡¯s dual swords. Lin Yun¡¯s clothes were riddled with holes and soaked in blood and gore. Despite the severe injuries, Lin Yun did not let out a single cry. He clenched his teeth and grinned wildly at Fang Lang. The mentor from Donglu Academy rushed into the ring and stuffed a recovery pill down Lin Yun¡¯s throat. The rain kept pouring. Silence filled the ring and its surroundings. Fang Lang...won. A no-name student from Luojiang Academy defeated the hand-picked disciple of Donglu¡¯s God of des. At that moment, even those from well-established academies like Changan Academy saw Fang Lang in a different light. Fang Lang stood with his back straight in the battle ring. His hands trembled as blood oozed from his palm and rolled down the des. Crimson red diffused in the rainwater. ¡°Next,¡± Fang Lang demanded, his voice slightly hoarse. The other two contestants from Donglu Academy exchanged nces, both clenching their teeth. ¡®Take him down when he¡¯s injured!¡¯ One of the students drew his steel de and ascended into the ring. The curtain of rain obstructed Fang Lang¡¯s vision. Fang Lang slowly raised his sword, his hands trembling slightly. His injured palms were still bleeding. He was tired, but he could still fight. Suddenly, a pale hand touched his sword hand. An oil-paper umbre sheltered him from the rain. Fang Lang turned and was met with Jiang Linglong¡¯s bright eyes. Her lips was curled into a crescent-shaped smile. The youngdy stood elegantly in the rain with her umbre, a smile on her face¡ªit felt like a scene from a painting. ¡°My name is Jiang Linglong...¡± Thedy¡¯s gentle voice overcame the storm. She pushed Fang Lang¡¯s hand down. ¡°Let me handle the rest.¡± Chapter 24

Chapter 24: I Only Want the Best

Trantor: EndlessFantasy Trantion Editor: EndlessFantasy Trantion Jiang Linglong¡¯s crisp and melodious voice sounded over the storm. Her voice drowned out the other noises as the words registered in Fang Lang¡¯s ears. A storm, ady and an oil-paper umbre¡ªthe three elements would make a beautiful ink wash painting. Fang Lang lowered his de, a smile spread across his face. ¡°Jiang Linglong... What a beautiful name,¡± Fang Lang said softly. He stared straight into her starry eyes. He had seen her on the practice grounds of Luojiang Academy, in the Spring Cloud Chamber of the Jade Pavilion and in the battle ring of Mount Shu. Finally, Fang Lang had earned the right to know her name. He could not help butugh. Originally, Fang Lang had decided to bind Lin Yun. In spite of the bad blood, Lin Yun was the disciple of Donglu¡¯s God of des¡ªsurely, his talent would be impressive. If Lin Yun had avoided Fang Lang¡ªwho pretty much cheated with the System to obtain multiple Sword Mastery Specialities¡ªhe might have stood a chance in winning the teambat. Furthermore, the fact that the God of des took Lin Yun as his disciple meant the boy¡¯s core was decent. However, a sudden turn of events led to Fang Lang learning Jiang Linglong¡¯s real name. He did not wonder if the given name was real or fake. After all, there was no reason to lie at this juncture. The battle drained most of Fang Lang¡¯s energy but at the end of the day, it was worth it. Fang Lang¡¯s heart was filled with satisfaction and delight. Between Jiang Linglong and Lin Yun, who would Fang Lang choose? It was not a valid question. Of course he chose Jiang Linglong. Old Jiang was a fifteen-year-old sword master! Her core must be freakishly strong! Besides, Lin Yun had lost to Fang Lang... The storm raged on and Fang Lang did not insist on continuing. His hands were shaking and his palms were bloodied. He had poured all his energy into the fight with Lin Yun and was utterly drained. If Lin Yun had not underestimated him at the very beginning, Fang Lang might not have won. Moreover, the pressure that came from Lin Yun was immense. It was the first time Fang Lang felt such intense pressure from a fellow sword disciple since gaining the Sword Mastery Specialities! If he carried on fighting the other students from Donglu Academy, there was a high chance he would lose. Perhaps Old Jiang noticed it too and decided to step in. An uproar broke out both inside and outside the ring. The chatter from the crowd overshadowed even the noise of the torrential rain. Fang Lang of Luojiang Academy defeated Lin Yun¡ªit was truly the most astonishing oue in the wholepetition! The disciple of the God of des was defeated by a no-name student in one-on-onebat! It was unthinkable! Endless debates and discussions filled the crowd. Mentors from other academies recognized Fang Lang¡¯s Dual Sword Technique, Sword Draw Technique and Spirit Step. Their interest was piqued. ¡®He must be the academy¡¯s hidden ace!¡¯ ¡®Luojiang Academy might stand a chance at winning this year!¡¯ At that moment, countless pairs of eyes were fixed on Fang Lang, who was calmly exiting the ring. Among the crowd, Song Qingyun of Beijiang Academy stared at Fang Lang intently. His intentions were unclear. ... In the battle ring. Jiang Linglong slowly unsheathed her steel sword. She held her umbre in one hand, providing shelter from the pouring rain. Calm andposed, she stared at her opponent from Donglu Academy. ¡°Donglu Academy, Liu Xuan, ninth-grade sword disciple!¡± dered the student from Donglu Academy. His voice sounded amidst the storm. Jiang Linglong held on to her umbre. Her veil fluttered gently in the air currents formed by the falling raindrops. She had no intentions of reciprocating her opponent¡¯s formalities. Thedy was as cold as an iceberg. The aura she gave off served as a clear warning for others to stay away. ¡°Littledy, are you going to fight me while holding an umbre?¡± A grim and disdainful expression appeared on Liu Xuan¡¯s face as he red at Jiang Linglong through the curtain of rain. ¡®How arrogant!¡¯ he thought. The fact that Jiang Linglong did not bother to introduce herself indicated that she did not take him seriously. Liu Xuan might not be as strong as Lin Yun, but to make it onto Donglu Academy¡¯s team meant he was no weakling either. Whoosh! Liu Xuan lifted his sword and charged at a steady yet lightning-fast pace. His footsteps left a trail of sshes behind him. Light reflected off his de, prating the curtain of rain. Dense de energy shot through the air toward Jiang Linglong¡¯s pale neck. Her bright eyes were still fixed on Liu Xuan. She still held her umbre in one hand and her de in another. She lifted her de and the rainfall suddenly diminished. A momentter, all the rain poured down at once! Liu Xuan felt as if his de was drowning in quicksand. Every drop of rain was infused with Jiang Linglong¡¯s de energy. Tch! Liu Xuan took off but the ripples he made in the puddles became smaller and smaller. Finally, his body froze. Everything went silent¡ªall that was heard was the sound of raindrops being sliced in half. The next moment, Liu Xuan was kneeling on the ground, his eyes wide in disbelief. Countless miniature cuts opened all over his body. Blood spewed out from every corner. Jiang Linglong lowered her de. Her umbre was still in her hand. The boy knelt at her feet like she was an esteemed yet arrogant empress. ¡°Next,¡± Jiang Linglong requested coolly, her longshes fluttering. The audience went silent again. It seemed Luojiang Academy had more than one ace on the team. ... Outside the ring. Mentor Wen handed Fang Lang a recovery pill. Fang Lang hesitated. ¡°Don¡¯t worry, taking recovery pills to treat injuries won¡¯t affect your assessment during the Imperial Examination,¡± Mentor Wen assured. Fang Lang took the pill and swallowed it. In no time, an icy feeling spread across the wounds on his palms. His wounds started to heal at a pace observable by the naked eye. The healing effects of the pill were incredible. As expected from an expensive item. ¡°This medicine was made by a medicinal spell master from the Taihe Court. Its healing capacity is truly impressive. Each pill costs ten gold coins,¡± Mentor Wen saidughingly. Fang Lang turned to Mentor Wen. ¡°Don¡¯t worry, it¡¯s not my money anyway. The academy will reimburse the cost.¡± Mentor Wen winked at him. Fang Lang could not help but chuckle. Mentor Wen was loaded anyway. Money was not an issue. ¡°Liu Bubai¡¯s injuries are minor. After taking the pill, he¡¯ll be as lively as ever tomorrow but his performance will be weaker than usual,¡± Mentor Wen exined. The two chatted for a while. They saw Jiang Linglong¡¯s clean victory in the ring. Suddenly, Mentor Wen exhaled loudly. ¡°You must have suffered a lot while training, huh?¡± His sudden inquiry caught Fang Lang off guard. He did not know how to reply. He could not say it was easy, right? All he had to do was interact with Little Wen and he would obtain a new skill. Of course, Fang Lang had to keep the truth hidden. ¡°Yeah,¡± Fang Lang replied tactfully, tilting his head and nodding. ¡®I guess... it¡¯s kinda hard?¡¯ he thought. It was a white lie. Mentor Wen grinned. ¡°Ah, I knew you were a promising fellow. There¡¯s no glory without hard work. Your core may be weak, but your talent in sword mastery puts you above other ordinary students. It¡¯s alright even if you don¡¯t pass the Imperial Examination... ¡°You¡¯ve already proven your worth at the Gathering of Swords... ¡°The Sword Guild is likely to recruit you as one of their outer sect disciples.¡± Fang Lang was shocked to hear that. Rain continued to pour, battering the limestone flooring of the za like marbles falling onto a jade te. Fang Lang¡¯s heart thumped rapidly to the rhythm of the rain. In truth, Mentor Wen was quite surprised. Fang Lang had pulled himself out from a hopeless situation. Judging from his results in the academy, there truly was no hope of him joining the Sword Guild. Even with the seventh grade, it would still be difficult for him to score well in the uing Imperial Examination and gain a spot in the Sword Guild. All in all, Fang Lang would be extremely lucky to be recruited early. His efforts in pursuing sword mastery would finally pay off. ¡°The outer sect?¡± Fang Lang murmured under his breath. Shocked, Mentor Wen turned to Fang Lang. Fang Lang raised his head. Rain dripped onto his face and hair, obscuring his vision. In the ring, Jiang Linglong defeated the third participant from Donglu Academy with ease. Fang Lang stared as she sauntered down from the ring, umbre in hand like a haughty empress. He smiled softly. The outer sect was not enough. ¡°I¡¯d like to sit for the Imperial Examination anyway. I don¡¯t want to be a mere outer sect disciple. I want to earn my way into the sect... into the inner sect. ¡°If I¡¯m getting in... I only want the best.¡± Fang Lang¡¯s voice was soft, yet filled with determination. The rainstorm continued. Even so, Mentor Wen heard the boy¡¯s seemingly delirious words. For a moment, Wen Ting saw his younger self in Fang Lang. Young and brazen. Chapter 25

Chapter 25: Women Hindered His Sword Drawing Speed

4 Trantor: EndlessFantasy Trantion Editor: EndlessFantasy Trantion Mentor Wen was stunned by the words, but there was a faint smile on his face. ¡®Only wants the best, huh?¡¯ he thought. Indeed, the inner sect and outer sect had their differences¡ªthe inner sect had better ess to cultivation resources and better conditions. Fang Lang was ambitious. Being ambitious was a good thing. However, any disciple recruited before the Imperial Examination would be ced in the outer sect. The main purpose behind the Gathering of Swords was to recruit students with great potential into the outer sect. The emperor of the Tang Dynasty had enacted aw against the recruitment of inner sect disciples before the Imperial Examination. Every sect in the Tang Dynasty followed the same rule when it came to pre-Imperial Examination recruitment. Thew maintained the credibility of the Imperial Examination. Anyone who wished to enter the inner sect must take part in the exam. One must obtain an exceptional result to have any hope of being recruited into an elite sect like the Sword Guild. Choosing the outer sect path would require one to go through another cruel and rigorous assessment to enter the inner sect. Otherwise, it was impossible to enter the inner sect. Mentor Wen failed to talk Fang Lang out of it. Fang Lang had decided to walk a grueling path¡ªhe had chosen to dig his own grave. What could Mentor Wen possibly say to change his mind? ... ¡°Victory to Luojiang Academy.¡± In the battle ring, the umpire announced the oue of the first round of the second stage. Jiang Linglong returned, umbre in hand. Due to the never-ending rain, thepetition was paused. Everyone retreated into the Sword Guild¡¯s loft to seek shelter from the rain. They waited for the rain to stop. In the loft, students used their spiritual energy to dry their drenched clothes. Water vapor filled the air. Through the mist, countless pairs of eyes were fixed on the resting area of the Luojiang Academy team. The dominance of Fang Lang and Jiang Linglong made other teams wary. Even the Changan Academy participants were unnerved. Initially, the Changan Academy team believed their fiercestpetitors were Beijiang Academy and Donglu Academy. However, Luojiang Academy¡¯s win over Donglu Academy prompted a change in strategy. Changan Academy had to keep an eye on Luojiang Academy. Fortunately, Luojiang Academy¡¯s sword mastery genius, Fang Lang, had revealed his sword techniques while fighting Lin Yun. He had performed the Spirit Step, Sword Draw Technique and Dual Sword Technique. This gave the students from Changan Academy an edge as they knew what to expect. At the very least, they could avoid being caught off guard by his special skills. On the other hand, Jiang Linglong was still a mystery. She had not revealed all her cards yet¡ªshe was their most formidable foe. The rainstorm left just as quickly as it came. The end of the storm prompted the restart of the second stage. In the battle ring, matches resumed in full swing. The second stand of teambat was an elimination round¡ªthe losers would not advance to the third stage. Therefore, every student gave their all in the battle ring. As thepetition proceeded, the names of the qualifying academies from each group were disyed. Unsurprisingly, Changan Academy made it through the second stage without any trouble. Beijiang Academy too, dominated over other teams and sessfully qualified for the next stage. All groups except Dark had a well-established academy. The elite academies from the other three groups¡ªHeaven, Earth and Light¡ªqualified with ease. The Dark group was an exception. Thepetition¡¯s dark horse¡ªLuojiang Academy¡ªhad defeated Donglu Academy. It was, by far, the most unexpected victory throughout this season¡¯s Gathering of Swords. After Donglu Academy¡¯s elimination, there was pretty much no other academy in the Dark group that could stand in the way of Luojiang Academy¡¯s qualification. Although Liu Bubai was too injured to participate in the other matches, Luojiang Academy had Fang Lang and Jiang Linglong. In the first battle ring assigned to the Dark group. Fang Lang entered the ring again. After taking the recovery pill, the wounds on his palms were not much of a bother anymore. Fang Lang did not wield two swords. His Sword Draw Technique was enough to secure him two wins. Then, Jiang Linglong took his ce. She raised her de and a few shester, she sent her opponent flying out the ring¡ªeasy-peasy. ¡°Victory to Luojiang Academy! ¡°Dark group¡¯s qualified team: Luojiang Academy.¡± In the ring, the umpire from the Sword Guild announced at the top of his lungs. The qualifying results for the third stage teambat were released. Changan Academy from Heaven group; Beijiang Academy from Earth group; Luojiang Academy from Dark group; Bailu Academy from Light group. Changan, Beijiang and Bailu were well-established academies of the Tang Dynasty. Inparison, Luojiang Academy was a nameless academy. Despite that, none of the students from the academies dared to write off Luojiang Academy. After all, Fang Lang¡¯s victory over the God of des¡¯s disciple, Lin Yun, was no small feat. Fang Lang had gained a reputation among the participants in the Gathering of Swords. Mentor Wen stood and his white robe fluttered. After giving the mentors of the three well-established academies a smile of acknowledgement, he left the great za of Mount Shu with Fang Lang and Jiang Linglong. The crowd gradually dispersed. The students from the three academies left with their respective mentors to discuss strategies for the next day¡¯s battle. It would be the final stage for the teambat and the ultimate winner would be announced. As for the eliminated teams, there was the individual event to look forward to after the conclusion of the teambat. Rumor had it there was a change in the individual event this year. ... Mentor Wen stopped in his tracks. Fang Lang and Jiang Linglong¡ªwho were behind him¡ªjolted to a stop. In front of them stood a white-haired man in a white robe. The man had his hands folded behind his back. When Mentor Wen saw the man, his eyes twitched involuntarily. ¡°Greetings, Vice Leader Chao.¡± Mentor Wen hurriedly bowed to show respect. Chao Xiaojian had a cold expression on his face. His eyes roamed over Mentor Wen¡¯s face before asking, ¡°Wen Ting? You have the guts to show your face here? Are you not afraid of being beaten to death? ¡°To give up your position in the sect for some woman... How sentimental.¡± Chao Xiaojian recognized Wen Ting. After all, the bastard¡¯s talent in sword mastery had astounded everyone in the Sword Guild then. However, Chao Xiaojian did not look on Wen Ting favarobly. ¡®To give up his future in sword mastery for a woman... Ridiculous.¡¯ In Chao Xiaojian¡¯s eyes, women were mere distractions that hindered his sword drawing speed. He did not bother waiting for Wen Ting¡¯s reply. He turned his attention to Fang Lang and Jiang Linglong. At a single nce, he figured out Jiang Linglong¡¯s identity. ¡°I know why you¡¯re here. You must have heard the rumors and chose to prove your strength and abilities. I¡¯m thrilled to see you here. You have my admiration,¡± Chao Xiaojian said. With her veil still shielding her face, Jiang Linglong gave him a slight bow. Chao Xiaojian responded with a nod. Finally, his gazended on Fang Lang. ¡°You¡¯re the reason I¡¯m here, young man. Your sword mastery is quite impressive. Join the Sword Guild when thepetition ends,¡± Chao Xiaojian announced. Fang Lang¡¯s breathing staggered. Mentor Wen was right¡ªthe Sword Guild wanted to recruit him. Furthermore, the White-Haired Sword Demon, Chao Xiaojian, had personallye to recruit him. Chao Xiaojian was a man of renown in the Tang Dynasty. Fang Lang suppressed the exhration in his heart and recalled his conversation with Mentor Wen. He wanted the best... In his heart, Fang Lang had made his decision. Fang Lang cupped his hands in obeisance. With determination in his eyes, he inquired, ¡°Will I be epted into the inner sect?¡± Chao Xiaojian raised his brows, then shook his head a momentter. ¡°No... I can¡¯t disobey the Emperor; otherwise, I would¡¯ve said yes.¡± Chao Xiaojian¡¯s reply made Fang Lang all the more determined. ¡°If that¡¯s the case, I¡¯d like to take part in the Imperial Examination. I¡¯m willing to try my luck. Perhaps, with my own strength, I¡¯ll make it into the inner sect,¡± Fang Lang said. His words stunned Chao Xiaojain. Jiang Linglong too, turned to Fang Lang in shock. On the other hand, Wen Ting was aware of Fang Lang¡¯s ruminations and was not too surprised. Chao Xiaojian stared at Fang Lang with a solemn expression. Momentster, he chuckled and praised, ¡°How ambitious. Not bad.¡± The boy had talent and drive. Chao Xiaojian¡¯s offer was rejected. Nheless, he had high hopes for the boy. Chao Xiaojian reached out and grabbed Fang Lang¡¯s shoulders, his fingers tapping. Chao Xiaojian was feeling his core. However, after he felt Fang Lang¡¯s core, the smile faded from his face. A perplexed expression reced the smile. ¡®Huh? This boy wishes to enter the Sword Guild¡¯s inner sect through the Imperial Examination? ¡®Is he pulling my leg? ¡®His core was weak. ¡®A white core?!¡¯ Chapter 26

Chapter 26: Target Locked: Jiang Linglong

1 Trantor: EndlessFantasy Trantion Editor: EndlessFantasy Trantion Chao Xiaojian stopped smiling and stared at Fang Lang seriously. A white core... Almost no one in the Sword Guild was a white core as it was practically impossible for a white core to be recruited into the sect. Despite that, a gentle look appeared in Chao Xiaojian¡¯s eyes. ¡®For a white core to achieve such amazing sword mastery... How remarkable,¡¯ he thought. ¡®This boy must have sacrificed a lot for his sword mastery. The gods must have shown mercy to this insanely obsessed sword disciple.¡¯ Chao Xiaojian retracted his hand. As his toe touched the ground, a dense cloud of de energy appeared around him. Suddenly, his body warped and turned into a beam of light that shot straight into the skies. He vanished. ¡°Go forth and take the risk, young man. If you fail, look for me in the Sword Guild. I can still grant you a position in the outer sect.¡± Chao Xiaojian¡¯s body had vanished but his parting words echoed. Touched, Fang Lang¡¯s eyes glimmered. Chao Xiaojian had seen his core, yet the vice leader was willing to give him a chance. Fang Lang bowed respectfully, his heart filled with gratitude. Only after Chao Xiaojian vanished did Mentor Wen step forward. Fear still lingered in his heart. ¡°I can¡¯t believe you rejected him? Are you really nning to try your luck in the Imperial Examination?¡± Frowning, Mentor Wen turned to Fang Lang. Even with Chao Xiaojian¡¯s personal invite, Fang Lang still rejected the offer! ¡°With that core of yours, you stand no chance against the geniuses in the Imperial Examination.¡± Mentor Wen knew Fang Lang had an average white core, just like the majority of students in the academies. Being ordinary meant he stood no chance. Fang Lang¡¯s achievements in sword mastery had already exceeded Mentor Wen¡¯s expectations. Fang Lang nodded. His eyes sparkled with excitement. No one had faith in his white core. ¡®I¡¯ll prove them wrong when I defeat a few geniuses in the exam!¡¯ he swore in his heart. Nheless, Fang Lang still had to contemte this ¡®core¡¯ problem of his¡ªothers might be suspicious if his skills improve too quickly. Mentor Wen did not reprimand Fang Lang anymore. After all, it was Fang Lang¡¯s decision. Jiang Linglong did not bother to give any advice¡ªit was none of her business whether Fang Lang joined the sect. Mentor Wen filled them in on some basic information about the three well-established academies. Then, the students were dismissed so they could rest and prepare for the next day. As for Liu Bubai, he was still recovering from his injuries. ... Fang Lang returned to his room. His neighbour, Song Qingyun, had not returned. Fang Lang figured the boy was still out discussing battle strategies. When it came to strategies, Mentor Wen was ratherckadaisical. As Fang Lang closed his room door, his heart filled with excitement and anticipation. Finally, he knew Jiang Linglong¡¯s real name. That mysterious girl was no longer a mystery! Sitting cross-legged on his bed, Fang Lang rubbed his fingers over the space ring on his index finger. He willed all the low-grade spirit crystals stored within the space ring to appear. There were 14 crystals in total¡ªten were sponsored by his father, Old Fang. Fang Lang piled the crystals onto his bed. They woulde in handyter. At that moment, Fang Lang was both excited and anxious. After all, he did not know what colour was her core. All his thoughts and guesses were merely a hypothesis. What would he do if Old Jiang actually had no talent? Fang Lang was quite nervous, but a momentter, a sharp and determined look appeared in his eyes. He already made his decision¡ªno point regretting! ¡°System, lock on binding target, Jiang Linglong!¡± Fang Lang took a deep breath. ¡®Ding! Binding in progress...¡¯ ¡®Target is a second ss, eighth-grade sword disciple. Estimated bindingpletion time: three days.¡¯ The System¡¯s notification popped up. Fang Lang was surprised. He was quite dispirited. ¡®Three days toplete...¡¯ he grumbled in his mind. ¡®I was so ready for this, what the hell?¡¯ However, Fang Lang suddenly remembered¡ªthe longer the binding process, the stronger the binding partner¡¯s cultivation. ¡®Ah, this is torture!¡¯ he wailed internally. ¡°System, is there any way to speed things up?¡± he asked. Three days was too long¡ªthe Gathering of Swords would be over by then. It would be toote. At the same time, Fang Lang was relieved he did not try to bind Chao Xiaojian. With Chao Xiaojian¡¯s cultivation strength, it might take a decade. ¡®Ding! You have three Grade-Rush Card Fragments. They can be used to shorten the binding time. Would you like to use them?¡¯ The System prompted. Fang Lang was stunned. He rejoiced. ¡®Those Grade-Rush Card Fragments can be used for this too?¡¯ he thought. ¡°Please use them!¡± Fang Lang had three fragments. He still needed two fragments toplete the card, hence they were useless at that moment. There was no reason to hold onto them. ¡®Ding! Exchangeplete. Binding willplete in fifteen minutes. Please hold on.¡¯ The Grade-Rush Card Fragments in his inventory vanished with the System¡¯s notification. Fang Lang could afford to wait 15 minutes. Switching to Ni Wen¡¯s cultivation mode, Fang Lang took some crystals and began to refine and absorb them. His cluttered mind affected his absorption rate. After fifteen minutes, he only managed to absorb half of the low-grade spirit crystal. ¡®Ding! Bindingpleted. Binding partner: Jiang Linglong.¡¯ Fang Lang exhaled deeply. He was brimming with excitement. ¡®Here ites! Here ites! ¡®Here shees!¡¯ ... Binding Partner: Jiang Linglong Age: 15 Cultivation Discipline: Eighth-Grade Sword Master (Second-ss Sword Mastery) Core: 55 (Gold) Cultivation Speed: 15 low-grade spirit crystals/two hours ... Jiang Linglong¡¯s stats appeared before his eyes. Despite his expectations, Fang Lang could not stop himself from gasping. A golden core! Eighth-grade sword master? ¡®Is this Jiang Linglong¡¯s true power?¡¯ Ni Wen had a yellow core of 80, but Jiang Linglong¡¯s had a golden core! sphemy! No wonder Jiang Linglong could be an eighth-grade sword master at such a young age. Of course, she had better ess to cultivation resources but to achieve such a feat required a strong core and unimaginable talent. Fang Lang made the right bet! That golden core belonged to him! He felt the urge to hold his waist andugh maniacally at the sky. Instead, he went to check his own stats. ... Host: Fang Lang Cultivation Discipline: Seventh-Grade Sword Disciple Level: LV2 Experience: 2000/10000 Core: 36 (White) Cultivation Resource: 5000 gold coins; 30 low-grade spirit crystals (usage limited to cultivation) Items: 3X Amplification Card (1) Binding partner: Ni Wen (50%); Jiang Linglong (50%) Sole Passive Ability: Additional rewards may be granted when the host bonds with the binding partner over cultivation. ... Although Fang Lang¡¯s cultivation speed had greatly improved, it was nothingpared to the eighth-grade sword master, Jiang Linglong. ¡°To absorb fifteen low-grade crystals in two hours... I wonder what that feels like.¡± Fang Lang took a deep breath. His eyes were full of anticipation and curiosity. He reached out and grabbed a low-grade spirit crystal from his bed. He ced his hand over it and recited the Tang Dynasty¡¯s Sword Scripture in his head, preparing to start absorption. However, before he could begin absorbing the crystal, a notification popped up from the System. ¡®Ding! Congrattions on obtaining a new binding partner. New item rewarded: Randomized Card (3).¡¯ ¡®Oh? A reward! Does this mean I get rewarded every time I obtain a new binding partner?¡¯ Fang Lang wondered. It was an incredible motivator for him to level up the System and bind to more geniuses. The System was pretty smart. Fang Lang nced at the item description. ¡®Randomized Card: One-time use. Upon use, the card transforms into a random action card. Card is more effective when used in the binding partner¡¯s state (effectsst for two hours)¡¯ The description was vague, but Fang Lang more or less got the idea. ¡®That means if I¡¯m lucky, I might get more Amplification Cards. Of course, there¡¯s a chance of getting cards like Grade-Rush too...¡¯ Fang Lang pondered. ¡®Let¡¯s try one,¡¯ he instructed in his mind. ¡®Ding! Activating one Randomized Card. The Randomized Card has transformed into an Enlightenment Card. Would you like to use it?¡¯ Enlightenment Card? Fang Lang raised his brows. ¡®No, keep drawing cards.¡¯ ¡®Ding! Activating one Randomized Card. The Randomized Card has transformed into an Enchantment Card (Combat Type).¡¯ ¡®Ding! Activating one Randomized Card. Randomized Card has transformed into a 2X Amplification Card.¡¯ He exhausted all three Randomized Cards. The lucky draw gave Fang Lang an inexplicable sense of excitement. The only thing that disappointed him was the 2X Amplification Card. After all, he had used a 3X Amplification Card¡ª2X seemed a little underwhelming. Nheless, he had the card, might as well use it. It would work well with Jiang Linglong¡¯s cultivation state. ¡°Switching binding partner to Jiang Linglong. Activate 2X Amplification Card.¡± ¡®Ding! Initiating switch. Switchingplete. You have obtained 50% of your binding partner¡¯s cultivation inspiration and cultivation speed. With the use of 2X Amplification Card, you have obtained 100% of your binding partner¡¯s cultivation inspiration and cultivation speed. Happy cultivating!¡¯ Fang Lang grabbed a crystal from his bed. In front of him sat an elegant and arrogant silhouette¡ªa faint golden glow surrounded the figure. Face-to-face with Fang Lang in the same position, the silhouette¡¯s breathing mirrored his. Boom! Arge volume of the spiritual energy in the crystal was instantly absorbed by Fang Lang. The satisfaction and fulfilment made Fang Lang feel as if he could float! He absorbed the crystals in a quick rhythm. One after another, waves of spiritual energy entered his body. ¡®Such incredible speed!¡¯ he eximed silently. An indescribable feeling filled his heart. Fang Lang abruptly opened his eyes. An insane idea popped into his mind. What if he used both binding partners at the same time? Chapter 27

Chapter 27: Liu Bubai: Even If I Die Today

Trantor: EndlessFantasy Trantion Editor: EndlessFantasy Trantion To absorb 15 low-grade spirit crystals in two hours... Fang Lang never imagined this cultivation speed was possible. Ni Wen¡¯s cultivation speed was fast but Jiang Linglong¡¯s blew hers out of the water! The moment Fang Lang entered Jiang Linglong¡¯s cultivation state, his absorption speed was instantly at its highest performance. Even so, Fang Lang did not dismiss the insane idea that popped up in his head. Doubling his cultivation abilities was no longer enough, he wanted to triple it! ¡°System, can I activate multiple binding partners¡¯ cultivation state at the same time?¡± he inquired. Fang Lang felt the spiritual energy rushing through his veins. The System¡¯s reply came in instantly. ¡®Binding can be activated with multiple partners at once. Once Multiple Binding Mode is activated, cultivation abilities from each partner will stack on ordingly. The host¡¯s cultivation inspiration and cultivation speed will increase by another ten percent. While in Multiple Binding Mode, the load on the host¡¯s spiritual sense and physical body will increase. Effective time of Amplification Cards will also be reduced. ¡®Would you like to activate Multiple Binding Mode?¡¯ The System¡¯s reply made Fang Lang¡¯s heart skip a beat. Immediately, he fell into deep thought. The stack-on cultivation mode was a surprise for him. However, there were cons to it¡ªthe burden on his spiritual sense and physical body would be exacerbated. Moreover, the Amplification Cards would be exhausted more quickly. ¡®Overall, the pros and cons seemed to bnce each other out. ¡®But if I hold back on the Amplification Cards, the benefits outweigh the cons. ¡®Anyway, I only have two binding partners now. If I obtain more partners, their cultivation abilities will stack and the Multiple Binding Mode will surelye in handy.¡¯ The realization made Fang Lang sigh with relief. Fang Lang had activated a 2X Amplification Card and the effect wouldst two hours. Thus, he decided to try out Dual Binding Mode right away. ¡®Ding! Dual Binding Mode activated. ¡®Friendly reminder: Please take care of your physical body. Happy cultivating!¡¯ The System¡¯s message was disyed. A silhouette resembling Ni Wen appeared beside Fang Lang. A faint yellow glow surrounded the silhouette. Instantly, he felt his mind clear. His cultivation speed increased significantly. As a result, his spirit crystal absorption speed improved too! His cultivation speed went up by 10%! At that moment, his cultivation speed was faster than the golden-cored Jiang Linglong! Spiritual energy pulsed in his veins like a rushing river. Fang Lang felt his veins swell as a sharp pain shot through his body. Green smoke billowed above his head as a result of his elerated absorption speed! In less than two hours, Fang Lang was through with 15 low-grade spirit crystals! Fang Lang sat cross-legged on his bed. He looked haggard but a satisfied expression graced his face. The husks of drained spirit crystals piled up around him. Fang Lang spat out a mouthful of stale air which sliced through the air like his de energy. Spiritual energy swelled inside him. Fang Lang was almost at the peak of the seventh-grade sword mastery. Fang Lang¡¯s eyes sparkled. At this rate, it was possible he would achieve eighth-grade sword mastery the next day! As fun as Dual Binding Mode was, it was very harmful to the body. With enough spirit crystals and the Dual Binding Mode, perhaps in a month¡¯s time... Fang Lang could be a ninth-grade sword disciple! Fang Lang stretched his body. With Old Jiang bound, he should approach her for some interactions about cultivation. That was the highlight of binding. ... The next day. The blue sky was clear after the storm and the sun was out. The sky looked as if it had been cleansed of all impurities. Fang Lang had left his room early in the morning and arrived at the great za of Mount Shu. Jiang Linglong, too, was at the za early. Thedy wore a veil over her face. Her long dress fluttered in the wind as she stared at the approaching Fang Lang. A puzzled look appeared in her eyes. For some reason, Fang Lang looked especially pleasing that morning. There was an odd sense of familiarity deep within her heart. She felt as if Fang Lang was her close friend of many years. ¡®What the hell is this feeling?¡¯ she wondered. She met Fang Lang for the first time when she came to Luojiang City¡ªhow could she have known him for years? ¡°It¡¯s probably just admiration for his performance in yesterday¡¯s match...¡± She mumbled under her breath, trying to dismiss this odd feeling. Despite her haughty nature, Jiang Linglong did not try to hide this feeling of familiarity. She smiled at Fang Lang¡ªher bright eyes curved into little crescents. A distance away, Liu Bubai made his way to the za with a bandage wrapped around his head. Thanks to the precious recovery pill, his injuries did not worsen. If it was possible, he wished to fight again that day. He was unsure if he could win, but he wanted a chance to prove himself. Liu Bubai was slightly embarrassed for losing his maiden match... He promised he would carry Fang Lang to victory, yet the inverse had happened. ¡°Yesterday was merely a slip up.¡± Liu Bubai tried to console himself. When he saw Fang Lang approaching, he greeted him with a smile. Fang Lang smiled and nodded in response. Immediately after, Fang Lang turned away and headed toward Jiang Linglong. Fang Lang smiled and chatted with Jiang Linglong as if they were best friends. A gust of wind blew across the za. Liu Bubai found the atmosphere that day to be especially cold. ¡®Those two... when did they be close friends? ¡®While I was recovering, what happened behind my back?¡¯ Liu Bubai felt as if the world had turned its back on him overnight. At that moment, Fang Lang was not in the mood to care about Liu Bubai¡¯s feelings. Furthermore, Fang Lang was no expert in consoling others. He would probably say something along the lines of, ¡°Just sit tight. Sit however you want and getfortable. We will carry you to victory.¡± An amiable smile spread across Fang Lang¡¯s face. Above Jiang Linglong¡¯s smile, her brows were knitted together. Her smile seemed casual. ¡°Lady Jiang, some questions arose in my mind when I saw your Four Season Form yesterday. There are some things I don¡¯t understand when ites to sword mastery. Can I clear my doubts with you?¡± Fang Lang inquired in a serious tone. The smile on his face was hidden. ¡°Sure.¡± Jiang Linglong raised her brows. She did not expect Fang Lang toe with cultivation-rted questions. Before, Jiang Linglong would have refused his questions. However, the odd feeling of familiarity she had prevented her from declining. Fang Lang was overjoyed. As he expected, Jiang Linglong was a different breed from Little Wen. Old Jiang¡¯s confidence radiated from inside out. ¡°Your sword techniques are inspired by the four seasons. In truth, my Dual Sword Technique is quite simr to your Summer Rain Style. My des are faster. I saw that you incorporated your Summer Rain Style into your sword techniques. I¡¯ve thought about doing that too, but I have some key points to address. Firstly, there¡¯s the technical aspect...¡± Fang Lang spoke. Jiang Linglong was deep in thought. Solving Fang Lang¡¯s questions would be beneficial to her own sword mastery techniques too. Instantly, the two engaged in a heated debate, bouncing ideas off each other. A deep connection was formed between them through cultivation. From a distance, Liu Bubai watched with his jaw agape. He felt terribly out of ce. He was also perplexed as to why Fang Lang never turned to him for advice on sword mastery. Liu Bubai wondered, ¡®Am I not good enough for you?¡¯ Just then, Mentor Wen arrived. Mentor Wen was taken aback when he saw the animated conversation between Fang Lang and Jiang Linglong. He never imagined those two would get along. Mentor Wen had some ideas about Jiang Linglong¡¯s identity, hence why he was so shocked. Regardless, Mentor Wen had no intention of interrupting their conversation. He merely gazed at them with an intriguing look¡ªhe had once been in Fang Lang¡¯s shoes. Then, his gaze fell on Liu Bubai who was standing alone, a perplexed expression on his face. Mentor Wen begrudgingly beckoned the boy over. ¡°Boy, you¡¯re injured. You¡¯re not in good shape to fight. There¡¯s a high chance you¡¯ll lose in the third stage. How about youe with me to draw the lots? That way, you¡¯ll feel more included. And it¡¯ll show that you¡¯re not just here to be carried to victory.¡± Mentor Wen suggested. ¡®Master, how could you say that?¡¯ Liu Bubai whined internally. He felt as if a sword was repeatedly stabbed through his chest. ¡®I, Liu Bubai, can¡¯t win a single fight? Who do you think I am? ¡®I am Liu Bubai, a sword mastery genius! I¡¯d rather die in the battle ring than be carried to victory!¡¯ Liu Bubai raged in his heart. Without saying another word, Mentor Wen guided Liu Bubai away to draw the lots. White clouds floated in the sky. On the great za of Mount Shu, voices rose one after another. The results for the lots were out. In the third stage, Luojiang Academy was going against Changan Academy. Mentor Wen¡¯s expression darkened and nced at Liu Bubai with dissatisfaction. He regretted bringing that brat with him. The boy must have tainted his luck! Liu Bubai grumbled in his head, ¡®It was your hand that drew the lot! I had nothing to do with it!¡¯ A match with Changan Academy... An odd expression crossed Liu Bubai¡¯s face. ¡®Maybe... Maybe it¡¯s not so bad, being the hidden ace of the team. Yes, this is an important role after all.¡¯ ... Outside the battle ring, Fang Lang¡ªoblivious to the match-up¡ªwas absorbed in his conversation with Jiang Linglong. He had switched to Jiang Linglong¡¯s cultivation mode! He drew inspiration from her golden core and engaged in a productive discussion with Jiang Linglong. Jiang Linglong¡¯s eyes widened. She never expected Fang Lang to have such simr views with her when it came to sword mastery. She felt as if she had found a confidant. She felt as if their conversation could carry on forever. This feeling intrigued her. ¡®Ding! You have engaged in a meaningful interaction about cultivation with your binding partner, Jiang Linglong. You will receive a Spell Talisman: Flight Sword Crossover Turbo Charge as your reward.¡¯ He paused the conversation. ¡®Huh? Can¡¯t you reward me with something normal?¡¯ Fang Lang thought. Chapter 28

Chapter 28: A Duel of Swords or Words?

Trantor: EndlessFantasy Trantion Editor: EndlessFantasy Trantion ¡®What the hell is this reward? A spell talisman? ¡®Isn¡¯t Jiang Linglong a sword mastery practitioner? ¡®Why am I rewarded with a spell mastery item after interacting with her? This doesn¡¯t make sense...¡¯ Spell Talisman: Flight Sword Crossover Turbo Charge¡ªeven the name was confusing to an ordinary person. Fang Lang scoured every corner of his mind but none of his spell mastery lessons were useful in deciphering the reward. Fang Lang had passed his Flying Sword Examination and was equipped with the Specialized Flight Sword Maneuver Skill. He was able to piece something together. He knew that the spell talisman was to be used on a flight sword. However, he did not know its function. After all, his main discipline was sword mastery¡ªhe rarely dabbled in spell mastery. ¡®Ni Wen is a spell mastery disciple, yet when I interacted with her, I received rewards rted to sword mastery. Jiang Linglong is a sword master, yet she provides spell mastery rewards. I wonder what would be given if I interacted with a martial arts mastery disciple...¡¯ Fang Lang scratched his chin as he pondered. It seemed like he had discovered something. Just then, Mentor Wen and Liu Bubai returned. The meaningful interaction was over and Fang Lang switched out of the binding partner¡¯s cultivation mode. His spiritual sense rxed. Both Mentor Wen and Liu Bubai looked unhappy. ¡°Our opponent in the third stage is Changan Academy. Our only chance at first ce is to defeat Changan Academy,¡± Mentor Wen announced. He thought the team would only have to deal with Changan Academy at the very end. Unexpectedly, they were matched up in the semi-final. Changan Academy was incredibly strong! Mentor Wen had faith in Fang Lang and Jiang Linglong. However, pitted against the Changan Academy team, his confidence in the duo wavered. Changan Academy was situated near the Imperial Pce. It was located in the heart of the Tang Dynasty¡¯s politics and economy¡ªChangan City, also known as Imperial City. It was an exceptional ce filled with exceptional people. The geniuses they bred were the best of the best in the Tang Dynasty. During the Imperial Examination, four fifths of Changan Academy students would pass and be recruited by different sects. The top scorer of the Imperial Examination almost always hailed from Changan Academy. The revtion turned Fang Lang and Jiang Linglong¡¯s expressions solemn. ¡°Oh well, getting into the third stage is already beyond my expectations. This is the furthest Luojiang Academy has ever gotten in the Gathering of Swords. Don¡¯t feel too pressured to win,¡± Mentor Wen said with a heartyugh. ¡°Now, let me fill you in about your opponents.¡± Before he began, Mentor Wen turned to Liu Bubai. After a moment¡¯s hesitation, he called out, ¡°Come and listen. It¡¯s probably of no use to you, but perhaps you¡¯ll feel more included.¡± Liu Bubai was speechless. Mentor Wen ignored Liu Bubai¡¯s misery and began to expound about their formidable opponents from Changan Academy. ¡°Changan Academy is a well-established academy known throughout the Tang Dynasty. Initially, I never expected us to encounter them in thispetition. Their representatives are incredibly skilled, on par with a sword master and each has their own speciality. Changan Academy¡¯s ace is also here, Lu Ze. ¡°The boy is like Fang Lang, speed and agility are his greatest skills. His sword moves with great dexterity. Lu Ze is the great grandson of Lu Taixuan, the grand chancellor of the Tang Dynasty,¡± Mentor Wen informed. Fang Lang was stunned by the news. Lu Taixuan was a grand chancellor but he was also an infamous sword master. Their textbooks even contained excerpts about Lu Taixuan, also known as the Drunken de Lord. Long ago, when demons infested thesends, the man ughtered countless demons while chugging alcohol. The tale was known as The Drunken Demon yer. The team¡¯s next opponent was the great grandson of a legend! Even Jiang Linglong frowned when she heard the name. Damn! Changan Academy truly lived up to its reputation. ¡°Lu Ze aside, the other two students are not weaklings either. However, there¡¯s still a gap between them and Lu Ze. If my predictions are correct, Changan Academy will send out their ace in the first round. ¡°Thus, the first round is crucial. Fang Lang must defeat Lu Ze. Even if he uses up all his energy, we have Jiang Pei to deal with the other two. That way, we might still stand a chance. ¡°However, if Fang Lang loses easily, Lu Ze will get a chance to fight Jiang Pei. She¡¯ll bepletely drained and we¡¯ll lose regardless.¡± Mentor Wen exined in a serious tone. Although Luojiang Academy still had Liu Bubai, his strength did notpare to even the two weaker students of Changan Academy. His participation would not affect the overall result. Mentor Wen was busy discussing strategies with Fang Lang and Jiang Linglong. Meanwhile, battles of the third stage had begun in the battle ring. The semi-final began with Bailu Academy and Beijiang Academy. The sound of des shing filled the ring. The battle was intense. The participants fought with the intention to kill. In the match, the less determined would lose. The gruesome battle between Fang Lang and Lin Yun had stirred the students. Each fought with a fiery intensity! There was a change in the Sword Guild umpire. The new umpire was an elderly man with an immensely powerful cultivation. The aura he emitted made the environment ufortable. He was undoubtedly a cultivator of the forth ss or higher. The fierce battle between Bailu Academy and Beijiang Academy came to a quick end. A pyrrhic victory. Fang Lang¡¯s next-door neighbour, Song Qingyun, had also finished his fight. With great perseverance, he won a round for Beijiang Academy but sustained a severe injury. Thanks to him, the battle proceeded to the final round involving the aces of each academy. In the end, the ace of Beijiang Academy defeated Bailu Academy. Towards the end of the battle, both participants were drenched in red. Even so, they swung their des with style and confidence. The spectators around the ring were engrossed in the battle. There was a short break after the great battle before Changan Academy and Luojiang Academy dueled. The former was a well-established academy while thetter was the dark horse in the Gathering of Swords. Unsurprisingly, their battle attracted the attention of everyone present. When pitted against Changan Academy, few rooted for Luojiang Academy. Changan Academy was simply too strong¡ªthe academy was the reigning champion for many consecutive years. The oue would probably be the same as previous years. Changan Academy had Lu Ze¡ªthe grandson of the infamous Drunken de Lord. A man¡¯s ancestor was a great indication of his abilities. Lu Ze was taught by the Drunken de Lord since young¡ªhow could his sword mastery be weak? ¡°Fang Lang, take the first round.¡± Mentor Wen was serious, which was a rare urrence. Having Fang Lang go up against Lu Ze was a good strategy. If Lu Ze aimed to win, he would have to consume a great deal of energy. Even if Fang Lang lost, it would be an opportunity for Jiang Pei. Fang Lang nodded. He grabbed his steel sword and headed toward the ring but Liu Bubai grabbed his arm. Liu Bubai presented his extravagant sword to Fang Lang. ¡°Take this, but you owe me drinks if you win,¡± Liu Bubai said. ¡°It¡¯s alright if you lose too. After all, you have me, the hidden ace, to back you up.¡± That was the phrase Fang Lang used to trick Liu Bubai. However, when Liu Bubai said it, it sounded like a true, self-deprecating joke. Fang Lang¡¯s lips curled upward. He took Liu Bubai¡¯s sword and swung the two swords in his hands. When Fang Lang passed by Jiang Linglong, she unexpectedly presented her saber to him. ¡°If you fight Lu Ze with an ordinary steel de, the de will be your weakness. Liu Bubai¡¯s longsword is usable, but the other one... ¡°Take mine instead,¡± she offered in a cold, monotonous voice. Jiang Linglong did not know what came over her. That odd feeling of familiarity was the root cause. Otherwise, with that ice-cold personality of hers, Jiang Linglong would never have lent him her saber. Throughout the entire Gathering of Swords, Jiang Linglong had not unsheathed her precious saber that followed her everywhere. Fang Lang took the saber. Even through the scabbard, he could feel the ringing of her de. The de shone brightly when he unsheathed it. An ice-cold feeling radiated from her de. ¡®Amazing!¡¯ Fang Lang¡¯s eyes glimmered. He thanked Old Jiang and entered the ring with a sword in each hand. His opponent waited patiently for him. In the ring stood a teenage boy with arge bottle gourd tied around his waist. His hair was tied up with a thin rope and his robe exposed his chest. A strange smile was on his face. Standing face-to-face with Fang Lang, the boy unexpectedly took the bottle gourd and gulped a mouthful of wine. He wiped his mouth and said, ¡°Did you know if you enter the Imperial City with that White Frost de in your hand, you¡¯ll be dead in less than two hours.¡± Fang Lang staggered. Seeing his reaction, the boy¡¯s lips curled up into a smirk. ¡°I¡¯ll admit that defeating Lin Yun was an impressive feat, but luck was on your side. Lin Yun underestimated you and fell into your trap. Otherwise, you stood no chance of winning. ¡°I, for one, will never underestimate my opponents. You¡¯ll lose this round. ¡°You know, I was initially quite fond of you. After all, you did defeat Lin Yun... ¡°But that White Frost de... Mmm... It vexes me.¡± Lu Ze gulped another mouthful of wine. His tone was cold when he spoke. Wine spilled from his bottle as he unsheathed his sword. ¡°Do you think you¡¯re worthy of that de?¡± Before Lu Ze could finish his words, Fang Lang was already making his move. He held both des in a reverse grip and activated his Spirit Step. He closed in on Lu Ze with such speed that his afterimage flickered. ¡°You talk too much. Are you gonna fight with your de or your mouth?¡± Chapter 29

Chapter 29: Something¡¯s Off With Him

Trantor: EndlessFantasy Trantion Editor: EndlessFantasy Trantion ¡®With my de or my mouth?¡¯ Lu Ze lowered his bottle gourd. The grin on his face vanished. As the great grandson of the Drunken de Lord, he was not ustomed to being disrespected. ¡®Does he think he¡¯s invincible just because he defeated Lin Yun?¡¯ Lu Ze unsheathed his de. The ring of his de was not only crisp, it carried a weight to it. The sound echoed across the battle ring. His de was of excellent quality. Lu Ze was awfully annoyed by Fang Lang. ¡®This bastard... What the hell did he do to Jiang Linglong? Why would she hand over her precious de to him? ¡®Many charming young men in the Imperial City had made their moves on Jiang Linglong, yet none of them seeded. This little bastard... He¡¯s not worthy!¡¯ Outside the ring. The crowd was cheering and jeering. The atmosphere was tense¡ªneither contestant was going to hold back. The fight started as soon as they entered the battle ring. Fang Lang¡ªwho defeated Lin Yun¡ªwas battling Lu Ze, the great grandson of the Drunken de Lord. This match promised to be interesting. Lin Yun was among the crowd. He carried his rusty de on his back, his expression cold as ice as he watched the shing of des between Fang Lang and Lu Ze. ¡°If that bastard¡¯s skills are limited to what he¡¯s shown, he¡¯ll definitely lose to Lu Ze.¡± Lin Yun crossed his arms before his chest. His chilling gaze made the air around him ufortable. His carelessness gave Fang Lang an edge. He fell into Fang Lang¡¯s trap and was overwhelmed by his rhythmic attacks. If Lin Yun had been careful, Fang Lang would have a harder time fighting him. In the ring, the umpire from the Sword Guild floated away. He gathered a ball of spiritual energy between his palms as he observed the ongoing fight. The two teenagers were like two beams of light in the dark. They sted off from opposite ends of the ring and came shing in the middle! Fang Lang did not hold back at all. Sword Draw Technique, Dual Sword Technique and Spirit Step¡ªall three techniques were activated at once. His two des rained down on Lu Ze like a storm. Lu Ze was serious. Without his cultivation abilities, his sword mastery skills were greatly affected. He dared not let his guard down. He thrusted his de. Lu Ze¡¯s speed was equally as astounding. With a single sword, he fended off Fang Lang¡¯s two des! ng! ng, ng! The crisp sound of shing des rang out continuously from the ring. The two boys were lightning fast¡ªmost spectators could only see the afterimages! Neither of them specialized in heavy attacks like Lin Yun¡ªin terms of strength, the two were equals. Speed was their forte. Lu Ze¡¯s sword style was elegant whereas Fang Lang¡¯s Spirit Step was like an illusion. The audience was silent. Everyone was holding their breaths as they watched the fast-paced battle. Many were rubbing their eyes in hopes of getting a clear look at thebat techniques. Their des were too fast¡ªonly blurry afterimages could be seen. Even the geniuses were gasping in awe. They truly were the aces of their academies. After some time, the two contestants began to utilize positioning and footwork. They moved around in the ring as their des picked up speed. They appeared to be warmed up as they matched each other¡¯s rhythm. Lu Ze was a second-ss sword master. Although his cultivation abilities were dormant, Lu Ze still triumphed over Fang Lang when it came to physical fitness. Fang Lang was at a disadvantage. Eventually, Fang Lang¡¯s Spirit Step could no longer keep up with Lu Ze¡¯s speed. He was being overpowered! The scene made the crowd go wild. Outside the ring, many were shaking their heads. This fight was definitely not in Fang Lang¡¯s favor. Previously, Fang Lang could defeat Lin Yun with his speed. However, when fighting against Lu Ze, his speed would not bring him much advantage. He was being cornered. Over at Luojiang Academy¡¯s designated area, Mentor Wen was frowning. Liu Bubai clenched his fists as he stared into the ring. Jiang Linglong, too, had her eyes fixed on the battle. ... On the summit of Mount Shu, thinyers of cloud floated in the sky. A silhouette of a man with white hair was sitting cross-legged on a cloud. The man, dressed in white, was examining the sword in his hands as he overlooked the battle ring on the ground. The sword fight between Fang Lang and Lu Ze was reflected in Chao Xiaojian¡¯s eyes. His expression was calm. ¡°The boy wants to earn his spot in the Sword Guild through his own strength... ¡°If he doesn¡¯t win this fight... his promise will be nothing but a joke.¡± ... Beads of sweat sshed onto the floor, splitting into tinier droplets as they hit the ground. Fang Lang could feel the pressure. He had not activated his binding mode yet as he wanted to test his own strength. Lu Ze was too strong. It was difficult for Fang Lang to even keep up with Lu Ze¡¯s speed. Speed and elegance were Lu Ze¡¯s forte, simr to Fang Lang. Thus, defeat was imminent if he could not match Lu Ze¡¯s style. Lu Ze did not underestimate Fang Lang¡ªhe fought at full strength from the very beginning. The effects of the wine he downed before the match still lingered. In fact, his de moved like it was drunk, making Lu Ze¡¯s attacks all the more unpredictable. Fang Lang stomped his feet, sending out a wave of de energy toward Lu Ze. With a swing of his de, Lu Ze shattered this iing attack. Fang Lang¡¯s Spirit Step was used as a surprise attack¡ªafter it was blocked once, it would no longer be as effective. Fang Lang charged at Lu Ze again but was forced back by his drunken de. Fang Lang took a deep breath. A frustrated look appeared on his face. ¡®I guess it really is impossible to win with my own abilities. To hell with it. ¡®System, switch to Jiang Linglong¡¯s cultivation mode.¡¯ Fang Lang instructed. ¡®Ding! Switchingplete. Happy cultivating!¡¯ The System¡¯s notification popped up. Instantly, Fang Lang felt the change in his vision. With Jiang Linglong¡¯s gold core, Lu Ze¡¯s movements slowed down in his eyes. He could get a clearer picture of Lu Ze like never before! After their long duel, Lu Ze was ustomed with Fang Lang¡¯s rhythm and speed. Unexpectedly, Fang Lang suddenly sped up! Fang Lang¡¯s sword style became moreplex while his ability to ¡®see¡¯ was heightened! Many of Lu Ze¡¯s attacks were anticipated by Fang Lang! ¡®Something¡¯s off with him! ¡®Something¡¯s definitely off! ¡®Was he hiding his true strength all along?¡¯ After Lu Ze adapted to Fang Lang¡¯s rhythm, he sped up again? Lu Ze waspletely caught off guard! ¡®How cunning! How sly!¡¯ Lu Ze was shocked but he hid it well. Fang Lang¡¯s sudden eleration put immense pressure on Lu Ze. Even his attacking rhythm was disrupted. Fang Lang¡ªwhogged behind just a second ago¡ªwas suddenly fighting neck to neck with him. Fang Lang was even predicting his attacks! This sudden change was also noticed by the audience. Lin Yun widened his eyes. His chest puffed up as he inhaled deeply. ¡®Impossible! He was hiding his true strength when fighting me? ¡®Was he looking down at me?!¡¯ Lin Yun mmed his rusty sword into the ground, causing the floor to shake. This caused amotion in the audience. However, their attention quickly went back to the battle ring. ¡®Just how strong is this dark horse?¡¯ the audience thought. Fang Lang had gone on the offense and was overpowering Lu Ze! Jiang Linglong¡¯s beautiful eyes were fixed on Fang Lang, who had sessfully turn the tides. Her eyes curved into two crescents. She saw that Fang Lang¡¯s movements contained some elements of her sword style. Jiang Linglong thought back to the morning when they discussed theories of sword mastery¡ªit turned out Fang Lang actually understood her words and was able to put her advice into practice! ¡®It¡¯s the integration of my techniques that helped Fang Lang overpower Lu Ze!¡¯ she thought. Liu Bubai, who was standing beside her, grinned ear to ear. He was d he could remain as the ¡®hidden ace¡¯ of the team. In the battle ring. Lu Ze could tell something was not right. He pushed Fang Lang away with a swing of his sword and retreated a few steps back. He grabbed the bottle gourd at his waist. He raised his head and downed the wine. Gulp! Wine spilled from the canteen and leaked from the corners of his lips. The wine dripped down his chin and neck. Lu Ze¡¯s footsteps became unsteady. He swayed as he moved, his legs criss-crossing as he stumbled forward like a slithering snake. The intoxicating smell of alcohol wafted in the ring. ¡°Drunken Sword Style!¡± Watching from afar, Fang Lang was surprised. An intense pressure pressed in on Fang Lang. Fang Lang¡¯s Dual Sword Technique, Sword Draw Technique and Spirit Step were all Sword Mastery Specialities. Those techniques were considered incredibly strong among sword disciples. However, Lu Ze was a sword master. The Drunken Sword Style he employed was definitely a level higher than the average sword disciple¡¯s technique. Fang Lang had to stop Lu Ze from consuming more wine. Using his Spirit Step, he rushed toward Lu Ze with his des raised. Lu Ze swayed on his feet. His reddened face made him appear as if he might pass out at any moment. His sword style became more erratic! The Drunken Sword Style was an unusualbat style as it had no pattern. Fang Lang found himself in a tricky situation. A drunk man¡¯s de was the wildest. Fang Lang was forced to step back! ¡®Is there a way to hold down his attack?¡¯ Fang Lang had to think fast. Then, he thought about the action card he obtained the day before! ¡®Enchantment Card: After activation, you will be able to use the specialbat techniques of a single binding partner.¡¯ That was the description of the Enchantment Card. It was the onlybat-rted card in his inventory. ¡®System, use the Enchantment Card!¡¯ After pondering for a while, Fang Lang decided to go with it. Lu Ze¡¯s Drunken Sword Style had him cornered. Without the extra help, Fang Lang might lose this round. After all, these cards were meant to be used, right? ¡®Ding! Please select your desired binding partner.¡¯ ¡®Jiang Linglong.¡¯ Fang Lang did not hesitate. ¡®Ding! Enchantment Card is activated. The effect willst for two hours. Happy cultivating!¡¯ The System¡¯s message disappeared. A humming sound was heard. Fang Lang felt the changes immediately. When he struck with his de, he felt as if an invisible Jiang Linglong was beside him, mirroring his movements. His attacks rained down like all four seasons of the rain! The White Frost de in his hand sensed the familiar technique of its owner. It hummed merrily. In an instant, Fang Lang¡¯s attack prated Lu Ze¡¯s defense. For a moment, Lu Ze saw Jiang Linglong in the reflection of Fang Lang¡¯s sword. The attack was like the misty rain of Jiangnan... ¡®The Four Season Form? ¡®Impossible! ¡®Did I... Did I drink too much? ¡®No way!¡¯ The red-faced Lu Ze instantly sobered up. Chapter 30

Chapter 30: This Is Your First Time Being Carried, You Wouldn¡¯t Know

Trantor: EndlessFantasy Trantion Editor: EndlessFantasy Trantion Lu Ze sobered up! However, he still swayed a little in his steps. He could not believe his eyes¡ªFang Lang was using Jiang Linglong¡¯s technique! ¡®Perhaps Fang Lang doesn¡¯t know who she is... but how could he not know? ¡®Jiang Linglong¡¯s talent was incredibly rare. She triumphed over everyone of the same generation even in the Imperial City! ¡®And her Four Season Form is legendary!¡¯ Even Lu Ze¡¯s great grandfather did not dare to underestimate the founder of the Four Season Form! Seeing Jiang Linglong¡¯s Four Season Form being used by Fang Lang had shocked Lu Ze out of his drunken state. ¡®Did Jiang Linglong teach Fang Lang her Four Season Form? ¡®Impossible! ¡®Passing down such a technique without permission is a great taboo!¡¯ Boom! An intense pressure enveloped Lu Ze. He howled. Being sober meant the ferocity of his Drunken Sword Style suffered. He swung his sword but the energy that came from it was dull. Fang Lang¡¯s two des rained down rapidly, melding with the Four Season Form. It was as if Jiang Linglong was beside him, guiding each swing. Dual Sword Technique... Four Season Form! ng! With a loud ng, the sword in Lu Ze¡¯s hand sailed through the air. Fang Lang thrusted his other de and the sound of an explosion filled the air! Ssh! His de cut into Lu Ze¡¯s body. Blood flowed out like a blossoming lotus flower. Lu Ze¡¯s body froze. He stumbled backward and fell on his butt. Above the ring, the umpire raised his brows but did not step in. After all, Lu Ze¡¯s life was in no danger. The spectators were silent! The muffled gasps of astonishment could be heard among the crowd. Lu Ze was defeated! Fang Lang went against all their expectations! In truth, not many could identify thest technique Fang Lang used. It did not matter to them¡ªall they had to know was that Lu Ze was defeated by Fang Lang. All they cared about was the final result. Lin Yun narrowed his eyes, staring unblinkingly at Fang Lang. ¡®That bastard... He really was hiding his true strength. ¡®Fang Lang... He looked down on me!¡¯ With a dark expression, Lin Yun grabbed his rusty sword and left. In the designated area for Luojiang Academy. Confusion shed in Jiang Linglong¡¯s eyes. ¡®That sword style... What¡¯s going on? ¡®Had Fang Lang grasped the essence behind her Four Season Form? ¡®No... It wasn¡¯t just that... It wasn¡¯t just the Four Season Form. Hebined it with his own Dual Sword Technique!¡¯ ¡°This boy... This little bastard! He has only observed your technique a few times, yet he managed to replicate your Four Season Form with such uracy. His core may be weak, but his talent in sword mastery is definitely extraordinary!¡± Mentor Wen praised. Needless to say, Fang Lang had shaken him to the core. ¡°Did you teach him?¡± Mentor Wen turned to Jiang Linglong and asked. With her veil covering her face, Jiang Linglong shot a nce at Mentor Wen. ¡°What do you think?¡± ¡°I think that¡¯s impossible. But damn, that little bastard sure has talent.¡± Mentor Wen sighed. ¡®But his core... how unfortunate... ¡®The gods must be jealous of his talents.¡¯ ... On the summit of Mount Shu, the white-haired white-robed man, Chao Xiaojian let out a sigh. ¡°He actually won? ¡°Thatst attack had a hint of the Four Season Form. His talent for observation and replication is quite impressive. ¡°What a waste. ¡°Nheless, this year¡¯s Imperial Examination should be quite interesting.¡± Chao Xiaojian smiled. He left, making strides in the air and vanishing into the clouds. ... Fang Lang felt as if his blood was boiling. The effects of the Enchantment Cardsted two hours only. Within those two hours, his sword mastery techniques could be enhanced with Jiang Linglong¡¯s Four Season Form! This increased his sword mastery skill by more than a hundred percent. When the Four Season Form was merged with his Dual Sword Technique, he fought like two people at once. Lu Ze was forced into sobriety and had to fight a two-on-one battle. His loss was inevitable. At that moment, Fang Lang was uncovering the secrets behind the Four Season Form. While the Enhancement Card was in y, it was as if Fang Lang had entered Jiang Linglong¡¯s body. He could fully experience Old Jiang¡¯s sword mastery techniques. It was an odd yet enlightening experience. It allowed him to grasp the true essence of the Four Season Form. ¡°Next.¡± Fang Lang did not spend too much time exploring the Four Season Form. With his head slightly tilted and two des in hand, Fang Lang impassively asked for the next opponent. While the Enhancement Card¡¯s effect was active, Fang Lang could carry on. The mentor from Changan Academy came to help Lu Ze out of the ring. His expression was disturbing. Lu Ze was defeated. The defeat was too easy. Lu Ze did not even manage to scratch Fang Lang. At that moment, Fang Lang was at peak performance. He would have no trouble fighting in the next match. The remaining two students were no match for him! Changan Academy had no hope. On top of that, it seemed Changan Academy was about to yield a hat-trick to Fang Lang. The realization dawned upon Changan Academy¡¯s mentor and many others in the crowd. Every mentor present wore an expression of disbelief. ¡®Changan Academy was the reigning champion for consecutive years. Are they really going to be eliminated by a single student?¡¯ The mentor of Changan Academy clenched his teeth and prepared his next student for battle. ¡°Try to tire him out as much as you can. Don¡¯t leave him with any energy to win the third match!¡± the mentor instructed. If Fang Lang were to win the semi-final match alone, the Changan Academy mentor would be utterly humiliated. The second participant entered the battle ring. Without wasting a second, Fang Lang rushed toward the student. He swung his two des aggressively. His attacks were not shy in the slightest. A humming noise was heard. The student from Changan Academy was no weakling. His cultivation abilities reached that of a sword master¡¯s and his sword mastery skills were equally outstanding. However, he was facing a Fang Lang with an active Enchantment Card. The student¡¯s vision blurred. When Fang Lang delivered his strike, the student swore he saw two people wielding the des. The Dual Sword Technique on top of the Four Season Form... It was like battling both Fang Lang and Old Jiang at once. The student from Changan Academy could only fend off two blows. In mere seconds, he encountered the same end as Lu Ze. Blood sprayed out from his chest as he was flung out of the ring. The more Fang Lang fought, the more pumped he was! ¡°Last match!¡± Fang Lang demanded. Outside the battle ring, there was a heated discussion in the crowd. ¡°Is Fang Lang seriously nning to defeat a well-established academy solo?¡± ¡°What kind of monster is he!¡± Everyone in the audience had felt bad for Lin Yun but after they saw these two battles, they realized... Fang Lang¡¯s most pitiable victim was Changan Academy! At least Lin Yun managed to put up a fight with Fang Lang. Changan Academy was practically being curb stomped! Thest participant from Changan Academy clenched his teeth. With the weight of the academy on his shoulders, he entered the battle ring. After winning two consecutive rounds, Fang Lang¡¯s aura burned violently. The Changan Academy student felt his sword hand shaking. If he lost, Changan Academy would have been eliminated by a single student. Through the decades, Changan Academy had never lost all three matches in the third stage. Losing like this would be a disgrace! It would bring shame on their predecessors! Outside the ring, Lu Ze swallowed a recovery pill to stop the bleeding. His face was chalk-white, but his eyes stared intensely at Fang Lang. He wanted to remember the formidable opponent. The third student from Changan Academy was gunning for a win. However, Fang Lang had no intentions of losing. The Enchantment Card had given him immense power. It was akin to a two-on-one fight. With such a big advantage, Fang Lang could not bring himself to lose. Thus, he decided to give his opponent a rtively dignified end. He ended the match in the same manner as he did with Lu Ze and the second participant¡ªtwo cuts on the chest burst open and blossomed into a crimson flower. All three students lost in the same manner. A little red blossom for each. ¡®A fair and dignified end...¡¯ Fang Lang thought. Outside the ring. The mentor from Changan Academy cradled his head in despair. ¡®F*ck! ¡®My career ends with this! Why me? ¡®Why did I choose to lead the team? ¡®With Lu Ze, I thought we¡¯d win easily! Who knew... who knew the situation would take a 180-degree turn!¡¯ ¡°Victory to Luojiang Academy.¡± In the ring, the umpire gazed at Fang Lang intently as he made the announcement. The winner had been dered. Chatter erupted from the crowd as if a giant boulder was dropped into a stagnant pond. Their voices filled the air! Changan Academy was defeated by a single student! In the designated area for Luojiang Academy. Liu Bubai¡¯s eyes widened. Exhrated, he burst intoughter. ¡°Hahahaha! He actually won! ¡°We¡¯re the champions!¡± Overjoyed, Liu Bubai looked as if he was about to start dancing. Mentor Wen cleared his throat. Mentor Wen and Jiang Linglong red speechlessly at the gleeful boy. ¡°This is only the semi-finals. We¡¯ll still have to fight Beijiang Academy to win.¡± Jiang Linglong reminded Liu Bubai. Liu Bubai froze. Awkwardly, he asked, ¡°Huh? We defeated Changan Academy. I... I think I got too carried away.¡± Jiang Linglong was a tad confused. She rolled her eyes at him and said, ¡°You¡¯ve contributed nothing. Why are you so excited?¡± Liu Bubai grinned widely. He turned to Jiang Linglong. ¡°Aren¡¯t you being carried too? Well, this is your first time being carried, you wouldn¡¯t know.¡± ¡°...¡± Jiang Linglong was utterly speechless. Just then, Fang Lang returned from the battle ring and overheard Liu Bubai¡¯s baseless usation. Fang Lang said, ¡°Old Jiang is a far cry from you. ¡°The reality is, you¡¯re the only one being carried to victory.¡± The words were softly spoken but it caused an awkward silence in the group. Liu Bubai turned to Fang Lang. After a moment, a dested look filled his eyes. ¡®Lang¡¯zi, you¡¯ve changed!¡¯ Chapter 31

Chapter 31: The Boy Was Crying Tears of Joy

Trantor: EndlessFantasy Trantion Editor: EndlessFantasy Trantion What Fang Lang said was true¡ªJiang Linglong was different from Liu Bubai. Fang Lang¡¯s Enhancement Card had allowed him to fight with Jiang Linglong¡¯s techniques. In the battle ring, it was as if Jiang Linglong was fighting beside him. Therefore, he did not consider Jiang Linglong to be carried to victory. She merely fought in an unconventional way. Liu Bubai was the only one who contributed nothing. Of course, Fang Lang did not exin his reasoning. He only made a simplement. The Enchantment Card wouldst for a while longer. Fang Lang wondered if he should fight Beijiang Academy immediately. Otherwise, he would be wasting the remainder of this Enchantment Card. So far, this was the onlybat-rted card Fang Lang had. ... After a momentary silence, the crowd burst into cheers! Luojiang Academy was the ultimate dark horse! They defeated a well-established academy and advanced into the final round! However, the suspense was over. After Fang Lang¡¯s solo victory over Changan Academy, everyone knew the oue of the final round. The champion would be none other than Luojiang Academy! Their opponent, Beijiang Academy, had suffered immensely in their qualifying battle against Bailu Academy. All three students carried injuries that affected their performance. If Luojiang Academy had advanced to the final round with debilitating injuries, Beijiang Academy might stand a chance. However, Luojiang Academy sent out this boy, Fang Lang, who single-handedly defeated the three geniuses of Changan Academy¡ªLu Ze, the great grandson of the Drunken de Lord, included. Even if Fang Lang was not at his peak, Luojiang Academy still had another ace up their sleeves. In this situation, how would Beijiang Academy win? What could they sacrifice to win? Their lives? There was no need for that. Even if they fought with the willingness to sacrifice their lives, there was no hope of winning. In fact, even if they were in perfect condition to fight, there was still no guarantee that Beijiang Academy would win against Luojiang Academy. A distance away, the mentor of Beijiang Academy let out a long frustrated sigh. There was only one option. Luojiang Academy was going to win¡ªthere was no stopping them. As the students¡¯ mentor and leader, he had to consider the individual event. He had also heard the rumors¡ªthere was a high chance that the Sword Guild would announce a reform of the individual event. Thus, their mentor made a firm decision¡ªsince they had no chance of winning this match, they would surrender with dignity. This way, the students could conserve their energy for the uing individual event. ... In the designated area for Luojiang Academy, Fang Lang was still waiting for the final battle of the team event. Hurt by Fang Lang¡¯s words, Liu Bubai turned his head away and ignored Fang Lang. Meanwhile, Jiang Linglong kept up her cold and reserved persona¡ªif Fang Lang did not approach her, she was not going to approach him either. Fang Lang tried to initiate a conversation about cultivation with Jiang Linglong but she responded coldly and showed no interest. His passive ability was not triggered. Their interaction could not even be considered a modest interaction. Fang Lang was a little discouraged. ¡®Sigh, Little Wen is so much better. With just a little effort, I could always squeeze out some kind of reward.¡¯ Meanwhile, Mentor Wen had been summoned by the umpire. It seemed thepetition had taken an unexpected turn. Not long after, Mentor Wen returned with a gleeful expression. His eyes glimmered with excitement! ¡°Bubai!¡± Mentor Wen¡¯s eyes shone. ¡°You can take thest match!¡± ¡°Fang Lang, focus on recovering your energy. The individual event ising up soon. This time... There are some changes.¡± Mentor Wen instructed Fang Lang. His tone was serious. As he said that, his gaze shifted to Jiang Linglong for a second. Jiang Linglong had heard the news long before Mentor Wen¡ªit was why she participated in the Gathering of Swords as part of Luojiang Academy. Liu Bubai was caughtpletely off guard. ¡°Huh? You¡¯re putting me in the ring?¡± ¡®Did Master Wen lose his mind? ¡®Is he trying to ridicule Beijiang Academy? Is he trying to y some mind games with them? ¡®Or is he using me to wear down our opponents?¡¯ A million questions went through Liu Bubai¡¯s mind at once. However, he quickly settled on the idea that Mentor Wen was using him to tire out their opponents, softening them for Fang Lang and Jiang Linglong. ¡®Ah, can¡¯t he just let me enjoy being carried to victory? ¡®Oh, well.¡¯ Liu Bubai stood up and lifted his head up high. He took his sword from Fang Lang. ¡°Worry not, my teammates. Leave this to me,¡± said Liu Bubai. He turned to Fang Lang and Jiang Linglong as if he was some tragic hero. His expression said, ¡®I will give my all to wear down the students of Beijiang Academy!¡¯ Fang Lang found the situation extremely odd. Jiang Linglong, on the other hand, revealed no emotions. She watched as Liu Bubai marched away like he was making a great sacrifice for the team. Then, she turned to Fang Lang and whispered in his ears. Instantly, Fang Lang understood the situation. ... Liu Bubai entered the battle ring. He gripped his sword tightly in his hand. He was anxious, but determined. Song Qingyun of Beijiang Academy entered the ring. A perplexed expression appeared on his face when he saw Liu Bubai. Song Qingyun shot a nce at Fang Lang, who was sitting in the designated area for Luojiang Academy. Song Qingyun sighed. ¡°You have two incredible teammates,¡± Song Qingyun said. ¡°I surrender.¡± Having said that, Song Qingyun cupped his fist with his hand and bowed reluctantly. He turned around and exited the ring. Liu Bubai was stunned. Whispers and murmurs echoed in the crowd. Many students were eagerly waiting for the battle between Beijiang Academy and Luojiang Academy. The sudden turn of events baffled the students. They had not expected this. On the other hand, many mentors from other academies concurred with the strategy. Luojiang Academy had two aces¡ªFang Lang and Jiang Linglong. After the bloody battle between Beijiang Academy and Bailu Academy, Beijiang Academy stood no chance in winning. Thus, it was wiser to forfeit this match and preserve their energy for the uing individual event. In the battle ring. As Liu Bubai watched Song Qingyun leave the ring, the urge to draw his sword and force his opponent to fight burned in him. He finally got the chance to fight, yet his opponent chose to surrender¡ªhow was that any different from being carried to victory? After Song Qingyun exited the ring, the second student from Beijiang Academy entered the ring. ¡°I envy you. You only had to fight once. And even though you lost... you¡¯ll still be a champion. ¡°I surrender.¡± Having said his piece, the student left. Liu Bubai ced his hand on his chest. His pride was wounded. The third student entered the ring¡ªhe was the ace of Beijiang Academy. ¡°Huh? You¡¯re from Luojiang Academy? I¡¯ve never met you before. It¡¯s an honour. ¡°Please convey my message to Fang Lang: I eagerly await a chance to cross swords with him.¡± Having said that, the student surrendered with proper etiquette. Then, he turned around and exited the ring. Liu Bubai pressed his hand against his lips, trying his best to hold back tears. He felt like his heart had a thousand holes. He was forced to win without any effort. This time, he actually had no choice. He had even polished his de, and yet there was no one for him to fight. The spectators were silent. Just like that, the champion of the Gathering of Swords was decided. Everyone¡¯s gaze fell on Liu Bubai, who was sobbing quietly with his hand over his mouth. The crowd assumed the boy was crying tears of joy. After all, their victory had note easy. ¡°The champion of the Gathering of Swords, Luojiang Academy!¡± The umpire announced at the top of his lungs. Cheers and apuse sounded from the crowd beneath. As the students cheered, Liu Bubai was escorted out of the battle ring by Mentor Wen, his hand still over his mouth. In the designated area for Luojiang Academy. When the umpire announced the champion of the Gathering of Swords, the System¡¯s notification tone sounded in Fang Lang¡¯s head. ¡®Ding! You have worked together with your binding partner, Jiang Linglong, to win the Gathering of Swords and thus,pleting a meaningful interaction. You will be rewarded with a Green Reward Egg.¡¯ ¡®Huh?¡¯ Fang Lang thought. ¡®This is a meaningful interaction? ¡®Old Jiang is much more useful than I gave her credit for!¡¯ Fang Lang¡¯s eyes twinkled with joy. His reward was a Green Reward Egg! ¡®Break the egg!¡¯ Fang Lang instructed the System. Since Fang Lang had nothing much to do at the moment, he figured he might as well check out the reward. Smash! The hammernded on the egg! The Green Reward Egg cracked. Countless beams of light shot out from the egg! ¡®What incredible visuals!¡¯ Fang Lang thought. A secondter, the cracked egg shells disappeared. ¡®Congrattions! You have obtained Finger Flick Energy Wave (Sword Mastery Specialty ¨C Master ss). ¡®The Finger Flick Energy Wave will be incorporated through mental memory and muscle memory. The ins and outs of the technique will be revealed to the host. Happy cultivating!¡¯ ¡®Huh. A sword mastery reward?¡¯ Fang Lang was surprised that he was rewarded with a master-ss ability! Memories flooded his mind. Scenes of his training yed one after the other. ... In a dense bamboo forest, a gentle breeze blew, causing a cacophony of rustling leaves. Bamboo leaves danced in the air. The teen stood with his eyes closed. Suddenly, the teen opened his eyes. A strong wind blew through the forest, sending a cascade of leaves into the air. The leaves fell like rain. The teen raised his hand. He pressed his middle finger to his thumb and flicked. The spiritual energy in his body shot out from his finger. Waves of de energy burst out like a river. The falling leaves were blown away by the waves of de energy. Day after day, year after year. Time passed and the teen practised the move tens of thousands of times. Until one day... The teen flicked his finger and sent out waves of de energy, like the ripples created by a stone breaking water. This time, the falling leaves werepletely obliterated, leaving only a fine mist of green powder. Chapter 32

Chapter 32: The Sword That Hung for Centuries

1 Trantor: EndlessFantasy Trantion Editor: EndlessFantasy Trantion Fang Lang woke from his memories and looked at his hands. His fingertips were covered with thickyers of callous. He bent his fingers slightly. As he ced his middle finger on his thumb, he felt the spiritual energy in his body coalescing and umting at his fingertip. The air between his two fingers vibrated as a pressure built. Finger Flick Energy Wave¡ªthe skill required no sword to channel its destructive powers. The technique blew Fang Lang away. It was much stronger than the Spirit Step and Sword Draw Technique. Fang Lang grinned from ear to ear as he unclenched his fingers. The Gathering of Swords brought him many rewards¡ªthe master-ss technique was a new addition. Old Jiang was very useful after all. Fang Lang had a feeling there was more Old Jiang could do for him. Mentor Wen returned with Liu Bubai. Both their expressions were vastly different. Liu Bubai had his hand over his mouth, an absent-minded look on his face. Mentor Wen, on the other hand, was beaming. Leading the team to victory in the Gathering of Swords was definitely the brightest moment of his career. ¡°Calm yourselves and get some rest. Beijiang Academy surrendered so as to conserve their energy for the uing individual event. It seems there¡¯s some changes to the event this year. Even I can¡¯t tell what changes they¡¯ve made. ¡°Many talented sword disciples are participating in this year¡¯s Gathering of Swords. They¡¯re likely here for the individual event. Otherwise, people like the Drunken de Lord¡¯s grandson, Lu Ze, and Donglu¡¯s God of des¡¯s disciple, Lin Yun, wouldn¡¯t bother participating in the Gathering of Swords,¡± Mentor Wen exined. He urged Fang Lang, especially, to get some rest. Fang Lang nodded. After Mentor Wen pointed it out, Fang Lang realized the unusual mix of participants in thepetition. Suddenly, silence enveloped the za of Mount Shu, as if a storm was approaching. Every student sat cross-legged on the floor, taking in deep breaths and preparing themselves for the next event. Fang Lang did not dwell on his new skill. He, too, sat cross-legged and channeled his spiritual energy ording to the Tang Dynasty¡¯s Sword Scripture. He was replenishing his energy, both mentally and physically. Less than an hourter, the great za of Mount Shu buzzed with excitement again. Fang Lang opened his eyes. Beside him, Jiang Linglong had her eyes wide open, revealing her beautiful irises. They both gazed at the summit of Mount Shu. The deafening roar of flight swords taking off filled the air. A short distance away, Liu Bubai finally snapped out of his state of despair. ¡°Flight swords!¡± he eximed. One after another, disciples of the Sword Guildnded elegantly on the summit of Mount Shu. They were all dressed in white and equipped with individual flight swords. The flight swords they rode were all of high quality. The ruins on their flight swords spun at incredible speeds, suggesting magic was at y. Every student watched with admiration. Suddenly, a gigantic flight sword flew in from above. It was so huge that the summit of Mount Shu was hidden behind it. All the students were bbergasted. ¡°The magnificent flight sword utilizes ny-nine ruins to maintain its altitude. It could ferry hundreds of passengers at once!¡± Liu Bubai exined to Fang Lang. His eyes sparkled with excitement. As a flight sword enthusiast, this was the best day of Liu Bubai¡¯s life. On the massive flight sword, Fang Lang saw a familiar silhouette¡ªit was Chao Xiaojian, the man who tried to recruit Fang Lang. ¡°Mentors, follow the group on your own flight swords. The students will board the giant flight sword. We¡¯ll be departing for the venue of the individual event,¡± said the white-haired man in a calm and soft voice. Dressed in his white robe, Chao Xiaojian sat cross-legged on the sword guard of the giant flight sword. His announcement echoed across the za. The academy mentors were perplexed. Nevertheless, they took out their Flying Sword Examination pass and stood on their flight swords. They bowed in acquiescence and their flight swords hovered in the air. ¡°Follow me.¡± A representative from the Sword Guild led the mentors. Hundreds of mentors followed the man. At that moment, the light from their flight swords filled the sky like a river stream. They took off into the horizon. Mentor Wen gave the team a quick pep talk before he took off on his flight sword and joined the flock of departing mentors. Suspense filled the great za of Mount Shu. Fang Lang, Liu Bubai and Jiang Linglong were personally escorted onto the giant flight sword by the Sword Guild umpire. They were seated closest to the guard of the sword, nearest to Chao Xiaojian¡ªrightfully so, as the champions of the Gathering of Swords. Jiang Linglong sat cross-legged beside Fang Lang. Protected by the shield of ruins, her veil fluttered gently. Her body trembled, brimming with excitement. Fang Lang contemted, ¡®Jiang Linglong must have a reason for representing Luojiang Academy in the Gathering of Swords... Was it all for the individual event? ¡®What¡¯s so special about this year¡¯s individual event?¡¯ 600 students from 200 academies boarded the massive flight sword. When all the students found their seats, the ruins glowed as they were activated. The ruins protected the passengers from turbulence, keeping out buffeting winds and other sorts of annoyances. The flight sword howled as it soared through the sky but all the passengers heard was melodic instrumental music. When it came tofort, the extravagant flight swords were unbeatable. Everyone on board wondered where the destination was but they bottled up their curiosity. The traditional individual event took ce on the great za of Mount Shu. They were changing venues for the revamped individual event. At that moment, the students were filled with excitement and anticipation. They held onto their seats. In Chao Xiaojian¡¯s sleeve were nine spirit crystals. The crystals were wless and emitted an intense and overwhelming aura. They were high-grade spirit crystals that cost a fortune. Boom! Chao Xiaojian inserted all nine high-grade spirit crystals into the empty slots beside the Flying Sword Examination Pass. The spiritual energy within the crystals were drained instantly. On the guard of the giant flight sword, the 99 ruins spun simultaneously. As they spun in a clockwise direction, they formed a ring around the flight sword. Loud clicking sounds were heard, like interwoven coiled springs. Soon, the flight sword with 600 passengers ascended vertically into the air and took off at the speed of light. It vanished into the summit of Mount Shu. ... The giant flight sword utilized the high-grade spirit crystals for flight. It was faster than Mentor Wen¡¯s flight sword. They flew between the valleys and into the clouds. Half an hourter, the enormous flight sword gradually slowed down and ultimatelynded on a giant pce in the sky. ¡°Where are we?¡± Fang Lang took a deep breath. He felt an intense pressureing from the pce despite being a distance away. It was as if a formidable beastid beyond the pce¡ªsharp teeth and ws out¡ªgrowling into the sky. ¡°The Great Barrier... and behind it lies the Sword Guild¡¯s demon portal.¡± A soothing voice spoke beside them. Jiang Linglong¡¯s veil fluttered as she stared up at the pce. Fang Lang could see the vague outlines of her delicate facial features. Her star-bright eyes shone. ¡®The demon portal?¡¯ Fang Lang was shocked. He had heard rumors about the demon portal that connected the two realms together. It was a dangerous area and thus was guarded by one of the elite sects. ¡®This year¡¯s individual event is taking ce in the demon world?¡¯ Jiang Linglong turned her head and nced at Fang Lang. ¡°We can only stay within the Great Barrier. We can¡¯t cross the Sword Guild¡¯s demon portal. With our skills, we will instantly be crushed to death.¡± That was all Jiang Linglong said. The giant flight swordnded and all 600 students got off. With a wave of his hand, Chao Xiaojian stored the flight sword into his space ring. The 600 students were surrounded by disciples of the Sword Guild. They were led into the pce. Soon, they arrived at arge tunnel of the Great Barrier. At the very end of the tunnel was a lone sword floating in mid-air¡ªthe sword tip pointing downward. A drop of blood stained the de. The crimson droplet clung to the sword, refusing to fall. ... Outside the Great Barrier. One by one, the mentors arrived on their flight swords. The disciples of the Sword Guild barred their way. The mentors were not allowed to approach the Great Barrier. The mentors were unbothered as they observed the situation within the tunnel. The slightest change of expression reflected on their faces. Mentor Wen narrowed his eyes. ¡°So this is the revamped individual event.¡± He was once a member of the Sword Guild, so he had an inkling about the new event. ¡°This is the test outer sect disciples go through to join the inner sect. The tunnel is a thousand meters long. In order to enter the inner sect, the disciple has to pass the 800-meter mark. This is not a test of skill or strength but pure sword mastery talent. ¡°This is the first time outsiders are allowed to take part in this test. Jiang Pei, Lu Ze and Lin Yun are likely here for the sword. The sword has been there for centuries. No disciple has ever reached it. ¡°Those who are ignorant have no fear. ¡°Even if you manage to reach the 999th meter, there is no guarantee you can grab the sword. After all, the sword is like a woman. If you¡¯re not the chosen one, she won¡¯t even let you touch her. ¡°If she is interested in you, you¡¯ll reach her without effort.¡± ... The single drop of blood was strange and eerie. It captivated many students¡ªtheir minds were gradually being taken over. Chao Xiaojian snapped his fingers. The sound snapped the students out of their daze. Their fear was evident on their chalk-white faces. ¡°Don¡¯t stare at the de. ¡°Listen up, the rules for the individual event are simple¡ªwalk along the tunnel. The distance you cover will be your score. Chao Xiaojian¡¯s lips curled into a faint smile. ¡°I know several are here just for the sword. This was once Sect Leader Taihua¡¯s sword, the Blooming Lotus. ¡°It goes without saying, anyone who can touch the sword is automatically the champion. In fact, the sword will be yours.¡± Chao Xiaojian shrugged. The sword at the end of the tunnel was untouched for centuries. Every year, thousands of outer sect disciples would try their luck but no one has managed to retrieve it. Therefore, thest sentence was spoken out of habit. Chao Xiaojian wanted to rile up the students. Chapter 33

Chapter 33: Special Intuition for Winning Without Contributing

Trantor: EndlessFantasy Trantion Editor: EndlessFantasy Trantion Chatter broke out at the tunnel entrance. The students could no longer contain their excitement. Most of them knew nothing about the changes prior to Chao Xiaojian¡¯s announcement. Their mentors did not mention anything. Regardless, the tunnel was no stranger to most sword disciples. The students present were talented cultivators from various academies. Their goal was to be recruited into the sects after the Imperial Examination. Many present were aiming for the Sword Guild. Thus, they were familiar with the workings of the Sword Guild and the tunnel test. It was a triennial test that outer sect disciples went through in order to join the inner sect. The test was known for its difficulty. They could not believe the tunnel test¡ªwhich participation was limited to the Sword Guild disciples¡ªwas being used for thepetition¡¯s individual event. Everyone had their sights set on the floating sword at the end of the tunnel. ording to Vice Leader Chao, anyone who held the sword could im it for their own. Every student present had the chance to own the sword! The prospect excited them! The Tang Dynasty¡¯s First Sword, Sect Leader Xuanyuan Taihua¡¯s personal sword! Whoever wields the sword might earn the right to be Sect Leader Taihua¡¯s disciple! What a tempting idea! At that moment, realization dawned on most students. ¡®No wonder the Drunken de Lord¡¯s grandson, Lu Ze, and Donglu¡¯s God of des¡¯s disciple, Lin Yun, entered the Gathering of Swords this year... ¡®They¡¯re aiming for the Blooming Lotus Sword!¡¯ Fang Lang was surprised too. He wondered, ¡®Is this the ¡®great opportunity¡¯ Mentor Wen hinted at? The sword is impressive but unfortunately, it is not something an ordinary person can obtain.¡¯ ording to their textbooks, the tunnel existed for centuries. Numerous batches of Sword Guild disciples had taken the test, yet the sword remained unbudged from its ce! The disciples were like a flowing river against the steel de but never making a dent. An idea popped into his mind. Fang Lang wondered, ¡®Will I be able to retrieve the sword?¡¯ He shrugged away the idea a momentter, shaking his head. ¡®I¡¯m getting ahead of myself.¡¯ The fact that Chao Xiaojian dared to rile them up with the promise of ownership meant he was confident no one could touch the sword. Fang Lang kept his expectations low. Chao Xiaojian left soon after. The responsibility of hosting the event was delegated to an elderly sword master who had a scar on his face. He had a cold and unsmiling expression¡ªan intense aura surrounded him. In his hand was a steel de that gave off a stench of blood. He swung the de at the ground, causing arge crack across the floor. ¡°The test will be conducted in batches of a hundred participants. Stand behind this line when it¡¯s not your turn. Participants from the same academies will be split up. ¡°Additionally, Vice Leader Chao has mentioned anyone who can walk past the 800-meter mark will earn additional 20 points,¡± the old sword master announced in a hoarse voice. The Sword Guild had made this arrangement with the imperial courts. Upon hearing the announcement, the students were overjoyed. The first batch of participants quickly lined up before the tunnel entrance. Under the old sword master¡¯smand, they set foot into the tunnel. Fang Lang was in the fifth batch. He took a few steps back and observed silently. Jiang Linglong stood beside him. Her beautiful eyes were fixed on the sword at the end of the tunnel. Fang Lang turned toward her and asked, ¡°Was this your motive for representing Luojiang Academy in the Gathering of Swords?¡± Jiang Linglong was caught off guard by his question, but nodded soon after. Initially, she had no intentions of replying to him, but the odd sense of familiarity got the best of her. She exined, ¡°This sword... it holds a special ce in the heart of a person very dear to me. That¡¯s why I hope to obtain it.¡± Fang Lang gave her a knowing nod. Meanwhile, the first batch of participants stepped into the tunnel. All sorts of emotions were on disy¡ªnervousness, eagerness and more. Some students who were eager to show off took off running. Every time someone stepped into the tunnel, the floating sword at the end of the tunnel trembled faintly. It sent out invisible pulses of energy. Like an open floodgate, waves of energy poured out into the tunnel! Every sword present trembled in sync, shaking as if they wanted to be unsheathed. Whoosh! The students running in the tunnel were bombarded by the waves of energy. In a blink of an eye, they lost control of their bodies and were flung out of the tunnel. Many participants had blood dripping out their nose and mouth, traumatized. ¡°That¡¯s the sword intent.¡± Jiang Linglong¡¯s red lips parted demurely under her veil as she spoke, exining the phenomenon to Fang Lang. Fang Lang took a deep breath. ¡®Sword intent?¡¯ ¡°When going through the tunnel, you can¡¯t rush in. Every step you take must be full of confidence and determination. Otherwise... your will power will be shattered by the sword intent in an instant.¡± Jiang Linglong shared her knowledge with Fang Lang. Fang Lang nodded and paid attention. The few students who had rushed into the tunnel were swiftly ejected. They had traveled less than ten meters in. The old sword master with the scar on his face snickered. With a wave of his hand, he instructed the nearby Sword Guild disciples to take the injured participants away for treatment. The remaining students continued their journey into the tunnel. They tottered and trudged. Evidently, the test was not as simple as they had imagined. As time passed, participants exited the tunnel one after another¡ªdejection and grief on their pale faces. The average distance the first batch achieved was between 100 to 200 meters. Among the first batch, a student from Donglu Academy had the best result but it was only 400 meters. The outer sect disciples of the Sword Guild had to walk 800 meters to earn their ce in the inner sect. The best participant from the first batch could only achieve half of the requirement. ¡°Second batch, get ready.¡± The old, scar-faced sword master instructed. He was not surprised by the disappointing results. The students in the second batch quickly gathered behind the line on the ground. Within this batch, Fang Lang noticed a familiar face¡ªhis next door neighbor, Song Qingyun of Beijiang Academy. Under the sword master¡¯s order, the students entered the tunnel. Learning from the mistakes of the first batch, they entered the tunnel with steady steps. This time, no one was instantly disqualified. Nheless, the results of the second group were not ster. Song Qingyun only managed to travel 500 meters into the tunnel. The cruel reality of the test finally dawned upon the students. The students who were initially excited for the event were quickly discouraged. Third batch! Fang Lang recognized another student among the group¡ªLin Yun of Donglu Academy! Lin Yun carried his metal de on his back. His icy-cold eyes scanned the crowd and paused on Fang Lang for a second. Then, he strode into the tunnel. As the disciple of Donglu¡¯s God of des, Lin Yun¡¯s performance was unsurprisingly much better than the other students¡¯. Like an unsheathed de, he cut through all the obstacles in front of him and traveled through the tunnel at great speed! 400 meters, 500 meters, 600 meters! Lin Yun broke the record with ease. Lin Yun did not stop and his forward momentum carried on. The students gasped and cheered as they watched. When Lin Yun reached the 800-meter mark, his pace began to slow. The moment he slowed down, it seemed as if all his energy left his body. It became impossible to continue forward. Finally, after reaching the 879-meter markl, Lin Yun retreated with a ghastly pale face. His result of 879 meters impressed even the old scarred sword master. As the sweat-drenched Lin Yun stepped out of the tunnel, he turned to Fang Lang and lifted his chin challengingly. It was the fourth batch¡¯s turn. Jiang Linglong left Fang Lang¡¯s side. Fang Lang froze as a sudden realization hit him. His expression showed a hint of disappointment. ¡®I don¡¯t get to walk the tunnel with Jiang Linglong. I lost a chance to have a meaningful interaction with her...¡¯ Fang Lang was curious to find out Old Jiang¡¯s limit. Thanks to Fang Lang, Jiang Linglong did not get the chance to show off her true strength during the teampetition. Fang Lang was very excited to witness her power. The old scarred sword master nced at Jiang Linglong, who still had her veil over her face. She stood out among the crowd of students. At hismand, the fourth batch of students stepped into the tunnel. It was the first time Jiang Linglong drew the White Frost de. Jiang Linglong sliced through the sword intent radiating from at the end of the tunnel. Her de sang as it shed with the energy pulses. The sword intent was deflected by her de, flowing around her like ripples of water. Jiang Linglong advanced effortlessly. After 100 meters, she touched the tip of her de to the ground. Every 100 meters, Jiang Linglong touched the tip of her de to tunnel floor¡ªslicing apart the sword intent¡ªthen continued forward. One after the other, the students around her stagered and retreated. Meanwhile, Jiang Linglong continued forward effortlessly, like a lone ship wading across the ocean. Compared to Lin Yun, Jiang Linglong sauntered through the tunnel with much less effort. Even when fighting against the sword intent, her movements were still as elegant as poetry. However, when she reached the 800-meter mark, Jiang LingLong suddenly found it difficult to tap her de against the ground. Ding! A crisp sound reverberated through the tunnel as her White Frost de touched the tunnel floor. The sword intent was once again deflected. Jiang Linglong made progress with small and gentle steps. 900 meters, 910 meter, 920 meters... At thest 100 meters, Jiang Linglong had to use her White Frost de every ten meters. With every swing, Jiang Linglong¡¯s green silk robe fluttered and her body shook violently. She was reaching her limit. The sword intent pressed on her White Frost de, making it arch dangerously! A shrill sound was heard! Her sword snapped back into shape. Jiang Linglong¡¯s body trembled. She stumbled back several steps. A hint of red slowly spread across her pure white veil. 920 meters. That was Old Jiang¡¯s final result. Her result had stunned everyone. Even the Sword Guild disciples could not hide their astonishment. However, Jiang Linglong¡¯s eyes were dark¡ªthe shining stars in her eyes had extinguished. In the end, she could not reach the Blooming Lotus Sword. Jiang Linglong exited the tunnel with a heavy heart. ¡°Fifth batch, get ready!¡± Just as Fang Lang was about to console her, the old sword master shouted for the fifth batch. Fang Lang had no choice but to proceed toward the line made at the tunnel entrance. Liu Bubai stood behind Fang Lang. He rubbed his hand across his fancy sword. Liu Bubai was in the sixth batch. The boy stared at Fang Lang, pouting. For some reason, an odd feeling overcame Liu Bubai. ¡®Have I developed some special intuition for winning without contributing? ¡®But... ¡®This is an individual event... How can anyone carry me to victory?¡¯ Chapter 34

Chapter 34: Initially, He Wanted to Put in the Effort

Trantor: EndlessFantasy Trantion Editor: EndlessFantasy Trantion At the opening of the tunnel, before the starting line. Fang Lang¡¯s green robe fluttered as he held his steel sword in his hand. Unlike Jiang Linglong and the others, he did not have a special weapon. Lu Ze strolled to his side, dressed in a humble robe. The boy reeked of alcohol. With a loud gulp, he downed the wine in his bottle gourd, ncing at Fang Lang from the corner of his eye. Coincidentally, Lu Ze was also in the fifth batch. Lu Ze did not say a word. He continued to down his wine. His injuries had already healed but the psychological impact of his defeat still lingered. In truth, Lu Ze did not expect to end up in the same batch as Fang Lang. The surprise encounter fueled Lu Ze¡¯s resolve to win¡ªhe wanted to duel Fang Lang once more. Nevertheless, Lu Ze hade to ept his defeat in the team event. Fang Lang¡¯s mastery of the Four Season Form had caught him off guard but that was not a valid excuse for losing. ¡°Let¡¯s see who can travel the furthest?¡± Lu Ze turned to Fang Lang and raised his bottle gourd. Fang Lang merely nced at him and said nothing. The old scarred sword master studied the batch of 100 students with his eagle eyes. Then, he announced in an aloof manner, ¡°Begin!¡± At hismand, the 100 students in the fifth batch entered the tunnel. Lu Ze grinned. He lowered his bottle gourd and unsheathed the sword on his back. With confident strides, he entered the tunnel. Fang Lang took a deep breath. He drew out his sword and followed suit. ... The moment Fang Lang entered the tunnel, he felt as if the world was instantly warping before his eyes. The sky and the ground spun, the stars seemed to have shifted positions and even the mountains and rivers were unrecognizable! All that was left was the ever-expanding tunnel and the enormous sword suspended at the end of it. The sword glowed in the tunnel. The single drop of blood that clung to it was as mysterious as the blood moon. ¡®Am I dreaming?¡¯ Fang Lang wondered. Overwhelmed by the strangeness of it all, Fang Lang froze on the spot. Boom! Suddenly, the giant sword hanging high above their heads trembled slightly, sending out a powerful pulse of de energy. The ground shook¡ªthe pulse of energy felt as if it could annihte the rivers and mountains within ten thousand miles. The air turned heavier than steel. Fang Lang found it hard to even lift his feet. He tilted his head up and nced at the gigantic sword floating in the air. The de was the ultimate goal of this test. The sword exuded peculiar waves of energy¡ªording to Jiang Linglong, that was its sword intent. ¡®So to continue forward through this tunnel, all we have to do is ovee the sword intent?¡¯ Fang Lang pondered for a while. He had his guesses but the sword intent was something tooplicated and unfamiliar to him. ording to the textbooks, sword intent could only be unlocked after bing a fourth-ss sword master. Only then would they begin to develop their own sword intent. Fang Lang was still miles away from achieving that. Nheless, it did not stop Fang Lang from trying. Firstly, he had to figure out a way to ovee the sword intent. From his observation of the previous four batches, he noticed that everyone, including Lin Yun and Jiang Linglong, had chosen to proceed by conquest. That was because conquering the sword intent was less risky than trying to embrace it¡ªthere was a smaller margin for error when it came to conquering it. If he hit a dead end in trying to understand the sword intent, he would be rooted on the spot. Even so, the benefits of understanding and appreciating the sword intent were enormous! Fang Lang took some time to process his thoughts. Then, he came to a final decision. ¡®System, activate Dual Binding Mode and the 3X Amplification Card!¡¯ Fang Lang ordered. He felt the spiritual energy pulse in his body. ¡®Switchingplete. Under Dual Binding Mode, the duration of 3X Amplification Card¡¯s effect is reduced to two hours. ¡®Please take care of your body. Happy cultivating!¡¯ The System¡¯s notification popped up then faded away. Fang Lang felt the presence of two figures beside him¡ªthey were silhouettes of Jiang Linglong and Ni Wen. They walked through the tunnel with Fang Lang, shoulder to shoulder. Fang Lang¡¯s mind became clearer than ever. With the 3X Amplification Card and ten percent of Ni Wen¡¯s cultivating abilities, Fang Lang¡¯s core strength exceeded that of even Old Jiang! Whoosh! The countless waves of sword intent took form in front of Fang Lang¡¯s eyes. He could see clearly with his eyes¡ªthey were like pulses of air currents travelling through the tunnel. He could even decipher the direction and rate at which the pulses were emitted. Fang Lang continued forward, clutching his steel de. He analyzed the sword intent as he continued on like a fish swimming against the currents. ... Outside the tunnel. Some participants of the fifth batch were beginning to exit the tunnel. The number of students inside the tunnel gradually decreased. Lu Ze continued on at an impressive pace. He harbored a strong will topete and win against Fang Lang. He rushed through the tunnel as if riding on a wave. Of course, Fang Lang was not his only opponent¡ªhe aimed to break both Lin Yun and Jiang Linglong¡¯s records too. Hispetitive streak made his heart beat wildly. Momentster, Lu Ze reached the 700-meter mark and drank another gulp of wine. With unsteady steps, he fought through the sword intent with his Drunken Sword Style and made it to the 800-meter mark. ¡®Keep going... Keep going...¡¯ Lu Ze told himself. With his wine as hispanion, Lu Ze powered through the tunnel. Boom! Lu Ze¡¯s bottle gourd exploded with a deafening sound! The wine was evaporated into vapor that dissipated. Lu Ze¡¯s body trembled. He let out a muffled grunt. Finally, he stopped at the 890-meter mark. It was a brilliant result¡ªa stone¡¯s throw away from Jiang Linglong. Lu Ze was quite satisfied with his results.He knew Jiang Linglong¡¯s true identity and the strength of her core. He could ept the defeat. In terms of core, Jiang Linglong¡¯s was far more superior than his. Lu Ze only had a yellow core of 88. After exiting the tunnel, the first thing the sweat-soaked Lu Ze did was look back. When he saw that Fang Lang was only at the 400-meter mark, his heart bloomed with joy! ¡®That¡¯s the best he can do? ¡®400 meters? ¡®After so long, he only traveled 400 meters?¡¯ He thought Fang Lang would be his greatest rival and their results would be within meters of each other. To his surprise, he had travelled twice the distance Fang Lang did. ¡®Guess this is the end.¡¯ A victorious smile appeared on Lu Ze¡¯s face. ¡®Even though I lost in our previous match, I won this time.¡¯ ¡°What are you smiling about? Get to the back! Don¡¯t be an eyesore, loitering here in front of the tunnel,¡± the old scarred sword master chided. After that, the old man turned his attention away from Lu Ze and stared curiously into the tunnel. His gaze was fixed on the boy who had his steel sword lowered. The boy was slowly moving through the tunnel with his eyes closed. The green robe fluttered and the scar on the sword master¡¯s face twitched. ¡°Is he... embracing the sword intent? ¡°The boy¡¯s got guts! I can¡¯t believe he chose to embrace the sword intent instead of conquering it! Understanding the sword intent is much more challenging than conquering it! ¡°The fact that he reached the 400-meter mark by embracing the sword intent ismendable.¡± A peculiar look appeared in the old scar-faced sword master¡¯s eyes. He noticed Fang Lang¡¯s strategy and was impressed. After being scolded by the scarred old sword master, Lu Ze instantly felt something was off. He had traveled almost 900 meters up the tunnel, yet in the eyes of the old sword master, his achievement was less significant than Fang Lang¡¯s 400 meters? Among the crowd, Jiang Linglong kept her disappointment hidden and fixed her eyes on Fang Lang. She had also noticed that Fang Lang chose to embrace the sword intent to advance. In truth, Jiang Linglong had contemted using that method too, but shecked the confidence. The sword intent left behind by Sect Leader Taihua was much tooplicated for her toprehend. If she had chosen to understand the sword intent, she was sure she would not make it far. Fang Lang had done what she feared to do. At that moment, Jiang Linglong was filled with anticipation and curiosity. ¡®Fang Lang... How far can he go?¡¯ ... Outside the Great Barrier. The mentors who arrived on their flight swords were all bbergasted. ¡°Fang Lang of Luojiang Academy... Instead of conquering the sword intent, he chose to embrace it?¡± ¡°Sect Leader Taihua¡¯s sword intent is incrediblyplex. He willingly chose a difficult route for himself.¡± ¡°What a shame... Judging from his performance in the team event, Fang Lang might stand a chance to reach the 800-meter mark and gain additional points for the Imperial Examination. If only he had chosen to conquer it...¡± The mentors chattered among themselves. Mentor Wen¡¯s brows were knitted tightly together. Fang Lang¡¯s choice was a surprise to him too. He sighed inaudibly. ¡®This boy... just doing things as he pleases... ¡®The sword intent was left behind by Sect Leader Taihua. It can¡¯t be easy to unravel.¡¯ ... Chao Xiaojianid sideways on the roof of a building, a lock of white hair draped in front of his face. Before him was a blue and white porcin wine set. Ripples formed on the surface of the wine in his cup. Dressed in his white robe, Chao Xiaojian held his wine cup in his hand. The ongoing event within the tunnel was reflected in his eyes. His lips curled up with interest. ¡°Oh? Would you look at that... ¡°Throughout the centuries, you are the third person who dares to ovee the sword intent by embracing it. ¡°The two before you made it all the way to the 910-meter and 900-meter marks. Today, one is known as the Drunken de Lord, while the other, the God of des...¡± ¡°How far will you reach, boy?¡± ... Inside the tunnel. Tiny beads of sweat rolled down Fang Lang¡¯s forehead. With Dual Binding Mode and 3X Amplification Card activated, Fang Lang analyzed every pulse of sword intent that came his way. Fang Lang¡¯s appreciation for the sword intent caused the pulses to diffract around him, like the tide of the river diffracting around a boulder. Bit by bit, Fang Lang inched forward. However, every 100 meters he passed, the pressure of the sword intent would redouble. The mind-bendinglyplex sword intent would once again send Fang Lang into a state of confusion. ... Outside the tunnel. The atmosphere was silent. Everyone started intently into the tunnel. They did not even dare to breathe loudly. Every participant of the fifth batch had retreated from the tunnel¡ªonly a lonesome figure remained within. The crowd watched as Fang Lang continued on alone toward the levitating sword at the end of the tunnel. 500 meter, 600 meters, 700 meters... Swaying left and right, Fang Lang looked as if he would topple over any second! Slowly but surely, he advanced! Even Lu Ze was speechless. He stared at Fang Lang intently. At that moment, he finally realized Fang Lang had chosen apletely different approach to the tunnel test. ... ¡®This is hard! ¡®Really hard!¡¯ The difficulty would give anyone who tried a sense of hopelessness. Fang Lang staggered forward. His green robe was thoroughly drenched. He did not know how far he had traveled but the path before him felt endless. Nheless, he gritted his teeth and continued on. At longst, Fang Lang reached the 800-meter mark! The suspended sword at the end of the tunnel trembled again. It emitted strong pulses of sword intent that crashed into Fang Lang like a tsunami. Fang Lang felt as if he was being crushed by the waves of sword intent! ¡®Too hard...¡¯ Fang Lang gasped for air. Initially, he wanted to put in the effort... Unfortunately, he only had one chance to reach an epiphany. It would be a shame if he missed the chance. ¡®Forget it,¡¯ he thought. ¡°System, activate the Enlightenment Card...¡± Chapter 35

Chapter 35: Retrieving the Sword

1 Trantor: EndlessFantasy Trantion Editor: EndlessFantasy Trantion ¡®Enlightenment Card: Activation of this card increases the cultivation inspiration of the host by 100-fold. Card can be used along with binding partners¡¯ cultivation mode. ¡®Ding! Enlightenment Card activated. Duration of effect is 30 minutes. ¡®Happy cultivating!¡¯ The System¡¯s notifications appeared. A momentter, Fang Lang felt as if he was surrounded by countless beams of white light. His mind felt clearer than ever. The sword intenting at him suddenly appeared organized and easily decipherable. Suddenly, the overwhelming sword intent emitted by the legendary sword was turned into a gentle breeze. Whoosh. His green robe fluttered in the wind. The loose strands of his hair caressed his forehead. Fang Lang stood between the silhouettes of Ni Wen and Jiang Linglong. When he opened his eyes, the silhouettes seemed to be emitting light from their eyes! The pressure around him dropped significantly! Fang Lang extended his hand and grabbed at the sword intenting his way. He felt the sword intent flow through his fingers like a stream of water. He heard a buzzing sound. Then, a scene unfolded before his eyes. ... At the Great Barrier. In the demon world that lied behind the portal, the gigantic head of a beast appeared. Its size could bepared to that of a mountain! It spat and roared, revealing rows of sharp teeth. Its demonic energy filled the air! Before the gigantic beast... The silhouette of a man stood with a longsword in hand. He made an elegant strike. His movements were calm and effortless. The demonic beast retreated. The world in front of the man was cut in half as if it was merely a painting! Mountains were shattered and rivers were terminated! Tens of thousands of purple and gold lotuses bloomed on the beast¡¯s head. The beast swayed. It clearly did not belong in the human realm. The giant beast head was swallowed by the flowers and it vanished into thin air. A thick drop of blood stained the man¡¯s sword. ... That was the sword intent of the Sword Guild¡¯s leader, Xuanyuan Taihua! The Blooming Lotus de. The de that made lotus flowers blossom. With the aid of the Enlightenment Card, Fang Lang experienced rity like never before. He felt as if the gigantic sword floating above his head was slowly approaching him. No! He was the one approaching the de! He sprinted forward. The pulses of sword intent danced around him. Beneath his feet, blossoms of purple de energy formed. As his foot touched the ground, his de energy bloomed into a spiralling lotus blossom. Every step he took spawned a flower! He felt as if the blossoms were lifting him up toward the sword! The essence of a sword mastery skill began to take form within Fang Lang¡¯s mind¡ªit was the skill incorporated within Taihua¡¯s sword intent. Tens of thousands of lotus flowers bloomed. Fang Lang leaped onto the lotuses, using them as stairs. The legendary sword was within Fang Lang¡¯s reach. He could already feel the sharpness of the sword that hung in the air! Fang Lang reached out his hand; it looked as if he could reach the stars. He extended his finger gently. His finger touched the de. Fang Lang appeared as if he wasmunicating with the sword, asking for permission from the gods above. A crisp ringing sound reverberated through the air, causing the de energy below to gurgle and boil. ... At the Great Barrier. Outside the tunnel, there was pindrop silence. The atmosphere felt particrly strange. Everyone stared at the boy within the tunnel who was swaying left and right as if plodding through a storm. They watched as Fang Lang stumbled through 800 meters of the tunnel. The sword suspended at the end of the tunnel sent out a st of sword intent. The sword intent surged outward. Everyone thought Fang Lang was at his limit. The next second, everyone was dumbfounded... Fang Lang¡¯s body shook. He seemed to have used the sword intent to power forward! He not only withstood the wave of sword intent, he even sped up as he continued further into the tunnel! 800 meters, 900 meters... 910, 920, 930... He did not stop for a second! Like a ghost, the boy floated further and further into the tunnel! He looked as if he was taking a stroll in the park! Shocked beyond belief, chatter erupted among the crowd. ¡°What¡¯s going on?¡± ¡°Is the tunnel broken?¡± The old scarred sword master widened his eyes. The prominent scar on his face twitched. Even his breathing became ragged! He stared at Fang Lang as the boy traveled more than 900 meters up the tunnel by embracing the sword intent! The distance between Fang Lang and the floating de became shorter and shorter! ¡°Impossible! That¡¯s impossible!¡± Lu Ze and Lin Yun eximed simultaneously¡ªthey were trembling. ¡°Shut up! ¡°Why are you two being so loud? Do you have a death wish?¡± The old scarred sword master gave Lu Ze and Lin Yun a death re. The two boys suddenly felt an enormous wave of energy rushing toward them. They were flung meters backward! The surrounding students quieted down. They were all brimming with anticipation, yet no one dared to make a single sound or even breathe heavily. Their eyes were fixed on the tunnel. Jiang Linglong clenched her fists, her beautiful eyes tracked Fang Lang. Standing beside her, Liu Bubai was preupied with his own thoughts. Pale-faced, he kept muttering to himself, ¡®It can¡¯t be... It can¡¯t be, right?¡¯ ... In the tunnel. The boy¡¯s footsteps were steady. He moved confidently toward the hovering de. The distance between the boy and the sword became shorter and shorter. Until they became one... The boy¡¯s hand grasped the sword. It was as if he was holding the world in his hand. The next moment, the entire realm fell silent. Not a sound was heard in the tunnel or the Great Barrier. Except the roar of the mighty de. ... Crunch! The blue and white porcin cup in Chao Xiaojian¡¯s hand was shattered! The wine in his cup waspletely vaporized! ¡°He... He grabbed the sword? ¡°Did the sword choose him? Did he subdue the de?¡± Confusion and disbelief was evident in Chao Xiaojian¡¯s eyes. ¡®Impossible...¡¯ he thought. From his observations, Fang Lang never stood a chance at touching the sword. In fact, 800 meters should have been his limit. ¡®But... Fang Lang is holding the de. It had to be true!¡¯ ¡°Hahahaha... amazing! As expected of a student that I, Chao Xiaojian, saw potential in! ¡°But what a shame... I can¡¯t overrule the Emperor. Otherwise, this boy would be in the inner sect this instant! Ah, what a shame...¡± Chao Xiaojianughed merrily. He grabbed his wine pot and brought it to his mouth. He drank the wine right from the pot! As he downed the pot of wine, his expressions suddenly froze. ¡®Anyone who touches the sword can have it.¡¯ That was what he said when he was riling up the students. ¡®That means... ¡®F*ck. ¡®We lost the de.¡¯ ... Fang Lang gently tapped the giant sword suspended in the air. The moment he touched the de, a gust of sword intent encapsted him! It all happened in an instant! A loud roar sounded beside him. The single drop of blood on the sword was slowly dripping down. The bead sped up as it fell! Finally... The single drop of blood turned into a bloody figure. The terrifying figure flew above the sword with its mouth wide open. It dived straight toward Fang Lang! The incredible pressure made Fang Lang gasp for air! The color drained from his face! The drop of blood on the de... It came to life! Fang Lang snapped out of his daze. In an instant, everything in the tunnel became clear to him. He could clearly see the legendary sword in his hand! The single drop of blood on the de had morphed into a beast that was pouncing straight at Fang Lang! It was a test! Fang Lang knew immediately. If he could not subdue the physical embodiment of the sword¡¯s demonic energy, he was incapable of wielding it. He would be unworthy of the sword! The beast roared! The students felt a shiver run down their spines! The old scarred sword master had his hand on his sword¡¯s hilt. His eyes were incredibly sharp and focused. A gust of wind blew. A momentter, Chao Xiaojian appeared above the tunnel in his white robe. His gaze was fixed on the tunnel. If Fang Lang failed to conquer the demonic energy of the blood mist, Chao Xiaojian would step in immediately. He could also use this opportunity to retrieve the legendary sword. Boom! The blood mist came at Fang Lang. Fang Lang kept a tight grip on the Blooming Lotus Sword while his other hand held his steel sword. He swung both des at the blood mist. His powers were enhanced by the Dual Binding Mode, a 3X Amplification Card and an Enlightenment Card! Hisbat power at that moment was greater than when he fought Lu Ze in the teampetition! Sword Draw Technique! His de roared! His spiritual energy poured out of his body. As he struck his steel de out, the air warped around it! He aimed straight for the blood mist! His de collided with the mist! The steel sword shattered into pieces! The fragments shot out at high speeds, spiralling as they bounced against the walls of the tunnel. The blood mist morphed into a beast¡¯s head. Its sharp-toothed maw chomped at Fang Lang¡¯s direction. The moment his de shattered, Fang Lang¡¯s heart sank. Terrified shrieks could be heard. The students watched anxiously. Jiang Linglong tightened her grip on her White Frost de. Her eyebrows were knitted together¡ªshe could not help but worry. Above the tunnel. Chao Xiaojian¡¯s fingereds twitched. He let out a sigh and got ready to interrupt. ¡®The boy has done enough. ¡®Unfortunately... ¡®Huh?¡¯ Chao Xiaojian staggered. Within the tunnel, a wild look appeared in Fang Lang¡¯s eyes. He threw away the hilt of his steel sword and raised his hand, pressing his middle finger against his thumb. He aimed his fingers at the approaching blood mist! Fang Lang flicked his finger. Finger Flick Energy Wave! Waves of de energy shot out like the ripples formed when a stone was dropped into a stagnant pond. The invisible de energy spread out. Explosions filled the air. The beast froze as if time had stopped. A secondter, the beast warped and distorted. Then, it exploded with a loud bang! However, the demonic energy did not disappear. It coalesced and charged at Fang Lang again! Fang Lang wore a wild and determined expression. He flicked his fingers again. Air currents formed between his fingers. Boom! A piercing sound! The Blooming Lotus Sword vibrated as if deeming Fang Lang worthy of its powers. It no longer hovered in the air. The de fell onto the ground. The crowd was hypnotized by the scene. All they saw was a field of de energy lotus flowers forming around Fang Lang. The blossoms swallowed the blood mist. With an ear-piercing shriek, the demonic energy vanished. The flowers filled the tunnel, growing between the cracks on the walls and ground left by other swords. The tunnel was gone... A deadly silence filled the venue. Liu Bubai, who was watching from outside the tunnel, let out an ill-timed whimper. His intuition for being carried was correct! The tunnel had copsed because Fang Lang had imed the sword. How would the participants of the sixth batchpete? This time, he was not carried to victory... He was carried to defeat! Chapter 36

Chapter 36: Unavoidable

Trantor: EndlessFantasy Trantion Editor: EndlessFantasy Trantion Smoke and dust billowed as the wind roared. Fine debris was blown into the air. In the aftermath of the tunnel¡¯s destruction, Fang Lang stood in the center of the passageway with a sword in hand. Dressed in his pristine green robe, he looked like an erect bamboo standing with pride. Time seemed to stop at that moment. Outside the tunnel, the students could not tear their eyes away from Fang Lang. The wind stirred up plumes of smoke and Fang Lang¡¯s fringe swayed in the breeze. There was an inexplicable charm to the boy holding the sword. The sword in Fang Lang¡¯s hand was razor-sharp. The metal body reflected the light¡ªfine, inscrutable carvings were etched into the de. The sword hilt was wrapped in a material simr to crocodile leather while the guard was a ck lotus flower design. As the three-foot sword wavered, the surrounding air buffeted. Whoosh! The ground of the tunnel was cleaved in half like a tofu. A clean cut! Sharp! Fang Lang did not wish to part with the sword. He had only ever wielded the academy-issued swords. Those swords were no match to the one he currently held. Swoosh! Two silhouettes entered in the tunnel. The old scarred sword master and Chao Xiaojian appeared at the same moment. Chao Xiaojian flicked his sleeves and a gale scattered the smoke. The old scarred sword master greeted Chao Xiaojian with his cupped fist. Chao Xiaojian nodded then turned to Fang Lang and the sword. ¡°You managed to retrieve the sword!¡± Chao Xiaojian eximed. Fang Lang was surprised by the voice. He replied nkly, ¡°Is it supposed to be hard? The Sword Guild has an abundance of talented people. You¡¯re telling me no one has ever touched this sword?¡± Chao Xiaojian was speechless. The silence made Fang Lang shiver. None? No wonder Chao Xiaojian made the earlier promise. ¡°Vice Leader Chao¡¯s promise still stands, right? The sword belongs to whoever that holds it?¡± Fang Lang asked tremulously as he gripped the sword. Chao Xiaojian angled his head sideways and said, ¡°Did I say that? This sword belongs to Sect Leader Taihua. I have no say over its ownership.¡± Fang Lang¡¯s expression darkened. ¡®You useless piece of trash. ¡®Don¡¯t be shameless. ¡®That wasn¡¯t what you said just now!¡¯ Chao Xiaojian was mildly embarrassed by his behavior. His lips twitched. ¡°Fine. I¡¯m not an unreasonable person. Join the Sword Guild and you can have the sword.¡± ¡°The inner sect?¡± Fang Lang angled the sword. Chao Xiaojian replied lightly, ¡°You¡¯ll spend three...no, two years in the outer sect. Then, you¡¯ll be exempted from the test and epted into the inner sect. The Tang Dynasty has strictws that are enforced by the Emperor. We aren¡¯t allowed to bring you into the inner sect due to suchws.¡± Chao Xiaojian was intrigued¡ªalthough Fang Lang¡¯s core was average at best, his sword skills and techniques were unmatchable. It was as if the boy was possessed! Fang Lang had managed to budge Sect Leader Taihua¡¯s sword, what else could Chao Xiaojian say? Perhaps this was fate¡¯s intention. Through sword intent appreciation, Fang Lang took hold of the Blooming Lotus Sword and conquered the demonic blood mist, validating himself before the sword. In a sense, he was already half a disciple of Sect Leader Taihua. Hence, Chao Xiaojian could not let Fang Lang slip through his fingers. Fang Lang took a deep breath and said in a serious tone, ¡°If that¡¯s the case, I¡¯ll take my chances with the Imperial Examination. I¡¯ll pick the Sword Guild and enter the inner sect through the traditional way.¡± Chao Xiaojian rolled his eyes. A white core had little sway in the Imperial Examination. Fang Lang wouldg behind others from the start due to his white core. The Imperial Examination took into ount all aspects of cultivation, not only sword mastery¡ªthe spell mastery, martial arts mastery and theory subjects. There were too many uncertainties. The boy might not get the chance to stand out. Nevertheless, Chao Xiaojian decided he would let the boy have his way. He would keep an eye on Fang Lang and when he failed to score well in the Imperial Examination, the Sword Guild would be his only option. ¡°Fine. You can stop repeating your catchphrase. Since you managed to retrieve the sword, you can have a go at the Imperial Examination. When you fail, obediently return to the Sword Guild,¡± Chao Xiaojian said impatiently. ¡°The legendary sword has a spirit. Fate brought it to you but don¡¯t unt it. Take this sword box and care for it.¡± Chao Xiaojian raised his hand. The space ring was activated and a rosewood sword box flew at Fang Lang¡¯s direction. Fang Lang grabbed the sword box and deposited the Blooming Lotus Sword¡ªthe sword¡¯s energy flickered out. The smile on Fang Lang¡¯s face widened. ¡°Thank you for the sword, Vice Leader Chao! I wish you a century of blessings!¡± Fang Lang said giddily. Chao Xiaojian brushed the fallen hair aside and side-eyed Fang Lang. ¡°Is that a curse?¡± The question surprised Fang Lang. Chatter in the tunnel rose to an audible volume. Fang Lang had gotten his hands on Sect Leader Taihua¡¯s legendary sword¡ªthe turn of events was beyond anyone¡¯s expectations. Complex emotions shed past Jiang Linglong¡¯s eyes. Fang Lang had aplished something she struggled to do. For once, she seemed actually shocked and stunned. Lu Ze was also speechless. Who was Fang Lang? The students who had gone into the tunnel knew how intense the Blooming Lotus Sword was¡ªthe pressure it exerted was terrifying. To traverse 1,000 meters and retrieve the Blooming Lotus Sword was as onerous as reaching the heavens. Yet, Fang Lang had seeded. Lin Yun¡¯s eyes widened. He had joined the Gathering of Swords under his mentor¡¯s insistence to win the Blooming Lotus Sword. Unfortunately, the mission was a failure. The noise andmotion in the tunnel grew louder. The sixth and final batch of students were at a loss. Liu Bubai was one of them¡ªhe wanted to cry but no tears came. Would they be disqualified for doing nothing? What a tragedy. Most students knew they would not be able to make it past the 800-meter qualification line. However, to be ejected from thepetition without even trying was an affront. The old scarred sword master brought up the issue to Chao Xiaojian. Chao Xiaojian¡¯s gaze swept past the gathering of students. He intended to rece the legendary sword with his own but changed his mind at thest second. ¡°Due to unforeseen circumstances, participants of the sixth batch will receive three extra points in the Imperial Examination. Rest assured, I will personally speak to the Minister of Rites about this issue,¡± Chao Xiaojian said. Three extra points in the Imperial Examination was a blessing for the sixth batch of students. A quick scan by Chao Xiaojian revealed no promising sword disciples. If they had set foot into the tunnel and not reached the qualification line, they would not gain even a single point. Chao Xiaojian¡¯s words made the students in the tunnel gasp. The sixth batch of students were ted at the announcement. Truly, those who ask will be rewarded. Liu Bubai was in a daze. ¡®I¡¯m being rewarded for doing nothing?¡¯ His initial n was to lose the individual event but he ended up winning without lifting a finger. He could not escape the phenomenon. Turn after turn... He felt a bit dizzy. However, he was d to learn another form of easy win. ... The Gathering of Sword ended with Fang Lang¡¯s retrieval of the Blooming Lotus Sword and the partial copse of the tunnel. The Sword Guild used the messenger rune to transmit the final results of thepetition to Imperial City. Two Sword Guild disciples rode to Luojiang Academy to deliver the results¡ªone for the teambat, the other for the individual event. Luojiang Academy had the honor of receiving both victories. As for the participants who managed to pass the 400-meter mark in the individual event, the Sword Guild extended a weing invitation. Many students decided to join the Sword Guild then and there. Of course, there were students who rejected the offer as they wished to challenge themselves in the Imperial Examination. The Sword Guild did not force the issue. The sixth batch of students who received the additional marks were not offered an invitation. Liu Bubai was dejected as he felt he could make it through 400 meters had the tunnel survived. His performance in the teambat and the individual event was subpar so his only choice was to go through with the Imperial Examination. Thepetition ended and the students were not allowed to stay at the Great Barrier. The Great Barrier was the Sword Guild¡¯s demon portal. It was a dangerous ce as the demon worldid on the other end of the portal. Encounters with demons were frequent here. Chao Xiaojian pulled out the giant flight sword and ferried the 600 students away from the Great Barrier. The groupnded on the za atop Mount Shu. After a moment of rest, the awards ceremony for the Gathering of Swords began. Luojiang Academy won first ce in teambat and was awarded five spots in the outer sect of the Sword Guild. Fang Lang received 30 extra points that would benefit him greatly in the uing Imperial Examination. Liu Bubai was pleased that he obtained 13 extra points without contributing much. Jiang Linglong had no need for points or material things, therefore she could notprehend Fang Lang and Liu Bubai¡¯s joy. Chapter 37

Chapter 37: Innate Sword Intent Seed

Trantor: EndlessFantasy Trantion Editor: EndlessFantasy Trantion Dang! Dang! The bell signaled the end of sses in Luojiang Academy. The sound carried across the academy grounds. The silence of the academy ended as chatter erupted from the study blocks. The students filed out of the study halls, eager to begin their after-school activities. Some headed for the entertainment houses while some went drinking. The setting sun lit the academy and gave it a fiery appearance. Ni Wen packed her things and stood from her seat. A swift nce at Fang Lang¡¯s vacant seat made her purse her lips. Then, she followed the flow of students out of the study block. ¡°Ni Wen!¡± Yang Zhengyi called out from a distance. He flipped his fringe and smiled at her. The greeting made Ni Wen retreat into her oversized green robe. Her head lowered, she turned and shuffled away in the opposite direction. Without Fang Lang present, Ni Wen did not wish to associate herself with the Yang family¡¯s idealistic young master. Her mother said the rich boys always meant trouble. Fang Lang was an exemption, Ni Wen believed. He was absent for the third day and she missed... No, it made no sense! Yang Zhengyi watched the wandering Ni Wen. He took no offense at her avoidance. If not for Fang Lang, Yang Zhengyi and Ni Wen would have never interacted. Moreover, he had little interest in a scrawny girl like Ni Wen. There were prettier flowers in the entertainment house. Yang Zhengyi smiled and brushed back his hair. He gave Liu Hao¡ªwho was a few feet behind Ni Wen¡ªa re. Liu Hao¡¯s expression darkened. When Liu Hao heard of Fang Lang¡¯s departure for the Gathering of Swords, he had nned to make a move on Ni Wen and improve her impression of him. However, he was constantly sabotaged by Yang Zhengyi. Fist clenched, Liu Hao turned and left with anger in his chest. ¡®Just you wait, you bunch of rich bastards! ¡®Every dog has his day. Do not bully...¡¯ Huh? An oppressive aura descended over the academy. Every student froze on the spot. Heads turned to the sky. Two streaks of multicolored light shot out from the sunset and rushed toward the academy. Whoosh! The air st disturbed the atmosphere. Two white-robed figures stepped down from the sophisticated flight swords. The spinning runes around the flight sword caught the attention of many. The students of Luojiang Academy were shocked. Who were they? The intense aura washed over the academy grounds. Mentors stepped out of the study blocks in response. From above, the old, hunchbacked Headmaster Cui took small steps down an imaginary staircase. The impressive scene made the students gasp in wonderment. Headmaster Cui¡¯s heavy-woven sleeves fluttered in the air as he came to greet the two Sword Guild disciples. ¡°We are members of the Sword Guild¡¯s inner sect, here to pass on news about the Gathering of Swords.¡± Headmaster Cui was surprised, then happiness shone in his eyes. He folded his hands and said, ¡°I am the headmaster of Luojiang Academy.¡± ¡°Greetings.¡± The two disciples quickly returned the bow. Although they were part of an elite sect, they remained humble. The Tang Dynasty had 3,000 academies and it was best to treat every headmaster with respect. Some headmasters were retired top-ss cultivators. The personal visit by the Sword Guild disciples hinted at Luojiang Academy¡¯s ster performance in the Gathering of Swords. Having two disciples meant good news for both the teambat and the individual event. Headmaster Cui¡¯s mood was instantly brightened. ¡°Hahaha! Wee, wee!¡± the headmaster said with a chuckle. Anticipating the good news, he treated the guests with utmost hospitality. One of the disciples smiled and lifted his hand. With a snap of his fingers, de energy bloomed like a lotus flower from his hand. The energy spun and lights shimmered captivatingly. ¡°Congrattions, Luojiang Academy for winning first ce in the teambat. ording to the Ministry of Rites, the ster performance has earned the academy five secure spots in the Sword Guild¡¯s outer sect.¡± The disciple had utilized his spiritual energy to broadcast the announcement throughout the academy. Echos of the announcement could even be heard in Luojiang City. The shes of light died down, then a golden scroll appeared in the disciple¡¯s hand. The scroll hovered in the air and unravelled. Academy names shone on the scroll. Luojiang Academy was at the top of the list. Below Luojiang Academy was Beijiang Academy, then Changan Academy... An uproar of cheers erupted. Themotion shook the sky. Seeing their academy¡¯s name at the top of the golden scroll excited the students. The result was a surprise even to Headmaster Cui. First...ce? First ce in teambat? ¡°The Jiang family¡¯s daughter won the teambat with two average sword disciples? The gold cores are not a joke!¡± Headmaster Cui was all smiles. On the ground, discussions and gossip broke out among the crowd. ¡°We ced first in the Sword Guild¡¯s Gathering of Swords?¡± ¡°The team consists of Liu Bubai from the first block and Fang Lang from the seventh block. There¡¯s another unknown individual. Man, Liu Bubai is amazing! He brought the team to victory with a fifth-grade sword disciple in tow!¡± ¡°Liu Bubai is truly Luojiang Academy¡¯s sword genius! Ranked seven in the academy! Powerful!¡± ... There was a never-ending discourse among the students. Ni Wen and Yang Zhengyi were surprised by Luojiang Academy¡¯s performance in the Gathering of Swords. Fang Lang would receive an extra ten points which was great news! Liu Hao¡¯s lips were downturned. He believed the team would have achieved the same results if he took Fang Lang¡¯s ce. What use was a fifth-grade sword disciple? Fang Lang probably just hung back and let the other two students handle thepetition. At the horizon, the setting sun rays lit the sky. The second Sword Guild disciple took a step forward. Light shot out from his hand. His voice was loud and clear. ¡°Congrattions Fang Lang of Luojiang Academy! Among the sword geniuses of 200 academies, Fang Lang sessfully ranked first in the individual event.¡± Then, a deadly silence filled the academy. Liu Hao was stone-faced, unwilling to believe the news. The other students were equally dumbfounded. What the hell? What about Luojiang¡¯s Young de God, Liu Bubai? ... The Gathering of Swords ended. The participants departed with their respective mentors. Few lingered¡ªthe Imperial Examination was uing and those who had not secure a spot in the Sword Guild were eager to resume their studies. Mentor Wen started up his sophisticated flight sword. He kept his word. Although Liu Bubai contributed little in thepetition, Luojiang Academy still won. Mentor Wen did not go back on his word. Liu Bubai happily took hold of Mentor Wen¡¯s Trident flight sword and flew into the sky. He flewps around the area and once he was satisfied, hended with ruddy cheeks. Fang Land and Jiang Linglong said nothing. Jiang Linglong had not spoken to Fang Lang since he obtained the Blooming Lotus Sword. The awkwardness made it difficult for Fang Lang to engage in any form of interactions with Jiang Linglong. He knew thedy wanted the Blooming Lotus Sword. There was a chance Fang Lang might not give it up even if she asked. Therefore, a part of him was happy that she did not speak to him. The three students sat atop the flight sword. A silver rune spun at the sword guard. Liu Bubai was red-faced and filled with happiness. His legs still shook in excitement from his individual flight moments ago. Fang Lang and Old Jiang were deep in thought. ¡®Ding! The effect of the Enlightenment Card has ended. The host embraced the Blooming Lotus Sword¡¯s intent and experienced a beneficial cultivation enlightenment. The enlightenment has granted you the Secret Technique: Lotus de (Sword Mastery Specialty). ¡®The Secret Technique: Lotus de will be incorporated through mental memory and muscle memory. The ins and outs of the technique will be revealed to the host. Happy cultivating!¡¯ Fang Lang¡¯s eyes widened. A secret technique? The reward was beyond his expectations. Secret techniques were rare and most academies did not even teach them. Secret techniques were often tightly guarded. Just as Fang Lang was about to investigate this newly-acquired skill, Jiang Linglong spoke up. Jiang Linglong¡¯s eyes held gxies. ¡°Fang Lang, I know if I asked, you might relinquish the sword... But, I won¡¯t do that. Instead, I have a request,¡± she said in a sincere tone. Fang Lang nodded attentively and said, ¡°Go on.¡± ¡°After the Imperial Examination, I hope you can pay a visit to Imperial City. There¡¯s someone I would like you to meet.¡± Fang Lang met the eyes of the earnest Old Jiang and nodded. It was just a meeting, what was there to be afraid of? ¡°Will the person steal my sword?¡± he questioned. Jiang Linglong stared at him for a moment before replying, ¡°No. Don¡¯t worry. This is the Sect Leader Taihua¡¯s legendary sword. Few in the Tang Dynasty would dare to steal it.¡± Fang Lang chuckled. ¡°That¡¯s good to hear. Old Jiang, your words reassure me.¡± ¡°Old... Old Jiang?¡± Jiang Linglong was surprised. Her long eyshes fluttered and she blinked. Fang Lang¡¯s lips twitched. He was too fond of the nickname. ¡°I¡¯ll have to travel to Imperial City for the final section of the Imperial Examination. We can meet up then. I¡¯m not familiar with the area so Lady Jiang can take me around.¡± Fang Lang quickly switched the conversation topic. Jiang Linglong fixed Fang Lang with a stare. Then, she gave him a faint smile. ¡°Sure. The Imperial Examination... I¡¯ll wait for you then.¡± As Jiang Linglong finished her sentence, a notification chimed in Fang Lang¡¯s mind. ¡®Ding! Achievement mission unlocked! ¡®Achievement Mission: Cultivation goes beyond triple cultivation. A cultivator needs to strive for breakthroughs and aplishments! Work hard for the uing Imperial Examination. Have your name listed in the honor roll for the Imperial Examination and you¡¯ll be rewarded with an Innate Sword Intent Seed (the sword intent quality is based on the host¡¯s ranking in the honor roll) and a Silver Reward Egg.¡¯ Surprise registered on his face after he read the message. Innate Sword Intent Seed? The sword intent was a specialty of the fourth-ss sword master. His breathing picked up. Regardless, he had to get into the honor roll¡ªthe reward would just be a bonus. Chapter 38

Chapter 38: Please Maintain the Aloofness of an Iceberg

2 Trantor: EndlessFantasy Trantion Editor: EndlessFantasy Trantion The night sky was popted by stars and a bright moon. Mentor Wen operated the flight sword, ferrying the three students back to Luojiang City. The flight swordnded on the practice grounds of Luojiang Academy. The rune dissipated and the trio disembarked. Mentor Wen removed his Flight Sword Examination pass from the sword guard and banished the flight sword. The flight sword returned into the space ring. He gave the trio a satisfactory smile. ¡°I¡¯m proud of your performance in the Gathering of Swords. Fang Lang especially, you¡¯ve surprised me. Don¡¯t get cocky andcent. We¡¯re 21 days away from the Imperial Examination. You gave up your chance to enter the outer sect so best you prepare for theing exam,¡± Mentor Wen advised. Under the moonlight, Fang Lang spoke in a steady voice, ¡°I¡¯m working hard.¡± The Blooming Lotus Sword was strapped to his back. At the boy¡¯s confirmation, Mentor Wen nodded. He did not doubt Fang Lang¡¯s words. Fang Lang¡¯s Sword Draw Technique, Spirit Step and Dual Sword Technique were skills that required a lot of time and effort to master. The hardship Fang Lang had to go through was unimaginable. Due to his weak core, the boy had to work harder than others. ¡°I believe you¡¯ll achieve great things one day,¡± Mentor Wen said with a smile. ¡°Alright, go on home now.¡± Fang Lang, Liu Bubai and Jiang Linglong bowed. Mentor Wen gave them an easy smile before turning to leave. His silhouette disappeared into the night. The trio left the academy. Liu Bubai was the first to part ways with them. Jiang Linglong and Fang Lang continued their way down the main street. It was a quiet and lonely night on the street. The duo walked on without exchanging words. Momentster, the rhythmic sound of hooves on pavement was heard. Zhao Wuji arrived with a decorated carriage. He got down from the vehicle and made a respectful bow at Jiang Linglong. ¡°Mydy, thepetition has ended. It is time for us to head back to Imperial City.¡± ¡°I know,¡± came the neutral reply. Jiang Linglong turned to look at Fang Lang. The night was dark but the moonlight spilled from the sky. The stars in the youngdy¡¯s eyes sparkled. ¡°I¡¯ll know when youe to Imperial City. I¡¯ll be waiting.¡± A bright smile crossed her face and her eyes crinkled into crescent moons. Standing to one side, Zhao Wuji shivered. ¡®What... What was that?¡¯ He surreptitiously nced between Fang Lang and Jiang Linglong. The polite smile on his face twitched. There was a hint of fear in his eyes. F*ck! ¡®Fang Lang! What did you do to thedy? ¡®It was only three days! ¡®How quick was the boy?¡¯ Zhao Wuji had been careless. The smile on his face turned ugly. Seeing the cheerful smile beneath Jiang Linglong¡¯s veil made his chest pound. ¡®My... Mydy, you have to maintain the aloofness of an iceberg!¡¯ Jiang Linglong ignored the concerned Zhao Wuji. With a graceful leap, her slender body twisted into the carriage, green silk dancing in the air. Zhao Wuji sat in the driver¡¯s seat and held the reins. He gave Fang Lang aplex look. Thedy had made her decision. There was nothing he could do. He forgave the boy. Zhao Wuji¡¯s eyes were drawn toward the sword box on Fang Lang¡¯s back. The Blooming Lotus Sword. Fang Lang managed to retrieve it when thedy had failed? A confused expression crossed his face. With this sword in his possession, Fang Lang and thedy would undoubtedly cross paths again. ¡®Kid, you have a long journey ahead of you. You made this choice. You will face many hardships and obstacles that are beyond yourprehension...¡¯ Old Zhao sighed. ¡®Hopefully, you won¡¯t give up easily. I look forward to the next time we meet.¡¯ Zhao Wuji flicked the reins. The gant horse whinnied and raised its hooves. Fang Lang watched as light appeared beneath the hooves. Runes spun slowly on the ground, circling the horse. Dong! The horse trotted onto the light and the light scattered into a torrent of starlight. The wind picked up the carriage as the horse traveled the sky. The blinds of the tiny carriage window fluttered. The starry eyes of the youngdy disappearedpletely. Under the night sky, Fang Lang stood in the middle of the lonely main street. He stared at the departing horse carriage in the sky and let out a shaky breath. From the start to end, Fang Lang did not catch a glimpse of the face underneath the veil. The bright eyes were all he had to remember Old Jiang by. ¡°Unfortunately, with Old Jiang gone, I¡¯ll get less rewards.¡± Fang Lang sighed. What a shame. He tugged the straps of his sword box and turned to leave, green sleeves swaying with the motion. He looked like an uninhibited free spirit. A temporary separation for a better meet in the future. Fang Lang believed the next time he saw Old Jiang, they would have many cultivation-rted discussions. He would ensure they had meaningful interactions. ... When Fang Lang reached the Fang Manor, the servants were already fast asleep. His entrance startled the servant in charge of the night guard. The servant put on a robe and came to greet Fang Lang. Fang Lang asked about Old Fang¡¯s whereabouts and the servant informed him the old man was still out dealing with the ounts. Instead of heading to his room, Fang Lang left the Fang Manor in search of his father. He went to the market street owned by the Fang family. He saw the candlelight flicker in the dark as he approached. Fang Lang neared the building and peered into the window. He saw Old Fang squinting in the dim light of the oilmp. The old man was using an abacus as he checked the ount books. The faint illumination was tough on the old man¡¯s eyes. ¡°Old Fang,¡± Fang Lang called out as he approached with his newly-acquired sword on his back. The noise startled Old Fang. He put down the ledger, looked up and saw Fang Lang. Happiness crossed the old man¡¯s face. ¡°Ah! The Fang family sword genius is back!¡± Old Fang rushed out of the room in excitement. Fang Lang raised an eyebrow. ¡°Why¡¯re you doing the ounts at this hour? Can¡¯t you let the ountant do it tomorrow?¡± Old Fang waved his hand. The light from the me made his face red. ¡°You¡¯ve made your ancestors proud. Headmaster Cui informed me about your victory in the individual event. I must admit, I didn¡¯t believe it at first. ¡°I hear you didn¡¯t take up the Sword Guild¡¯s offer so I wanted to get you some spirit crystals in preparation for the Imperial Examination. Hence, I¡¯m looking into the ounts to barter with the tradingpany under the Ministry of Finance. Two mid-grade spirit crystals should give you an edge. 21 days left until the exam! ¡°As you father, this is the best I can do to help you,¡± Old Fang said with a sheepish smile. Fang Lang felt a warmth in his chest. His father¡¯s love was mighty as a mountain. A father¡¯s sacrifice for his children was unspoken. A mid-grade spirit crystal was slightly better than a low-grade spirit crystal¡ªit was easier to absorb but the difference was not huge. The going price did not match the quality of the goods. Spirit crystals could not close the gap between the cores but Old Fang saw how hardworking Fang Lang was and decided he would get his son the mid-grade spirit crystals. What was all the money Old Fang earned for? Was it not to make sure his son got a better future? ¡°Come on. Let¡¯s go home. Are you hungry? Were you nervous for thepetition? Come, I¡¯ll treat you to wontons.¡± Old Fang extinguished the oilmp and kept the books. He put on his outerwear and shut the door. He led his son to a wonton stall that was still open at the end of the street. After enjoying some steaming wontons, they headed back to the Fang Manor. Old Fang gave Fang Lang a few words of encouragement before retiring for the night. Fang Lang returned to his own room. On the table, he found the two mid-sized spirit crystals that his father spent a fortune on within an embroidered box. A low-grade spirit crystal cost 100 gold coins, a mid-grade spirit crystal was equivalent to 100 low-grade spirit crystals. 10,000 gold coins! It was not a small sum. The amount was a dent in the Fang family coffers and likely disrupted the money flow in the family business. Fang Lang took a deep breath and put away the mid-grade spirit crystals. ¡°Two mid-grade spirit crystals have been deposited into the space ring.¡± The space ring notification chimed. Fang Lang set the sword box down. He sat cross-legged on his bed and pulled out the remaining low-grade spirit crystals provided by the System. He switched into his binding partner¡¯s cultivation state and began cultivating. Outside the room, Old Fang had lingered. He walked over to Fang Lang¡¯s room and peered into the window. He watched his diligent son train with the spirit crystals. ¡®No one knows how hardworking my son is.¡¯ Old Fang did not know what to expect from the Imperial Examination. However, he was sure Fang Lang would not have any regrets. His son was giving it his all! Old Fang had a wistful smile on his face. He left the area on tiptoe, careful to stay silent for fear of disturbing his son¡¯s cultivation. Chapter 39

Chapter 39: Personal Vendetta

1 Trantor: EndlessFantasy Trantion Editor: EndlessFantasy Trantion Fang Lang spent the whole night absorbing spirit crystals. The spirit crystals provided by the System werepletely exhausted by Fang Lang. All that was left were the gold coins. Whoosh! Smoke rose from the crown of his head. The spiritual energy in his body came to a boil¡ªthey flowed through his meridians like a rushing river. Eighth grade! In the binding partner¡¯s cultivation state, he used up more than a dozen spirit crystals to achieve the breakthrough from seventh grade to eighth grade. The System¡¯s experience bar was filled halfway. He was 5000 points away from leveling up¡ªhe just had to spend the 5000 gold coins on cultivation resources. The morning sun lit the Earth. Fang Lang opened his eyes and exhaled a breath of stale air. Excitement surged in his chest. Eighth-grade sword disciple. His diligence had paid off¡ªhe had sessfully transformed from a third-grade sword disciple to an eighth-grade sword disciple. ¡°To go from the eighth grade to the ninth grade will take a significant number of spirit crystals.¡± Fang Lang did not let his happiness cloud reality. The advancement of cultivation grade necessitated an exponential increase in spiritual energy. The number of spirit crystals needed to ascend increased with one¡¯s cultivation grade. Fang Lang managed to go from the fifth grade to eighth grade with 50 spirit crystals. The same would not apply for his next advancement. Fortunately, he did not have to worry about his ess to cultivation resources. When he leveled up the System, he would be provided with sufficient resources. If that was not enough, Fang Lang had the spirit crystals given to him by Old Fang¡ªten low-grade spirit crystals and two mid-grade spirit crystals. Achieving the eighth grade was simply not enough for Fang Lang. It was not time to be arrogant orcent. The eighth grade would not cut it. To get into the honor roll, he had to be at least a ninth-grade cultivator. After all, the Imperial Examination was taken by cultivation students from all parts of the Tang Dynasty. Fang Lang got up from bed and stretched his muscles. The first ss of each discipline was akin toying the foundation for cultivation. At this stage, every advancement was an evolution of the physical body and spiritual meridians. ¡°I should take some time to go shopping with the System¡¯s money. Once that¡¯s done, the System will level up. Not only will I get more cultivation resources, I¡¯ll also gain an extra binding slot.¡± Fang Lang¡¯s eyes crinkled as anticipation built up in his chest. Spending money was easy, right? ... Fang Lang threw on a fresh set of green robe and tied the Blooming Lotus Sword to his back. After breakfast, he left the Fang Manor and headed for the academy. It had been a few days since hest saw Little Wen. Fang Lang missed...the cultivation-rted meaningful interactions. As he stepped onto academy grounds, numerous pairs of eyes watched him. There were looks of surprise, admiration and confusion. The attention made Fang Lang feel awkward. He normally kept a low profile in the academy. A hush fell over the study hall when Fang Lang entered the seventh block. The chatter among the students died down. Even the geniuses on the honor roll studied Fang Lang. Was this attention the side effect of bing a genius? Was this how it felt like to be above others? What an odd feeling... Fang Lang could get used to it. He got to his desk and sat cross-legged. He rested his head on one hand while his fingers tapped the desk. His gaze went to Ni Wen¡¯s desk¡ªit was still empty. Gradually, the chatter in the room slowly picked up again. The announcement made by the two Sword Guild disciples was still the talk of the town. Fang Lang¡¯s ranking in the individual event was the current hot topic. His poprity in the academy surpassed that of the top ten geniuses on the honor roll. ¡°It¡¯s impressive that Fang Lang ced first in the individual event!¡± ¡°The Gathering of Swords doesn¡¯t take into ount the cultivation grade. It means Fang Lang¡¯s sword techniques and skills are unparalleled!¡± ¡°He got first ce so why is he still attending sses? Shouldn¡¯t he be in the Sword Guild?¡± ¡°He wants to have a go at the Imperial Examination in hopes of a better offer? But what can he do besides sword fighting? His ego might be over-inted if he thinks he can do better in the Imperial Examination.¡± ... The students continued gossiping while shooting nces at Fang Lang. Despite Fang Lang¡¯s ster performance in the Gathering of Swords, the students had little confidence in his cultivation talents. They figured his Imperial Examination results might not even grant him a ce in the Sword Guild. Even with the additional 30 points, Fang Lang would struggle to obtain the minimum score to pass, given his core and cultivation grade. To get into the Sword Guild through the examination was a monumental task. He would be the butt of the joke if he scored terribly in the Imperial Examination. His grades might warrant a ce in a second- or third-tier sect. His unchecked ego would have cost him an opportunity to join an elite sect. Fang Lang ignored the flurry of discussions surrounding him. His eyes lit up when he saw Ni Wen. She was dressed in the green academy robe, head lowered as usual. She shuffled quietly into the study hall. ¡°Little Wen!¡± Fang Lang called out. Ni Wen¡¯s head shot up and the sight of an approaching Fang Lang made her heart race like a startled deer. It had been some time since shest saw the boy. Fang Lang sat across Ni Wen¡¯s desk as usual, not the least affected by the gap inmunication. Without much preamble, he started a discussion about cultivation. Ni Wen¡¯s heart rate progressively improved throughout the conversation and a gentle expression graced her face. She had been worried Fang Lang would look down on her after winning thepetition. However, his attitude towards her remained unchanged. The weight in her chest disappeared as she merrily engaged in productive discussions with Fang Lang about cultivation. Fang Lang was speaking about the Tang Dynasty¡¯s Spell Scripture. Before, he had engaged in a meaningful interaction with Old Jiang and received a spell talisman. A rune for the Flight Sword Crossover Turbo Charge? As a sword disciple, Fang Lang only understood some parts of the rune. His knowledge in spells and runes wascking. Spell mastery had a variety of specializations. Ni Wen was especially interested in the topic Fang Lang brought up¡ªrune theory. A slender finger peeked out from the green sleeve and doodled on the desk. She exined her thought process to Fang Lang. Fang Lang¡¯s background in spell mastery was mediocre but with Ni Wen¡¯s cultivation mode activated, he was able to gain insights and contribute a few ideas to the topic. In the end, he had a better understanding of the spell talisman. ¡®Ding! The host has engaged in meaningful interactions with the binding partner, Ni Wen. Your reward is a Grade-Rush Card Fragment.¡¯ The System message popped up. Evidently, Little Wen was the better choice for interactions. The familiar Grade-Rush Card Fragment was useful. He appreciated the ability to reduce the partner-binding time. Their enthusiastic discussion was cut short by Mentor Wen¡¯s banging of the gavel atop the dais. Fang Lang reluctantly went back to his own desk. ... Outside Luojiang City, two streaks of light entered the city perimeter. The flight swords shot through the sky, silver runes spinning around the sword guards. Protection runes were stamped on the riders¡¯ body. Two flight swords for two riders. One rider opened his eyes and turned to his partner who carried a rusty sword on his back. ¡°The Sword Guild has announced Fang Lang¡¯s retrieval of the Blooming Lotus Sword to the whole empire. The third prince said to not steal the sword.¡± The person with the rusty sword grinned. ¡°Steal the sword? No. I¡¯m not stupid. Stealing the sword from Fang Lang would be equivalent to offending the Sword Guild and Xuanyuan Taihua. The sect allowed a sword disciple to remove the sword from Mount Shu. It wouldn¡¯t be wise to offend Xuanyuan Taihua, even with the master and the third prince on my side.¡± The tall and sturdy figure nodded. ¡°d you think so. The boy seems to be on familiar terms with the Jiang family¡¯s prodigy. The girl has mastered the Four Season Form. The third prince wants to know if Fang Lang¡¯s a chess piece under the Jiang family¡¯s control.¡± Lin Yun rubbed his chest and clenched his fist. He remembered the bloody mess Fang Lang made of him. A grin was on his face as he looked over Luojiang City. ¡°Coincidentally, I have a personal vendetta against him.¡± ... sses ended when the final bell was rung. Two students rushed over to Fang Lang¡ªit was Yang Zhengyi and Liu Bubai. ¡°Lang¡¯zi, my friend, why didn¡¯t you tell me you got first ce? I¡¯ve arranged the Queen of Flowers for your celebration at the entertainment house,¡± Yang Zhengyi said excitedly as he flipped his fringe. Liu Bubai shot Yang Zhengyi a disapproving look. Vulgar! The de was more interesting than feminine pleasures. ¡°Fang Lang, let¡¯s practice! You¡¯re aiming to get into the Sword Guild¡¯s inner sect through the Imperial Examination, right? I¡¯ll train with you! My father rewarded me with a flight sword. After practice, I¡¯ll give you a ride around,¡± Liu Bubai said proudly. Despite his minor contribution in thepetition, he still received 13 bonus points. Liu Bubai¡¯s pride was untampered after the Gathering of Swords. He still retained the arrogance of Luojiang¡¯s Young de God. With much pain and reluctance, Fang Lang declined Yang Zhengyi¡¯s invite. As for Liu Bubai¡¯s practice offer, he saw no point in them crossing swords when Old Jiang was absent. Liu Bubai¡¯s sword techniques were too weak for Fang Lang¡¯s consideration. ¡°Old Liu, you go ahead. I have some important matters to attend to today.¡± Fang Lang¡¯s rejection was curt. Liu Bubai was crestfallen. ¡®When I¡¯m needed, you call me the ace. Now that I¡¯m not needed, you call me Old Liu...¡¯ Fang Lang ignored the unhappy Liu Bubai. He bade Ni Wen goodbye and left for the Jade Pavilion. As he entered the establishment, the attractive and charming Manager Yu weed him with a smile. Her eyes twinkled as if an important customer just walked in. Chapter 40

Chapter 40: Lay Low, I¡¯ll Carry the Team

Trantor: EndlessFantasy Trantion Editor: EndlessFantasy Trantion Another visit to the Jade Pavilion. The exquisite carpet was soft on the feet. The heavenly texture was a reminder of the establishment¡¯s top-notch service. Manager Yu was dressed in a tight-fitting qipao that entuated her assets. She approached Fang Lang, smiling. ¡°Congrattions on defeating all the other sword geniuses and ranking first in the Gathering of Swords. You¡¯re an impressive young man!¡± Manager Yu moved hypnotically as she smiled attractively. Fang Lang knew the words were perfunctory and yed along. ¡°Luck was on my side.¡± Then, he turned his attention to the mission at hand¡ªspending the cultivation resources required a bit of strategy. Medicinal pills were out of the question. He could afford a better space ring but his heart yearned for a flight sword. The journey to the Sword Guild on Mentor Wen¡¯s flight sword inspired Fang Lang. Of course, the convenience was more important than the coolness. Manager Yu recognized the impulse in Fang Lang¡¯s eyes¡ªit was a look that screamed, ¡®I want to buy something but I have no idea what.¡¯ Taking the lead, she guided Fang Lang around the shop and spoke up, ¡°Although the Jade Pavilion¡¯s main business is in space rings, we also carry medicinal pills and cultivation robes. If you...¡± Fang Lang listened politely to the manager¡¯s introduction. Then, he asked, ¡°Does the Jade Pavilion sell flight swords?¡± Surprise registered on Manager Yu¡¯s face. She smiled and said, ¡°Young Master Fang, I won¡¯t lie and say the flight swords we sell are the best. The Jade Pavilion entered the flight sword markette and our models cannotpare to those from the Sky Cloud Sect, the Galloping Horse Valley and the Four Rings Tower. Weg behind in terms of the rune research. ¡°Therefore, if you wish to purchase a top-of-the-line, high-speed flight sword, I¡¯d suggest you go to the Sky Cloud Sect or the Galloping Horse Valley. However, the Jade Pavilion is on par in terms offort and user experience.¡± Manager Yu was honest with her rmendation, in line with the Jade Pavilion¡¯s customer policy. The Jade Pavilion flight swords had their advantages and she wasted no time in promoting them. Fang Lang was taken aback by Manager Yu¡¯s exnation but he was not disappointed. Manager Yu was d her honesty did not send Fang Lang running to theirpetitors. She led him into the inner courtyard. Flight swords lined along the corridor, illuminated by colorful spirit crystalmps. Fang Lang could not tear his eyes away from the dazzling disy. Manager Yu gave him a brief introduction of each flight sword model. She was well-versed in pitching each model¡¯s function and features. Once the presentation concluded, Fang Lang asked with a smile, ¡°Miss Yu, for 5,000 gold coins, which flight sword would you rmend?¡± 5,000 gold coins? Manager Yu was not too disappointed though the sum would only fetch a basic model. Fang Lang¡¯s tone indicated he was not here to window shop. From the vast collection, Manager Yu picked a flight sword that was two palms wide and five feet long. The crimson hilt, guard and de were connected in a seamless fashion that made the whole flight sword look like it was on fire. It was resizable with a maximum capacity of five. ¡°This is the Jade Pavilion¡¯s basic model from the Meteor line-up. Ites with a Direct Charge Rune carved by a third-ss spell master. We guarantee a stable ride with this model. The flight sword can achieve its maximum speed of 1,000 miles per hour within ten breaths. It consumes three low-grade spirit crystals every two hours. ¡°If you¡¯re keen, we can enter the Flying Sword Examination Board¡¯s illusion spell for a test ride,¡± Manager Yu said with a smile. The invite made Fang Lang¡¯s eyes widen. ¡°Sure, let¡¯s test it out.¡± Manager Yu smiled and raised her hand. The air shimmered and the chosen flight sword was stored. Then, she led Fang Lang to the illusion area. ... The illusion area was huge. The area was protected by a significant number of guards¡ªmany of them were spell masters in spell robes. They kept a trained eye on the illusion runes. Manager Yu walked beside Fang Lang. ¡°Other than test rides, the illusion area is also used to host the Flying Sword Examination Board¡¯s Flight Rally. By purchasing this flight sword, you¡¯re eligible to enter thepetition with your pass. If you manage to leave your name on the sword te, the Jade Pavilion will give you a free flight sword customization pass.¡± Fang Lang¡¯s curiosity was piqued. Manager Yu opened the decorated door and gestured for Fang Lang to enter. It was an empty room with intricate rune carvings all over the floor, ceiling and walls. ¡°Young Master Fang, do you have your Flying Sword Examination pass? ording to the Tang Dynasty¡¯sws, flying without a pass is illegal,¡± Manager Yu said. She had to verify Fang Lang¡¯s pass. Fang Lang retrieved his pass from his space ring and handed it over without a fuss. Manager Yu checked the runes on the pass and returned it with a smile. Then, she pulled out the Meteor flight sword from her space ring. ¡°The flight sword is yours for the moment. Enjoy!¡± Manager Yu said cheerily and left the room. Hum. As soon as the door shut, the runes in the room glowed. The view before Fang Lang changed¡ªhe was at a circr altar, up in the sky. The scene was incredibly realistic. A feminine voice sounded. ¡°Wee to the illusion. Your identification name is, ¡®Jade Pavilion ¨C Meteor 007¡¯. Would you like to change it? Do you wish to hide your appearance? Do you wish to participate in the Flight Rally?¡± The voice surprised Fang Lang. He had never actually operated a flight sword. The System had only granted him the skill and qualification. He had the soul of an old driver but the body of a newbie. Fang Lang recalled Manager Yu¡¯s words¡ªwinning the Flight Rally would grant him a chance to customize his flight sword at the Jade Pavilion. Fang Lang did not want to pass up the opportunity. He did not bother to change the name. After some thought, he decided to hide his appearance. Fang Lang triggered his spiritual sense. Soon, there was feedback. ¡°Meteor 007, this is your first time participating in the Flight Rally. Searching for teammates. ¡°Searchplete. The first round of the rally is starting, please be ready.¡± The melodious voice died down. Hum. Lights shot out from the runes. Beside Fang Lang, a silhouette appeared with the identification name, ¡®Luojiang¡¯s Young de God¡¯. The teammate¡¯s physical appearance was hidden. Huh? The name sounded eerily familiar. ... In the illusion area of Luojiang City¡¯s Four Rings Tower was Liu Bubai. After Fang Lang¡¯s rejection, he had abandoned his sword training and went to the Four Rings Tower. Liu Bubai ranked first as a part of the Luojiang Academy team and was rewarded with bonus points for the individual event. His father was proud of the impressive feat and thus, Liu Bubai received a basic flight sword from the Four Rings Tower as a reward. The flight sword was notparable to Wen Ting¡¯s Trident model but it still cost a few thousand gold coins. Liu Bubai entered the Four Rings Tower¡¯s illusion area with routine ease. Although he never personally owned a flight sword, he frequented the Four Rings Tower¡¯s illusion area for fun rides. Each ride cost ten gold coins but it was affordable for a rich kid. He entered the Flight Rally and waited for a teammate. A silhouette appeared beside Liu Bubai. His spiritual sense tingled as he checked the teammate¡¯s name. ¡®The Jade Pavilion ¨C Meteor 007¡¯. Flight experience... None. Liu Bubai¡¯s heart sank. The default identification name revealed the flight sword¡¯s origin and model. Crap, a newbie! What luck. Liu Bubai resigned to losing the round¡ªhis hope for getting his name on the sword te was dashed. Unhappy with the team assignment, Liu Bubai crossed his fingers, hoping the newbie waspetent. ¡°Newbie, you¡¯re responsible for wind-breaking1... Do you know what that means?¡± Liu Bubai asked. ¡°No,¡± 007 replied in a dull voice. ¡°Simply put, power the flight sword rune with all your might. Fly through the resistance and pave a path for me. Understand?¡± Liu Bubai red at the silhouette. ¡°I think I understand...¡± 007 said with a hint of mirth. Liu Bubai waved his hand in defeat. ¡®What do you even understand?¡¯ ¡°Alright... Don¡¯t speak. Lay low, I¡¯ll carry the team.¡± Chapter 41 - Panicking Inside

Chapter 41: Panicking Inside

This boy...wants to carry?! What a familiar tone. The scene was all too familiar. Fang Lang gave his teammate an odd look... Old Liu? Coincidence? Fang Lang chuckled to himself and tried not to think about it. He put his focus on the Meteor flight sword. This entry-level flight sword was Fang Lang¡¯s first flight sword. A flight sword was distinct from an ordinary sword¡ªa flight sword could not be used to attack and only served as a mode of transport. A sword for killing had its own characteristics. Like the Blooming Lotus Sword, a sword for killing was made of high quality material and could cut steel like butter. The sword was raised on intent and had no runes on its body¡ªit was made for sword mastery. The flight sword had runes carved into it. The flight sword would be rendered useless if the rune was damaged, therefore it was not suited to be used as a weapon. A gentle caress of the aerodynamic body of the Meteor flight sword elicited a soothing sensation in Fang Lang. The sword guard had aplicated and eye-catching rune design. Fang Lang¡¯s asional spell mastery exchange with Ni Wen improved his rune understanding so he was able to appreciate theplexity of the flight sword rune. At his level, he found it difficult to analyze and decipher the markings. ¡°Newbie, stop daydreaming. Get on your flight sword! I¡¯ll take the back, you stay up front. You¡¯re in charge of wind-breaking, power the flight sword rune with all your might and maintain flight. I will correct your path and guide you. ¡°Slow down if I slow down, speed up if I speed up, understand? Don¡¯t drag me down, I¡¯ll carry us to victory!¡± Liu Bubai said with his head held high. Fang Lang smirked as he took the familiar yet annoyingments in stride. Liu Bubai continued his lecture. ¡°A round of Flight Rally has fifty teams setting out at the same time, so a hundred participants in total as every team has two riders. There is a clear distinction in roles, one person is responsible for wind-breaking while the other person stores their energy, spiritual sense and focus for the final sprint!¡± ¡°Okay,¡± Fang Lang gave a sinct reply. Liu Bubai¡¯s heart was tired¡ªhe decided the newbie knew nothing. However, there was nothing he could do as the team allocation was random. Fang Lang ced his Flying Sword Examination Pass into the eye of the rune and activated the flight sword rune. Meanwhile, Liu Bubai surveyed theirpetition. Liu Bubai¡¯s expression turned for the worse. ¡°Oh, Luojiang¡¯s Young de God? How familiar, you¡¯re the one who lost, right? What a preposterous name and riding such a useless flight sword. Hrious, if I were you, I¡¯d change my identification name to something else.¡± A mocking voice was heard from an enemy named Changan¡¯s Chao Xiaojian. Liu Bubai had participated in many Flight Rallies before this and verbal spars weremon. This was not the first time this person had mocked him and their races typically ended with Liu Bubai losing. This round, Liu Bubai was paired up with a newbie. Frustration filled his chest as he faced his nemesis. Liu Bubai had wanted to relieve some stress before the Imperial Examination but at the state of things, he could imagine the jeers he would have to endure after he lost. His mentality for the Imperial Examination would be affected. A bad call. At that moment, Fang Lang was sitting cross-legged atop the Meteor flight sword. When he started up the flight sword, the silver rune on the sword guard expanded into a fiery red rune around the flight sword. A low-grade spirit crystal was slotted into the center, feeding the rune. The shouts by his teammate and another participant caught Fang Lang¡¯s attention. He turned around and was surprised by the other participant¡¯s identification name. Changan¡¯s Chao Xiaojian? This person must be a fan of Chao Xiaojian. It reminded Fang Lang of his previous life where people had nicknames like Somewhere¡¯s Peng Yuyan. Fang Lang chuckled at the duo who were arguing. Their identification names were both equally hrious. Dang! A loud sound echoed in the space. ¡°Newbie! Once the third ring sounds, take off as fast as possible!¡± Liu Bubai said in a serious tone from the seat of his flight sword. ¡°Sure,¡± Fang Lang responded. He was seated on the sword guard, near the center of the rune. The rune made a stuttering sound and a grin formed on Fang Lang¡¯s face. He was extremely excited and curious. Dang! The third chime rang loudly. As the ring faded, the area exploded in a cacophony of noises. Flight swords picked up speed and the 50 teams took off at the same time. Like dragons swimming in the river, the riders shot through the air. Fang Lang extended his hand and presented a finger. He gently touched the palm-sized rune floating before him and made azy circle. The spirit crystal was devoured¡ªits energy converted into a driving force. The Meteor flight sword took off slowly. As the Meteor moved, Liu Bubai urged his own flight sword to follow Fang Lang. ¡°Quick! Speed up! Speed up!¡± Liu Bubai hollered ceaselessly from behind. His heart sank as he watched the newbie¡¯s maneuvering. It was too slow! ¡®Why are you moving at such a leisurely pace? You¡¯re not shopping here!¡¯ Fang Lang and Liu Bubai were at the tail end of thepeting teams. The loud mockingughs from other participants could be heard a distance away. Much like the nursery story of the speedy rabbit who ridiculed the slow-moving tortoise. Liu Bubai clutched his chest as if he had been backstabbed by his own teammate. ¡®This is the teammate I get?¡¯ Was the world intentionally out to get him? Fang Lang sensed Liu Bubai¡¯s despair and focused on his flight sword skill. The Specialized Flight Sword Maneuver Skill training appeared in his mind. Fang Lang lifted his hands. He ced his fingers on the shimmering rune and increased the spinning to pull ahead. Thack, thack, thack... The rune on the Meteor flight sword spun at a high speed and the drawing red like molten steel. Zoom! The air was sliced apart as the Meteor sped up exponentially. Behind Fang Lang, Liu Bubai¡¯s expression froze. Huh? Something was off. This newbie...was odd! Liu Bubai began to control his flight sword. Fingers touching the rune, he elerated and followed the newbie¡¯s trail. As the wind was pushed aside by the newbie, Liu Bubai flew the path without any resistance. Fast! The speed was impressive! Fang Lang sped up with the Meteor. His surroundings blurred as he flew. Liu Bubai¡¯s eyes sparkled. He allowed the rune to increase its spiritual energy absorption in order to fly faster. This newbie! There was no choice. Only this speeding technique allowed Liu Bubai to keep up with the newbie. They flew past the other teams. 49th, 48th, 47th... They were moving up the ranks. ¡°Good! Keep it up!¡± Liu Bubai praised. At this rate, Liu Bubai was sure he could carry them to victory! He would let the newbie have a taste of the air high up in the mountains! Hearing Liu Bubai¡¯s words, Fang Lang smirked in the front seat. This...where to where. ... Zoom! Zoom! Zoom! Flight swords enveloped by rune drawings rushed past, flying through mountains that rose from the ground like swords. Fang Lang was not familiar with the route so Liu Bubai had given him an introduction before the race started. The mountain ranges, the rushing waterfall, the dense forest and the grassy ins... These were the four different sceneries of the rally map and the whole track was 2,000 miles long. Although an illusion, the rune was designed by a fourth-ss spell master from the Flying Sword Examination Board and contained forbidden spells that made the scenes incredibly realistic. The realism meant the physical elements in the environment had a huge effect on flying. The first scene¡ªthe mountain ranges¡ªwasing to an end. Then, the scene changed. Fang Lang could feel the faint mist on his body. The second scene¡ªthe rushing waterfall¡ªwas near. The deafening roars of the waterfall sounded. Hum. The participants slowed down and controlled their flight swords. After the first scene, the spirit crystal in the center of the rune should be exhausted. Everyone knew the scene change meant a spirit crystal recement was due. The wind-breakers would typically slow down then to perform the recement in a swift and steady fashion. However... ¡°Newbie, what are you doing? Slow down and change the spirit crystal!¡± Liu Bubai shouted the reminder after realizing his teammate had no intentions of reducing speed. This newbie... Was he high on adrenaline? If the spiritual energy in the spirit crystal was exhausted, the flight sword would abruptly slow down and plummet to the ground! A grin still hung on Fang Lang¡¯s face. Changing spirit crystals? It was important, of course, but why slow down? With his Specialized Flight Sword Maneuver Skill, there was no need to decelerate. Rather, he picked up speed! A loud roar! The scene changed and a giant waterfall appeared before them. The water sshed wildly, giving off a chaotic aura. The flight swords around them slowed down. They were the outlier. The Meteor flight sword flew through the sky like aet, showing no signs of slowing down. It headed straight for the roaring waterfall. The dozens of riders who were overtaken were furious. They shouted and called the Meteor rider crazy. If one carried on, the flight sword would stop functioning! Not changing the spirit crystal was one thing, the rider did not even stop for the scene change. ¡°Slow down! What are you still speeding up? ¡°Ahhhh! Stop! Slow down!¡± Liu Bubai gulped down a breath of cold air. His face was pale as he shouted at the top of his lungs! F*ck! Too fast! Please slow down! He watched the waterfall expand in size¡ªFang Lang was charging toward the waterfall as he elerated... Liu Bubai pulled his legs together tightly as his chest tensed. It was too exciting! Was this... The symptom of a cardiac thrombosis? Close! Getting closer! They were approaching the waterfall. Liu Bubai felt his hair stand as beads of sweat rolled down his forehead. His breathing was ragged. He followed his wind-breaker¡¯s flight path as his fingers trembled on the flight rune. The waterfall appeared like a horrifying beast with its jaw wide open! They were approaching said beast. 500 meters, 400 meters, 300 meters... Water sshed from the waterfall, striking them like 10,000 arrows. The sshes hit the flight sword rune and sizzled as the liquid was turned into steam. When Fang Lang was 100 meters away from the rushing waterfall, he removed his fingers on the flight rune. He smacked the rune with his palm once. The spinning rune came to a sudden stop. The sword tip angled downward and the air pressure was released. The flight sword¡¯s air pressure struck the waterfall, causing water to ssh everywhere. Then, Fang Lang dove. It looked like a tiger swallowing its prey. Fang Lang drifted at thest moment when they were centimeters away from the waterfall! Liu Bubai¡¯s flight sword followed Fang Lang¡¯s rhythm and trail, plunging through the atmosphere. The two flight swords spiraled as they fell parallel to the waterfall. The strong winds buffeted and made Liu Bubai shiver. It felt like he was jumping off a cliff! Slow...slow down! Liu Bubai was panicking inside! ¡°Ahhhhhh!¡± Liu Bubai¡¯s cries sounded amidst the rumbling waterfall. His scream was piercing. Sometimes far, sometimes near... The noise scattered the birds in the area. Chapter 42 - Flight Sword Crossover Turbo Charge

Chapter 42: Flight Sword Crossover Turbo Charge

The two flight swords plummeted parallel to the waterfall-like two shooting stars. The roars of the waterfall were deafening. Fang Lang¡¯s heart raced even with his Specialized Flight Sword Maneuver Skill. At the bottom of the waterfall was the river. Huge waves rose from the river and the air currents nearing the water surface were tumultuous, making it difficult to steer the flight sword. Fang Lang rode on the Meteor and descended at a high speed. As he was falling, he quickly switched out the exhausted spirit crystal for a new one. Then, fingers on the rune¡¯s core, he drove the flight sword upward. The sword tip was angled upward like a huge dragon rearing its head! The air currents above the river were disoriented by the Meteor¡¯s rise. The flight sword went from a freefall to a flying stance parallel to the river surface as it flew across the river. Whoosh! The propelling flight sword sounded like a dragon¡¯s angry roar! The river water was agitated by the strong air currents and it looked as if numerous fish were struggling underwater. Liu Bubai¡¯s high-pitched scream followed. He sounded far and near at the same time as his voice cracked. Fang Lang showed no signs of slowing down and Liu Bubai felt his heart thump fearfully. The two boys flew close to the roiling river surface, traveling in parallel and zooming across the water. They were ahead of many teams who had slowed down for the scene change. They had advanced from thest ce and made it into the top ten! At the rushing waterfall, the other riders were stunned. Fang Lang¡¯s flight sword maneuver was the epitome of textbook teachings. He was like a beacon that tore through the endless darkness¡ªhis light blinded them all. ¡°Is he a professional flight sword rider?¡± ¡°He must be! That ultimate Dragon Awakening[1] was incredible to watch!¡± ¡°Thought he was a newbie, turns out he¡¯s a professional rider!¡± Chatter exploded among the participants. ... Liu Bubai watched the wind-breaking newbie¡¯s silhouette. The newbie was able to expertly steer the basic Meteor model. The newbie was a professional flight sword rider? A professional flight sword rider was an upation in the Tang Dynasty. Those who showed exceptional skill in piloting a flight sword could receive the title. One had to apply to the Tang Dynasty Flying Sword Examination Board for the de and the Professional Flying Examination was well-known for its difficulty. The daring drift over the waterfall, the ultimate Dragon Awakening performed near the river surface and the quick exchange of spirit crystals all required the proficiency of a professional flight sword rider. Aplex expression crossed Liu Bubai¡¯s face. He thought about the Gathering of Swords, then the Flight Rally... He seemed to keep winning unexpectedly without contribution. This was not the life he wanted! Liu Bubai had ambitions and goals¡ªhe wanted to seed through his own efforts! ¡°Whatever. This is thest time I¡¯m letting others win for me.¡± Determination glowed in Liu Bubai¡¯s eyes as he made his oath. Despite that, he could not deny that it was fun teaming up with a professional rider. ... Zoom! Zoom! Zoom! The deafening sound echoed. In the dense forest, a silver flight sword moved like an agile fish, kicking up fallen leaves in its wake. Changan¡¯s Chao Xiaojian¡¯s team had maintained first ce ever since the rally started. At that moment, Changan¡¯s Chao Xiaojian said to the wind-breaker, all smiles, ¡°Brother, you¡¯re without a doubt almost at a professional rider¡¯s skill level! With you here, the first ce is easily ours!¡± Changan¡¯s Chao Xiaojian guffawed. The rider on the flight sword ahead was called Luo Yang. ¡°Luo Qiuqiu, you should stop with those bimbotic identification names. Chao Xiaojian is at a rank where he can easily squash you if he so pleases,¡± the silhouette saidzily with a hint of frustration. ¡°Change your name, it¡¯s improper for a girl to have such a name. Also, stop ying with the flight swords and prepare for the Imperial Examination. If you fail the examination, you¡¯re gonna cry non-stop. If you¡¯re worried about losing the Flight Rally, I promise I¡¯ll help you punish the participants in the newbie area. I don¡¯t want your focus to be affected,¡± Luo Yang said. ¡°Brother, you talk too much.¡± Luo Qiuqiu rolled her eyes. Just as she ended her sentence, Luo Yang felt a shiver in his chest. He turned back in disbelief. ¡°Someone¡¯sing. ¡°Impossible! I shook off the Trident flight sword team who was in second ce. We¡¯re at least eight hundred and fifty miles apart, how did they catch up so quickly?¡± He angled his body and squinted. In the dim light of the forest, he saw a sh of the red, fiery flight sword slithering through the trees like a snake. The flight sword moved like lightning as it avoided the trees. Surprise struck Luo Yang and he banished his rxed demeanor. ¡°Second ce is catching up.¡± ¡°Ah! It¡¯s that arrogant Young de God! Brother, for my pride, you must fly faster!¡± Changan¡¯s Chao Xiaojian, also known as Luo Qiuqiu, was ruffled. Luo Yang¡¯s eyes narrowed and he touched the rune, making the flight sword speed up. He controlled the flight sword as he flew through the dense forest, ducking away from the branches and trees. The strong and sturdy trees past him swiftly, soon disappearing from his sight. ¡°Ahhh! Brother! Slow down! Slow down!¡± Luo Qiuqiu let out a high-pitched shriek that sounded exactly like Liu Bubai¡¯s. The flight sword became a silver light that zapped past the crowded forest. However, the red, fiery flight sword was still closing the gap. ¡°Fast! That¡¯s crazy! They¡¯re not slowing down, instead they keep speeding up. How can they avoid the trees at such speed?¡± Luo Yang took a deep breath. Zoom! The red, fiery flight sword pulled ahead of the silver flight sword, taking the lead. Luo Yang frowned. This speed and control. It must be a professional rider! He was certain! Luo Yang¡¯s eyes narrowed as if he had found prey. His body trembled in excitement. ¡°The opponent is using a basic Meteor model from the Jade Pavilion. I have the advantage in the final burst of speed. I have not lost! I just need to maintain a reasonable gap between us for now.¡± Luo Yang analyzed the situation and ignored his shrieking sister at the back. He honed his concentration and maintained his top speed without sacrificing control. He worked hard to stay on the trail of the Meteor. Rustling. The fallen leaves scattered as the air currents swept past the forest. Fang Lang used the Specialized Flight Sword Maneuver Skill to fly through the dense forest. Goosebumps formed on his body as excitement filled him. Amazing! The unshackled freedom he felt in the air was truly amazing. Behind him, the screaming Liu Bubai was long forgotten. Carry on, there would be no damage to the throat even if he screamed forever. They were in an illusion after all, death and injuries did not exist. To be frank, Fang Lang was a bit tired from all the flying. His spiritual intent and physical stamina were rapidly decreasing. It was almost time to try using the talisman. His heart pounded. A warm, squarish jade talisman appeared in Fang Lang¡¯s hand. The carvings on the talisman was very intricate andplex. ... Whoosh! An all-consuming white light exploded from within the dense forest. Fang Lang nearly collided with a giant tree as he picked up speed. Leaning at a 90 degrees angle, he flew parallel to the giant tree with only centimeters between them. Swoosh! Countless fallen leaves took to the air. Fang Lang rode the Meteor and broke out of the dense and dark forest. Finally, he was bathed in a resplendent light. Everything was a blur to Liu Bubai. Time seemed to have stopped and the red-faced Liu Bubai felt as if he was at the peak of his life. He rxed his thighs and felt a warmth spread to his lower body. Liu Bubai was in a daze atop his own flight sword rune. As for thest leg of the race, what was the point? It had nothing to do with Liu Bubai. He just had toy low. ... Zoom! Zoom! Zoom! Within the dense forest, a silver light moved swiftly. The fourth scene for the Flight Rally was within sight. The sky was hazy as the wild winds blew. The grass swayed to the breeze. There was no obstacle amidst the grassy expanse, just an endless green. ¡°Now! Charge!¡± Luo Yang¡¯s eyes brightened as he saw the opportunity. He gathered all his strength and rushed forward on his flight sword. He was betting on his superior quality flight sword to turn the tables. Although his focus, spiritual intent and physical stamina were drained, he had no faith in the shaking and screaming Luo Qiuqiu. Judging from her current state, he was not confident she could perform the final charge. Luo Yang did not want to lose, so he took charge. The gap was closing. The silver flight sword was giving it all to close in on the Meteor. Fang Lang did not spare the opponent a nce. He ced the talisman at the eye of the flight sword rune. The rune enveloping the Meteor flight sword stopped spinning. In the next moment, an abundance of spiritual energy flowed out of the de. The energy coalesced and formed a new rune around the original rune. Two runes¡ªone enveloping the other¡ªheld the flight sword. The two runes spun in opposing directions. A stuttering sound was heard as the runes spun. Flight Sword Crossover Turbo Charge! However, before the flight swordunched forward, Fang Lang slowed down and shifted position. He moved to the back of Liu Bubai¡¯s flight sword. The Meteor sword tip touched Liu Bubai¡¯s flight sword hilt. The squinting Liu Bubai felt a shiver down his spine. He was surprised. Luo Yang was shocked. Fang Lang turned around and despite his blurred appearance, he gave Luo Yang a warm smile. A brand new rune was under Fang Lang¡¯s control. He mmed his palm down. He fed a new spirit crystal into the core of the rune. With the naked eye, one could see the speed at which the rune absorbed the spiritual energy. The spirit crystal was drained within moments. The Meteor flight sword was powered by double runes in opposite spins! It shot forward like a highly pressurized me, roaring as it went. The air behind the Meteor became thin as the powerful thrust was engaged. Like two spiralling white dragones, Fang Lang and Liu Bubai tore through the sky high above the grassy ins. They crossed the scene like a breeze and shot past the endless greenery, carving two streaks of damaged foliage in their wake. Their speed came out of nowhere. The disparity was a shock to everyone. Increase speed! Again! In a sh, Luo Yang was overtaken and promptly left in the dust. He was but a speck in Fang Lang¡¯s rear vision. Fang Lang¡¯s flight sword flew like a fiery dragon, achieving speeds that were beyond its advertised capability. They crossed the finish line. Luo Yang was stunned into speechlessness. An entry-level model? Was his eyes ying a trick on him? [1] A skill where the diving flight sword is pulled up. Chapter 43 - Drink With Me

Chapter 43: Drink With Me

Dumbfounded! Silence. Luo Yang had a look of disbelief on his face. ¡®When did the Jade Pavilion¡¯s entry-level Meteor model have such a frightening eleration?¡¯ The explosive eleration was almost on par with a top-of-the-line flight sword. The Meteor model only cost 5,000 gold coins... How did it reach such high speeds? Luo Yang felt his world shake with this new information. ¡°Could it be...a new explosive eleration rune researched by the Jade Pavilion?¡± The thought made Luo Yang¡¯s eyes sh. ¡°Meteor 007... Did the Jade Pavilion invite a professional flight sword rider to test their new discovery?¡± Luo Yang¡¯s breathing picked up and he sped his hands together. He believed he had grasped the truth. The Jade Pavilion had something precious up their sleeves! ... Whoosh! Flight swords continuously flew past the finish line. The illusion area obeyed thews of time. Fang Lang and Liu Bubai crossed the finish line at two hours and 15 minutes. Hum... The room¡¯s illusion spell faded. In the Four Rings Tower, Liu Bubai copsed onto the ground, eyes wide with shock. His face was flushed. What an adrenaline rush! It was finally over. The excitement and the speed... Was this the world of a professional flight sword rider? Momentster, Liu Bubai crawled up and carefully packed away his flight sword. Then, he checked the time. ¡°What? Two hours fifteen minutes for a two-thousand-mile race?¡± Liu Bubai¡¯s mind was blown. His personal record was broken. Exhration made Liu Bubai tremble as he studied the sword te issued by the Flying Sword Examination Board. ¡®Sword te ranking nine hundred and ny-nine, Luojiang¡¯s Young de God.¡¯ His name was there! Liu Bubai could not hold in hisughter. He was carried to victory but he did not care. There was no use pretending. It was not his choice to be carried but the professional flight sword rider had joined his team. What was he supposed to do? ... Fang Lang exited the illusion spell and opened his eyes. There was a smile on his face and he felt like he was walking on air. He nced at the published sword te¡ª179th. Although Liu Bubai was the first to cross the finish line, the sword te ranking was based on the participant¡¯s flight sword maneuvering, race time and race performance as a whole. Liu Bubai¡¯s ranking was undeserved and he only achieved it through Fang Lang¡¯s forceful push. Equipped with the Specialized Flight Sword Maneuver Skill and the spell talisman, Fang Lang only managed to reach 179th on the sword te. He was mildly taken aback by the results. How skilled were the 178 participants above him? He shook away the thoughts. He did not really care about the Flight Rally ranking. Fang Lang was satisfied with the Meteor flight sword. When he exited the test room, Manager Yu was already waiting for him. She was not aware of the ongoings within the illusion spell but judging from Fang Lang¡¯s smile, she was confident the transaction was a done deal. ¡°Miss Yu, it costs five thousand gold coins, right? I¡¯ll take it,¡± Fang Lang said with a smile. With a smile, Manager Yu lifted her hand that had the space ring. Fang Lang activated his spiritual intent and brought his hand forward. The two space rings made contact. 5,000 gold coins from his space ring were transferred into Manager Yu¡¯s space ring. This was the transaction function of the space rings. ¡®Ding! The host haspleted a cultivation-rted transaction and obtained a random reward. The reward is in your inventory.¡¯ The System notification chimed as soon as Fang Lang transferred the 5,000 gold coins. ¡®Ding! Friendly reminder that your experience bar is full. Leveling up!¡¯ the System announced. Fang Lang wore an expectant smile. Finally...he advanced a level! ... Host: Fang Lang Cultivation Discipline: Eighth-Grade Sword Disciple Level: LV3 Experience: 0/50000 Core: 36 (White) Cultivation Resource: 25,000 gold coins, 150 low-grade spirit crystals, 1 mid-grade spirit crystal (usage limited to cultivation) Items: Grade-Rush Card Fragment (1), Green Reward Egg (1) Binding Partner: Ni Wen (60%); Jiang Linglong (60%); Empty slot (60%) Sole Passive Ability: Additional rewards may be granted when the host bonds with the binding partner over cultivation. ... Fang Lang studied the System disy. His eyes froze and his breathing picked up. He noticed the changes to the binding partner details. Leveling up the System not only gave him financial benefits. The real benefit was the increase in binding partner slots. The original partner-binding gave Fang Lang 50% of the partner¡¯s abilities. At level 3, he received 60% of the partner¡¯s abilities. Although it was only a 10% increment, it was significant to Fang Lang. It represented growth! This level up gave Fang Lang hope and ignited his drive to work harder. He would pour his heart into cultivating! Things were going his way. When he came to, Manager Yu had a gentle smile on her face¡ªshe did not usher him once. ¡°Young Master Fang, as gratitude for your patronage and support of the Jade Pavilion¡¯s flight sword business, have thisplimentary space ring with ten cubic meter of space. It¡¯s predominantly used to store flight swords. ¡°I hope the young master will choose the Jade Pavilion again for your next flight sword.¡± Manager Yu handed Fang Lang a red space ring with a smile. Fang Lang¡¯s eyes sparkled. A space ring to go with the flight sword? Without a doubt, the Jade Pavilion was one of the top three tradingpanies in the Tang Dynasty¡ªthey provided excellent services. The cost of the space ring was minor to the Jade Pavilion and they could afford to give it away so as to keep the loyalty of a customer who purchased a flight sword. They wanted to secure their footing in the flight sword market, hence the sacrifice was minimal. Fang Lang chuckled and did not refuse the gift. He put on the fiery red space ring and kept the Meteor flight sword. ... A light drizzle apanied the night sky. The moisture gave the Earth a misty cover. Luojiang City, at the entertainment house along the riverbank. The torches were brightly lit as boat after boat sailed along the river. The decorative vessels looked like blooming flowers against the backdrop of the dark sky. ck clouds gathered and the drizzle became a downpour. The entertainment house took up a sizable area by the riverbank. There were 12 standalone courtyards that belonged to the Queens of Flowers. Each courtyard housed one Queen whose reputation preceded her. If one had the money, one could hire the flower boats to be lighted everyday in one¡¯s name. Chunmei Courtyard of the entertainment house. Within the courtyard, music and flowing water could be heard. The pavilion and promenade painted an idyllic scene. At the center of the courtyard was a pavilion equipped with a banquet table. Good wine and food were served on the table. Rain battered the roof, sttering across the tiles. Rainwater joined into a stream and flowed down the y tiles. Inside the pavilion,nterns hung high, bringing daylight to the interior. The silhouettes flickered. The sounds of traditional musical instruments floated in the air. An embarrassed and shy female voice was heard. ¡°Mean!¡± Her voice was alluring. As goblets and gambling chips piled on the table, Old Fang and a few Luojiang lords discussed the coboration deal among themselves. Pitter-patter. The footsteps kicked up the water on the ground. The sound was clear in the silence of the night. At the entrance of Chunmei Courtyard, two silhouettes in bamboo hats and woven rush raincoats appeared. One had a rusty steel sword across his back¡ªhis armsid across his chest. The guards of Chunmei Courtyard stepped forward to interfere but the terrifying aura that emanated from the tall and sturdy cultivator halted them. Blood spilled from the guards¡¯ mouths as they crumpled onto the muddy ground, unmoving. The two silhouettes confidently stepped into the pavilion. The banter and activity inside Chunmei Courtyard came to a stop. At the banquet table, the Queen of Flowers had a shocked face. The other lords¡¯ expressions darkened. Everyone remained silent. The two silhouettes appeared with a frightening aura that was unique to cultivators. They entered the pavilion and removed their bamboo hats. Carrying his rusty sword, Lin Yun smiled and poured himself a cup of wine. He shot a look at Fang Beihe who was seated at the banquet table. ¡°Boss Fang, an honor to meet you atst. I am Lin Yun. I had the chance to meet your son, Fang Lang. Come, drink with me while we wait for his arrival.¡± ... ¡®It¡¯s raining.¡¯ Fang Lang stood at the Jade Pavilion entrance and looked up at the sky. Watching the beads of rain fall from the sky, he let out a misty breath. Riding the flight sword in the illusion spell made him lose track of time. Holding the oil paper umbre borrowed from Manager Yu, Fang Lang stepped out into the rain. He managed only one step. A distance away, a figure in the rain was running toward his direction. The person¡¯s footsteps made sshes in the rain puddle. ¡°Are you Young Master Fang?¡± a pale-faced man asked immediately. The man was dressed in a bamboo hat and woven rush raincoat. Fang Lang was surprised. He did not expect the rushing man to be looking for him. Fang Lang nodded. The man exined, ¡°I am a guard stationed at Chunmei Courtyard of the entertainment house. Young Master Lin Yun asked me to deliver a message. He is inviting you to Chunmei Courtyard.¡± Lin Yun? Concern crossed Fang Lang¡¯s mind. He remembered the wild and unruly Donglu Academy student, Lin Yun, from the Gathering of Swords. Fang Lang frowned. ¡®Why is Lin Yun in Luojiang City?¡¯ He was not fond of Lin Yun¡ªthe boy was an arrogant bully who had cruelty in his eyes. ¡°I¡¯m upied, unfortunately,¡± Fang Lang replied indifferently. ¡®What¡¯s wrong with Lin Yun?¡¯ Fang Lang walked past the guard, umbre in hand. The guard took a deep breath and said, ¡°Young Master Lin and Boss Fang Beihe are enjoying their talk. He wishes for the young master to join.¡± Ssh! Fang Lang¡¯s foot struck the ground and rainwater sttered everywhere. The fine raindrops that fell like a sheet from the sky froze as Fang Lang¡¯s murderous aura red. Slowly, he turned around to face the guard. With a somber expression, he said, ¡°Take me there.¡± Chapter 44 - Murderous Intent on a Rainy Night

Chapter 44: Murderous Intent on a Rainy Night

The night was ck as ink while the rain continued. Fang Lang gripped the oil paper umbre and followed the guard to the entertainment house. Manager Yu was perched gracefully at the entrance of the Jade Pavilion. The raindrops fell like pearls, gradually clouding her vision. She watched as Fang Land and the guard disappeared into the haze. She pursed her red lips and entered a state of deep thought. Manager Yu overheard some of the conversation between Fang Lang and the guard. Her eyebrows raised momentarily. After a moment¡¯s thought, she gestured for the two Jade Pavilion guards who were a distance away. They were both second-ss martial arts cultivators. ¡°Follow them and check what¡¯s going on. If possible, lend a hand to Young Master Fang,¡± said Manager Yu. Her lips were painted red and her beautiful eyes stared out into the rain. ¡°Understood.¡± The two martial arts masters bowed and put on their bamboo hats before disappearing into the rain. The matter was settled. Manager Yu turned around and elegantly walked to the illusion area. She was in a good mood after selling the Meteor flight sword, hence she sent the assistance. Furthermore, she wanted to be in the good books of the mysterious girl who came from Imperial City. Whether the assistance was needed, she did not care. She left for the main building. Her tight-fitting qipao asionally showed skin as her slender legs traversed the area. Just as she left, a fourth-ss spell master who was responsible for maintaining and tabting the illusion area¡¯s information chased after her. ¡°Yu Xiao! Where¡¯s the person who used the illusion area for a test drive?¡± Manager Yu was surprised. What had agitated the phantasm spell master? He even used her full name. ¡°He just left. What¡¯s wrong?¡± Manager Yu was curious. ¡°He managed to rank in the top two hundred on the sword te! On his first attempt!¡± The master¡¯s excitement was clear from the sputtering saliva. The news came as a shock to Manager Yu. She took a moment to recover. She widened her eyes. ¡°He got onto the sword te while riding the Jade Pavilion¡¯s Meteor line?¡± Manager Yu was dumbfounded¡ªshe could not believe it. Impossible! The top 200 names on the sword te were popted by professional flight sword riders. How did Fang Lang achieve such results on a basic flight sword model? The Meteor was an entry-level flight sword¡ªa professional rider would struggle to reach the top 200 with it. Manager Yu¡¯s breathing picked up¡ªher ample bosom expanded and contracted. She felt as if she was at the cusp of jumpstarting the Jade Pavilion¡¯s flight sword business. ¡°Quick! Activate the recall rune. Let¡¯s have a look at Young Master Fang¡¯s run.¡± ... Old Fang was Fang Lang¡¯s only blood rtion in this world, hence the old man held a special spot in his heart. His father¡¯s love for him was immense...like a mountain of gold. Fang Lang knew the love was from deep within his father¡¯s heart. When the entertainment house guard mentioned Lin Yun was drinking with Old Fang, a cloud of unpleasant feelings gathered in Fang Lang¡¯s chest. Was Lin Yun threatening him with Old Fang? Anxiety coursed through Fang Lang. He did not expect Lin Yun to appear in Luojiang City. Undoubtedly, Lin Yun was here for Fang Lang. Why? The Blooming Lotus Sword? Fang Lang was pensive in the rainy night, hand clutching the umbre. Perhaps it was the defeat Lin Yun suffered at Fang Lang¡¯s hands that drew him to Luojiang City? Was he dissatisfied with the oue of the Gathering of Swords? Was he out for revenge? All scenarios were equally as likely. However, regardless of the reason, the use of Old Fang to lure Fang Lang was in bad taste. Fang Lang could not ignore the threat. A fire burned and red in Fang Lang¡¯s chest. The ze in his chest slowly became a smouldering, cold anger. After asking the guard, Fang Lang found out Lin Yun did note alone. Fang Lang was not surprised, this was Luojiang City after all. Luojiang Academy was based here and Lin Yun would want to have support. The apanying person was his backup. Raindrops fell at a higher rate, striking the umbre and dissipating into the mist. Their surroundings were veiled by the moisture in the air. The entertainment house wasing up. Fang Lang stood in front of the door. Inside the entertainment house, there were several people. Coquettishdies dressed in revealing clothing were guiding young men who walked unsteadily. One of the figures recognized Fang Lang. ¡°Oh! Lang¡¯zi!¡± Yang Zhengyi had lipstick stains on his neck and his hair was disheveled. His eyes brightened when he saw Fang Lang. There was no warmth on Fang Lang¡¯s face. His cold eyes met Yang Zhengyi¡¯s and the smile fell off Yang Zhengyi¡¯s face. ¡°Old Yang, can I ask for a favor? Can you get Mentor Wen here?¡± Fang Lang said. Something was up. Yang Zheng had seen the stern look on Fang Lang¡¯s face before¡ªthey were childhood friends who connected at a deep level. Without asking for rification, Yang Zhengyi nodded. He grabbed an oil paper umbre and set off into the rain. Fang Lang was not dumb¡ªhe was preparing a backup n. After all, he was only a sword disciple. Fang Lang watched as Yang Zhengyi disappeared into the rainy night. Then, he proceeded with the second line of preparation. ¡®System, smash the egg.¡¯ The Green Reward Egg appeared before him. He swung the hammer without hesitation. ¡®Ding! Congrattions! You have received a 5X Amplification Card, a Power Loan Card and an Enchantment Card.¡¯ The System notification popped up. Fang Lang looked through the inventory with a neutral expression. The escorting guard bowed slightly and water droplets dripped from his bamboo hat. ¡°Young Master Fang, please follow me.¡± It was Fang Lang¡¯s first time visiting the entertainment house and the circumstances were not as romantic as he had envisioned his first trip to be. A sliver of regret niggled at his chest. A wasted first. ¡®Lin Yun, the hatred between us only grows stronger.¡¯ The silence of the night was broken by the showering rain. Fang Lang trailed behind the guard and arrived at Chunmei Courtyard. Lanterns and torches were lit all around but the enveloping silence was ufortable. Fang Lang felt as if he was on a cliff¡¯s edge. The rain-soaked guard shifted and resumed his position at the entrance of the courtyard. With Manager Yu¡¯s oil paper umbre in hand, Fang Lang stepped into Chunmei Courtyard. As he entered, all the eyes were instantly on him. In the pavilion, Lin Yun wore a wide grin as he squatted on the chair, enjoying himself. He took a bite of an oily drumstick then gulped down a mouthful of expensive wine. Old Fang was seated across Lin Yun. There was a prettydypanion by his side. Old Fang tensed when he saw Fang Lang. In a deep voice, he bellowed, ¡°Lang¡¯er! Leave!¡± He clearly knew Lin Yun was here for Fang Lang. Seeing Old Fang unharmed made Fang Lang breathe a sigh of relief. Lin Yun tipped his head back and drank another mouthful of wine. Then, he mmed his cup down with a bang. He tortuously chewed the meat in his mouth and smiled. ¡°There you are. It¡¯s been a cold, rainy day. Warm yourself with a drink? ¡°Don¡¯t worry. I¡¯m just using your father to find you, and here you are. I was chatting happily with him. I won¡¯t hurt him, it¡¯s against the Tang Dynasty¡¯sw. I even got the Queen of Flowers to entertain him out of good faith.¡± Lin Yun hopped down from the chair and stretched. He gave Fang Lang a tight smile. Fang Lang let his gaze move on from Old Fang to the tall and sturdy figure who sat two seats away. The figure was tasting the wine in silence. One nce made Fang Lang¡¯s pupils constrict¡ªa boundless dark haze swirled in his chest. He closed his eyes and the haze and intensity disappeared. Fang Lang was startled. He turned his head¡ªavoiding the stranger¡ªand looked straight at Lin Yun. ¡°Are you here for the Blooming Lotus Sword?¡± Fang Lang asked as he folded up the umbre. He tossed the umbre aside. Then, he extended his arm over his head. Slender fingers wrapped around the hilt of the Blooming Lotus Sword which rested inside the sword box. Lin Yun walked to the edge of the pavilion. Raindrops hit the roof and flowed down the angled surface. Rainwater struck the ground and the sound disrupted the silence. Through the curtain of rain, Lin Yun gave Fang Lang a shake of the head. ¡°The Blooming Lotus Sword was given to you by Chao Xiaojian. I won¡¯t challenge your im.¡± Lin Yun lifted a hand and stroked his chest. ¡°I came for a personal vendetta,¡± Lin Yun said with gravity. ¡°I¡¯ve always thought the rules for the Gathering of Swords were bullshit. What was sword fighting without cultivation? We weren¡¯t allowed to use spiritual energy or cultivation... ¡°You struck me nine times across the chest. Now, I¡¯m back to return the favor to alleviate the knot in my chest.¡± Before Lin Yun could finish, Fang Lang blurred into action. The green robes fluttered in the rain¡ªthe raindrops on the clothes turned into mist. Footsteps pattered and kicked up sshes from the puddles. Fang Lang¡¯s Spirit Step left afterimages in his wake. With a leap, the afterimages coalesced and revealed the true body. Fang Lang was standing before the pavilion! From the sword box, he drew his sword. The light from the sword shone like lightning. Lin Yun was obviously looking for a fight. He even used Old Fang to lure Fang Lang. If a fight was unavoidable, there was no point talking. Sword drawn, the murderous intent filled the rainy night. As if sensing the cruel and cold aura, the falling rain avoided Fang Lang. No rain touched the youth¡¯s body. Chapter 45 - Head-Exploding Finger Flick

Chapter 45: Head-Exploding Finger Flick

The rain seemed to have stopped in fear. Murderous intent filled the air. The young teen¡¯s murderous intent made the heavens shake. A sh of light cut through the night¡ªthe light came from the unsheathing of the Blooming Lotus Sword. Like a beacon of hope, the sword¡¯s light brightened the night. Out of the sword box! Lin Yun was standing before the pavilion. His pupils constricted as excitement ran through his veins. Goosebumps appeared on his skin and his blood pumped audibly in his ears. Hum. The sword rang out shrilly. Following the draw, the rain was sliced in half. The sound of raindrops being sliced in half could be heard. Quick! Merciless! In a single draw, Fang Lang¡¯s murderous aura was evident. The sudden action turned the charming and leisurely entertainment house into a killing ground. The sword had a spirit¡ªthe Blooming Lotus was once wielded by Xuanyuan Taihua. As if sensing the barely concealed killing intent in Fang Lang, the Blooming Lotus Sword let out a shriek. The sharpness of the de was revealed under the pouring rain. Sword Draw Technique! The sword potential he stored up throughout the journey from the Jade Pavilion to the entertainment house and Chunmei Courtyard was unleashed in one draw. Like a lightning strike bursting from the ground, the noise shook the whole courtyard. The Chunmei Courtyard¡¯s Queen of Flowers yelped and hugged Old Fang by the neck. The color drained from her beautifully dolled-up face. Old Fang¡¯s hands moved to thedy¡¯s slender waist¡ªthe skin was smooth and supple to the touch. His eyes were fixated on Fang Lang¡¯s sword. Whoosh! Inside the pavilion, Lin Yun did not back down. A glimmer of exhration flickered in his eyes at the sight of Fang Lang¡¯s drawn sword. Lin Yun took one step forward. He walked through the rainwater curtain caused by the pavilion¡¯s roof. The spiritual energy in his body vibrated in tandem¡ªevery inch of his skin and muscles trembled. The water evaporated from his body. He gripped the handle of his rusty steel sword and with a brutish tug, he drew it from his back. ng! The sword sh reverberated throughout the area. The rain lessened when the swords shed. Sparks flew as metal kissed metal. Lin Yun had a maniacal grin as he pounced like a tiger. The rusty sword was brought down heavily and Fang Lang quickly dodged to one side. Lin Yun¡¯s powerful strike struck the limestone that decorated the pavilion. A wave of energy radiated from the point of impact and the limestone cracked. ¡°I practice Donglu¡¯s Dominating Sword Style. My sword demands retribution! Hence today¡¯s duel. I remember you were a seventh-grade sword disciple, right? I will fight you using the seventh grade!¡± Lin Yun remembered the introduction Fang Lang made after he came in as a substitute for that useless participant from Luojiang Academy. Lin Yun had a fun time toying with that boy. He was worried if he used his sword master abilities, Fang Lang would refuse his challenge. Lin Yun rarely lost. He almost never lost to someone like Fang Lang who was clearly miles below his level. He did not take defeat graciously. Negative emotions formed a knot in his chest and affected the Dominating Sword Style. Therefore, he wanted to defeat Fang Lang with his spiritual energy and cultivation in order to relieve the pent-up frustrations. This was the only way to smoothen Lin Yun¡¯s cultivation path. Fang Lang cocked an eye but said nothing. He moved around the wet courtyard with his Spirit Step, forming conical waves. Lin Yun took a step and struck out with his heavy rusty de. Water that clung to his sword shot out and evaporated into mist. Fang Lang¡¯s eyes were icy cold. He did not care why Lin Yun sought him out, this time... Fang Lang wanted to turn Lin Yun¡¯s chest into a bloody smear. He knew when it was time to bare his teeth. He was not worried about murder but the trouble that came after. However... It did not mean he would not kill. ... Inside the pavilion, the tall and sturdy figure quietly served himself a cup of wine. He observed the ongoing sword fight under the pouring rain. He had confidence in Lin Yun. Although the boy lost in the Gathering of Swords, it did not mean he was weaker than Fang Lang. In contrast, with the aid of spiritual energy, the sword style taught by Donglu¡¯s God of des would be enhanced. Lin Yun would be frighteningly strong in battle. He did not interfere. This was Lin Yun¡¯s battle to fight, his demon to conquer in order to cleanse his mind. Interference would only cause more problems. The sturdy figure drank his wine and smiled knowingly. Truthfully, Lin Yun¡¯s trip to Luojiang City was influenced by manyplicated underlying factors. Lin Yun was unaware but the trip was only permitted because Donglu¡¯s God of des agreed to it. Everyone in the Tang Dynasty knew Donglu¡¯s God of des was siding with the third prince in the royal power grab. The third prince had beef with the Jiang family¡ªtheir disagreements were getting more pronounced, both sides no longer hiding their distaste for each other. Why did the Jiang family princess travel all the way to Luojiang City? Fang Lang and Jiang Linglong were close¡ªthe boy even learned the Four Season Form and obtained the Blooming Lotus Sword which was coveted by the Jiang family. The series of events had caught the attention of the third prince¡¯s party. They suspected Fang Lang was a Jiang family chess piece beyond Imperial City. Therefore, this trip to Luojiang City was not only for Lin Yun¡¯s personal vendetta, it was also to investigate the Jiang family¡¯s n. They did not harm a hair on Fang Beihe¡ªthe old man was just bait. They did not steal the Blooming Lotus Sword. However, a private cultivation duel was totally in line with the Tang Dynasty¡¯sw. Therefore, Chao Xiaojian would have no reason to act against them. If anyone was to be injured by the ensuing ruckus, no one was to be med but luck. The tall and sturdy figure emptied his cup. He watched the flickering des under the rain and smiled. ¡°Excellent choice of wine.¡± Any wine would taste good with such entertainment. ... ng! Clink! ng! The two swords shed repeatedly. The collision produced bright sparks under the dark, gloomy sky. Equipped with his spiritual energy, Lin Yun did not stop his strikes and his aura was getting more dominant by the second. Fang Lang had fought Lin Yun during the Gathering of Swords and remembered certain aspects of his sword skills. However, with the help of the spiritual energy, Lin Yun was many times stronger than when Fang Lang fought him during thepetition. Lin Yun did not underestimate Fang Lang. He was wholly-focused, much like when he visited Donglu¡¯s demon world. Every move with his rusty sword was aimed to impair and kill. ¡°Seventh grade versus seventh grade. I will win!¡± Lin Yun screamed. He wanted to defeat Fang Lang fair and square. He wanted a clear mind! Swoosh! The rusty sword shed horizontally with one fluid motion. Even the heaven¡¯s rain was sliced in half. The trajectory of the strike was beautiful, full of power yet elegant in its execution. Fang Lang leapt. Spiritual energy channeled through his body rapidly and the water droplets on the tip of his feet evaporated. Without any expression, Fang Lang¡¯s body vibrated and the rainwater that soaked his body immediately dissipated. Round, intense eyes stared at Lin Yun. Another sword joined the Blooming Lotus sword, drawn and ready. In a sh, a dazzling light struck out from Fang Lang¡¯s hand. The sword came down on Lin Yun¡¯s head. The raindrops froze and time stood still. Lin Yun¡¯s eyes widened. In the next second, his brain registered the familiar scene. He was excited. Back in the battle ring on Mount Shu, Fang Lang had taken to the air and changed the dynamics of the fight. Lin Yun waspletely overwhelmed by Fang Lang¡¯s attacks. It was the same scene but this time, Lin Yun would not lose! ¡°Dominating Sword Style...Lightning Fuse!¡± The seventh-grade spiritual energy contained within Lin Yun burst out with a thunderous p. Lightning arced across the rusty steel sword. This was the sword technique that made Donglu¡¯s God of des famous¡ªthe Dominating Sword Style Lightning Fuse! A rumbling sound. Dark clouds gathered and two thunderous ps rang out. On the rusty sword, lightning sparked and caused an explosion. An ovey of two thunderps, one shrouding the other. This was the extent a seventh-grade sword disciple could achieve. Lin Yun waved the sword and a series of fan-shaped de mirages shot through the rain. Rumbling thunder apanied the strike as it rushed toward Fang Lang¡¯s waist. If it struck true, Fang Lang would undoubtedly be cleaved in half. Blood and guts would spill all over the floor. A cultivator¡¯s battle was life or death! Fang Lang¡¯s eyes narrowed. Lin Yun¡¯s attack reflected in Fang Lang¡¯s eyes¡ªthe killing intent was overbearing. Fang Lang had been waiting for this moment! Lin Yun had exhausted his seventh-grade strength and was unable to quickly change his cultivation. Spiritual energy circted quickly within Fang Lang. Fang Lang removed the limiter he set for himself. The seventh-grade limit was used to fool Lin Yun. He revealed his eighth-grade sword mastery and switched to Jiang Linglong¡¯s cultivation state. The sudden growth in power presented a stark difference between Fang Lang and Lin Yun. It was the golden opportunity. Fang Lang wanted to kill Lin Yun but with the tall and sturdy man¡¯s presence, he had to be calctive about it. ng! The Blooming Lotus Sword shed with Lin Yun¡¯s rusty de. Fang Lang raised his hand. Thumb and middle finger met¡ªFinger Flick Energy Wave! A raindrop fell as Fang Lang¡¯s middle finger flicked outward. The unlucky raindrop exploded into smithereens. The hazy mist expanded. The shapeless energy wave twisted and shot toward Lin Yun¡¯s attack. Boom! Swords shed as the energy wave met the thunderstrike. The night sky was filled with an endless shower of raindrops. At that moment, the sky shook. In Chunmei Courtyard, thousands and thousands of raindrops exploded into steam. Amidst the haze, Lin Yun went from surprise to embarrassment to anger. F*ck! ¡®You aren¡¯t a seventh-grade sword disciple? Fang Lang, you scoundrel!¡¯ Fang Lang remained emotionless throughout the battle. ¡°I never said I was still a seventh-grade sword disciple.¡± A loud ng. The ground shook. The thunderstrike was devoured by the energy wave. The Blooming Lotus Sword pressed down on the rusty sword and without mercy, Lin Yun was disarmed! With the grace of a swallow, Fang Lang stepped onto Lin Yun¡¯s heavy sword and caused him to lose his grip. Like a slithering snake, Fang Lang closed in. Hand raised, thumb and middle finger met. He positioned his hand before Lin Yun¡¯s forehead like a blessing Buddha. Seeing the enraged Lin Yun, Fang Lang did not hesitate. He flicked his finger and a burst of energy was released from his fingertips. Crack! A dull thud. The energy wave exploded. Lin Yun¡¯s head was tipped back by the strong st. Raindrops sizzled as blood and gore sshed everywhere. Lin Yun¡¯s body sailed through the sky and tumbled onto the ground, kicking up waves of water. As soon as Fang Langnded, he turned, his green robes swatting away raindrops. He rushed at the fallen Lin Yun with the Blooming Lotus Sword, a neutral expression on his face. Damaging the head was not enough. He had to make sure. A stab in the chest would do it. Chapter 46 - A Lotus Field

Chapter 46: A Lotus Field

There was an eerie silence in Chunmei Courtyard. Everyone was wide-eyed as they stared at the shocking scene in the rainy night. Inside the pavilion, Old Fang¡¯s eyes widened. Watching Fang Lang¡¯s counterattack, Old Fang felt a blush color his face. His grip on thedypanion¡¯s waist tightened excitedly, causing the woman to squirm in pain. Her tiny fists struck Old Fang¡¯s chest. The tall and sturdy figure¡¯s wine cup was frozen in the air. He studied the rain-soaked Fang Lang. Amidst the gale and storm, the boy had turned the tables, surprising him. He had thought Lin Yun¡¯s Dominating Sword Style Lightning Fuse would take Fang Lang out. The man did not use his spiritual intent to gauge Fang Lang¡¯s cultivation, hence he was not aware that Fang Lang was hiding his true strength. Lin Yun had been careless. ¡°Interesting. His cunningness gave him an edge over Lin Yun. He used his seventh-grade sword mastery to mislead Lin Yun and at thest moment, he reveals his eight-grade cultivation. The power difference makes it difficult for Lin Yun to fight back.¡± Thunk! The wine cup mmed down on the table. No matter, in the next moment, Fang Lang was about to experience the wrath of an unrestrained fifth-grade sword master. ... A bead of rain rolled down the line of his jaw. Then, it fell to the ground. Within that span of time, Fang Lang had made a decision. The Finger Flick Energy Wave was insufficient to kill Lin Yun! Even though the attack was directed at his head and blood was spilled, it was not a kill. Fang Lang had to swiftly strike him down with his sword. Without any regrets, Fang Lang swung the Blooming Lotus Sword and activated his Spirit Step. Like a ghostly illusion, he dipped the tip of his sword into the water puddles that had gathered in the courtyard as he ran, summoning a huge wave from the ever-expanding pool of rainwater. Sword Draw! Whoosh! The sword was pulled out from the water. Thousands of hissing white snakes shot out. His de shone resplendently as if it contained lightning. Fang Lang leapt into the air like the star long jump athlete, crashing through the rain. With two hands gripping the handle of the Blooming Lotus de, he plunged the sword down as if it was a dagger. ¡°Fang Lang! I want you dead!¡± Lin Yun¡¯s angry cry sounded throughout the courtyard. An immense pressure emanated from him like a tsunami. The spiritual energy moved and settled over his body like a veil¡ªa Spirit Suit! This was the sign of a second-ss sword master. Lin Yun did not bother to suppress his cultivation. He was infuriated! Flesh tore from his forehead and bits of bone could be seen. At thest moment before Fang Lang flicked his finger, Lin Yun had released his fifth-grade sword master cultivation. He would suffer some internal injuries for the sudden release but it was worth it as the alternative was having his skull utterly smashed by Fang Lang and losing his life. Ssh! Lin Yun sprang up from the pool of water. With both hands, he took hold of Fang Lang¡¯s Blooming Lotus Sword. Fresh blood sttered all around! The rain carried the redness away but the stench lingered. Lin Yun gripped Fang Lang¡¯s sword in both hands as it neared his throat¡ªthe tip was centimeters away. The cold murderous intent made Lin Yun¡¯s hackles rise. Fang Lang was serious about killing him. Fang Lang dared to kill him! Before, Lin Yun had almost fallen. However, with his sword master cultivation activated, Fang Lang did not stand a chance! An eighth-grade sword disciple was no match for a sword master! Blood flowed down Lin Yun¡¯s face and the gore depicted his malevolence. ¡°What a shame...¡± he said in a hoarse voice. Rain rumbled around them. Fang Lang looked at the unmoving Blooming Lotus Sword sped between Lin Yun¡¯s palms. His heart fell at the sight of Lin Yun¡¯s strength. Sword master... A tricky situation! However, Fang Lang was determined to kill him! Fang Lang did not bother to speak. The wind and rain battered his face but he wore a sly smirk. Crack! He smashed his head downward and struck Lin Yun¡¯s open head wound without mercy. F*ck! Immense pain radiated through Lin Yun¡¯s body. Crack! Crack! Crack! Fang Lang continued his onught¡ªblood sshed everywhere. ¡®I¡¯ll hit your injury. It¡¯ll hurt you more than me!¡¯ Fang Lang¡¯s forehead was stained red with blood. His head came down for another strike. Suddenly, Lin Yun¡¯s sword master energy exploded and Fang Lang was thrown 50 paces away. Lin Yun rose from the ground. Fang Lang touched ground then broke into a sprint like a horse. The water puddles in the courtyard formed a wave in his wake. Lin Yun raised his head to the heavy rain and roared. Blood continued to fall from his face. Fang Lang rushed in with the Blooming Lotus Sword. In the process, he noticed a stern gaze from the pavilion. The tall and sturdy figure was up and staring at him. Fang Lang¡¯s heart sank. However, he had an ace up his sleeve. When he smashed the Green Reward Egg, he had received three items and two of them were forbat. A Power Loan Card and an Enchantment Card! ¡®Power Loan Card: The host will temporarily gain all of the binding partner¡¯s cultivation powers. (Note: This card cannot be applied concurrently with the Amplification Card)¡¯ This newbat card was Fang Lang¡¯s ultimate weapon. Together with the Enchantment Card, Fang Lang was certain he could kill Lin Yun! Fang Lang was hesitant. He was sure if he used the cards, the sturdy man would interfere. Killing Lin Yun was impossible! That tall and sturdy figure was a hindering factor. Therefore, Fang Lang had to wait for the right opportunity. The storm rumbled on. The sky was a dark haze and the rain fell like it wanted to cleanse the Earth of all sins and ughter. Fang Lang dragged the Blooming Lotus Sword and red at Lin Yun who had gotten up. Lin Yun¡¯s movements were spastic, suggesting standing was bing a chore. Suddenly, Fang Lang¡¯s attention was pulled to the entertainment house. Among the rainclouds, a silhouette rode in on an extravagant flight sword with runes spinning away happily. The man held an umbre. Recognition shimmered in Fang Lang¡¯s eyes. He called out excitedly, ¡°Master Wen!¡± Huh? The tall and sturdy figure in the pavilion narrowed his eyes and quickly turned his attention to the sky. At that moment, Fang Lang rushed forward with quick steps, kicking up the pools of water on the ground. Fang Lang closed in on Lin Yun who was clutching his head. ¡®System! Use the Power Loan Card with Jiang Linglong as the binding partner!¡¯ Fang Lang growled in his heart. ¡®Ding! Power Loan Card activated and willst seven and a half minutes. Happy fighting,¡¯ the System piped up. His eyes blurred and in an instant, he felt the transformation into Old Jiang. At his core, he felt the energy gather. The energy circted without stopping. Old Jiang¡¯s cultivation was an eighth-grade sword master! The energy rattled against the shackles and restraints, trying the escape. His spiritual energy flowed rapidly and formed a Spirit Suit that was much finer than Lin Yun¡¯s. The Spirit Suit was shaped for a slender figure, more feminine... The minor detail was not worth Fang Lang¡¯s attention. His fights always relied on cooperation with his partners. ¡®Enchantment Card!¡¯ Twobat-rted cards were active at the same time. The rapidly growing aura from Fang Lang made Lin Yun shudder. With a hand still on his head, Lin Yun looked up. His eyes were red with blood. Fang Lang thrusted his sword. As it was raining, the attack was enhanced with Jiang Linglong¡¯s activated Four Season Form. Every droplet of rain fell with a frightening de energy. Beside Fang Lang, a blurry silhouette that looked like Jiang Linglong appeared. Their swords moved in concordance. Fang Lang did not use the Four Season Form. He held the sword horizontally. The sound of waves. The tip of the sword attracted the falling rain like it was a ma. Water collected at the Blooming Lotus Sword tip, gathering into the shape of a lotus flower bud. Secret Technique: Lotus de! Lin Yun shivered as he felt death approaching. In the pavilion, the tall and sturdy figure reacted. He was wide-eyed and a chill ran through his spine. ¡°How dare you!¡± Secret technique? Fang Lang knew about the secret technique? Secret techniques elevated one¡¯s cultivation above the level of sword master. Fang Lang¡¯s killing intent was honed into a single attack. The tall and sturdy man was sullen. Fang Lang had him distracted before revealing his ultimate weapon. Whoosh! The tall and sturdy figure had quick reflexes. With a shout, the banquet table before him was split into two by his de energy. He took one step forward. In a sh, he was out of the pavilion and in the rain. A thick and heavy sword appeared from his Space Ring. Lightning struck above as he moved to intercept Fang Lang¡¯s attack. However, his progress was halted by a slender figure. Like a ghost, the man appeared out of nowhere and blocked his path. With two fingers, the slender man held the heavy sword in ce. A violent wind kicked up a flurry of rainwater. ¡°This is a fight between the youths. Why are you interrupting?¡± Mentor Wen saidzily. He held an umbre and his beard was a mess. The Schrly Sword Master, Wen Ting! The tall and sturdy figure felt his heart tremble. On the other end, the lotus flower buds surrounded Lin Yun. With the Blooming Lotus Sword, Fang Lang stabbed Lin Yun. The sword tore through the Spirit Suit and plunged into Lin Yun¡¯s chest, striking the heart. The de exited through Lin Yun¡¯s back. Disbelief filled Lin Yun¡¯s eyes. He lost again? Was he going to die? Blood dripped down his mouth and onto the Blooming Lotus Sword. Fang Lang twisted the sword in his hand. At that, the lotus flower buds around Lin Yun bloomed. In a blink of an eye, Lin Yun was consumed by the de energy. Thousands of cuts appeared all over his body. Not an inch of his body went unscathed. Blood oozed from the open wounds. In the depths of his eyes, he saw thest lotus flower bloom as pain overcame him. Then, darkness consumed him and his life force was extinguished. Lotus flowers covered the entire scene. The rainwater in the courtyard vanished. Chapter 47 - Are You Kidding Me?

Chapter 47: Are You Kidding Me?

¡®I¡¯m not worried about murder but the trouble thates after,¡¯ was Fang Lang¡¯s thought. Although he knew killing Lin Yun would bring forth much trouble, he had no remorse. Lin Yun had used Old Fang to threaten him. Lin Yun did not hurt the old man and he even had the Queen of Flowers keep his fatherpany. Despite that, Fang Lang was determined to kill Lin Yun. Lin Yun was cruel and wild¡ªthe way he humiliated Liu Bubai during the Gathering of Swords was indicative of his nature. Who knew what Lin Yun would do after losing this fight? Therefore, Fang Lang decided murder was the best solution. He pulled out the sword¡ªLin Yun¡¯s lifeless body fell onto the ground. Rain watered his corpse as blood mingled with the puddles. Warmth slowly seeped out of the body. The cold rain took whatever heat that was left, leaving an icy corpse. As a precaution, Fang Lang raised his sword and sliced off Lin Yun¡¯s head. He breathed a sigh of relief after seeing Lin Yun¡¯s mutted corpse. There was not an inch left unscathed and the head was severed from the body. He was the first person Fang Lang killed in this strange world¡ªfirst, but definitely not hisst. Cultivation was not a sentimental practice. ... Silence filled Chunmei Courtyard. There was only the sound of raindrops striking the ground. The tall and sturdy figure studied Lin Yun¡¯s fallen body, disbelief on his face. Lin Yun was dead. A fifth-grade sword master was killed by a sword disciple. Lin Yun became a sacrificialmb in the conflict between the two giants¡ªthe Jiang family and the third prince. The whole incident was somewhatical in a dark humor sort of way. The tall and sturdy man was frozen. He did not expect an oue like this. Lin Yun had confidently said he would win. The man had no reason to doubt him¡ªLin Yun had always delivered. Without any Imperial Examination qualifications, Lin Yun was epted by the third prince as an aide. He was a young upstart who had ess to plenty of cultivation resources thanks to the third prince. As long as Lin Yun stood out in the Imperial Examination, he would have gone ces. However, Lin Yun went nowhere... Instead, heid dead in Luojiang City, dead at the hands of a nameless teen. Whoosh! The tall and sturdy figure¡¯s sword hand trembled. ¡°Wen Ting!¡± The Schrly Sword Master blocked him! Mentor Wen effortlessly drew a thin sword. With a wave, countless bright lights formed and the de energy scattered throughout the courtyard, making all the raindrops explode. The tall and sturdy figure took a step back with a pained expression. He would be punished for Lin Yun¡¯s death. Donglu¡¯s God of des and the third prince would not forgive him easily. ¡°Damned boy!¡± The man turned to Fang Lang. His eyes were burning with rage and he looked as if he wanted to swallow Fang Lang whole. In the rain, Fang Lang leaned on the Blooming Lotus Sword. He nced at the furious man and smirked. ¡®Stare all you want. Lin Yun was the one who traveled all the way here to experience death. It¡¯s none of my problem. I¡¯m just here to fulfill your wish.¡¯ Mentor Wen was taken aback by the event. He was pensive as he studied Lin Yun¡¯s pitiful corpse. Secret technique! That graceful maneuver with the de energy lotus flower reminded Mentor Wen of the Sword Guild¡¯s sect leader. Fang Lang¡¯s attack carried some elements of Xuanyuan Taihua¡¯s fighting style. The boy not only earned the right to wield the Blooming Lotus Sword, he even learned the secret technique? Was it a natural progression to acquire the secret technique after owning the sword? ¡°Wen Ting! Hand him over, or else¡ª¡± the tall and sturdy figure said through gritted teeth. He had a deranged look about him. Umbre in hand, Mentor Wen interrupted without hesitation. ¡°And give up my eight-silver-coin mentor pay? Are you kidding me?¡± He advanced as he spoke. The sword in his hand shot out. It floated on its own ord and made a keening sound. The vibration pierced the raindrops. Mentor Wen reached out and gestured¡ªone sword became ten. Ten swords hovered in the air with the tips pointing downwards. Their cries echoed. A unique aura emanated from Mentor Wen. The rainwater flowed toward him, spiralling around his body. In the courtyard, Fang Lang held his sword and stared wide-eyed at Mentor Wen. In an instant, their surroundings were filled with an immense de energy. The rain transformed into countless des that arranged themselves around Mentor Men. ¡°Fourth-ss sword master, sword intent realm,¡± Fang Lang uttered. This was the first time he was witnessing a fourth-ss sword master utilizing the sword intent realm. He was enchanted by the scene. Two words appeared in his mind, ¡®F*ck yeah!¡¯ Umbre in hand, Mentor Wen looked like he was on a leisurely stroll, barring the ten hovering swords. ¡°Fang Lang is my student. It¡¯s my responsibility to protect him. Furthermore, death is always a possibility in a private duel between two cultivators, the Tang Dynasty¡¯sws have it clearly written. Who are we to stand between them? I never backed down from a threat in Changan, so who do you think you are? How dare you threaten me on my turf?¡± Mentor Wen waved his hand. The ten swords pointed up and at the sturdy figure. The swords took flight. As they flew, each sword vibrated and split into tens and hundreds of sword mirages. The tall and sturdy man wore a somber expression. One man could not take down hundreds of swords. This was the sword intent realm of a peaked fourth-ss sword master. The man did not retreat. Instead, he lifted his heavy sword as if it weighed nothing and engaged in a dance with the hundreds of swordsing his way. The onught was akin to a swarm of hos flying one¡¯s way. The man only had one de. Donglu, Dominating Sword Style. Boom! An explosive sound echoed as de energy ran rampant. A strong gale swept across the courtyard. The tall and sturdy man lost his grip on his sword. Blood stained the web between his thumb and the forefinger. He took one step back, and then another. Awkwardly, he retreated from Chunmei Courtyard. The brick floor shattered with every step he took and murky puddles sshed everywhere. Mentor Wen waved his hand. Swords gathered and shot toward the tall and sturdy man. The man was ultimately drenched as he endured the cuts and hits. Blood flowed freely. The man was being lynched. The tall and sturdy man looked awful. Blood flowed down his body as he gritted his teeth. A maniacal glint shone in his eyes as he red at Mentor Wen. A paper talisman appeared in the man¡¯s hand. The man tore the talisman into pieces. Behind the tall and sturdy figure, a magnificent presence grew and grew! The lonely night sky of Luojiang City was cleaved apart by an enormous sword mirage. A domineering sword intent oozed from the mirage. Mentor Wen¡¯s eyes narrowed and said in displeasure, ¡°Donglu¡¯s God of des¡¯s de energy? That¡¯s excessive.¡± As soon as he said that, the giant de mirage swung down. The de energy surrounding the mirage splintered the rain. One hand on the umbre, Mentor Wen gestured with his free hand. The vast amount of swords stopped in their tracks. They flew back to Mentor Wen. The swords nged as they formed a shield protecting their wielder. Conk! The sword mirage struck the shield. A circr wave spread out from the epicenter of the attack. Chunmei Courtyard was in shambles. The energy wave rippled out and cracks began to form on the pirs of the pavilion. Within the pavilion, Old Fang held the screaming Queen of Flowers tight and patted her perfumed shoulders. The shield spun and withstood the sword mirage¡¯s attacking pressure. Meanwhile, Mentor Wen moved a hundred paces back, gliding through the water puddles, umbre in hand. Noticing Mentor Wen¡¯s movements, the tall and sturdy man sprung into action. Through the winds and rain, he lunged for Fang Lang who was leaning on his sword. Large hands grabbed Fang Lang as the sword intent overwhelmed him. A fourth-ss sword intent was not something Fang Lang could ovee. Fang Lang felt the world was a cage and the rain was his shackles. The tall and sturdy man did not want to suffer for Lin Yun¡¯s death. He wanted to use Fang Lang as his whipping boy who would take the God of des and the third prince¡¯s rage in his stead. The man simply did not want to die. Fang Lang¡¯s expression shifted. As if sensing something, he raised his head to the sky. A howl echoed from the sky! Like a legendary beast descending from the mountains, a bloodthirsty aura dropped from the sky. The radiating energy dissipated the rainwater. The ground trembled as if there was an earthquake. A silhouette blocked Fang Lang. The person¡¯s appearance made the tall and sturdy man¡¯s pupils constrict. He stuttered, ¡°Zhao... Zhao Wuji!¡± It was evident Fang Lang had deep connections with the Jiang family. Zhao Wuji stepped onto the ground. This was not the same man Fang Lang remembered¡ªthe Zhao Wuji he knew was a simpleton. This Zhao Wuji had razor-sharp eyes, an imposing aura and a surging vital energy. He punched the air and an energy wave exploded from his fist. The tall and sturdy figure was struck by the wave and blood dripped from his nose and mouth. The attack left craters in the ground as if it was a grenade. Poor man, getting beaten up left and right. The manid dejectedly in his own blood. He tore the final paper talisman to save his life¡ªhe transformed into a beam of light and bounced away at lightning speed. The man bounded for the exit and promptly left Chunmei Courtyard. Zhao Wuji was a man built like a mountain. He looked around and was dumbfounded. Then, aplicated expression crossed his face as he said apologetically, ¡°The youngdy was worried about you so she sent me. This matter pertains to the Jiang family and as an apology, fairpensation will be provided.¡± Momentster, he nced at Lin Yun¡¯s corpse. Unperturbed, Zhao Wuji vanished from the courtyard, hot on the heels of the tall and sturdy figure. ... The main street of Luojiang City was deste as the heavy rain scrubbed the city clean. A horse carriage trotted casually. At the top of the carriage was a ringing bronze bell. The sound of the bell was louder than the hoofbeats, the carriage wheels and the rain. Ragged breathing and stomping footsteps echoed through the street, disrupting the peace. It was the sturdy man who was heavily injured by Zhao Wuji¡¯s punch. He had used a spell talisman to escape Chunmei Courtyard. As he ran in the rain, blood spilled from his mouth. Suddenly, his footsteps halted. His body froze. The rain and the wind were silent. The horse carriage stopped ten meters away from the tall and sturdy figure. Chapter 48 - Why Bully A Kid?

Chapter 48: Why Bully A Kid?

The neverending rain battered the horse carriage, spraying a haze of mist. The asional wind made the carriage blinds move, revealing two figures seated across each other¡ªone was dressed in green while the other had a long, white beard. The bronze bell on the carriage shook violently¡ªthe clear tone reverberated through the streets. The ringing was louder than the wind and rain. Ten meters was neither far nor close. The tall and sturdy figure coughed out blood. When he saw the approaching horse carriage, he had goosebumps. He had one hand over his injury as the rain soaked through his clothes. A fourth-ss sword master with sword intent realm was reduced to this pitiful sight. Zhao Wuji¡¯s unexpected appearance had done severe damage. Jiang Linglong had sent one of the Jiang family¡¯s Five Tigers to protect Fang Lang. This cemented the theory about Fang Lang and the Jiang family¡¯s rtions. The sturdy man¡¯s head turned. He felt the boiling vital energy behind him like the sun. It was the terrifying aura of a fifth-ss martial arts master and his god-tier energy refinement realm. The man cursed the dead Lin Yun¡ªthat fifth-grade sword master who was killed by a mere sword disciple. If Lin Yun was alive, the other party might show some hesitance to engage as the boy was favored by the third prince. However, Lin Yun was dead and the chance of the man escaping Luojiang City dwindled. A coughing sound. ¡°Your trip to Luojiang City was to find me, I assume? Why did you seek trouble with the child? He is just a normal boy who has no connections with the Jiang family. Isn¡¯t that right, Lady Jiang?¡± A throaty voice called out from the carriage. The tall and sturdy man trembled vigorously. He turned to look at the horse carriage with disbelief. The blinds were pulled aside, revealing an old, weathered man. Opposite the man sat a veiled youngdy who had stars in her eyes. It was Luojiang Academy¡¯s headmaster, Cui Cheng! Also...the prized heiress of the Jiang family, Jiang Linglong! ¡°Grandfather Cui, if you¡¯d please.¡± Jiang Linglong¡¯s light tone carried a coldness as she decided the man¡¯s fate. The man¡¯s pupils constricted in sudden understanding. The Jiang family princess¡¯s visit to Luojiang City was not for Fang Lang, but for Cui Cheng! Fang Lang probably had nothing to do with the Jiang family. Lin Yun¡¯s death at Fang Lang¡¯s hand on this expedition was pointless. There was no turning back time. Without hesitation, the tall and sturdy man summoned multiple high quality swords from his Space Ring. He directed the des at the horse carriage. Then, he took the opportunity to escape. Like a bird, he brushed against the raindrops and took flight, heading toward the row of buildings by the street. He nned to flee through the rooftops. From the carriage, the old man extended a hand that had the appearance of a Chinese goldthread. With the flick of his outstretched hand, a powerful spiritual intent burst out in a ring and sent ripples through their surroundings. The escaping figure felt his muscles seize up. The rain seemed to have stopped. No, every drop of water floated in midair. The man was frozen like an ice sculpture, encased for eternity. ¡°Why bully a kid?¡± A soft sigh echoed from a distance. The tall and sturdy man watched as every suspended raindrop turned into an icicle shaped like a long and fine needle. A whirring sound. Unlimited rain-turned-needles flew toward the attacking swords. The steel swords in the air exploded into a mist of powder. A portion of the ck roof tiles were also caught in the crossfire. Before he could utter a word, the tall and sturdy man was turned into a pulp of minced meat. The sound of rain resumed. Water fell from the sky like a waterfall, drenching every inch of the Earth¡¯s surface. ¡°Won¡¯t Lady Jiang see him?¡± Headmaster Cui asked. ¡°No. Meeting him won¡¯t do him any good.¡± ¡°Ah. You intentionally doubled back from your journey to Changan yet you choose not to meet him. The rtionships of the stubborn youth are soplicated...¡± ¡°I don¡¯t understand what Grandfather Cui is implying.¡± ¡°I... I¡¯m saying your friendship is true and sincere.¡± ¡°Okay.¡± Ring, ring... The horse carriage turned and disappeared into the main street. The conversation and the bronze bell gradually faded into the rainy night. When Zhao Wuji reached the scene, he saw the pile of mushy human remains. He raised his head and scanned his surroundings. A smile graced his face as he bowed in the direction of the departing carriage. ... Among the mountain ranges veiled by the clouds and fog sat the Sword Guild. Atop Mount Shu, a man lounged with a blue and white porcin wine cup in hand. The strong wine swayed gently in the cup, reflecting the light. The white-haired, white-robed Chao Xiaojian had his eyes closed as he recited poetry. His chest and abdomen were exposed as heid on his side,nguishing amidst the cloud cover. All of a sudden, a de energy pierced through the clouds and wrapped around his fingertip like a thread. Chao Xiaojian interacted with the energy, then he opened his eyes. ¡°I knew the removal of the Blooming Lotus Sword would bring misfortune. The sword was left by our top disciple who was lost for decades in the demon world. The reappearance of this sword no doubt attracted many¡¯s attention... ¡°Donglu¡¯s God of des, Nan Yehuo... How bold of you.¡± Chao Xiaojian yawned and destroyed the de energy around his finger. He lifted his porcin cup and spilled the contents forward. Lying on his side, he extended his fingers and made a crumpling motion. The spilled alcohol solidified and transformed into a semi-transparent de. With a flick of his finger, the de shot out into the horizon, flying downward through theyers of clouds. As soon as it pierced the clouds, it straightened and set off for its destination quietly. The speed at which the de traveled drew a white line across the sky, as if cleaving the sky in half. ... Donglu Academy was situated on Flight Sword Peak, Mount Donglin. A red-robed silhouette was standing on the edge of the cliff, hands sped before his back. His eyebrows were joined in a line as he took in the expansive horizon of clouds. Nan Yehuo opened his eyes and angled his face to one side. He watched a sword pierce through the cloud cover in the distance. Unexpectedly, the clouds scattered as the sword tunneled like a hissing snake. Nan Yehuo¡¯s eyebrows bristled. A semi-transparent sword was aimed at him from a farawaynd. His eyes tracked the sword¡¯s flight. A sword that divided thend and sky! Nan Yehuo swiped at the air. Countless clouds folded over and formed a giant sword. The giant cloud sword was sent forth to meet the semi-transparent sword. Whoosh! The cloud sword dissipated. Nan Yehuo lifted his hand and caught the semi-transparent de out of the air. His eyebrows swayed in the wind. The sword intent on the sword fell away, then... It transformed into alcohol that sshed Nan Yehuo¡¯s face. ¡°Find me if you have any misgivings. Don¡¯t bully the kid. You do not want the current Sword Guild as your enemy. I¡¯m no match for the Emperor, but you?¡± A booming voice echoed from the ssh of alcohol. Then, Nan Yehuo was left alone. With an impassive face, he watched the clouds as a drop of murky liquid rolled down his eyebrow. ... Chunmei Courtyard. The rain continued. Fang Lang fell on his back on the floor as he gasped for air. In the precarious pavilion, Old Fang finally pushed aside the Queen of Flowers and rushed to Fang Lang¡¯s side, umbre in hand. The energetic Old Fang brought a smile to Fang Lang¡¯s face. The worry in his heart abated. Mentor Wen walked over with a constipated look. His robe had been decimated by the de energy, revealing an expanse of white skin. He lost the easygoing appearance. ¡°Are you alright?¡± Mentor Wen asked after nodding at Old Fang. Fang Lang waved his hand in response. In all honesty, Fang Lang did not suffer any injuries from start to end. While using the secret technique, he had overdrawn his power but the effect was minor. ¡°The only warning I can offer is, you met a girl you shouldn¡¯t. This affair will bring you adversity,¡± Mentor Wen said as he shook his head. The man spoke from experience. Fang Lang was silent. Mentor Wen yawned under his umbre and said, ¡°Get up. Go home and wash up. Get some rest and attend ss at the academy tomorrow.¡± Fang Lang rose. ¡°I killed someone. Will there be no consequences?¡± ¡°It was a private duel between cultivators and he was the initiator. Nows were broken. Also, you have witnesses.¡± Mentor Wen gave a pointed look at the two observing martial arts masters sent by the Jade Pavilion. ¡°Don¡¯t worry, you won¡¯t get into trouble in Luojiang City unless the Jiang family is taken down. Or the third prince, Li Liancheng, takes the throne. The issue with the Jiang family isplicated. There¡¯s enmity between the two parties and today, you were caught in the crossfire. You got too close to thedy. Women... ¡°You don¡¯t need to know too much about the Imperial City elites. You¡¯re still a child, it¡¯s unnecessary. All you need to know is the headmaster will protect you in Luojiang. You¡¯re safe until the Imperial Examination. Even Donglu¡¯s God of des won¡¯t be able to harass you. ¡°However, if you failed the Imperial Examination, things may not be as swell,¡± Mentor Wen said with a wry smile. Fang Lang¡¯s eyebrows raised a fraction. Mentor Wen patted the boy¡¯s shoulder and said knowingly, ¡°So don¡¯t hold back. Show what you¡¯ve got and prove yourself in the Imperial Examination. Achieving the highest distinction would be best, then you¡¯ll have nothing to fear.¡± Mentor Wen smiled kindly. ¡®To achieve the highest distinction is no easy feat.¡¯ The Tang Dynasty had 3,000petitive academies¡ªeven Jiang Linglong was not guaranteed the highest distinction. As for Fang Lang, it was a pipe dream. Mentor Wen was simply presenting the boy with a lofty goal. Fang Lang internalized his mentor¡¯s words. The calming sound of the rain allowed him to think. Mentor Wen¡¯s words made sense. ¡°The highest distinction...¡± Fang Lang mumbled under his breath. Determination shed in his eyes. It was time to redouble his efforts. Chapter 49 - The Earlier the Better

Chapter 49: The Earlier the Better

The torrential rain gradually slowed down. The asional stubborn droplets fell from the clouds and struck the wet ground. Zhao Wuji returned with a dripping, mutted corpse. He did not speak much to Fang Lang. Instead, he inquired about Old Fang¡¯s state and reassured him. Zhao Wuji swore to Old Fang, as long as they lived in Luojiang City, no harm woulde to them. The reassurance settled Old Fang¡¯s agitated heart. Zhao Wuji collected Lin Yun¡¯s mangled corpse and gave Fang Lang an intense stare. ¡°Young one, keep training. The Jiang family can protect you but not forever. Get stronger, then Old Fang won¡¯t have to worry about you, thedy too.¡± The words put a bitter taste in Zhao Wuji¡¯s mouth. Thedy was a fine specimen and... Leaning on the Blooming Lotus Sword, Fang Lang nodded respectfully. With aplex expression, Zhao Wuji sighed and reaffirmed his grip on the corpses. He leapt into the night sky and disappeared at the speed of light. The falling rain washed away the blood on the floor. The redness flowed into the drains and vanished from sight. Mentor Wen yawned again and waved them goodbye. He left, umbre in hand. Outside the courtyard, the two Jade Pavilion martial arts masters who had no business there left swiftly. Manager Yu gave them permission to assist wherever they could but they knew better than to get involved in a fight with fourth-ss sword masters. Hence, theyid low and observed. Noises started to fill the quiet night. Old Fang held the umbre and guided the shaky Fang Lang away from the lively entertainment house. Thest traces of the boy who died in Chunmei Courtyard was washed away by the flowing rainwater, never to be seen again. ... The father and son returned to the Fang Manor. Old Fang went to the kitchen to personally prepare a bowl of hot porridge for Fang Lang. The night¡¯s event had shaken Old Fang to his core. However, he maintained hisposure for his son¡¯s sake. Old Fang knew what happened would have arger impact on Fang Lang. Fang Lang had killed someone¡ªit was ridiculous to expect him to be calm. Outside, the rain continued. Water droplets struck the roof tiles, eliciting smattering sounds. Inside the house, Fang Lang ate the porridge with a porcin spoon. He blew over the spoon of porridge before ingesting it. No one spoke. The oilmp flickered. Momentster, Old Fang met Fang Lang¡¯s eyes and said, ¡°Are the spirit crystals sufficient?¡± Fang Lang nodded. ¡°You and I are total opposites. I have a white core so cultivation was never the path for me. Who knew, my son would show promise... The show is not over for you!¡± Old Fang said with augh. ¡°I wouldn¡¯t me you if you failed but since there¡¯s some hope, you should strive for the best! If you run out of spirit crystals, let me know. I will sell the properties and farnds to gather the required resource for your cultivation. It won¡¯t be a problem! Your mother passed away young but I made her a promise to take care of you. I will do my very best!¡± Old Fang said solemnly. Words he had held close to his heart were uttered to his son that night. Old Fang knew his son was growing up. As his son grew, Old Fang aged. Fang Lang ate his porridge in silence but he nodded. Under the illumination of the oilmp, Old Fang saw Fang Lang smile. His son stood and patted his shoulder. ¡°Don¡¯t worry about my safety. I¡¯ve spoken to Old Zhao, he has reassured me there won¡¯t be a repeat of tonight¡¯s incident. With him around, I feel much safer. Old Zhao is nothing like your dad. He¡¯s incredibly strong, a fifth-ss martial arts master I believe. He asks for seven to eightdies at one go whenever he visits the entertainment house.¡± Old Fang carried on and the conversation took a detour. Fang Lang had a subdued smile. Seeing that, Old Fang grinned and said, ¡°Like what Master Wen said, the Imperial Examination is two weeks away, don¡¯t hide your talents. Go and conquer the exams! You¡¯re like the mountain peak, and father will support you from the base and be proud of you,¡± Old Fang said with a smile. Then, he collected Fang Lang¡¯s bowl and quietly left the room. The door closed behind him. Fang Lang walked to the window. In the haze of the rain, he saw Old Fang leave with an umbre in hand. Fang Lang exhaled. ¡°Like what Mentor Wen said, to ensure no problem arises, I have to be the top scorer in the Imperial Examination.¡± A sh of excitement gleamed in Fang Lang¡¯s eyes. He knew achieving the highest achievement in the Imperial Examination was no easy feat even with the System¡¯s aid. Previously, the System had given him an achievement mission that involved getting his name on the honor roll. There was a stark difference between achieving the honor roll and the highest distinction. He only had to get his name into the honor roll. Obviously, the System was aware of the difficulty of achieving the highest distinction. Fang Lang got into bed. ording to Old Zhao, there were other factors in y with regards to Lin Yun¡¯s appearance in Luojiang City. Beyond his personal vendetta, there were forces in the background supporting his visit¡ªsomething about the third prince from the imperial pce in Changan. The third prince, the Jiang family, Donglu¡¯s God of des and the Sword Guild... Fang Lang let out a breath. He was not a person of worth yet he was identally pulled into this frightening whirlpool. His danger senses tingled. However, he did not regret his actions. There were reasons for what had happened. Ever since he decided to bind Old Jiang, he already had one foot in the whirlpool. Then, he beat every genius sword disciple in the Sword Guild¡¯s tunnel test and obtained the Blooming Lotus Sword¡ªthat cemented his involvement in whatever plot the elites had going. Fang Lang sat cross-legged and expunged all theplicated thoughts from his mind. As what Mentor Wen had suggested, he had to focus on the Imperial Examination. His aim was to outshine everyone and reach the highest rank. No one would trouble him then. The haze that blocked his vision would be lifted. He had to work hard! ¡°System, switch to binding partner¡¯s cultivation state!¡± Fang Lang¡¯s pupils constricted as he concentrated. ¡®Ding! Switching sessful!¡¯ Suddenly, a thought crossed Fang Lang¡¯s mind. He had just leveled up the System. There was an empty binding slot. If Fang Lang wanted to achieve the highest rank, he had to utilize every resource he had. He could not wait for another exceptional genius toe into his life. It would be a waste of time. Moreover, as long as he leveled up the System, more slots would open up. Therefore, for the sake of efficiency, Fang Lang decided he should fill up the slot as soon as possible. As the saying went, ¡®The earlier the better...¡¯ ¡°I¡¯ll bind to another genius and enter the Triple Binding Mode for cultivation. It will boost my cultivation speed significantly. Who should I choose as my third binding partner?¡± Lu Ze? Wen Ting? Or Chao Xiaojian? Fang Lang¡¯s brows furrowed. Thest two were not an option. By the time the binding wasplete, the Imperial Examination would have already ended. Lu Ze¡¯s core was dubious at best and triggering the passive ability to gain rewards was nigh impossible. Frankly, the subsequent bindings did not require cultivators with good cores as he had Old Jiang in his collection who remained as his main partner. For the next binding, the person had to fulfill certain criteria: it must be someone Fang Lang knew, someone who required a short binding time and someone who Fang Lang could easily interact with to trigger the passive ability... Huh? There was a suitable candidate. A lightbulb lit up in Fang Lang¡¯s mind. ¡°Hmm? Old Liu?¡± Light danced in Fang Lang¡¯s eyes. Liu Bubai, 7th on the Luojiang Academy honor roll, ninth-grade sword disciple. The boy who had wanted to carry him to victory but was pped in the face by reality. Although Liu Bubai had contributed next to nothing in thepetition, he had innate talent. The boy had a better family background than Ni Wen but he poured his heart into the flight sword instead of cultivation. Something urred to Fang Lang, Old Liu¡¯s penchant for flying might work to his favor. With Fang Lang¡¯s Specialized Flight Sword Maneuver Skill, he could take Old Liu flying after the binding process. That would count as a meaningful interaction? Riding the flight sword required one to hone their spiritual sense, and thus was a form of cultivation. If so, Fang Lang would not need to rack his brain for cultivation topics. Truly, men appreciated the simple pleasures in life aspared to women. The light in Fang Lang¡¯s eyes grew brighter, rivalling Venus that hung in eastern sky. No need for hesitation, let the binding begin! ¡°System, bind to Liu Bubai!¡± Fang Lang said with determination. ¡®Ding! Partner-binding in progress...¡¯ ¡®Ding! Target partner is a ninth-grade sword disciple whose skill level is on par with the host. Estimated binding time, 15 minutes.¡¯ Fang Lang was speechless. The only thought in his mind was, ¡®Old Liu, you¡¯re so short.¡¯ In the 15-minute waiting time, Fang Lang used the Dual Binding Mode to absorb two low-grade spirit crystals. The System notification popped up. ¡®Ding! Partner-binding sessfullypleted.¡¯ ... It was a chilly night in the Liu Manor. Liu Bubai jolted awake as cold sweat rolled down his forehead. In his bed, his flight sword kept himpany. He turned to look out the window and saw that it was drizzling. ¡®What was that?¡¯ Why did he feel a sudden emptiness in his chest? Was this the after-effect of letting others carry him for too long? Chapter 50 - Forcing Fang Lang to Reveal His Limits

Chapter 50: Forcing Fang Lang to Reveal His Limits

Trantor: EndlessFantasy Trantion Editor: EndlessFantasy Trantion Binding Partner: Liu Bubai Age: 15 Cultivation: Ninth-Grade Sword Disciple (First-ss Sword Mastery) Core: 13 (Yellow) Cultivation Speed: 3 low-grade spirit crystals/two hours ... Fang Lang swiftly pulled up Liu Bubai¡¯s stats. To his surprise, they were not half bad! It turned out Liu Bubai had a yellow core, just like Little Wen. However, Little Wen¡¯s yellow core was of top quality while Liu Bubai¡¯s was nothing impressive. Nheless, it was a pleasant surprise for Fang Lang. He was not after Liu Bubai¡¯s core. On an impulse, Fang Lang took out the spirit crystal provided by the System. The System had upgraded to Level 3 and a substantial amount of cultivation resources were provided¡ª250,000 Tang Dynasty gold coins and 150 spirit crystals. The System also provided a mid-grade spirit crystal! One mid-grade spirit crystal trumped a hundred low-grade spirit crystals. Even so, in reality, absorbing one mid-grade spirit crystal was not equivalent to absorbing the spiritual energy of a hundred low-grade spirit crystals. A mid-grade spirit crystal contained spiritual energy of superior quality, hence the absorption process was less time-consuming. The real reason for its high price in the market was its low rate of production. Fang Lang did not hold on to this mid-grade spirit crystal as if it was some precious treasure; it was supposed to be used after all. He took out the crystal and held it in his palm. The crystal was around the size of his fist. One could just barely see through the outeryer of the lustrous crystal and see the rich spiritual energy billowing inside. He covered the crystal with his other hand. Fang Lang slowly closed his eyes. ¡°Switch to Triple Binding Mode!¡± Fang Lang said as he gathered his focus. Dual Binding Mode utilized Jiang Linglong¡¯s gold core as the main binding partner, along with ten percent of Ni Wen¡¯s cultivation abilities. With Triple Binding Mode, Fang Lang could add Liu Bubai¡¯s yellow core into the mix, gaining ten percent of his cultivation abilities. In other words, Fang Lang¡¯s cultivation speed in Triple Binding Mode was approximately ten percent faster than in Dual Binding Mode! Boom! As Fang Lang sat cross-legged on the bed, the mid-grade spirit crystal in his palms emitted bright beams of light. It was an peculiarity that happened when the spiritual energy of a spirit crystal was being absorbed at lightning speed. Fang Lang felt the spiritual energy pouring into his body like a raging river! Spiritual energy flooded his veins! However... It was not enough! ¡°System, activate 5X Amplification Card!¡± Fang Langmanded assertively. ¡®Ding! 5X Amplification Card cannot be used with multiple binding partners. Please select one binding partner.¡¯ Fang Lang was startled for a moment, then he answered without hesitation, ¡°Jiang Linglong.¡± ¡®Ding! Beginning switch. ¡®Switchpleted. You have obtained sixty percent of your binding partner, Jiang Linglong¡¯s, cultivation inspiration and cultivation speed. Along with the 5X Amplification Card, you now possess three hundred percent of your binding partner¡¯s cultivation inspiration and cultivation speed. The card is effective for 2 hours. ¡®Happy cultivating.¡¯ 5X Amplification Card! His cultivation abilities were equivalent to three Old Jiangs! The moment the amplification card was activated, Fang Lang¡¯s eyes abruptly shot open and his pupils constricted. The next second, Fang Lang could feel every pore of his skin morphing into tiny vortexes that sucked in the naturally-urring spiritual energy in the air. The mid-grade spirit crystal in his hands let out a thunderous sound like waves crashing against the shore. Spiritual energy poured into his veins! Pain! Bone-piercing pain! It was the torment one would experience when spiritual energy overflowed in one¡¯s meridians, causing them to swell up with pain! Green smoke billowed above his head as if his entire body was on fire. He followed Ni Wen¡¯s advice to alleviate the pain, yet it was still unbearable. Even so, Fang Lang clenched his teeth and pushed through without cking. After all, cultivation was meant to be tough! No pain no gain! Hum. In Triple Binding Mode, silhouettes of Jiang Linglong, Ni Wen and Liu Bubai sat around Fang Lang, copying his every move, his every breath! After an hour, the mid-grade spirit crystal in his hands was nothing but debris. It crumbled into tiny pieces, scattering all over the floor. Little beads of perspiration clung onto Fang Lang¡¯s forehead. He spat out a mouthful of stale air. Fang Lang grabbed a low-grade spirit crystal and continued the absorption process. He went through the low-grade spirit crystals at a much faster rate than the mid-grade spirit crystal. In 15 minutes, he was able to drain seven to eight low-grade crystals! Two hours went by in a sh. The effect of the 5X Amplification Card dwindled. Spiritual energy coursed within his body. Husks of the emptied spirit crystals surrounded Fang Lang. He looked as if he had just been fished out from the ocean. Nheless, he nned to only take a short break. He got up for a sip of water then continued absorbing the spirit crystals. Before he knew it, the pitter-patter of rain outside faded. Silence set in as the night grew darker. ... After an entire night of rain, the blue sky greeted the next day. After his morning shower, Fang Lang felt incredibly refreshed. Despite being spiritually exhausted from the long night of cultivating, the joy of gaining improved cultivation abilities and the brimming spiritual energy in his body lifted his spirits. Unfortunately, Fang Lang still had not reached the ninth grade. The amount of spiritual energy needed to advance from an eighth-grade sword disciple to a ninth-grade sword disciple was simply a lot. Even with all the cultivation resources provided by the System, Fang Lang was not confident he could reach the ninth grade. After having breakfast with Old Fang, Fang Lang left the Fang Manor and headed for the academy. It was as ifst night¡¯s incident was nothing special. Like the passing clouds in the sky, it left not a trace of impact on him. ... Jade Pavilion. Illusion area. Yu Xiao¡¯s ample breasts bobbed up and down as she exited the scene from the past. Hints of shock could be seen on her beautiful face. She was observing the scene of Fang Lang¡¯s test flight. Fang Lang¡¯s exciting and familiar method of maneuvering the flight sword had truly left her bbergasted. The way he dove with the flight sword was a skill only professional flight sword riders could perform! Even so, what surprised her the most was the final sprint Fang Lang performed in thest scene. At first, she did not understand how he did it, but after an entire night of repeated watching and observing, she figured out that Fang Lang had altered the flight sword rune of the Meteor at the veryst moment! After the alteration, the Meteor was able to achieve such impressive eleration! It was an eleration rune that was new to the Jade Pavilion! Not far away from her, the rune master was dancing in joy. ¡°Yu Xiao! It¡¯s a type of never-before-seen Tang Dynasty flight sword rune! How mysterious! How exciting! You must get your hands on the rune... No, it would be best if we recruit this boy as a guest researcher for the Jade Pavilion¡¯s flight sword rune division! ¡°If we can master this rune, the Jade Pavilion may stand a chance against the well-established sects that specialize in flight swords. We couldpete with the Four Rings Tower and the Galloping Horse Valley!¡± the rune master eximed excitedly. Manager Yu¡¯s eyes sparkled. She understood this was an opportunity for the Jade Pavilion to soar above the others. A distance away. The two martial arts masters Manager Yu sent out had returned. They reported to her the fierce battle that took ce in the entertainment house the night before. Hearing that, Manager Yu instantly felt annoyed and upset. She had missed an opportunity. She had missed an opportunity to win Fang Lang¡¯s favor, which would have made it much easier for her to coax him into bing a guest researcher for the Jade Pavilion¡¯s flight rune division. After all, a helping hand during a crisis meant more than icing on the cake. ... Dong! Dong! The musty smell of books pervaded the academy the moment the timekeeper rang the bell. Another day of cultivating had begun. Sitting behind a desk, Mentor Wen held a porcin cup in his hand as he taught the ss. Some dried wolfberries floated in the hot tea in his cup. ¡°Let¡¯s revisit some demon tongue today. ¡°I¡¯ll tell you which demon tongues are most likely to appear in the Imperial Examination. Make sure you mark and remember them. It wille out in the exam,¡± Mentor Wen said calmly. The green-robed students sitting below were all listening attentively. From time to time, they picked up their ink-filled writing brushes to draw circles and make markings on their textbooks. As the Imperial Examination drew closer, students had their hearts in their mouths. No one dared to rx too much. Even Fang Lang paid attention in ss. His goal was the highest achievement¡ªin order to do that, he had to excel in every subject. Thus, both thebat score and theory score were equally important. The first period ended in a sh. Mentor Wen banged his wooden gavel1 lightly. He scanned the room and said with a smile, ¡°In three days, Luojiang Academy will hold thest internal examination. After three years of studying cultivation, this will be your final academy examination.¡± The students who were eager to leave the study hall quieted down after hearing Mentor Wen¡¯s words, their excitement to leave momentarily abandoned. Mentor Wen tapped his fingers on the table. ¡°You can consider thisst internal exam as a warm-up for the Imperial Examination. Let me give you all some good news¡ªthe headmaster has personally applied for the usage of the Spirit Pagoda from the Minister of Rites. The top fifty students in theing internal exam will be given ess to the Spirit Pagoda. ¡°The Spirit Pagoda is a structure constructed from spirit crystals of the highest grade. It is embellished with energy-gathering runes that are constantly absorbing the natural spiritual energy in the environment. Copious amount of spiritual energy resides within the pagoda. Every academy has a chance to apply for the Spirit Pagoda every five years. This time, we managed to secure it right before the Imperial Examination. It is the final support Luojiang Academy can provide you. ¡°So don¡¯t try to hide your true abilities during theing exam. ¡°Only those who stand out can receive the offered resources. ¡°Children, the path of cultivation is a long one. You must seize every opportunity thates your way.¡± Mentor Wen smiled as he spoke. He took a sip from his cup. As he chewed on the dried wolfberries in his mouth, his gaze darted to Fang Lang who sat among the students. A profound look appeared in his eyes. ¡®Still hiding your strength?¡¯ Fang Lang had the ability to kill even Lin Yun. That boy sure knew how to hide his strength. Even Mentor Wen could not perceive the depths of his power. The Spirit Pagoda should be enough to force the boy to reveal his limits, right? Mentor Wen swallowed the wolfberries on his tongue. He turned around and left humming a tune. The students watched as their mentor descended the study block. In an instant, chatter broke out within the ssroom. Chapter 51 - The Contagious Ability of Winning Without Effort

Chapter 51: The Contagious Ability of Winning Without Effort

In the study hall, students were brimming with excitement and anticipation. There were students who could not resist squealing with delight. It was the Spirit Pagoda after all! It was a cultivation resource every academy coveted. On paper, each academy was allowed to apply for the usage once every five years, but in reality, some academies had been applying for ten years without sess! The fact that Luojiang Academy¡¯s application for the Spirit Pagoda was approved this year presented a golden opportunity for the students! The students from peasantry backgrounds were especially riled up. They clenched their fists excitedly, ready to give their all in the internal examination taking ce three dayster. They treated the internal exam as if it was the actual Imperial Examination! After all, cultivation resources were difficult toe by for them¡ªeven spirit crystals were not easily essible. The only way they could obtain spirit crystals was through the academy¡¯s cultivation assistance program that urred once every six months. Thus, they treasured and looked forward to this golden opportunity more than anyone! Among the crowd, Liu Hao, who once had a fallout with Fang Lang, clenched his fists tightly. mes raged within his eyes. This was his chance to soar to the top! A distance away, Yang Zhengyi was staring at Liu Hao. He flipped the hair that covered his forehead and mocked, ¡°What are y¡¯all so excited about? You¡¯re acting as if all of you here can be the academy¡¯s top fifty.¡± Yang Zhengyi¡¯s voice was not loud, yet the enthusiastic crowd in the study hall instantly turned silent. Liu Hao¡¯s chest heaved heavily, his eyes bloodshot. Like a nt withered by the harsh winter, he slumped down onto his desk dejectedly. The students from peasantry backgrounds and disciples from rich families all felt a sudden dullness in the air. Liu Zhengyi¡¯s words were not overly hurtful, but they sure were humiliating. His words did not sit well with the other students. Fang Lang could not help but smile when he heard Yang Zhengyi¡¯s words. Old Yang had a point. Fang Lang smiled and stood up from his desk. Deep in thoughts, he looked as if he had seen through the meaning behind Mentor Wen¡¯s gaze before he left the study block. ¡®Perhaps the Jiang family had a role to y in the academy¡¯s sess in applying for the Spirit Pagoda...¡¯ Fang Lang felt that there was a high chance his theory was right. ¡®Is that why Mentor Wen hinted at me to not hold back? Is that why he wants me to be greedy?¡¯ he wondered. The Spirit Pagoda was a spirit crystal jackpot. Coincidentally, Fang Lang was just worrying about not having enough spirit crystals! Just then, a ring sounded in Fang Lang¡¯s head. ¡®Ding! ¡®Challenge mission unlocked. ¡®Challenge mission: Cultivation is not all about going with the flow; it is more important to challenge one¡¯s limits! To crash and burn at one¡¯s limit, then rise from the ashes to surpass that limit! When you sessfully break through your limits in the Spirit Pagoda, you shall be rewarded with Instant Reward and Dividend Reward. ¡®Instant Reward: Spiritual energy absorbed in the Spirit Pagoda can be directly converted into System experience points. ¡®Dividend Reward: Ten percent of all spiritual energy absorbed by a binding partner in the Spirit Pagoda will be awarded to the host as dividend. ¡®Would you like to ept the mission?¡¯ Fang Lang raised his brows as he learned about the mission. ¡®Challenging my own limits?¡¯ he thought. ¡®Interesting.¡¯ Of course, the attractive Instant Reward and Dividend Reward was not what roped Fang Lang in. He genuinely wanted to challenge himself. There was no doubt Fang Lang would ept this mission. Only men with no balls would back down from a challenge! Even without a mission prompt from the System, Fang Lang would never miss this opportunity. After all, his goal was the highest achievement in the Imperial Examination. If he did not seize an opportunity like this, why would he deserve the highest distinction? ¡®Ding! The challenge mission has been epted. The mission will begin when the host sets foot in the Spirit Pagoda.¡¯ Enthusiasm filled Fang Lang¡¯s heart. He quickly stood and went to look for Little Wen. With the Dividend Reward at stake, Fang Lang had to give Little Wen and Liu Bubai some motivation. He could not afford to let them fall behind! Fang Lang did not expect to get such a beneficial mission right after he bound Liu Bubai. He did not even have to work for it. Could it be that the greatest reward from binding with Liu Bubai was actually gaining his ability to win without putting in any effort? Fang Lang came to Ni Wen¡¯s desk and made himselffortable on the floor as if they were best friends. She was not as shy as she used to be¡ªshe even had the courage to meet his eyes. ¡°Little Wen, show some spirit! Let¡¯s go to the Spirit Pagoda together and drain the entire tower! ¡°This is a chance for you to change your fate! I¡¯ve told you this before: your future is to lie among the stars. This is where you take off!¡± Fang Lang¡¯s eyes twinkled as he spoke. Hearing that, Ni Wen¡¯s longshes fluttered gently. Filled with excitement, a tinge of red appeared on her pale face. She clenched her little fists, pressed her lips together and nodded hard. ¡°Okay! Let¡¯s... Let¡¯s go there together!¡± Not far away. Liu Hao¡¯s disgruntlement was evident in his expression. He scoffed when he heard Fang Lang¡¯s words. ¡°You? You¡¯re speaking as if a measly fifth-grade sword disciple can get into the top fifty honor roll.¡± Liu Hao¡¯s words were clearly meant to throw a damper on Fang Lang¡¯s enthusiasm. He thought, ¡®Fine, I may not be able to get to the Spirit Pagoda, but what makes Fang Lang think he can? ¡®Sure, his sword mastery triumphs over mine a little, and sure, he was even rewarded for it, but his cultivation abilities are too weak! ¡®Gaining extra points for the Imperial Examination doesn¡¯t mean anything for the internal exam!¡¯ Nheless, Fang Lang chose to ignore Liu Hao¡¯s mockery. With his current abilities, getting into the top 50 in Luojiang academy was a piece of cake. There was no point in boasting. After all, actions spoke louder than words¡ªFang Lang chose to let reality p Liu Hao across his face when their results were released. Fang Lang ignored Liu Hao and took out his textbooks to engage in an exchange of cultivation knowledge with Ni Wen. Ni Wen enjoyed these interactions very much. The shy littledy instantly turned vivacious. Even her words were filled with spirit. Completely ignored, Liu Hao¡¯s face shed green and red. He scoffed coldly and left the study hall. ¡®Ding! You havepleted a modest interaction with your binding partner, Ni Wen. You have obtained one Grade-Rush Card Fragment.¡¯ Another Grade-Rush Card Fragment. Fang Lang did not chat with Ni Wen for too long. She packed up her stuff soon and hurriedly left the study hall. She had to help her mother sell tofu pudding. Fang Lang left the study block and came to the practice grounds where Liu Bubai was training in a corner. Liu Bubai¡¯s eyes sparkled when he saw Fang Lang. He called out to him immediately. ¡°Come, Fang Lang! Let¡¯s duel!¡± Naturally, Fang Lang did not reject his invitation. He put on a kind smile as he unsheathed his Blooming Lotus Sword. It shone magnificently. A short whileter. Liu Bubai¡¯s four limbs turned to mush. He leaned against his sword, breathing heavily. In his eyes, one could see that he had gained insights about sword mastery. ¡®Ding! You have enlightened your binding partner, Liu Bubai, about sword mastery, thus,pleting a meaningful interaction with him. Passive ability triggered. You are rewarded with one Physical Buff Card.¡¯ The System¡¯s notification appeared. Fang Lang¡¯s eyes twinkled with joy. ¡®A new card!¡¯ ¡®Physical Buff Card: Single-use card. After activation, the host¡¯s physical abilities will be buffed as if the host¡¯s body has gone through a whole year of rigorous training. (The training process involves pain and suffering. Please use the card at your own discretion.)¡¯ ¡®Amazing!¡¯ Fang Lang thought. The Physical Buff Card could strengthen the body. Usually, only martial arts disciples would train their bodies. Fang Lang focused mainly on sword mastery and had no time to dabble in the alternatives. After all, cultivation through martial arts required too much time andmitment. Nheless, Luojiang Academy still had its fair share of martial arts disciples. Every day, Fang Lang could see them beating themselves up with weapons on the practice grounds in an effort to train their bodies. With this Physical Buff Card, Fang Lang could be strong just by lying on the ground! Fang Lang shot a nce at Liu Bubai. The ability to win without effort...perhaps it was contagious? ¡°The internal exam is three days from now and the top fifty students will get to enter the Spirit Pagoda. You know about this, right?¡± Fang Lang asked. Leaning against his sword, Liu Bubai held his chin high. Of course he knew about this. ¡°I¡¯m not far away from breaking through, so I don¡¯t know if it¡¯ll actually benefit me,¡± Liu Bubai replied. Hearing that, Fang Lang quickly seized the opportunity and advised, ¡°Then you must hold back these two days and focus on preparing for the exam! Use the Spirit Pagoda to break through the barrier and be a sword master! You¡¯ll be able to aplish it in one go and not leave any regrets!¡± That way, Liu Bubai would gain more spiritual energy. In turn, Fang Lang could earn more dividends. Liu Bubai pondered on Fang Lang¡¯s words for a moment and decided he was right. Breaking through in the Spirit Pagoda was the safest option. Furthermore, he could build a stronger foundation for the next stage of cultivation! Liu Bubai raised his chin and nodded. He admitted Fang Lang had sessfully persuaded him. Liu Bubai was about to break through into second-ss sword mastery. Soon, the two would part ways. Fang Lang kept thinking about the Physical Buff Card on his journey back to the Fang Manor. The moment he reached home, he went to his room and worked hard on his cultivation. Old Fang appeared in the courtyard for a while but quickly left. He did not disturb Fang Lang but simply instructed the servant girl to prepare some food for Fang Lang and to reheat it every hour. ... In the house. Fang Lang had switched to Triple Binding Mode. Sitting cross-legged on the bed, he took out his spirit crystals and began to absorb the spiritual energy within. After four hours of tedious absorption, Fang Lang found himself surrounded by piles of empty crystal husks. He opened his eyes and exhaled a puff of air. ¡°System, activate Physical Buff Card.¡± Fang Lang had the sudden urge to try out the card. Resources were meant to be used; Fang Lang was trying to earn the highest distinction in the Imperial Examination, so there was no point in hoarding resources. ¡®Ding! Binding mode cannot be maintained while Physical Buff Card is being activated. Activating the card will bring about excruciating pain to the host. Would you like to proceed?¡¯ the System notified. Fang Lang did not hesitate to proceed. For the highest distinction, he would endure any pain. ¡®Ding! Physical Buff Card activated. Training will begin in three seconds. Trainingsts for ten breaths.¡¯ Boom! The moment the countdown ended, Fang Lang btedly realized he had greatly underestimated the amount of pain the System had warned him about. In an instant, he felt excruciating pain consuming every inch of his body! His veins, his bones, his skin... Every part of him¡ªevery organ¡ªfelt as if they were being sliced open by a million des! Huff! Huff! After merely two breaths, Fang Lang was already drenched in sweat from top to toe. He needed to rely on his spiritual sense and sheer will to endure the pain. Ten breaths felt like twenty hours. Nevertheless, Fang Lang did not give up! For the highest achievement! He would endure it! Fang Lang¡¯s eyes were bloodshot, his breathing heavy and his jaw tightly clenched. Sweat coated his skin and a low, hoarse growl sounded within his throat. His body shook violently and he curled up into a ball. Chapter 52 - Finishing the Poem Was Like Unsheathing a Blade

Chapter 52: Finishing the Poem Was Like Unsheathing a de

Trantor: EndlessFantasy Trantion Editor: EndlessFantasy Trantion Ten breaths went by in a sh. The house fell into pin drop silence. After a long while, Fang Lang finally uncurled himself and mbered up from the bed. Droplets of sweat rolled down every inch of his body. He leaned against the bed frame. Arm extended, he clenched his muscles lightly. He could hear the faint sound of vital energy coursing within. One Physical Buff Card was equivalent to an entire year of a martial arts disciple¡¯s training. The pain of a whole year¡¯s training was condensed into ten breaths. The traumatic experience still lingered in Fang Lang¡¯s mind. Nheless, it was a fruitful process. A stronger body meant stronger meridians, stronger vital energy and increased physical strength. Improvement in these aspects would be reflected directly in his cultivation abilities. A smile appeared in Fang Lang¡¯s face. The ¡®training¡¯ had brought him much enlightenment about physical training. The knowledge would be a great help in boosting his martial arts mastery score. Out of the threebat assessments, sword mastery was the main subject Fang Lang focused on. With his current level of sword mastery, there was no doubt he would do well. When it came to spell mastery, he had gleaned some knowledge from the Flight Sword Crossover Turbo Charge Talisman. Additionally, his modest and meaningful interactions with Little Wen had brought him great insight regarding spell mastery. Martial arts mastery was the only area he fell short in. However, with the Physical Buff Card, the gap was bridged. The Physical Buff Card obtained through Liu Bubai¡¯s interaction proved to be useful. He looked out the window to see dawn gradually setting in. Fang Lang did not continue cultivating. He lied on the bed and took a short nap, relieving the strain on his spiritual sense. ... In the following three days, Fang Langpletely immersed himself in cultivation. He spent the nights absorbing spirit crystals and the days drilling policies and demon tongue. Fang Lang¡¯s diligence in cultivating depleted the cultivation resources provided by the System. Only a few spirit crystals were left. After the training, Fang Lang¡¯s body had be stronger, and thus, had an increased capacity for spiritual energy. As a result, he could spend more time absorbing spirit crystals. In the past, Fang Lang could only absorb spiritual energy for a maximum of four hours in the binding partner mode. That was the most load his body could endure. After the training, he couldst up to six hours; maybe even longer! The benefits of his training were clear as day. Even so, Fang Lang could not forget the grueling pain he had to endure while the Physical Buff Card was in effect. Nheless, the fruits he reaped from it were sweet and plump. Thus, every day after ss, Fang Lang would catch Liu Bubai and drag him into a state of sword mastery enlightenment in order to obtain more Physical Buff Cards. Unfortunately, Liu Bubai did not show up at the academy on the third day. He stayed home to prepare himself for his breakthrough into a second-ss sword master. s, Fang Lang had only gotten two Physical Buff Cards in the three days. Fang Lang did not n to use his two Grade-Rush Card Fragments yet. He wanted to use it in the Spirit Pagoda to maximize the amount of spiritual energy absorbed. Fang Lang did not forget about Ni Wen either. Putting in just as much effort as he did with Liu Bubai, Fang Lang engaged in modest interactions with Ni Wen and managed to gain three Grade-Rush Card Fragments. There was no such thing as too many Grade-Rush Card Fragments; after all, they could be used to shorten the time needed to bind to a new partner. They were very useful in that aspect! The three days slipped through his fingers like sand. The final examination of Luojiang Academy had begun. ... Autumn had arrived at Luojiang City. The autumn rain poured continuously and the temperature began to exhibit a steep decrease. One could feel autumn in the air. The blue skies were clear without a speck of dust. Dull rays of sunlight fell on the academy¡¯s lintel. One after another, students in green robes stepped over the elevated threshold of the academy¡¯s doorway and gathered at the practice grounds. Their green robes fluttered in the wind like leaves. There were 3,000 students in the academy, each filled with vigor and enthusiasm for cultivation. The students stood in formation on the practice grounds located between the multi-storey study blocks. The mentors stood on the main stage with their hands sped behind their backs and solemn expressions on their faces. Fang Lang stood in the square dedicated for the seventh study block students. His cheerful conversation with Ni Wen attracted the attention of many students around them. Ni Wen blushed, hunching her shoulders so that her face was hidden in her green robes. Even so, she was listening to Fang Lang¡¯s words attentively, asionally nodding and giving short replies. On the main stage, Headmaster Cui stood with his back arched. His frosty white beard danced in the wind. His expression was genial. He smiled as he gazed at the students eagerly waiting on the practice grounds. Another three years had passed; another batch of students were standing before him. In his eyes, every three years felt like the repeat of a cycle. Once this batch left the academy, another group of freshmen would enter the academy and embark on the path of cultivation. After all, that was the purpose of the academy. Headmaster Cui cleared his throat. The students instantly quieted down. He did not wish to waste too much of the students¡¯ time, so he kept his speech short. The old man¡¯s words were simple, yet they clearly conveyed enthusiasm for the students. After all, the simplest and most effective way of motivating the students was to show off the Spirit Pagoda. With a gentle tap of Headmaster Cui¡¯s wrinkled and bony finger, the spiritual energy around them began to swirl. Under the eager gaze of the students, the sky above was covered by a gray veil. Then, a small corner opened up to reveal a nine-story pagoda shining brightly in the sky. Even the aura emitted by the pagoda was full of spiritual energy. Their application for the Spirit Pagoda was approved! The student body was brimming with excitement and fighting spirit. Even Fang Lang was staring at the pagoda with starry eyes. He, too, was eager to begin. The headmaster¡¯s speech ended. The mentors went to their respective sses to hand out the examination handbooks to their students. The handbook contained detailed information about each student¡¯s exam venue. Fang Lang received his exam handbook from Mentor Wen. Mentor Wen nced at Fang Lang with an expression that resembled a smile. He did not give him any words of encouragement. In truth, Mentor Wen was more than eager to see Fang Lang¡¯s performance. After all, Fang Lang managed to surprise him twice, once at the Gathering of Swords and once at the entertainment house, where the boy killed Lin Yun. Mentor Wen wondered if Fang Lang would make it into the top ten during this final examination. Mentor Wen¡¯s greatest hope for Fang Lang was for him to get into the top ten honor roll. Fang Lang shed a friendly smile at Mentor Wen then proceeded to check his exam venue in the handbook. Third study block, second floor, seat 18. ... Dong! The timekeeper rang the bell at the top of the academy¡¯s bell tower. The students on the practice grounds dispersed like a school of fish being split up by river currents. All of them headed to the respective exam venues stated in their handbooks. Fang Lang arrived at the third study block. At the study block entrance stood Mentor Wen, who was checking the students¡¯ exam handbooks. Out of pure coincidence, Mentor Wen was invigting Fang Lang¡¯s exam hall. Fang Lang handed his exam handbook to Mentor Wen. Mentor Wen activated his spiritual senses and took a nce at Fang Lang¡¯s handbook. He then said in a monotonous voice, ¡°When you go in, find your seat and sit down. Don¡¯t make noise, don¡¯t look around. Just wait for the exam to begin.¡± ¡°Okay.¡± Fang Lang nodded respectfully. He took his handbook and set foot into the study block. The students in the hall were all sitting upright. Although it was just an internal exam, and not the Imperial Examination, the atmosphere in the hall was equally as tense. 15 minutester. Mentor Wen scanned the hall and announced, ¡°The internal exam will go on for two days. Today¡¯s assessment will be theoretical. Poetry, policies and demon tongue¡ªthose are the three subjects you will be tested on. ¡°The first test will be on poetry. Your task is topose a poem. Your time limit is two hours.¡± Mentor Wen revealed. Having said that, he passed out the exam papers. As he gave out the papers, some students were closing their eyes and taking deep breaths while others were frowning as they ground their ink sticks. Everyone had their own unique way of coping. During those three years, the students had gone through a dozen internal exams¡ªsome were small tests, some were important assessments. Even so, there was no way they could remain nonchnt when faced with an exam that would potentially change the course of their lives. Fang Lang was also a little unnerved. He closed his eyes and exhaled slowly. Just then, Mentor Wen came by with the musty scent of paper. He ced the exam paper in front of Fang Lang. Fang Lang opened his eyes and immediately saw the exam paper. He began to read. Theory had never been a problem for Fang Lang. After all, as a dimensional traveller, he had some background knowledge when it came to theory and literature despite his weak core. Since he decided to reveal his true strengths, there was no point in holding back anymore. He looked at the exam paper and read the question written on top. ¡®Tang Dynasty, year 198. The Emperor led an army up Mount Tianyue of Xilu. They trampled over the demon world in Xilu, ughtering countless demons. The emperor looked upon both worlds thatid at his feet. His heroic spirit could encapste thend and skies. Compose a poem on this topic.¡± After reading the question, Fang Lang narrowed his eyes and pondered for a while. The smell of ink wafted to his mouth and nose as he gently ground his ink stick. ¡®Mount Tianyue of Xilu... The emperor gazing down from the peak...¡± After a long while, Fang Lang¡¯s lips curled into a smirk. He dipped his writing brush in ink, rolled his sleeves up and began to write. He began: ¡®What of the great mountains that hither stood? The green extended across once warring states.1¡® Fang Lang chose to write in an elegant font. Splotches of thick ck ink appeared on the paper. Eloquently, he wrote a few dozens more words. Finally, he lifted his brush and ended his poem in an elegant manner. ¡®May I one day surmount the highest of peaks, where I could gather a sight of all mountains thereid.¡¯[1] Fang Lang put down his brush afterpleting his poem. He nced around to see the other students were still in deep thought, wondering how to go about writing this poem. Meanwhile, Fang Lang stood up and handed up his exam paper. Mentor Wen had just sat down. His cushion was not even warm yet. He raised his brows, thinking, ¡®Done already? Was the boy even writing a poem?¡¯ Mentor Wen took a sip of his wolfberry tea and rustled Fang Lang¡¯s exam paper. He took a nce at the poem written on it. A momentter, he choked and spat out the tea in his mouth. ¡®Damn! You were holding back in poem writing too? ¡®Just how much talent is this boy hiding?¡¯ Mentor Wen silently recited the poem. Finishing the poem was like unsheathing a de. Its profound impact could shake thend and seas! Mentor Wen held his head high, his eyes twinkling. He gazed at the boy in green robe who shone like a splendid sword three inches out of its sheath. That day... Fang Lang¡¯s true light was revealed. His robe fluttered in the wind. Nothing could restrain him anymore. Chapter 53 - His Gratitude Ran Deeper Than the Ocean

Chapter 53: His Gratitude Ran Deeper Than the Ocean

Fang Lang was very confident about the poem he wrote. After all, it was the work of a master poet from the dimension he came from. Although the art of cultivation prevailed in this realm and was held in esteem, both realms still shared amon love for poetry. Thus, Fang Lang believed the works of master poets from his dimension would shine just as brightly in this one. The poem Fang Lang wrote that day was notced with flowerynguage, but instead contained everyday words. Even so, when strung together, the words produced incredible impact. In order to show off his talents, Fang Lang had worked hard to dig out the treasures stashed away at the back of his mind. Fang Lang had never whipped out these poems in ss, mainly because he could only use the few poems he memorized before travelling to this dimension. The list shortened every time he used a poem. It was a limited resource that must be rationed. Fang Lang left his exam venue in the third study block. A pin drop silence epassed the academy. After all,posing poetry was a delicate task. Every line, every word, required repeated alterations and constant refinement. It was rare to have any studentplete the exam in less than 15 minutes, like Fang Lang did. Autumn was in the air. The cold was gradually setting in. Fang Lang came to the practice grounds and gazed at the ancient study blocks. Aplicated expression appeared on his face. Very soon, he would be saying goodbye to this academy. He would be stepping out of thefort zone of the academy and setting foot into the vast Tang Dynasty. Even so, the memories he made in the academy would not be easily forgotten. After dwelling in the mncholy thoughts, Fang Lang went to a secluded corner and took out his spirit crystals. He began to absorb them. Spiritual energy was overflowing in his body. He was at the very edge of the eighth grade¡ªa breakthrough into the ninth was imminent. Fang Lang hoped he could reach the ninth grade before entering the Spirit Pagoda. That way, he could maximize the amount of spiritual energy he absorbed at the Spirit Pagoda. There was a chance he could break through and be a sword master there! Out of the 150 spirit crystals provided by the System, only eight were left. Fang Lang switched into Triple Binding Mode and absorbed all eight spirit crystals while the other students were still busyposing poems. It was as if he was pouring a tiny cup of water into an almost overflowing bucket. Sitting in a corner of the practice grounds, Fang Lang felt the energy coursing through his entire body. Green smoke billowed above his head, along with a vortex of spiritual energy. Boom! The veins in his body let out a thunderous sound as if they were raging, roaring rivers! He was going to break through! Fang Lang opened his eyes, which sparkled with surprise and delight. ¡®But... the System¡¯s crystals were all used up!¡¯ His eyes widened. The next moment, he took out the mid-grade spirit crystal Old Fang had purchased for him. That spirit crystal symbolized Old Fang¡¯s expectations for him, but it was still a spirit crystal to be used. It was the perfect moment to use it! Nheless, it was a little upsetting that absorbing this spirit crystal would not provide any experience points. Fang Lang hastily absorbed the spiritual energy within the crystal. He concentrated all the spiritual energy within his body into the energy center[1] as instructed in the Tang Dynasty¡¯s Sword Scripture. He gathered all the disorderly spiritual energy into the energy center and formed a vortex of energy! In Triple Binding Mode, Fang Lang¡¯s cultivation inspiration was two thirds of Old Jiang¡¯s. Therefore, it was not hard for him to create a condensed vortex of energy. Bang! A sound came from within his body! Fang Lang felt his whole body shaking. He felt as if his meridians were being opened up. In his energy center, a cyclone was forming. Just like that, he broke through to be a ninth-grade sword disciple! Fang Lang opened his glistening eyes. Stale air gushed out of his mouth like de energy, travelling further than 30 centimeters through the air before vanishing. Ninth-grade sword disciple... He did it! ... Dong! The timekeeper rang the bell to signal the end of the poetry exam. The study blocks were instantly filled with noise. Under strict observation by the mentors, the students in green robes all put down their brushes and exited the exam hall. A variety of expressions could be seen on the students faces¡ªsome excited, some dejected, others scratching their heads. That was the kind of assorted reactions one would always see after an exam. It was a sorrowful sight, like one after a game of gambling. Right after the poetry exam, Mentor Wen grabbed the stack of exam papers and morphed into a beam of light. He excitedly shot out of the study block and used his spiritual sense to locate the boy who was calming himself down in a corner of the practice grounds. Mentor Wen was taken by surprise when he saw Fang Lang. Since he had just made a breakthrough, Fang Lang¡¯s energy levels were still unstable, making it obvious that he had be a ninth-grade sword disciple. ¡®Damn! This boy... How did he get into ninth grade! ¡®What grade was he in during the Gathering of Swords? ¡®Even a yellow core wouldn¡¯t be able to absorb enough spirit crystals to break through so many grades in such a short period! ¡®Did I make a mistake when reading his core previously?¡¯ A look of suspicion shed across Mentor Wen¡¯s face. However, at that moment, his doubts were not important! He red at Fang Lang, eyes bright. ¡°You little bastard... Have you always been hiding your talents? ¡°This poem, A View From the Peak, how did you manage to write that in such a short time?!¡± Fang Lang saw the glimmering look of anticipation on Mentor Wen¡¯s face. Fang Lang stood up and dusted his green robe. He put on a kind smile and gave a vague reply. ¡°This poem is meant to beposed. The fact that I became a vessel for it was nothing but a coincidence...¡± His calm words were paired with a tranquil expression. A gentle breeze blew by. Fang Lang made it seem as ifposing a beautiful poem like that was nothing more than grabbing a withered leaf that had been swept away by the wind. Mentor Wen widened his eyes. He mouthed Fang Lang¡¯s words silently. After a long while, Mentor Wen gazed at Fang Lang with solemn eyes. This time, he could clearly sense Fang Lang¡¯s disy of talents. ¡®After his fight in the entertainment house, is this little bastard finally unleashing his true potential? ¡®He truly is aiming for the Imperial Examination¡¯s honor roll!¡¯ ¡°It¡¯s such bad timing though... If you were to write this poem in the Imperial Exam, you would definitely have scored high marks. It¡¯s such a waste to have to use it in the internal exam.¡± Mentor Wenmented. Then, he narrowed his eyes and patted Fang Lang¡¯s shoulder. ¡°Are you satisfied with my teachings these three years?¡± Fang Lang was stunned for a while. He quickly came back to his senses and bowed to Mentor Wen. He said in a serious tone, ¡°Thank you for the three years of teaching. Thank you for your hard work.¡± Mentor Wen smiled warmly. ¡°Not bad, young man. My teachings had paid off well. Good luck in the next assessments! ¡°The Spirit Pagoda is a rare opportunity for anyone, so don¡¯t you miss the chance! Almost every champion of the Imperial Examination has set food into the pagoda.¡± Mentor Wen pointed out. Fang Lang nodded solemnly. After that, Mentor Wen left in a hurry. Fang Lang had no idea what Mentor Wen was up to, but he was genuinely grateful for him. His gratitude for Mentor Wen¡¯s three years of teaching ran deeper than the ocean. ... In the Mentors¡¯ Office. Mentor Wen¡¯s expression was glowing when he entered the office. He took out Fang Lang¡¯s paper from the stack and handed it to a few senior mentors who were responsible for marking the scripts. As the mentors examined his poem closely, the entire office fell into silence. Suddenly, the senior mentors¡¯ bbergastedments broke the silence. ¡°Beautiful! What a beautiful poem!¡± ¡°In so little words, the student managed to capture perfectly the magnificence of Mount Tianyue and the emotions of the Emperor as he overlooked thend before him!¡± ¡°Incredible! Excellence was evident from the very first line! Just the opening line could rule the world!¡± ¡°The other poems in the academy could neverpete!¡± One after the other, mentors came over andplimented the poem while stroking their long beards. Every word was magical to them. ¡®Is this really a poem written by one of the students in this academy?¡¯ they thought. ¡®This student is practically a poetry genius!¡¯ Mentor Wen was beaming with delight. He smiled and bragged, ¡°It¡¯s written by one of my students that respects me a lot. I believe his work is eptable.¡± Suddenly, the senior mentors noticed a line of words written at the bottom of the paper. The ink had not dried uppletely yet. ¡®Tang Dynasty, year 276. While the solicitous mentor, Wen Ting, was invigting an exam, his silent motivation inspired a student topose the above poem.¡± The office fell into silence again. ¡®Huh?¡¯ The senior mentors were all taken aback. It did not seem like a line that belong on the paper. Even the handwriting was different. ¡®What is this?¡¯ they thought. ¡®What a shameless bastard! ¡®Did he add this?¡¯ ... After a short break, the second assessment began. Fang Lang had gone to the exam venue stated in his handbook and wrote a paper on policies. Following that was another short break and finally, the demon tongue exam. Just like that, the first day of the internal assessment came to a smooth end. Fang Lang returned to the Fang Manor. At longst, he did not spend the night toiling away with cultivation. He merely spent some time stabilizing the new-found energy spiraling within him after he broke through into the ninth-grade. Additionally, he organized the materials he had on spell mastery and martial arts mastery. Fang Lang prepared himself for the vocational assessment on sword mastery, spell mastery and martials arts mastery. The rest of the night was full of sweet dreams. The next day, Fang Lang left for Luojiang Academy after eating the porridge and egg that Old Fang personally cooked for him. Fang Lang got ready for hisbat assessment. The exam was split into two sections¡ªwritten assessment and actualbat. The written assessment and practical assessment each made up 50 percent of the total score. The same rule applied to both major and minor subjects. When the timekeeper rang the bell, all the students entered the exam halls in the study blocks. The invigting mentors gave each student three different sets of exam papers. The three sets were on sword mastery, spell mastery and martial arts mastery respectively. Every set of exam papers was split into a major studies section and a minor studies section. Students majoring in sword mastery would answer the major studies section of the sword mastery set while those who took sword mastery as a minor would answer the minor studies section. Nheless, anyone who was confident in their knowledge could choose to answer the major studies section of all three papers. The internal exam adhered strictly to the rules of the Imperial Examination. If the major studies section of all three papers werepleted, the student would still be awarded with marks from the major studies section ordingly. However, the questions in that section were more challenging, making it more difficult to score. Since the spell discipline required specialization, most students would not opt for the risky path ofpleting three major studies sections. That pathway was specially designed for a handful of geniuses in the Imperial Examination. In the third study block. Fang Lang¡¯s eyes twinkled with excitement the moment he received the exam papers. Fang Lang took a deep breath, taking in the rich aroma of inking from the exam papers. He picked up his brush, dipped it in ink and began to answer the questions. With his current level of sword mastery, the questions in the sword mastery paper were a piece of cake for him. His brush glided around the paper as smooth as ice. In just an hour, he was done with the paper. Fang Lang¡¯s gaze shifted onto the spell mastery and martial arts mastery papers. He tapped his fingers quietly against his desk. Finally, Fang Lang bit the bullet and turned to the major studies section. He was determined to be number one. He chose to answer the major studies section of all three sets! That was the only way to maximize his score! Time passed by, second by second. Completing the major studies section of all three sets was not an easy task. Fang Lang¡¯s eyebrows were knitted tightly together. He waspletely immersed in the grueling questions on the papers. He finished the papers a mere second before the timekeeper rang the bell. The written assessment was over. All the students gathered on the practice grounds to prepare for the uing practical assessment. Bong bong bong! Suddenly, a senior mentor arrived, banging a copper gong as he came. Behind him were a few younger mentors. They went to the notice board at the side of the practice grounds and stuck ten red papers onto the board. Every sheet of paper contained 300 names. The ranking for all 3,000 students in the theory exam was up on the board! The students swarmed toward the notice board not even a second after the papers were published. The results for the theory exam were out! [1] µ¤Ìï important focal points for meditative and exercise techniques such as martial arts, and in traditional Chinese medicine. Chapter 54 - Internal Exam Results

Chapter 54: Internal Exam Results

Just like in the previous years, the results for the theory exam were revealed before the practical assessment of thebat exam took ce. In truth, the students could already predict their scores in thebat exam. The numbers would not be too far off unless they had breakthroughs in cultivation just before the exam. Moreover, a significant portion of their final results were dependent on the theory exam. In front of the notice board. Students crowded around excitedly. They pushed and shoved each other to get to the front. Some held fear while others held excitement in their hearts as they searched for their names on the red papers on the notice board. Fang Lang followed the crowd to the board but did not try to squeeze his way through. He gazed at the board from afar. Little Wen caught sight of Fang Lang. She quietly approached him, shing a shy smile. The two of them felt out of ce as they stood outside the crowd, gazing at the overly eager students. Liu Hao squeezed through the crowd and got to the notice board. After a long while, he emerged from the crowd with an exuberant expression on his face. He had done well in the theory exam, scoring 115 points and achieving a ranking of 136. Compared to his previous exam results, he had shown exceptional improvement. Liu Hao was thrilled with his sess. Nheless, he was in no hurry to leave. His gaze was fixed on the notice board, searching for Fang Lang¡¯s name. If Fang Lang¡¯s theory score turned out to be worse than his, he would gain the right to taunt him to his heart¡¯s content. Liu Hao was grinning ear-to-ear as he searched for Fang Lang¡¯s name in the rankings close to his. However, he could not find it, so he continued searching in the lower rankings. He read one name after another... To a point where his vision was turning hazy. s, he still could not find Fang Lang¡¯s name. The crowd had already dispersed, but Liu Hao remained determined to find Fang Lang¡¯s name. Just then, Fang Lang came to the board. He noticed what Liu Hao was doing and was actually a little touched by his determination. ¡°Try looking higher.¡± Hearing that, Liu Hao turned his gaze toward the higher ranks despite his tired eyes. Finally, he found Fang Lang¡¯s name. He read his rank. In an instant, his expression froze and the smile on his face gradually faded away. It was as if he could not feel any emotions anymore. ¡°Fang Lang. Score: 145. Theory exam ranking: 1st.¡± Liu Hao was dumbfounded. ¡®First ce? ¡®How did he get first ce? ¡®More importantly... what is up with his score! It¡¯s inhuman!¡¯ Liu Hao turned his head and was met with Fang Lang¡¯s friendly smile. In Liu Hao¡¯s eyes, that faint smile looked like the sinister grin of a devil that had turned its back to the sun! His lips trembled a little. Seeing the massive gap between Fang Lang and himself was a huge emotional shock to him. Tears formed at the corner of his eyes that were already strained from staring at the notice board for too long. The shameful tears rolled down his face. Fang Lang and Ni Wen, who had gone to the notice board after the crowd dispersed, were taken aback by the scene. ¡®Liu Hao, why are you so emotional about me getting first ce?¡¯ Fang Lang wondered. ¡®I guess I shouldn¡¯t be so hard on you anymore.¡¯ With his fingers, Liu Hao felt the wetness at the corner of his eyes. Humiliated, he hung his head low and left. ¡®Fang Lang... how did he get first ce? ¡®Before this, his theory level was definitely simr to mine! ¡®On the bright side, he¡¯s still just a fifth-grade sword disciple like me.¡¯ That was the only hope Liu Hao clung to. The students standing around them were also causing amotion. The fact that Fang Lang got first ce and scored 145 points in the theory exam came as a huge surprise. The total point for the theory exam was 150, which meant that Fang Lang only lost five marks! The nerds who devoted all their time to the theory section were even more outraged. They were convinced something fishy was going on. No one had ever scored marks as high as this in the Luojiang Academy¡¯s history of internal theory exams. While everyone was busy criticizing, Mentor Wen sauntered in and stuck Fang Lang¡¯s poetry exam script on the notice board. He titled it ¡®The Perfect Score Poem¡¯. Mentor Wen was in high spirits. He turned to Fang Lang and nodded, then walked away with a spring in his step. After leaving his name in a poem that would go down in history, Mentor Wen was so happy he could fly. The students swarmed the notice board again. They stared at Fang Lang¡¯s poem with harsh, judgemental eyes. In the three years, no poem had ever earned a perfect score in the academy. However, after just a few minutes, their protests died down. There was no fault to be found in his poem. ... After an hour of break, the practical section of thebat exam began. The students split up into groups after receiving their exam handbooks. The invigting mentors then led them to thebat tower. Thebat tower was not open to students on ordinary days. It could only be essed during internal exams. The interior of thebat tower was embellished with runes handcrafted by spell masters of the fourth ss and above. The runes would create opponents with increasingbat strength until the student was defeated. From there, their practical assessment score would be calcted. Fang Lang held his exam handbook in his hands as he quietly queued up outside thebat tower¡¯s entrance. ¡°Next, Fang Lang.¡± The invigting mentor flipped through his handbook and said. Fang Lang stepped forward. The mentor checked if Fang Lang had any spell talisman on him that could be used to cheat. His space right had to be temporarily removed and handed over to the mentor for safekeeping. Fang Lang set foot into the tower. The interior was dim. The walls and ceiling were riddled with carvings of arcane runes and patterns. ¡°Begin practical assessment.¡± The invigting mentor¡¯s calm voice sounded. The ruins were activated. Fang Lang noticed theplete change of his surroundings. He found himself standing in a battle ring paved with grey bricks. A blurry figure appeared five steps in front of him¡ªit was his opponent for the practical assessment. The figure had abel floating above its head, indicating its cultivation level. ¡®ss one, grade one.¡¯ The opponent was capable of testing all three disciplines at the same time¡ªsword, spell and martial arts. The battle began. Fang Lang did not waste a second. With a single p of his hand, he turned the figure into dust. A second-grade opponent took shape right after. Just as before, he defeated his opponent with a single p. With his current skill level, Fang Lang did not even need to break a sweat. Grade three, grade four, grade five... His opponent¡¯s skill level kept increasing. Even so, Fang Lang did not feel much pressure. Fang Lang had already mastered the sword and had specialized techniques¡ªthe battles were all smooth sailing. The Blooming Lotus Sword¡¯s de energy filled the air as he showed off his Sword Draw Technique. After Fang Lang defeated the ninth-grade opponent with a single swing of his sword, thebat tower fell into silence. Only after several minutes did a new opponent materialize in front of him. ¡®ss two, grade one.¡¯ A second ss opponent was equipped with the skills of a sword master, spell master and martial arts master. Fang Lang came neck to neck with his opponent. He predicted that if he were to enter partner binding mode, he might be able to defeat a second-grade, second-ss opponent! Fang Lang found an opening and unleashed his Finger Flick Energy Wave. The second-grade, first-ss opponent¡¯s head was instantly blown to smithers! After a period of roughly five breaths, the second-grade, second-ss opponent took shape. Even with partner binding mode activated, Fang Lang still had trouble defeating the figure. Previously, the only reason he could kill Lin Yun was thanks to Old Jiang and the Power Loan Card, allowing him to push past his limits with ease. Right then, Fang Lang could only perform at the level of ninth-grade sword disciple. It was not an easy task to defeat a second-ss opponent. Fang Lang fought with all his might. Finally, he managed to break the figure¡¯s head, yet at the same time, his opponent¡¯s de stabbed through his heart. Whoosh! Fang Lang opened his eyes to find that the spell had vanished. ¡°Please leave thebat tower once you are done with the assessment.¡± The invigting mentor¡¯sposed voice sounded from outside. Frowning, Fang Lang sheathed his Blooming Lotus de. He fell into deep thought as he exited thebat tower. He was extremely disappointed with his own performance. The gaze of a group of students fell onto Fang Lang the moment he exited the tower. He had caught the attention of many genius students after he earned first ce in the theory exam. Fang Lang¡¯s talents and capabilities had all been unveiled. Even the geniuses of Luojiang Academy, who never batted an eye at him before, had to acknowledge his extraordinary talent. Liu Hao was clenching his handbook tight in his hands. When he saw Fang Lang leaving thebat tower with furrowed brows and a deste expression, Liu Hao smiled. Fang Lang¡¯s sorrow brought him immense joy! Finally, he could get the weight off his mind. ¡®Fang Lang¡¯s expression must mean that he screwed up during the practical assessment! ¡®You may be good in the theoretical aspects, but when ites to actualbat, you still fall short, Fang Lang!¡¯ ¡°Liu Hao, you¡¯re next. What are you daydreaming about? Hurry up.¡± The invigting mentor ordered calmly. Liu Hao hastily entered thebat tower. ... Dong! As the timekeeper rang the bell, he seemed to have stirred up autumn in the academy premises. Withered leaves rustled against the ground as the gentle breeze blew. The setting sun was like a me burning in the evening sky. The two-day internal exam hade to an end. The exhausted students returned to their respective study blocks andid their heads on their desks, quietly waiting for their final results. Their theory scores had been published. All that was left to do was wait for theirbat scores and add both together to get their final score. The academy did not dy the results because the Spirit Pagoda could only be left in Luojiang Academy for two days. Thus, they had to quickly produce the list of students eligible to enter the Spirit Pagoda. Dusk had arrived. The setting sun was like a ball of fire in the sky. All the students in the study blocks had glowing red cheeks. On the third floor of the seventh study block. Fang Lang was sitting in front of his desk, scrunching his brows tightly together. Thebat exam was a wake-up call for him. It drowned out even the excitement of finally breaking into the ninth grade. Ninth-grade was not enough. A sword master¡ªthat was what Fang Lang needed to be! The rowdy study hall turned quite in an instant. Mentor Wen came into the study hall with a stack of red papers that contained the internal exam results of the students. He looked around to see the anxiety in every students¡¯ eyes. Some students were even clenching their fists, eager to know their results. Mentor Wen smiled. He scanned the room and fixed his gaze on Fang Lang¡¯s tightly-knitted brows. Surprised, he thought, ¡®Boy, what are you sulking for? If I hadn¡¯t seen your results beforehand, I would have thought you screwed up the exam!¡¯ Mentor Wen grumbled silently. After that, he began to give out the red papers, reading out the scores of every student as he did. Some students were overjoyed while some were in despair. There were also those who had all hope extinguished and could only bury their faces and cry. Nheless, Mentor Wen was not the least bit affected. ¡°Next, Ni Wen. ¡°Theory score, hundred and twenty-two. Combat score, hundred and fifty-five. Total score, two hundred and seventy-seven. Ranking in academy, fourth.¡± Ni Wen stood up. She scrunched up her shoulders and hid her face from the countless pairs of eyes looking at her. Mentor Wen put on a warm smile as he handed her her red result slip. ¡°Keep up the good work.¡± Mentor Wen encouraged kindly. Ni Wen pressed her lips together and nodded solemnly. ¡°Next, Fang Lang.¡± Mentor Wen read the next name just as Ni Wen returned to her desk. The moment Fang Lang¡¯s name was read, all the students in the hall looked up attentively. Chatter began to form among the students again. By that time, Fang Lang¡¯s name had be well-known by all. Not only was he the top scorer in the theory exam, he was also the champion of the Gathering of Swords! It was no wonder that everyone was curious and excited to know his final score in the internal exam. Liu Hao, in particr, was eagerly waiting with eyes that glimmered like copper gongs. He had already prepared a mouthful of taunts and jeers to spit at Fang Lang. His happiness was dependent on whether Fang Lang screwed up hisbat exam. Mentor Wen cleared his throat. His calm voice lingered in the air. ¡°Fang Lang. Theory score, a hundred and forty-five. Combat score, two hundred and forty. Total score, three hundred and eighty-five. Ranking in academy, first.¡± The noisy chatter immediately died down. The entire study block fell into dead silence. Countless students had their eyes wide in shock. It was as if the tranquil beauty of autumn had permeated every corner of the study hall. ¡°Only two hundred and forty points in thebat exam?¡± Fang Lang furrowed his brows and sighed softly. ¡®Completing the major studies section of all three disciplines was a bad choice after all...¡¯ Fang Lang¡¯s despondent sigh reminded one of the withering autumn leaves falling outside. It broke the silence, reverberating through the noiseless study block that seemed to be frozen in time. Chapter 55 - Ni Wen Is a Treasure

Chapter 55: Ni Wen Is a Treasure

That evening was fated to be out of the ordinary. On the third floor of the seventh study block, the lone sound of a disheartened sigh lingered in the otherwise tranquil silence. At the mentor¡¯s desk, Mentor Wen was rendered speechless when he heard Fang Lang¡¯s murmur. ¡®Only two hundred and forty points? ¡®How could you say that?¡¯ ... Name: Fang Lang Combat Score Sword Mastery: 100 Spell Mastery: 80 Martial Arts Mastery: 60 Theory Score Poetry: 50 Policy: 45 Demon Tongue: 50 Total Score: 385 Luojiang Academy Rank: 1st ... Mentor Wen scanned through Fang Lang¡¯s results again and again. He was sure Fang Lang only managed to exceed the total score because he chose toplete the major studies section of all three disciplines. More importantly, he noticed Fang Lang not only excelled in sword mastery¡ªhe scored pretty well in the spell mastery and martial arts mastery sections too! If a student had chosen to treat all three disciplines as their major subjects, their opponent in the practical assessment would have had a more well rounded skill set in all three disciplines as well. He could not believe Fang Lang was able to obtain such impressive scores under those conditions! His score broke the all-time record in Luojiang Academy! The study block was still immersed in silence. The students were all dumbfounded. ¡®385 points? Is that even humanly possible?¡¯ Yang Zhengyi¡¯s jaw dropped to the floor. He widened his eyes, his long fringe drooping over his forehead. At that moment, Fang Lang felt so distant. He wondered what it felt like to suddenly turn from an imbecile to a genius. There was no going back... Lang¡¯zi was no longer the boy he used to be! Yang Zhengyi sighed. Meanwhile, Ni Wei¡¯s eyes were glimmering. ¡®Fang Lang¡¯s results are so frightening! ¡®Fang Lang... He¡¯s so strong! ¡®He... He¡¯s incredible!¡¯ With his results, they would be able to enter the Spirit Pagoda together the very next day! After a long while of silence, chatter and discussion as loud as thunder broke out in the study hall. ¡°Impossible!¡± Liu Hao shouted as he widened his eyes and stood up from his desk. ¡°The total score of the internal exam is three hundred and fifty, so how did he score three hundred and eighty-five! ¡°There must have been a mistake!¡± Liu Hao was exasperated. After the humiliating defeat by Fang Lang, Liu Hao had nned to regain his dignity through the internal examination. Nheless, with Fang Lang¡¯s inhuman score, what dignity could he possibly regain? Just hisbat score alone was already higher than Liu Hao¡¯s total score! What dignity? The uproar in the study hall grew louder after Liu Hao expressed his skepticism. Even the disciples from wealthy families were beginning to question Fang Lang¡¯s results. On the other hand, the genius students sat in silence with troubled expressions on their faces. That was because they knew how Fang Lang achieved that final score. That monster was a three-discipline cultivator! That was a path only genius students would bother to look into. Ordinary students did not even know it was possible. Mentor Wen took a nce at Liu Hao and frowned. ¡°Why are you so worked up?¡± Mentor Wen had no intention of exining. After all, he knew with utmost certainty that Fang Lang¡¯s exceptional score was the result of his own hard work and capabilities. Fang Lang had be a ninth-grade sword disciple. When taking into ount the fact that he killed Lin Yun in the entertainment house as well, it came as no surprise that hisbat score was remarkably high. ¡°Are you questioning the rules of the internal exam? Well, if that¡¯s the case, you can stay back after ss and copy the academy exam regtions ten times over. Then, you¡¯ll be clear as to how Fang Lang achieved that score.¡± Liu Hao was taken by surprise. He opened his mouth to argue back. However, the moment his eyes met Mentor Wen¡¯s stern gaze, he chickened out and sat back down. Nheless, Mentor Wen did not let him off the hook. He added, ¡°Let me check your work once you¡¯re done copying.¡± Liu Hao was speechless. Meanwhile, Fang Lang paid little to no attention to Liu Hao. He stood up and went to the front of the ss to receive his red result slip while countless pairs of eyes stared at him in shock, in awe and even in admiration. In the previous internal exam, Fang Lang did not stand out in the least bit. No one paid any attention when he went forward to receive his results. Like a nobody, he stood in a corner watching the geniuses along with others. However, after just ten or twenty days, Fang Lang emerged with inconceivable strength, breaking the academy¡¯s all-time record. He stood at the highest peak of Luojiang Academy. Fang Lang returned to his desk. His brows were still tightly scrunched together as he stared at the sheet of red paper. It seemed his sigh from before was genuine, and not just him pretending to be dumb. 240 points in thebat exam was truly not enough for him. ¡®How could these scores be enough to be the champion!¡¯ Fang Lang thought. ¡®Every single point counts in the battle for highest distinction!¡¯ Fang Lang still had an additional 30 points from the Gathering of Swords to spare, but the other geniuses, too, had gained additional points from other events. For example, the spell discipline had multiple rune-basedpetitions simr to the Gathering of Swords. Simrly, the martial arts discipline had their own majorpetitions. 30 additional points was not a big advantage in the battle for champion. There was no way Fang Lang would rx just because he had some extra points. ¡°Students in the top 50 rank in this exam will be granted ess to the Spirit Pagoda tomorrow. The rest of you will study cultivation in your respective study halls as usual. It will be your final push before the Imperial Examination.¡± Mentor Wen announced after he handed out all the result slips. He gazed at all the students in the study hall with stern eyes. ¡°Yes, sir.¡± The students replied. Mentor Wen dismissed the students. Before leaving the hall, Mentor Wen red at Liu Hao and reminded, ¡°Copy down the academy exam regtions and pass it up to me.¡± s, he did not forget about Liu Hao. The students left the study hall bearing the news of Fang Lang being the top scorer in the academy. Soon, the news would spread like wildfire, reaching every corner of the academy and stirring up an untamable storm among the students. Fang Lang stood up, folded his red paper neatly and stuffed it into his sleeve. He had once looked up to the genius students who could achieve first ce in the internal exams with ample admiration; he had once thought about how he would pick up his red result slip with utmost care and caution when he became the champion of the Imperial Examination. However, now that he had actually gotten first ce in the internal exam, he realized he could never experience thatpelling feeling of admiration again. It turned out getting first ce did not feel as magical as he imagined. After all, he had a higher goal in mind¡ªbing the champion in the Imperial Examination. The red result slip was nothing more than a sheet of paper. Fang Lang took out his Tang Dynasty¡¯s Spell Scripture and went up to Ni Wen with a friendly smile. He engaged in interactions with Ni Wen pertaining to cultivation. They were about to enter the Spirit Pagoda the very next day. Fang Lang had the bold idea of using the Spirit Pagoda to break through the shackles and be a sword master. He also had a challenge mission toplete¡ªto challenge his own limits. That way, he could turn all the spiritual energy he absorbed in the Spirit Pagoda into System experience points. It was the best time to shear the sheep, so why would Fang Lang let the opportunity go to waste? Fang Lang had to make ample preparations. First, he had to settle his Grade-Rush Card. Although they could be used to reduce partner binding time, they could still be used for their originally intended purpose¡ªbreaking through into the next grade. It could be used to help Fang Lang break through into sword master level the next day. Thus, he had to milk Little Wen as much as he could. Little Wen was a treasure. Everytime he engaged in a modest interaction with her, he would obtain a Grade-Rush Card Fragment, which was very useful. Furthermore, Fang Lang had nned to spend his 250,000 pieces of gold coin that night. He wanted to buy a premium de to eliminate the shoring in his Dual Sword Technique. Moreover, he could gain experience points from it and allow the System to advance into the next level. On top of all those, he could receive a Reward Egg for spending the coins. The Reward Egg given for spending a fixed amount could only be imed once throughout a System level. Unfortunately, there was no way of farming these Reward Eggs. ¡®Ding! You have engaged in a modest interaction with your binding partner, Ni Wen. Passive ability triggered. You have obtained a Grade-Rush Card Fragment. ¡®Ding! You now have five Grade-Rush Card Fragments that can be fused together to form one Grade-Rush Card. Would you like to fuse them?¡¯ Ni Wen¡¯s cheeks were already red from her enthusiasm toward their conversation about spell mastery. Finally, Fang Lang achieved his goal of obtaining five Grade-Rush Card Fragments through her. ¡®Fuse!¡¯ he instructed. ¡®Ding! Fusionplete. You have obtained a Grade-Rush Card.¡¯ The System¡¯s notifications faded away. Fang Lang examined the Grade-Rush Card he had just obtained. His lips curled up instantly. He gazed at Ni Wen with adoring eyes, ¡®This little girl is such a treasure!¡¯ Fang Lang¡¯s gaze made her blush. Her cheeks were burning. She quietly imed she had to go home to help her mother sell tofu pudding. Having said that, she hurriedly gathered her things and scuttered down the study block. She ran out of the academy as the sun set. Fang Lang stood up, smiling. Satisfied with the day¡¯s rewards, Fang Lang stretched his body as he watched Ni Wen scurry away. ... After leaving the academy, Fang Lang loitered around the main street of Luojiang City. He went to the very end of the main street, made three right turns in a row and continued on around a hundred steps forward. Finally, he arrived at a cksmith¡¯s workshop located at the end of a quiet alley. Although he had the Blooming Lotus de, Fang Lang still needed another premium-grade sword for his Dual Sword Technique. He could spend the coins and make up for the weakness in his fighting technique¡ªit was like killing two birds with one stone. This cksmith was rmended to him by Mentor Wen as Fang Lang had previously gone to him to inquire about ces to buy swords. It was not like the Jade Pavilion, neither was it somergepany. It was just a tiny, no-name workshop at the corner of an alleyway! Mentor Wen had even warned Fang Lang about the strange temper of the workshop owner. The des he forged were especially expensive, and one even had to pass some test just to buy his swords. The owner had many peculiar quirks but Mentor Wen had nothing but praises for the des he forged. ng! ng, ng, ng! At the forging table in the cksmith¡¯s workshop, a teenager was striking away at a red hot de with a gigantic sledgehammer. Sparks flew everywhere, likeets in the night sky. Fang Lang could feel waves of heat bombarding him the moment he entered the workshop. Not far from the teen sat an old man on a rocking chair. He was taking a nap with a nket over hisp. ¡°Excuse me, old man, are you selling des?¡± Fang Lang turned to the old man and asked in a soft voice. The teen continued to strike his de while the old man continued to nap. ¡°Wen Ting... Master Wen¡ªhe¡¯s the one who rmended your workshop to me.¡± Fang Lang decided to bring up Old Wen¡¯s name after some thought. The moment he said his mentor¡¯s name, an odd feeling overcame Fang Lang. The hair on his body all stood erect. Something about the atmosphere felt wrong! The sound of the teen¡¯s hammering from within the workshop came to an abrupt stop. The eyes of the old man who sat upright on the rocking chair suddenly shot open. An invisible yet terrifying energy pervaded the interior of the workshop. Every hanging de within the building vibrated and rang. Bang! The wooden door of the workshop¡¯s entrance mmed shut behind Fang Lang and bolted shut! ¡®What are these people doing locking the door so early? ¡®What exactly did Old Wen do? Did he steal a de from them or something!¡¯ Fang Lang wondered. Fang Lang took half a step back but suddenly found himself frozen at the spot! He was too careless. Chapter 56 - You’re Fang Lang

Chapter 56: You¡¯re Fang Lang

Tang Dynasty. Changan, the Imperial City. The autumn rain fell all night in Changan. This historical city appeared more poetic with the veil of mist and rain over it. The ringing of the ancient bell outside Changan was like a magnificent ink wash painting on rice paper. The night deepened. The autumn rain fell silently. A flight sword attached with a letter sliced across the quiet night sky, ripping through the veils of mist and entering the rainy city. In one of the courtyards of the Jiang Manor... Zhao Wuji¡¯s eyes burned brightly in the night. He reached out and grabbed the flying de. ¡°My Lady, it¡¯s from Luojiang City, most likely about Fang Lang.¡± Zhao Wuji nced briefly at the letter before turning to bow before one of the living quarters. He reported his findings. Within the imprable courtyard walls, the vermilion wooden shutters with carvings opened suddenly and the fragrant scent of sandalwood permeated the air. ¡°Oh? Luojiang City¡¯s final examination to shortlist candidates for the Spirit Pagoda has ended. It seems like the results are out.¡± A clear voice replied casually from the quarters. Jiang Linglong walked out from the room barefooted in a gorgeous flowy dress. She stepped on the woolen rugid in her path and stared at the misty city with twinkling eyes. Her face was not veiled, exposing her beautiful features to the open air. She was stunning, so much so that the autumn night was beguiled by her charms. Zhao Wuji passed the letter to Jiang Linglong. She opened the letter and started reading. She chuckled, showcasing the charming dimples on both sides of her cheeks like pear blossoms in the spring rain. ¡°May I one day surmount the highest of peaks, where I could gather a sight of all mountains thereid...¡± Jiang Linglong recited gently, her silvery voice echoed in the quiet courtyard. After a long pause, she kept the letter and tucked away a loose strand of hair, smiling. ¡°Lang¡¯zi¡¯s serious this time. The sword is drawn.¡± A white cloak draped over her shoulders. She stood in the sandalwood-scented quarters and stared into the distance with a grin. It was as if she could see a youngd standing beyond the rainy city with his sword pointed at Changan. ... Sparks flew from the ming stove. The boiling kettle made a piercing whistle as steam escaped the open holes. Fang Lang was slightly rmed but he did not back off. He was just trying to buy a sword. What was with the solemn atmosphere? The young cksmith paused the work on hand and nced at Fang Lang. Tiny droplets of sweat covered his bronze-colored skin. He put down the hammer and walked towards the boiling kettle. He poured water into a porcin cup filled with tea leaves. Then, the young man handed the cup to the old man on the rocking chair. The entire exchange was silent. The old man took the cup and rubbed the lid against the brim as he stared at Fang Lang with cloudy eyes. After taking a sip of the tea, he spoke slowly, ¡°Wen Ting told you toe here?¡± The atmosphere was filled with a dense spiritual sense. The hanging swords on the wall started levitating with their sword tips aimed at his sword. Fang Lang smiled innocently and said, ¡°That¡¯s right.¡± The elder raised his hand and waved lightly as if there was a guqin in the air and his strum released deep and tranquil sounds. The des started surrounding Fang Lang¡¯s neck like a chain. ¡°Wen Ting promised me he would never tell another soul of my whereabouts... He broke his promise,¡± the old man said gently. ¡°I¡¯ll kill you first, and that big mouth will be next.¡± Fang Lang took a deep breath and said, ¡°Wen Ting is my mentor. I¡¯m a student from Luojiang Academy...¡± The old man raised his brow. He tapped his wrinkly fingers in the air. Instantly, all the hovering swords charged at Fang Lang. One of the des was pressing right beneath his jaw. ¡°Old Cui¡¯s academy? You¡¯re rted to that bastard?¡± The old man said coldly. Fang Lang almost cried. ¡®Old man, do you have a grudge against the whole world? Just tell me who¡¯s not your enemy so we can move on.¡¯ Even though he was panicking inside, Fang Lang had a brilliant smile on his face. He stared at the old man and said, ¡°Sir, I just want to buy a good sword.¡± ¡°What¡¯s your name?¡± The old man took another sip of tea and chewed on the leaves. ¡°Fang Lang. Fang like a square, Lang like a wave.¡± Hmm? Right after Fang Lang¡¯s introduction, the topless young cksmith¡¯s eyes fluttered. ¡°You¡¯re Fang Lang? The Fang Lang that killed Lin Yun?¡± Fang Lang was stunned. ¡®Am I famous now?¡¯ An honest grin spread across the young man¡¯s face. ¡°There¡¯s plenty of rumors about you in Changan. The Changan Academy and the Imperial Academy have their eyes on you. They warned if you dare set foot into Changan, they¡¯ll break your legs.¡± Fang Lang¡¯s eyes twitched. The young man scratched his crew-cut hair andughed. ¡°There is only one Lady Linglong in the entire Tang Dynasty. She¡¯s everyone¡¯s dream. A girl like her was willing to dy her journey back to Changan by four hours, risking her life through eighteen assassination attempts. They all said... how could you?¡± The smile on Fang Lang¡¯s face faded slowly, slightly startled at the revtion. Then, he was speechless. He recalled the starry-eyed girl, another reason for him to visit Changan. When Fang Lang was in deep thought, the old man scoffed, ¡°You¡¯re the Fang Lang who drew the Blooming Lotus Sword?¡± The old man knocked his fingers once more and all the des returned to their original position as if nothing had happened. The store quieted down, leaving only the crackling sounds of the mes. Swish! The Blooming Lotus Sword released itself from the sheath and sword box across Fang Lang¡¯s back and darted towards the old man. It stopped three inches before him. The old man¡¯s hand was trembling, resisting the urge to touch. ¡°Blooming Lotus Sword, such a modest sword intent. It truly impresses me that Xuanyuan Taihua could cultivate such a powerful sword... given the fact that she¡¯s a woman,¡± the old man eximed. The next moment, he waved his hand and the Blooming Lotus Sword returned to its sheath. ¡°Wen Ting took a calcted risk by asking you toe here. I¡¯ll grant you the chance to buy a sword for a glimpse of the Blooming Lotus Sword,¡± the old man said. The tension in the store dissipated, along with the intense pressure Fang Lang had been experiencing since he entered. Before Fang Lang could rx, his body was pulled toward the old man. The old man raised his hand and grabbed Fang Lang¡¯s palm. He grazed the open palm and felt the rough calluses on it. ¡°Hmm. You¡¯re so young, yet your calluses from sword training are so thick. Seems like you¡¯ve been through a lot, young man.¡± There was a rare glimpse of admiration on his face after he surmised Fang Lang¡¯s intense sword training. ¡°My forte is two-handed sword fighting. With the Blooming Lotus Sword, I stillck a left-handed sword. That¡¯s why I¡¯m here,¡± Fang Lang exined. The old man raised his eyebrow. ¡°There are only a handful of people in the Tang Dynasty who train with two swords. You¡¯re quite ambitious. However, since you have the Blooming Lotus Sword on your right, the other sword should not be too weak. At the very least, it shouldn¡¯t be suppressed by the Blooming Lotus¡¯s sword intent. Otherwise your dual sword technique will be out of bnce,¡± the old man said casually. Then, he sat up from his rocking chair. He raised his hand and presented a fist. Shing! The clear sound of the sword roared from deep within the store. A raging sword intent surged from every corner of the store. Suddenly, a sword as dark as ink darted out like a ferocious ck dragon! Ding! The old man touched the hovering ck sword with the tip of his fingers and it settled down. ¡°This is Obsidian, forged from an opposing scale of a monstrous ck dragon that was ughtered when the Tang Dynasty attacked the Southern Sea Demon Pce. The Blooming Lotus Sword is quite mellow in character while the Obsidian Sword is viscous. Theyplement each other very well, like Yin and Yang,¡± the old man said as he polished the ck sword. Fang Lang¡¯s eyes were fixated on the ck sword. ¡°Kid, if you want to buy a sword, this is it. The price is up to you to decide. However, I have one test for you,¡± said the old man. Fang Lang answered in a serious tone, ¡°Do tell.¡± ¡°Back when Wen Ting came to me to buy his sword, he managed to withstand five hits from me. Even though he was severely injured, he still passed the test. I¡¯m not interested in repeating that seeing how weak you are. What about this...¡± The old man reached out his wrinkly fingers and pointed at the well-built young cksmith. ¡°That¡¯s my disciple. He¡¯s also preparing for the Imperial Examination. He¡¯s currently a student in Changan Academy, an eighth-grade martial arts master and the runner-up in this year¡¯s Grand Martial Arts Championship. He¡¯ll suppress his strength at the ninth-grade martial arts disciple while you duel. If you¡¯re still standing after I finish my tea, you¡¯ll pass the test. If you can¡¯t, you can beat it. You¡¯re not worthy of the Obsidian Sword, and the Blooming Lotus Sword. Are you up for the challenge?¡± Fang Lang felt a gush of warm blood rising from the bottom of his belly. He looked up and stared at the innocent-looking young man who was scratching the back of his head and smiling. Runner-up of the Grand Martial Arts Championship? A genius? A fifteen-year-old eighth-grade martial arts master? Yo, that¡¯s refreshing! ¡°I... I¡¯d love to meet a genius,¡± Fang Lang¡¯s eyes lit up andughed. ¡°Pfft!¡± The old man scoffed. He tightened his grip on the Obsidian Sword. The rocking chair started moving to one corner of the store on its own ord. There was space for Fang Lang and the young cksmith to duel. ¡°Brother, I¡¯m always excited to meet new people. May I know your name?¡± Fang Lang asked with a smile. However, the young man remained silent and continued to scratch the back of his head. Suddenly, the young man drew a ck falchion and sliced through the air! Fang Lang¡¯s eyes narrowed and he pulled out the Blooming Lotus Sword! The des collided, creating sparks when they met! An intense bolt of energy was channeled from the young man¡¯s falchion to Fang Lang¡¯s hand. The young man¡¯s eyes were burning while he increased his pressure on Fang Lang. Fang Lang tried to resist his force by grounding himself but he was being forced backward. One kept pushing forward while the other kept backing up. Bang! Fang Lang¡¯s back mmed onto the wooden door of the store. The young man charged the falchion with vital energy that transformed into a force that ripped through the wooden door behind Fang Lang. The wood chips scattered around instantly like a blooming ck bramble. Chapter 57 - Swords and Martial Arts

Chapter 57: Swords and Martial Arts

In Luojiang Academy. The moon was shining brightly like a silver te high up in the night sky. Wen Ting was standing on the rooftop of the Mentors¡¯ Office. His sleeves swayed gently in the night breeze. A sword wrapped in rough cloth hung across his body. The sword was enclosed in a leather sheath, its sword intent restrained. He was unshaven. His eyes were fixated on a dark alley in Luojiang City. Suddenly, Wen Ting heard footsteps from behind. A hunched elderly appeared beside him. The old man¡¯s hair and beard had turned fully white. The smile on his face was warm and kind. ¡°Headmaster,¡± Wen Ting greeted. ¡°You introduced Fang Lang to that old grouch for his new sword?¡± Headmaster Cui askedughingly. ¡°Aren¡¯t you worried he¡¯ll be killed by that temperamental man?¡± Wen Ting took the sword and wrapped both his hands around it¡ªthe hilt was pointed directly at the moon. The corners of his mouth raised slightly. ¡°Fang Lang will be fine. That old man will not kill him as long as he has the Blooming Lotus Sword. Ah, that old grouch¡¯s like me...¡± Headmaster Cui squinted. ¡°That old man is a wanted person by the military. Are you on the run too?¡± Wen Ting let out a deep sigh and said, ¡°Headmaster, this isn¡¯t funny. ¡°The old man¡¯s forging skill is in the top ten of the entire Tang Dynasty. Fang Lang can only find a sword thatplements the Blooming Lotus Sword in his store. Otherwise, he will never fully master the Dual Sword Technique. It¡¯s for his own good,¡± Wen Ting said. Headmaster Cui tilted his head and side-eyed Wen Ting, ¡°Are you sure you didn¡¯t send him there so the old man can catch a glimpse of the Blooming Lotus Sword as repayment for the cost of your sword?¡± The corner of Wen Ting¡¯s mouth twitched. With the sword in his hands, he stared at the moon with sunken, deep-set eyes. ¡°Headmaster, let¡¯s end the conversation here.¡± ... Boom! The wooden door exploded into pieces! Fang Lang had his heel against the doorsill. He leaned backward. The falchion sliced through the air, the st of energy spanned several feet, kicking up the dust on the ground. Fang Lang used the doorsill as aunchpad and charged forward with his sword. He attacked the young man with his de energy. The young man supported the back of the falchion¡¯s de and shattered Fang Lang¡¯s de energy. Instantly, a surge of vital energy coursed through the falchion, it roared ferociously like a fierce dragon. It came down like a thunderous p. It made Fang Lang¡¯s hair stand on end! He tried to use the Spirit Step to distance himself. Even though the young man only used the cultivation of a ninth-grade martial arts disciple, Fang Lang felt utterly oppressed! ¡®He¡¯s amazing! No wonder he¡¯s the martial arts genius in Changan Academy!¡¯ Pang! Fang Lang turned around abruptly, fluttering the green fabric of his clothing. The falchionnded on the doorsill, just centimeters away from his waist! Fang Lang raised his leg and swung down against the young man. With the Blooming Lotus Sword pressed against the ground, the de curved and shot out a burst of energy. Liu Bubai had demonstrated this sword skill before and Fang Lang secretly learned it by himself! The young man smiled widely. ¡°You¡¯re a sword master, yet you¡¯ve chosen to engage in directbat with a martial arts master. You¡¯re not that wise after all.¡± The young man¡¯s palm transformed into a w. He did not shy away from Fang Lang¡¯s kick. His fingers mped down tightly on Fang Lang¡¯s leg like hooks. He nned to raise his other hand with the ck falchion. He would slice Fang Lang into half if the boy failed to escape. A grin spread across Fang Lang¡¯s face. Fang Lang¡¯s physique was not that weak after using the Physical Buff Card. He channeled his entire body¡¯s vital strength and collected it in his legs. The umted energy was ready to burst out like the current of a roaring river. The young man was surprised¡ªa sh of fear appeared in his eyes. Fang Lang mmed his foot down, pushing the young man¡¯s palm. Fang Lang pressed down on his shoulder. The young man¡¯s knees buckled slightly. The debris within several feet around him froze in the air as if time had stopped. Suddenly, a storm loomed above them! Boom! Fang Lang struck the young man¡¯s chest heavily with his leg. The young man stumbled back. The debris was stirred up along an invisible curvature. Fang Lang¡¯s Blooming Lotus Sword collided with the young man¡¯s falchion, generating sparks. Right after, Fang Langnded gracefully and summoned his Spirit Step. He sessfully pulled away from the young man. Fang Lang had a serious expression on his face. The Blooming Lotus Sword was in a position, gathering its energy, ready to be drawn! It was as if time had stopped¡ªdust and wood filings could be seen floating in the dark sky under the moonlight. In the corner of the workshop, the old man watched the fight calmly while sipping his tea. Fang Lang and the young man were toe to toe throughout the entire duel, like a vigorous chess match. The ck and white chess pieces rippled through the peaceful chessboard. ... ¡°Not bad, your swordsmanship is much better than Lu Ze. You¡¯re a sword master, yet you minor in martial arts,¡± said the young man. Fang Lang sensed the young man¡¯s energy intensifying, no longer probing as before. He rose slowly, like a tiger entering predatory mode for a hunt! ¡®Switch to binding partner mode.¡¯ Fang Lang took up Old Jiang¡¯s cultivation mode. His eyes lit up as if he could see in the dark. His energy kept growing until it matched the young man¡¯s. The smile on the young man¡¯s face broadened¡ªhis body trembled slightly. He could feel his body heating up, ready to charge! Fang Lang raised his hand slightly and said, ¡°Old man, borrow me a sword.¡± The old man moved his finger and a steel sword flew towards Fang Lang. Fang Lang grabbed the sword and with both swords in hand, his body disappeared instantly. The wonders of the Spirit Step! The young man tilted his head in confusion. A tearing sound. The sound exploded in the silent night! The next moment, the young man¡¯s body began to expand¡ªthe outlines of his muscles shone brightly under the moon. He whipped out his ck falchion and shed at the general area beside him! ng! A piercing sound was heard. Fang Lang felt the monstrous strengthnd on his sword, almost splitting his palm open. If he had not undergone physical training, this strike would have damaged his hand permanently. ¡®Such strength! How?¡¯ Fang Langnded on the ground. He tapped his toes continuously to lift himself up. He whirled both swords and attacked rapidly. Sword Mastery Specialty, Dual Sword Technique! Fang Lang¡¯s swords were so fast they were almost invisible. His body moved continuously as he attacked with both swords, leaving only a faint shadow in the dark. The young man shielded himself with the falchion, barely keeping up with Fang Lang¡¯s pace. Sparks flew around them. After the young man received more than a dozen strikes, he narrowed his eyes and swung his falchion with immense strength! The falchion ripped through the air with an energy that was as intense as an earthquake or tsunami! Fang Lang crossed his swords together to block his strike. A loud sound echoed in the air. Fang Lang was almost buried by the strike. What a terrifying force! The young man kept closing in, but instead of using his falchion, he balled up his fist and aimed at Fang Lang¡¯s head. His vital energy was so powerful even the dust defied gravity and gathered above his fist! Bang! The gravel on the ground split apart, creating a dent in the surface! Fang Lang managed to slip past the young man¡¯s fist with the help of Spirit Step. The young man raised his fist once more and the shattered gravel shot at Fang Lang like bullets! Fang Lang whirled his sword frantically in defense! The debris was smashed into dust as Fang Lang found the path of light in total darkness! Amazing! Fang Lang¡¯s eyes lit up. ¡®Is this guy joining the Imperial Examination too?¡¯ The Imperial Examination of the Tang Dynasty should not be taken lightly. The cream of the crop would be gathering in this examination, each candidate deadlier than another! This was like the rehearsals of the real examination! A peaked disciple¡¯s sword mastery, a sh of the swords and martial arts! Both of them were very much engrossed in the fight. The young man did not chase after Fang Lang. Instead, he gripped his falchion with both hands and shut his eyes. Then, he stabbed the ck falchion deep into the earth. ¡°Secret Technique: Earth Shatter!¡± The vital energy of the young man sted out like a burning ball of me in the night! He spun the ck falchion! Boom! Boom! Boom! Fang Lang felt the earth move beneath his feet. In the next second, the ground cracked and a web-shaped pattern emerged, stirring up dust and steam into the air. There was imminent danger! There! A ck shadow moved at extreme speed amidst the st of steam from the cracked ground. Fang Lang shielded himself with both of his swords, defending against attacks from all directions. The young man had imed the perimeter, boxing Fang Lang in a 3-meter radius. Fang Lang clenched his jaw and charged all of his spiritual energy into the Blooming Lotus Sword. He struck at the dark shadow charging toward him! The de energy collected in his de. The silhouette of a lotus bud wrapped around the dark shadow fist. The battle between secret techniques! There was an enormous lotus joining the sky and earth. Blooming Lotus Sword! Boom! Blood sttered as the young man blocked the Blooming Lotus de with his ck falchion. He used his fist to defend the de energy which caused blood to spill instantly. Fang Lang whipped out the steel sword in his left hand and shed against the young man¡¯s fist. The sword broke into pieces. In the eye of the dust storm, Fang Lang¡¯s face appeared from the whirlwind of sand. The young man narrowed his eyes while Fang Lang grinned. Fang Lang released the steel sword and ced his hand against the young man¡¯s skull, his fingers met in a flicking position. Finger Flick Energy Wave! The young man renewed his energy and hurled another fist at him! The energy wave crashed against his fist. Spiritual energy exploded and the shock waves knocked away the young man¡¯s fist. Dust billowed out. Behind the veil of dust, Fang Lang¡¯s eyes shone brightly. After a thunderous sound of rattling bones, he bit his lips and gathered his fingers once more for another flick. Fresh blood seeped through the seams between his fingers. The second flick of energy wave! Since he did not win on the first strike... a second strike will do! Pang! Energy coursed through the dust, the young man¡¯s head angled backward as he flew several meters away. His body tumbled across the ground as blood rained down. ... Silence was restored in the streets and the store. In the corner of the store, the old man was still in a trance, his eyes half-lidded. He stroked the brim of the tea cup with the lid unconsciously before taking a sip. The tea had turned cold. Chapter 58 - Core Modification

Chapter 58: Core Modification

The dark and deserted alley was lit by the cold and silvery moonlight. Inside the smithy, the coal on the furnace was still burning brightly, sending sparks into the air. Heavy breathing echoed in the store. Fang Lang supported himself with his sword. Blood dripped down his left palm. Even though he was gasping, there was a smile on his face. Not far away from him, the young man was lying on the ground, his face covered in open wounds. He stared at the starry sky nkly as he let his failure sink in. Gentle footsteps sounded. The old man walked out of the store with his back straightened. He was holding the Obsidian Sword with a surprised yet approving expression. He flung his hand and threw two porcin bottles in the direction of Fang Lang and the young man. The young man got up from the ground and caught the bottle. ¡°Medicine to heal your wounds, it¡¯s very effective. Don¡¯t worry, it won¡¯t affect your performance in the Imperial Examination,¡± the old man said slowly. The young man took out a pill and swallowed it. The open wounds on his head started to scab instantly. ¡°I lost,¡± the young man admitted honestly. His expanded body slowly reduced in size. Fang Lang smiled broadly. ¡°It¡¯s a good match. Do you mind telling me your name? We¡¯re somewhat acquainted after this duel. It excites me to befriend a genius!¡± The young man scratched the back of his head andughed. ¡°Forget it, I¡¯m not worthy as a loser. We¡¯ll get to know each otherter in the Imperial City.¡± Fang Lang was stunned. ¡®What kind of logic was that? Why can¡¯t losers leave their name?¡¯ After the brief exchange, the young man ignored Fang Lang and picked up his ck falchion. He turned around and returned to the store. He continued to hammer the metal piece on the furnace. Fang Lang had no choice but to give up. He swallowed the medicine given by the old man without worrying about being poisoned. After all, if the old man wanted him dead, he would not have to resort to tactics like this. He took several deep breaths after taking the pill. The wound on his hand started healing, showcasing the extraordinary effectiveness of the medicine. The old man gave the Obsidian Sword to Fang Lang. ¡°Not bad, you¡¯re rather skilled at the sword techniques. It must¡¯ve been a difficult training period?¡± After seeing Fang Lang¡¯s callus-covered hand and the solid disy of his swordsmanship, the old man was impressed. What an honest, hardworking kid. He was so much better than that rascal Wen Ting who still owed him money. Fang Lang retrieved the Obsidian Sword. It was heavy and ck as ink. Even under the illumination of the moonlight, there was not a single reflection. ¡°May I ask, how much does this sword cost?¡± The old man waved his hand before entering the store. ¡°It¡¯s up to you. I only sell my swords to those who passed the test. Price doesn¡¯t matter to me, as long as you¡¯re not as stingy as that scrooge.¡± Fang Lang¡¯s cheek twitched, no wonder this old man was so furious when he heard Wen Ting¡¯s name. He did not expect Mentor Wen to be so miserly. Fang Lang was rather generous with his money. He walked towards an empty table and focused his mind on the space ring to retrieve the entire stash of 25,000 gold coins. Clink! Clink! Clink! The gold coins shimmered under the radiant moonlight, lighting up the entire street! ¡°Mister, here¡¯s 25,000 gold coins. The Obsidian Sword¡¯s value is priceless. I¡¯m truly grateful and honored by your offering,¡± Fang Lang said while extending both his hands to hold the sword. He kept both swords into the sword box and turned around to leave. His shadow disappeared into the misty night sky. The streets fell into a dead silence. Inside the workshop, the young man halted his movements as he stared at the heaps of gold coins on the table. He gulped visibly. So... so many gold coins! The old man turned around and waved his hand gently¡ªthe mountains of gold coins disappeared instantly. ¡°Wei Sheng, he¡¯s an honest man. I¡¯ve heard that many people in Changan want him hurt? Do help him out when you¡¯re in Changan,¡± the old man said. ¡°I understand, Master,¡± the young man answered as he resumed hammering. The old man returned to the squeaky rocking chair and hummed a merry tune. It had been a while since he had met such a diligent kid. ... ¡®Ding! Congrattions on your cultivation transaction! You¡¯ve been awarded random rewards, you can find them in the inventory.¡¯ The notification rang in Fang Lang¡¯s mind while he strolled the quiet streets. ¡®Ding! Friendly reminder, your experience bar is filled. Leveling up.¡¯ Everything was as he expected. On the System¡¯s disy: Host: Fang Lang Cultivation Discipline: Ninth-Grade Sword Disciple Level: LV4 Experience: 0/100000 Core: 36 (White) Cultivation Resource: 50,000 gold coins, 300 low-grade spirit crystals, 2 mid-grade spirit crystals (usage limited to cultivation) Items: Grade-Rush Card (1), Green Reward Egg (1) Binding Partner: Ni Wen (60%); Jiang Linglong (60%); Liu Bubai (60%); Empty slot (60%) Sole Passive Ability: Additional rewards may be granted when the host bonds with the binding partner over cultivation. ... There was nothing special about this upgrade. Fang Lang was slightly disappointed the binding capacity remained at 60%. Nevertheless, Fang Lang was not too concerned about this. He was more focused on the cultivation in the Spirit Pagoda the following day. The main focus would be the mission in the Spirit Pagoda... and the bonus challenge that converted the absorbed spiritual energy into experience points. He needed to up his game tomorrow! ¡°System, smash the egg!¡± Fang Lang said. The Green Reward Egg in the inventory was smashed instantly. The rewards were on disy, surrounded by golden rays. ¡®Ding! Congrattions on getting a 3X Amplification Card, Power Loan Card, and Core Card.¡¯ Hmm? Fang Lang frowned after seeing the rewards. The rewards from the Green Reward Egg seemed rather ordinary. A 3X Amplification Card instead of a 5X one? However, there was a new addition¡ªCore Card. ¡®Core Card: Permanent effect card (overwritable). Once activated, the host can change their core stats on the surface and karmic levels.¡¯ Fang Lang¡¯s eyes narrowed. A permanent effect card! Finally, something valuable! This card was worth something! Fang Lang did not stay on the streets to study the Core Card. Instead, he rushed back to the Fang Manor. When he got back, Old Fang was already out, likely at the entertainment house. Fang Lang headed straight for his room. He was rather excited. His natural core was a thorn in his flesh! Given his current core, he would gain no additional points in the Imperial Examination, which made him lesspetitive. More importantly, Fang Lang was worried others would be suspicious of his exemry skills when he was just a white core. The Core Card appeared just in time! He tried to keep hisposure. He took a deep breath before saying, ¡°System, activate the Core Card.¡± ¡®Ding! The Core Care will change your core on the surface and karmic level. The effects will be permanent. If you want to change it again, you need to overwrite it with another Core Card. Do you wish to proceed?¡¯ The System¡¯s notification popped up. Fang Lang calmed down and fell into deep thought. He knew the Core Card would not alter his original core. He still needed to switch to his binding partner¡¯s cultivation mode to enhance his core. However, a superficial change was sufficient to change others¡¯ perceptions. Although his core was a lost cause, the appearance of the Core Card was a temporary solution to Fang Lang¡¯s issue. The System might provide a card that permanently alters the core abilities entirely in the future. Fang Lang was still hopeful about it despite the fact he did not depend much on his core... ¡°Activate.¡± ¡®Ding! Recalction of core stats, loading time is around 48 hours. Appreciate the host¡¯s patience.¡¯ The System notification appeared briefly before fading. Fang Lang closed his eyes and slowly let out a breath. He had nothing else to do but wait for the good news. Fang Lang reopened his eyes. They looked rather calm in the dark. He retrieved a spirit crystal from the System and started absorbing it. He had gathered all the cards, including the Grade-Rush Card, Physical Buff Card, and 3X Amplification Card. If he wanted to achieve the highest distinction in the Imperial Examination, he would need to give his best tomorrow. The night was calm, but fate had other ns. The cultivation in Spirit Pagoda tomorrow would be the turning point for those ranked within the top fifty in Luojiang Academy. It was bound to be a sleepless night. Fang Lang had trouble falling asleep too. The System pushed him to his limits, but Fang Lang knew that it was not just for the sake ofpleting the mission. He had to break his limits in order to be the champion! His match with the young cksmith revealed that he was still too weakpared to those geniuses who naturally had a chance at being the champion. He did not even qualified topete as he was not a sword master yet. The importance of the Spirit Pagoda dawned on Fang Lang. Fang Lang opened his eyes in the dark. He released his palm, scattering the spirit crystal fragments. He stared at the first rays of sunlight rising from the horizon. There was a spark in Fang Lang¡¯s eyes, ready to set the prairie aze. Everything was set for tomorrow toe! Chapter 59 - Absorb to Your Heart’s Content!

Chapter 59: Absorb to Your Heart¡¯s Content!

The morning was extra chilly with the autumn winds. Inside the shabby wooden shed, Ni Wen changed into the old but mended academy uniform. There was some noise in the kitchen¡ªher mother was preparing tofu pudding to sell in the market. When Ni Wen reached the kitchen, the older woman in rags stood up and wiped her hands on her apron. ¡°Little Wen, you¡¯re awake?¡± the woman said with a smile. She had beautiful features but the years had not been kind to her. The marks of age diminished her beauty, a flower worn out by life. The woman took out a hard-boiled egg from her apron. ¡°Little Wen, are you going to the Spirit Pagoda today? You need to give your very best. Mother¡¯s not capable of buying spirit crystals to help with your cultivation, but I know you can only change your fate through cultivation. If you manage to excel in the Imperial Examination, our lives will be a bed of roses. I don¡¯t need to sell tofu pudding at the break of dawn.¡± The woman tidied a few loose strands from her bun wrapped in cloth. There was a rare, hopeful glimmer in her weather-beaten eyes. Ni Wen bit her lips and received the egg from her. Her mother had boiled it earlier in the morning. Worried it would be chilled by the autumn weather, her mother had kept it warm by wrapping it in her pouch. ¡°I will do my best!¡± Ni Wen said determinedly. She always gave her very best. The woman tidied Ni Wen¡¯s hair, satisfied, and said, ¡°Go, remember to keep your distance from those rich kids. Your priority is the Imperial Examination.¡± Ni Wen¡¯s expression flickered after hearing her mother¡¯s words. She quickly answered and ran off with the warm egg. ... Fang Lang changed into a fresh set of robes. He then opened the door and stepped outside. He stretchedzily in the chilly autumn and proceeded to the main quarters of the Fang Manor. Old Fang had stayed at the entertaining house untilte at night, hence was still asleep but he had ordered the servants to prepare breakfast. After Fang Lang had eaten, he carried the sword box containing the Blooming Lotus Sword and the Obsidian Sword and walked out onto the bustling main street. He walked towards the direction of the academy¡ªthe ground was a carpet of dried leaves blown by the autumn breeze. ... Dang! The timekeeper rang the bell. The students gathered on the practice grounds started to move unwillingly toward the study block. Right at the center of the practice grounds was a giganticpiszuli pagoda. There were nine floors, each shone brilliantly as if they were made of spirit crystals. There were invisible runes surrounding thepiszuli tower, absorbing the spiritual energy from the heavens and earth, clearing up the atmosphere around the academy. Before the pagoda stood fifty students in academy robes. Headmaster Cui, Mentor Wen and two other court officials were present. The two officials in official robes had solemn expressions on their faces. The energy around them was dense and focused. Their cultivation should not be underestimated when they were tasked with guarding the Spirit Pagoda. ¡°Headmaster Cui, it¡¯s time. You can let the students in. The Spirit Pagoda will only stay open for two days. After that, we need to send it back to the Ministry of Rites,¡± one official said to Headmaster Cui respectfully. Even though he was an official, he had to be respectful of this old man. Headmaster Cui smiled gently, his white beard swaying in the autumn breeze. ¡°Let¡¯s begin.¡± Immediately, two spell talismans appeared in the officials¡¯ hands. Immense spiritual sense rippled out, activating the runes on the talismans. Two rays of light burst from the talismans and struck the lowest level of thepiszuli pagoda. The Spirit Pagoda¡¯s entrance slowly opened, releasing a strong burst of spiritual energy. The students were amazed by the exquisite architecture. The two officials turned around and stared sternly at the fifty students. ¡°You¡¯ve been selected by Luojiang Academy to enter Spirit Pagoda. This is your chance, start absorbing the spiritual energy and cultivate after entering the tower. It is forbidden to destroy anything inside the tower. You will be disqualified if you do so and shall be jailed ording to the Tang Dynasty¡¯sws,¡± the official warned. He then continued to brief them about certain rules upon entering the Spirit Pagoda. ¡°Once you enter the tower, there are nine levels. Each level has a different density of spiritual energy. Simrly, the pressure caused by the spiritual energy will differ. You need to search for the level that contains the spiritual energy that is suited to your current ability. Remember not to go beyond your limits.¡± Right after that, the two officials turned aside, opening the path towards the Spirit Pagoda. The students on the practice field roared in excitement. Ni Wen stood beside Fang Lang. They were whispering, a blush appeared on Ni Wen¡¯s face from time to time. Liu Bubai walked over and looked at Fang Lang. He raised his chin and said, ¡°Lang¡¯zi, stay behind me after entering the Spirit Pagoda. I¡¯ve been waiting for this for the past few days. I can finally let it all out. I will definitely aim for the sword master level in the Spirit Pagoda! Most of the spiritual pressure will be aimed towards me when I rank up. You can avoid most of it if you stay behind me,¡± said Liu Bubai. Then, Liu Bubai turned around to look at Ni Wen. He frowned and raised his chin. ¡°You too. Follow me and you¡¯ll seed!¡± Liu Bubai shouted his catchphrase. He swore that he would not be the freeloader this time. He would be the one leading! He wanted to prove himself! Fang Lang¡¯s eyes fluttered and heughed. ¡°I shall depend on you then.¡± Ni Wen thought about it and answered softly, ¡°Thank you.¡± Liu Bubai harrumphed and lifted his head as he basked in the appreciation. Leading others to victory was his forte! ¡°Children, it¡¯s time to enter. Rx your mind and know your limits. Bear in mind, greed takes you nowhere,¡± Headmaster Cui reminded them kindly. The students entered the Spirit Pagoda in an orderly manner. Liu Bubai marched forward with his head raised. Fang Lang and Ni Wen followed closely behind. Mentor Wen, Headmaster Cui and the others watched while the fifty prized students of Luojiang Academy entered the Spirit Pagoda. Upon entering the first level, they were surrounded by dense spiritual energies. There was a weight on their shoulders due to the immense pressure of the spiritual energy, also known as the spiritual pressure. Fang Lang lifted his head to look at the peak of the Spirit Pagoda. He saw a spirit crystal suspended like a chandelier, shining brilliantly like a sun. it was enclosed by runes on eight sides¡ªrunes that put him under a trance. The inside of the tower was brightly lit by its brilliance. This was the base of the Spirit Pagoda, created from the fusion between the ultimate spirit crystal and high-grade spell mastery runes. There were nine levels, each level had increasing spiritual pressure. The spiritual pressure would be almost unbearable at the peak of the pagoda. Most of the students took a deep breath once they entered the tower¡ªimmense spiritual energy rushed into their bodies. The walls of the Spirit Pagoda were filled with profound rune carvings, containing all sorts of principles and dictums. Cultivation was made easy in a ce like this. This was the purpose of the Spirit Pagoda. Boom! The gates of the Spirit Pagoda sealed shut when all the students had entered, preventing the spiritual energy from escaping into the outside world. The students tried to suppress their excitement and urge to run up the ancient stairs of the Spirit Pagoda to reach the higher levels. Liu Bubai kept hisposure as he ascended the stairs. After several steps, he noticed Fang Lang was by his side. He looked around in confusion. ¡°Lang¡¯zi, hurry up. We¡¯ll be heading to the fourth level. I can endure the spiritual pressure. Once I ascend, we can proceed to the fifth level,¡± said Liu Bubai. Fang Lang just chuckled and nced at Ni Wen. ¡°You guys go ahead. I need some preparation on the first level. I¡¯ll catch up with you guyster.¡± Liu Bubai and Ni Wen did not probe further. ¡°The spiritual energy on the first floor is not that valuable. Our time in the Spirit Pagoda is limited, don¡¯t waste it,¡± Liu Bubai reminded Fang Lang before climbing the stairs. Ni Wen looked at Fang Lang briefly before following Liu Bubai to the fourth level. Fang Lang remained on the ground floor. He scanned through every floor and saw students taking their ces at the fifth level and below. ¡®Ding! Host has entered the Spirit Pagoda. Challenge mission initiated, absorbed spiritual energy: 0 (low-grade spirit crystal)¡¯ The System notification rang in Fang Lang¡¯s mind. He did not budge. Instead, he sat down with his legs crossed. Inside the Spirit Pagoda, the students watched Fang Lang from the levels above with baffled expressions. No one would waste their time on the ground floor. What was the top-scorer in the examination doing down there? There was no time to waste. The students abandoned their questions about Fang Lang¡¯s weird actions and started absorbing the spiritual energy. Spiritual energy was highly sought-after, especially for the geniuses from peasantry background. Fang Lang closed his eyes, took a deep breath and exhaled slowly. The next moment, his eyes snapped wide open! He used two of the Physical Buff Cards he had prepared earlier. The spiritual pressure on the first floor was not too strong, suitable for physical buffs. If the pressure was too high, it would hurt the physical body. That was the reason why Fang Lang chose to stay on the first floor. ¡®Ding! Continuous activation of two Physical Buff Card. Estimated time required, 20 breaths. Good luck on your cultivation.¡¯ Hiss! The moment the System¡¯s reminder ended, a sharp, bone-stabbing pain ripped through his body. It crawled up his spine like a spider. He felt pain coursing through all parts of his body. ... Outside the Spirit Pagoda, Mentor Wen, Headmaster Cui and the two Ministry of Rites officials were observing the pagoda. There were sparkles in their eyes. They used the spiritual sense to check on the situation inside the tower. ¡°Hmm? Why is someone sitting on the first floor?¡± one official asked in a puzzled tone. ¡°Fool. He should treasure every second in the Spirit Pagoda to absorb the spiritual energy. Naturally, one will benefit more at higher levels. The one who stayed on the first floor must be too afraid of the spiritual pressure. What a cker, an utter waste of the position,¡± the other official said coldly. Mentor Wen frowned as he recognized the person sitting on the first floor. He raised his eyebrow and wondered, ¡®Fang Lang?¡¯ Headmaster Cui¡¯s eyes deepened while his smile faltered slightly. Lady Jiang made use of her family¡¯s ties with the Ministry of Rites to fast-track Luojiang Academy¡¯s application for the Spirit Pagoda just for Fang Lang¡¯s sake. What on earth was he thinking! ... Inside the Spirit Pagoda, the 20 breaths felt like an eternity to Fang Lang. Fang Lang¡¯s body gradually stopped trembling. The continuous usage of two Physical Buff Card was too much to handle, it nearly killed Fang Lang in the process. Nevertheless, the physical buff was a sess. Every inch of his skin, every cell in his body became stronger. Most importantly, they were starving. Fang Lang was like a sponge that was squeezed dry, eagerly waiting to absorb spiritual energy to replenish his newly-buffed body! Fang Lang opened his eyes¡ªthey were shining brilliantly! Time to harvest! He switched into Triple Binding Mode and activated the 3X Amplification Card! Then, the ck hole in his energy center churned! Instantly, he attained the absorption power that was almost twice of Old Jiang¡¯s! The entire floor¡¯s spiritual energy started circling like a hurricane and charged towards Fang Lang! Absorb! Absorb as much as possible! Chapter 60 - Have Fun Grade-Rushing

Chapter 60: Have Fun Grade-Rushing

Outside the Spirit Pagoda, Mentor Wen, Headmaster Cui and the other two officials had their eyes fixated inside the tower. They tore their eyes away from Fang Lang and started scanning through each level of the pagoda. The two Ministry of Rites officials had condescending expressions and said mockingly towards Headmaster Cui, ¡°Headmaster Cui, this cohort of students from Luojiang Academy seem rather ordinary. Nanyuan Academy also requested for the Spirit Pagoda.Both academies are of simr standards, they have a genius in their cohort. He reached the sixth level and got his name into the honor roll. Judging from the pace of your students, I don¡¯t think anyone will be able to reach the sixth level,¡± one official said. He was not being sarcastic¡ªthe statement was made solely from their observations and analysis of the situation inside the pagoda. Headmaster Cui answered calmly, ¡°Give them some time. I-I am quite confident of my students¡¯ abilities.¡± Both officials smiled in return. Suddenly, their expressions froze. Their eyes snapped to the spell talisman in their hand¡ªthe key to the gates of the Spirit Pagoda. The talisman also functioned as a monitoring device of the spiritual energy absorption rate. At that moment, the talismans were giving out warnings. ¡°This...¡± They quickly turned to look at the Spirit Pagoda. Their eyes paused on the first floor. The warnings originated from the first level. What happened? The expressions of the two officials changed. Headmaster Cui saw the mass of spiritual energy encircling Fang Lang. He stroked his white beard and said with a smug smile, ¡°Do you need my help?¡± ¡°No... no thanks,¡± both officials stuttered. They stared at the first level, frowning. They used their spiritual sense to cast the spell talisman for the inner walls of the first level to generate more spiritual energy. The minute they replenished it with more spiritual energy, the whole lot was absorbed by Fang Lang instantly. F*ck! ¡®Is he mad?¡¯ The bastard was about to exhaust the spiritual energy on the first level, almost crippling the spell. If he was that adept, why did he hide on the first level instead of progressing to the higher floors? Was this all a joke to him? This boy was really something else! Mentor Wen stared at the Spirit Pagoda and his eyes sparkled with pride. He knew Fang Lang would not disappoint. This was exactly like the time Fang Lang retrieved the sword from the Sword Guild¡¯s demon portal! ¡®He¡¯s maturing! This kid... so crude and ostentatious! He is, without doubt, my protege!¡¯ Wen Ting thought to himself. ... Absorb! Keep absorbing! Inside the Spirit Pagoda, strong winds blew in the sealed chamber. Whirls of spiritual energy kept rushing towards Fang Lang¡¯s body. Fang Lang¡¯s body was constantly expanding like a dry sponge in water. The Physical Buff Cards had given Fang Lang another two years of physical training experience after 20 breaths. He was akin to a trained, muscr martial arts master with an incredibly solid foundation. Although Fang Lang had never trained in martial arts, with the aid of the Physical Buff Cards, three years of physical training werepressed into the span of thirty breaths. Fang Lang had the physique of an eighth-grade martial arts disciple. The spiritual energy on the first floor was surging in violent waves. Fang Lang lifted his head slightly, calling to the spiritual energy and directing them into his body. A notification from the System hovered in front of his vision. [Absorbed Spiritual Energy: 15 (low-grade spirit crystal)] Fang Lang grinned happily as he applied the spiritual energy absorption method from the Tang Dynasty¡¯s Sword Scripture. He was absorbing spiritual energy at the rate of two Jiang Linglongs. Fang Lang absorbed as much as he could¡ªthe spiritual energy would never be exhausted within the Spirit Pagoda! 20, 30, 40 low-grade spirit crystals... Merely 15 minutester, Fang Lang had absorbed the amount of spiritual energy that was equivalent to 40 low-grade spirit crystals, thanks to his starving body and the absorption rate of two Old Jiangs. Hmm? Fang Lang frowned when he sensed the presence of a new stream of spiritual energy after draining the entire level¡¯s energy. No matter how hard he tried, there would still be spiritual energy left. Just a little bit more! He finally gave up thinking he should leave some spiritual energy on the first level as one should always leave room for something. He had always been kind and considerate. Therefore, Fang Lang decided to move on to the second level. He would not need to worry about being affected by the spiritual pressure afterpleting his physical buff. When Fang Lang stepped on the ancient wooden stairs that led to the second level, his muscles started to tremble slightly as he started to absorb the surrounding spiritual energy. Waves of dense spiritual energy starteding at him! ¡°The physical body¡¯s breaking through...¡± Fang Lang mumbled. Snap! The sound of crackling beans sounded inside Fang Lang¡¯s body. His consumption of three Physical Buff Cards and the abundance of spiritual energy allowed him to reach the physical state of a ninth-grade martial arts disciple! His body¡¯s absorption rate was gradually slowing down, but his physical breakthrough instantly recharged it with new absorption power! Hum... The second level of spiritual pressure pressed down on him! The spiritual pressure in the Spirit Pagoda existed to help the studentspress and strengthen the spiritual energy they absorbed, preventing it from being unfunctional. The spiritual pressure was quite substantial at the second level. Nevertheless, Fang Lang could endure it without much hassle. The spiritual pressure around Fang Lang was lightened. Many students were ready to take advantage of the situation. When Fang Lang reopened his eyes, he was met with many who were sizing him up. He was stunned for a moment before he realized what was going on. He then gave a mysterious smile and continued absorbing the spiritual energy. Some of the students were rather stubborn and refused to get closer to Fang Lang. They wanted to rely on their own spiritual energy absorption rate. After all, those who qualified to enter the Spirit Pagoda were the top fifty students in Luojiang Academy. They had their pride too! They continued to absorb the spiritual energy and swore they would rather die from getting crushed by the spiritual pressure than move closer to Fang Lang! ... ¡°How is he absorbing at such an impressive rate? Doesn¡¯t he have a white core?¡± ¡°Ugh! It angers me! I have a red core and I can¡¯t even keep up with him!¡± ¡°Guys, we¡¯re all from the same academy. There¡¯s no need to be so headstrong. I¡¯m going!¡± One of the students could not resist the spiritual pressure any longer and inched toward Fang Lang. His absorption of the spiritual energy increased immensely once the spiritual pressure was lifted. All of them were astonished and took the chance to absorb as much as they could. ¡®Wow, this felt great!¡¯ ¡®Why should we fight among peers?¡¯ We should be advancing together.¡¯ Soon, most of the students had given up resisting the temptation and turned into the person they once despised. The students gathered around Fang Lang to cultivate, painting a heartwarming scene at the second level of the Spirit Pagoda. ... Outside the Spirit Pagoda, the two officials from the Ministry of Rites watched in horror as the spiritual energy at the second level disappeared at an astounding rate. ¡°Something¡¯s wrong!¡± ¡°Indeed, the spiritual energy is depleting too fast. What is that kid doing? He already exhausted the first floor, is he going to do the same for the second floor?¡± Fang Lang bore the spiritual pressure all by himself and spared the other students on the second floor from it. His action also caused a sudden surge in their absorption rate. The spiritual energy on the second floor was almost gone! Of course, Fang Lang absorbed a significantlyrger proportion inparison to the others. Initially, the two officials thought Luojiang Academy would never have an ultimate genius that would reach the sixth level, but the situation had proved them wrong. There was one in Luojiang Academy. However, he was not what they expected. The official predicted unwillingly, ¡°If he began absorbing the spiritual energy from the fifth level, he may stand a chance to ascend to the sixth. However, he started from the first floor, by the time he reaches the sixth level, he would be saturated with spiritual energy and his body won¡¯t be able to take it.¡± Mentor Wen remained silent and suppressed augh. ¡®You guys don¡¯t know Fang Lang at all,¡¯ he thought. ... His body gradually limatized to the physique of a ninth-grade martial arts disciple, unable to level up further at the moment. Fang Lang stood up, attracting the attention of the students around him. He did not say much but turned around to climb up to the third level. A dozen students at the second level hesitated before deciding to follow him. All of them walked up the third floor like a swarm of locusts. When Fang Lang reached the third floor, he sat down cross-legged. His physical body¡¯s breakthrough wasplete and there was not much room left for an increase in spiritual energy absorption rate. However, Fang Lang came fully prepared. He nned to umte the spiritual energy to break through the ninth-grade sword disciple and be a sword master! He opened his palm and retrieved a talisman¡ªFlight Sword Crossover Turbo Charge! This was the ace card that Fang Lang had been saving up for the Spirit Pagoda! Thebination of martial arts, sword, and spell mastery! ¡®You only get one chance to experience such a miracle event.¡¯ Fang Lang yed all his cards out of respect! Fang Lang used a huge amount of spiritual sense to carefully project the spell talisman above his head! This was one of the spell mastery techniques¡ªSpiritual Sense Matrix! Fang Lang acquired this skill after the many interactions with Ni Wen. Even though he was not that familiar with this rune, it did not stop him from projecting it from the talisman! Instantly, there were two blurry runes hovering above Fang Lang¡¯s head! The spiraling runes above his head channeled all of the spiritual energy on the third level and sted it like a nitrogen rocket onto Fang Lang who was seated below! It seemed like... a showering method of spiritual energy absorption! Fang Lang felt refreshed after being sted by spiritual energy. Fang Lang dared to use his body as a flight sword because the Physical Buff Cards had strengthened the tolerance of his meridians significantly. Even so, every inch of Fang Lang¡¯s skin glowed red like hot iron due to the impact of the spiritual energy! His body continued to absorb the spiritual energy internally while he bathed in it. The students gaped at him in shock! ¡®Is he crazy?¡¯ ¡®Does he want to kill himself? Using the runes like that!¡¯ ¡®A madman or genius?¡¯ Everyone was astounded by Fang Lang¡¯s madness. At the rate Fang Lang was absorbing, the spiritual energy on the third level was nearly emptied out... He did not hesitate and headed to the fourth floor with the runes on his head! Most of the students wanted to follow him but their bodies could not take anymore. They had no choice but to stay put. Cultivation was not an easy task. When Fang Lang stepped onto the fourth floor, he was met with Liu Bubai who was concentrating on absorbing the spiritual energy at a far corner, striking at the sword master¡¯s boundary over and over again. Ni Wen sensed his presence, opened her eyes and looked over curiously. Fang Lang smiled at her. He manipted the runes above his head with his spiritual sense. Instantly, the spiritual energy on the fourth floor came charging towards his runes, repeating the phenomenon that happened on level three. The cyclone in Fang Lang¡¯s energy center spun rapidly, the attainment of spiritual energy required to max out the ninth-grade sword mastery wasplete. Finally, he could graze the shackle of a sword master! Fang Lang opened his eyes and grinned from ear to ear as he bathed in the torrents of spiritual energy. This was the moment he was waiting for! ¡°System, activate the Grade-Rush Card!¡± ¡®Ding! Grade-Rush Card activated. Have fun at grade-rushing.¡¯ The System¡¯s notification popped up. Fang Lang stood straight on the fourth level. The moment the Grade-Rush card was activated, Fang Lang could feel as if the bubble in his energy center ruptured. He felt a warm surge of energy spread from the energy center, flowing into every part of his body. The faint outline of a Spirit Suit slowly appeared. Second-ss sword master... Sword master realm, attained! The second Fang Lang broke through, the immense spiritual pressure on the fourth floor came crashing onto Fang Lang! Liu Bubai who was cultivating at a far corner felt the sudden relief on his shoulders. The lightening weight led him to open his eyes. When his eyes were half opened... he realized something was not right! Liu Bubai regained his senses and widened his eyes instantly! Chapter 61 - The Most Dignified Presence in the Tang Dynasty

Chapter 61: The Most Dignified Presence in the Tang Dynasty

Liu Bubai¡¯s eyes widened in disbelief. He had been trying so hard but he was still struggling to break the barrier of the sword master level. In the end... Fang Lang attained the sword master level shortly after reaching the fourth level. He made it seem so effortless as if breaking through was like poking a thin film. This... this was uneptable! Liu Bubai felt betrayed. When Fang Lang joined him in the Gathering of Swords, he was just in the fifth grade. Oh, was it sixth... hmm? Probably a seventh-grade sword disciple. F*ck! He was hiding his true colors the whole time! Liu Bubai had misced his trust! He had lost his only bragging right to Fang Lang. ... The spiritual energy on the fourth floor was roaring violently¡ªit was quite a substantial amount. Without having at least a ninth-grade cultivation discipline, one would be crushed by the pressure. There were only a handful of students at level four, including Fang Lang. All of them were gaping at him. Fang Lang was like a deity descending from Heaven when he rose from the third floor to the fourth with the runes above his head. His body was constantly vibrating due to the torrents of spiritual energy pouring on him. Even though his Spirit Suit was simple and fuzzy, it was extremely eye-catching! This meant Fang Lang had advanced into a sword master! The Luojiang Academy students who possessed higher ranking on the honor scroll could not believe their eyes. Fang Lang was a nobody before he participated in the Gathering of Swords. He was nowhere close to their caliber and they would not even waste a second to look at him. However, Fang Lang had improved significantly since the Gathering of Swords! The geniuses present felt slightly dejected. Nevertheless, their disappointment was brief. They did not give up. After all, they had to walk their own path. It was useless to feel envious or admiration as the Imperial Examination was just around the corner. They should take this opportunity to benefit as much as they could from the Spirit Pagoda! ... After Fang Lang¡¯s sessful advancement, he continued to bathe in the spiritual energy shower with closed eyes and open arms. With the aid of the Grade-Rush Card, the advancement process was smooth sailing without any hindrance. He got it in a single attempt! The satisfaction and fulfillment he was feeling almost made him yell out loud! He felt the dense spiritual energy coursing through the erged passages in his body and the spiralling de energy core in his center. Fang Lang understood he had unlocked a new world and he was finally qualified to challenge those geniuses who were aiming to be the champion in the Imperial Examination. Fang Lang closed his eyes and took his time to experience the various sensations of the new realm. The sword master realm was entirely different from the sword disciple realm. First of all, his strength was enhanced significantly. He also gained an increase in attacking lethality and finally, defense and protection offered by the Spirit Suit. The sword master level was a stepping stone in his cultivation journey! ording to the Tang Dynasty¡¯s Sword Scripture, cultivation at the sword master level requires one to transform the spiritual energy core in their energy center into a de energy core, allowing the de energy to flow through the meridians in the body. At the final phase, the de energy would morph into sword waves and the cultivator would advance into a third-grade sword master, the sword wave realm. Sword mastery cultivation was not an easy journey. The cultivator had to maintain the absorption of spiritual energy and the de energy conversion rate simultaneously. This process required a huge amount of time and effort, not to mention itrgely depended on the core¡¯s ability! After bing a sword master, one could decide on their training method. This would help enhance the conversion rate of spiritual energy into de energy. The Sword Scripture stated it was essential to choose a training method if one wished to advance to the sword wave realm. This was also the reason why sects were implemented, because the practice methods, techniques, secret techniques and spells were all distinct. These were strictly controlled by the imperial courts and sects. If one wished to practise cultivation, they had to either join a sect or the military. The practice method also defined the future of a cultivator and set the limit of their growth, hence the importance of the Imperial Examination. Fang Lang remained in the Triple Binding Mode while he absorbed the spiritual energy. The spiritual energy circling him was thick and dense¡ªhe was enclosed in a dome of mist. The determination in his eyes sharpened. He had just entered the sword master level and his energy center expanded in tandem. Fang Lang sat cross-legged as he stabilized his cultivation. He utilized the spiritual pressure topress and distill the purest form of spiritual energy into his energy center. This was one of the benefits of the Spirit Pagoda. The key was not only to absorb spiritual energy but to ensure the spiritual energy would not deste one¡¯s cultivation! Time was ticking away. Fang Lang did not hurry to the fifth floor. Instead, he stayed on the fourth floor to reinforce his cultivation. Not too far away, Liu Bubai started to calm down after processing the fact that Fang Lang had surpassed him by advancing into the sword master realm first. There was nothing Liu Bubai could do. He turned aside to nce at Ni Wen. He was stunned when he saw the strange energy vibrating at the center of her forehead. It was a mana flux. Ni Wen¡¯s body was releasing spiritual energy that slowly formed a translucent shield around her! Spirit Shield, the sign of a spell master! Ni Wen had advanced too! This naturally talented peasant girl was finally able to shine with sufficient nourishment of spiritual energy. Liu Bubai was devastated as he had been the one who announced to the world he would definitely break through in the Spirit Pagoda! His strong emotions motivated him to continue pounding at the barrier of the sword master level. Even if he was carried, he would do it with dignity! ... Silence was restored in the Spirit Pagoda. Fang Lang spent half a day adjusting and stabilizing his cultivation at a sword master level. Throughout this period, other students but Fang Lang had paused to take a break. His spiritual sense had gotten used to such intensive absorption of spiritual energy. In the far corner, Liu Bubai finally attained the sword master ss. Tears of joy almost rolled down the corner of his eyes. At this moment, Fang Lang stood up and stretched his body. The System¡¯s notification hovered in front of his vision. ¡®Spiritual Energy Absorption: 800 (low-grade spirit crystal)¡¯ Fang Lang frowned when he saw the amount. He spent so much time and effort to be a ninth-grade martial arts disciple and a first-grade sword master, yet the System did not even get a single upgrade? The mission was to challenge his limits¡ªFang Lang had not reached his limits yet! No, this was still far from over! He... he could still absorb more! Fang Lang raised his head to look at the fifth level. Rumor has it from the fifth level onwards, each floor was unique and had an individual honor roll for cultivators to leave their name. The honor roll would be renewed every three years. Therefore, only the best student of the academy could leave their name on it, the one with the most potential in the cohort of Imperial Examination candidates. Leaving one¡¯s name on the fifth level¡¯s honor roll was the true entrance into the Spirit Pagoda! Fang Lang dismissed the runes above his head and the gathered spiritual energy quickly dissipated. Fang Lang would be digging his own grave if he continued using the runes. Ni Wen stood with a determined expression. Her lips were pressed tightly together, as she followed closely behind him. Liu Bubai was basking in his victory when he saw Fang Lang was about to challenge the fifth level. Liu Bubai decided to follow. The three of them climbed to the fifth floor of the Spirit Pagoda while the other students on the fourth floor remained where they were. It was not that they did not want to but most of them had already tried and failed. At that moment, they could only be spectators. ... Outside the Spirit Pagoda, the two officials¡¯ eyes lit up when they saw Fang Lang ascend the fifth level. ¡°That kid finally got to the fifth floor!¡± Beside them, Headmaster Cui and Mentor Wen stared at each other with a serious expression, their eyes flickering with hope. The officer took a deep breath before saying, ¡°How much spiritual energy did this kid absorb in the first four levels? It¡¯s not wise to absorb too much spiritual energy in the first four floors... he may trigger the remnants of a great person¡¯s spiritual sense to test his willpower. The strength of the triggered spiritual sense is proportional to the amount of spiritual energy he absorbed. From weaker ones that include eighth-rank sect leaders of ordinary sects to stronger ones like Chao Xiaojian, Nan Yehuo and other aristocrats of the Tang Dynasty! He may even trigger other stronger spiritual sense remnants like...¡± Halfway into his speech, the official stopped and changed the topic abruptly. ¡°The kid finally got onto the fifth floor. However, from this floor onwards, he¡¯ll not only be tested on his spiritual energy absorption skill but also his determination, willpower and faith. He absorbed too much spiritual energy from the first four levels! I guarantee he¡¯ll not go beyond the fifth level!¡± ... On the fifth floor of Spirit Pagoda, the spiritual pressure was like violent waves crashing onto the rocky coast, creating giant sshes. Sharing the burden of spiritual pressure would be impossible on the fifth floor. Everyone would get their fair share of spiritual pressure. In a far corner, there was a notice board near the staircase leading to the sixth floor. A writing brush and inkstoneid beside. It was the honor roll of the fifth level. The journey ahead was certainly not a bed of roses. The minute they reached the fifth level, Fang Lang, Ni Wen and Liu Bubai fell into a trance. Besides the enormous spiritual pressure, something was affecting their minds. Strange phantoms started forming inside their heads. Ni Wen saw a female spell master in a billowing robe with a staff in her hand. Her overbearing spiritual sense fell on Ni Wen, causing the girl to walk with extreme difficulty. She felt as if her will was hampered. The image Liu Bubai saw was a white-haired guy wearing all white. He looked quite simr to Chao Xiaojian. Ni Wen and Liu Bubai were still able to move forward even though they struggled with each step. Fang Lang was standing still, his feet rooted to the ground. The phantom in his mind was high up in the air, shining with the brilliance of the sun. Golden beams radiated majestically from the person seated on the throne with dragon carvings, as if he was guarding the rivers and mountains while overlooking the world! The dragon throne, indomitable, regal... Fang Lang finally understood the meaning behind the System¡¯s challenge mission. The regality was terrifying. Under the scrutiny of the man¡¯s gaze, Fang Lang felt as if the whole world had disappeared¡ªonly the eyes above existed, staring down at Fang Lang¡¯s puny existence. Fang Lang shuddered. The spiritual energy in his body stopped and his body bent down involuntary. ... Suddenly, the Spirit Pagoda that stood peacefully in the center of the practice grounds shuddered. Multiple golden rays shot from the tower like a blooming golden lotus. Then, the pagoda started shaking! The sudden movements shocked the two officials who were still talking about Fang Lang¡¯s limits. They gathered the spiritual sense in their eyes and looked into the Spirit Pagoda. When they saw the phantom Fang Lang was facing... Their expressions were reced with astonishment, fear, shock and terror! ¡°This... this...¡± Their faces twitched involuntarily. They lifted their robes and knelt before the Spirit Pagoda fearfully. Mentor Wen and Headmaster Cui also bowed respectfully. All of them were still shocked and perplexed by what they were witnessing. What had the boy done! Fang Lang was just a ninth-grade sword disciple, nowhere near the caliber of a true monster. How did Fang Lang manage to trigger the spiritual sense of the most dignified presence in the Tang Dynasty? Chapter 62 - Admire All the Flowers In This World

Chapter 62: Admire All the Flowers In This World

Silence filled Luojiang Academy. The autumn breeze stirred up the yellow leaves and they fell like rain. Within the study blocks, many students were staring at the Spirit Pagoda in the middle of the practice grounds with admiration. Suddenly, disbelief crossed their faces. Some students even gasped in astonishment, breaking the silence of the academy. Kneel... They were kneeling! ¡®The two snobbish Ministry of Rites officials were kneeling in front of the Spirit Pagoda?¡¯ What was happening? To be an official in the Tang Dynasty, one would need to be in the Imperial Examination honor roll. This meant they were all equipped with great qualities and talents. No one expected these two officials would kneel before the tower. Whose presence in the Spirit Pagoda made them kneel? The two officials had no other choice. Within the imperial courts, the Emperor sits at the top of the hierarchy! The most dignified person in the Tang Dynasty was not Taihua First Sword from the Sword Guild, the grand chancellor Lu Taixuan or the undefeated Martial Arts King from the Jiang family. It was the person who lived deep within the pce grounds¡ªEmperor of the Tang Dynasty, ruler of the Tang Code. Even the greatest cultivators in the Tang Dynasty would be suffocated by his presence! Even without being physically present, others had to bow before the wisp of his spiritual sense! Fang Lang triggered the spiritual sense of the Emperor of the Tang Dynasty? To put things into perspective, the Emperor¡¯s spiritual sense only appeared twice in the Spirit Pagoda in all these years! The previous appearance was two hundred years ago, triggered by the magnificent Xuanyuan Taihua! ... Inside the Spirit Pagoda, Liu Bubai could not endure Chao Xiaojian¡¯s spiritual sense anymore. Three meters in, he dropped out from the fifth level. Ni Wen on the other hand managed to keep it together. Her face was extremely pale. Coming from a plebian background, she knew the Spirit Pagoda would be her only chance to change her fate. Therefore, she pushed forward¡ªgiving up was never an option. She continued to march forward, bearing the immense spiritual sense of the spell master. She heard sounds of mountains quaking, tsunamis roaring and even the shattering of skies, but she kept moving forward. She wanted to be a stronger person¡ªshe wanted to leave her name on the honor roll so her mother would not need to suffer so much to support them. She wanted her mother to live a good life. She wanted the man who abandoned their family to regret forever! This was her faith! The spiritual sense kept pressuring Ni Wen, so much so her frail body was on the verge of snapping. Her heavy robes swayed in the strong winds and outlined her thin figure. She kept walking although she was trembling! Finally, she reached the stairway leading to the sixth level. She grabbed the writing brush and wrote her name on the roll under the gaze of the spell master. ¡°Year 276, Tang Dynasty, Ni Wen from Luojiang Academy was here.¡± When Ni Wen finished writing thest word, she felt an instant relief of pressure. A strong surge of spiritual energy entered her body and transformed into mana in her energy center¡ªthe rewards of passing the fifth level! A gentle stream of energy escorted her out of the fifth floor. While she was being carried away, she looked worriedly towards Fang Lang who was standing there with his knees bent, his body shaking violently. ... Fang Lang had yet to reach his limits in the Spirit Pagoda. He was just using the strategic tactics he had nned prior to this event. Firstly, he used the Physical Buff Cards to enhance his physical body so the starving body would absorb more spiritual energy. Then, he projected the talisman runes to augment the absorption of spiritual energy, both internally and externally. Lastly, the Grade-Rush Card allowed him to advance from a ninth-grade sword disciple into the sword master ss smoothly. Even though the process was not easy, it was far from his limits. It led Fang Lang to believe the System might have exaggerated the Spirit Pagoda mission. However, he realized he was wrong. The phantom in front of him was the real challenge of the Spirit Pagoda, testing his endurance against the pressure! Fang Lang had guessed the identity of the phantom. Who else in the Tang Dynasty would dare to sit on the throne and overlook the world? He was none other than the almighty Emperor of the Tang Dynasty! So, the challenge on the fifth level of Spirit Pagoda was the spiritual sense of the Emperor? The Emperor of the Tang Dynasty was the inventor of the Imperial Examination for cultivation. He truly valued talents! Fang Lang took a deep breath and endured the pressure with much difficulty. The Emperor¡¯s imposing presence could cripple Fang Lang with a single expression. Fang Lang resisted with all his might. He knew once he submitted, his journey would end right there. He might not even leave his name on the fifth level, not to mention advancing to the sixth level! ¡°This is tough! His spiritual sense is so overbearing!¡± Fang Lang was breathing heavily as he straightened his back. He then clenched his jaw and continued to move forward. Sweat seeped out of his pores and formed droplets under the immense pressure. The droplets rolled down his face and sttered onto the ground like a shattered mirror. Fang Lang truly wanted to take a step, but under the almighty gaze, he could not feel anything but fear. Fang Langughed helplessly. In the end, he had underestimated the Spirit Pagoda and the Emperor himself! He was too proud. At this moment, he truly understood the excellence and greatness of the Emperor. He was immobilized by the royal pressure. He was genuinely impressed by the people who were able to leave their names on the levels above while withstanding such immense pressure! They must be geniuses! The Emperor¡¯s pressure was too strong. Fang Lang felt as if he was carrying all the mountains and rivers in this world. Fang Lang held his breath for fear he would be swept away from the fifth floor if he rxed. Seconds turned into minutes but Fang Lang remained motionless. Sweat droplets fell onto the ground, forming a pool of sweat. ... Outside the Spirit Pagoda, the two officials rose from the ground. They were required to show their respects as it was a wisp of the Emperor¡¯s spiritual sense. They were not required to continue kneeling. Both of them were shaking their heads when they saw Fang Lang immobilized on the fifth level. ¡°Who knew there¡¯d be a day where I make a wrong prediction,¡± one of the officials eximed. ¡°However, it¡¯ll be impossible for him to reach the sixth level. It¡¯s an honor to be challenged by the Emperor¡¯s spiritual sense. It¡¯s also unfortunate he won¡¯t be leaving his name on the higher levels.¡± Under the Emperor¡¯s royal pressure, Fang Lang would definitely copse on the fifth level. Mentor Wen frowned slightly and looked at the official. ¡°The previous person who triggered the Emperor¡¯s spiritual sense was... Sect Leader Taihua in her younger days? Which level did she stop at?¡± The official answered with a smile, ¡°ording to the library records, Sect Leader Taihua left her name on the seventh-floor honor roll of the Spirit Pagoda.¡± ¡®The seventh floor! She managed to reach the seventh floor under such immense pressure from the Emperor! No wonder she was the Tang Dynasty¡¯s First Sword who stunned the world with the Blooming Lotus Sword,¡¯ Wen Ting thought. ¡°If Sect Leader Taihua wasn¡¯t pressured by the Emperor¡¯s spiritual sense, she might be able to reach the eighth floor, or even make an attempt at the ninth floor!¡± the official eximed. Wen Ting stroked his beard andughed. ¡°Then what makes you think Fang Lang won¡¯t go beyond the fifth floor?¡± The official grinned. ¡°How can this kidpare with Sect Leader Taihua?¡± He lifted his fingers to point at the Spirit Pagoda. ¡°Look at him, he hasn¡¯t moved an inch for two hours. He has reached his limit. Back then, Sect Leader Taihua exuded exquisite brilliance. She conquered those steps effortlessly with her sword. This kid is nowhere near her caliber. I bet he won¡¯t go past the fifth floor. Nheless, it¡¯s still remarkable he could attract the Emperor¡¯s spiritual sense. If it wasn¡¯t for that, he might¡¯ve been able to advance to the sixth level,¡± the official said with a smile while shaking his head. However, right after he finished talking, Fang Lang who had been rooted thus far finally moved. He took one step at a time as if he was carrying the weight of mountains on his shoulders. The smile faltered from the official¡¯s face. He wished he could take back his words. What the hell! He decided to quit betting from that moment onwards! ... On the fifth level, Fang Lang finally started moving, albeit at an extremely slow pace. He had to use his entire body¡¯s strength to take a single step He was on the verge of copsing under the immense pressure of the Emperor¡¯s spiritual sense. Nevertheless, Fang Lang was not about to give up. Fang Lang had no idea why he was so adamant to move forward. Perhaps it was his unwillingness to lose. Other people had been able to reach the sixth level, seventh level, and even eighth level... He was not going to go down nameless on the fifth floor. Perhaps it was because he did not want to be a nobody in this lifetime. Fang Lang was introduced to cultivation at a young age and it gave him something to look forward to in life. Every single drop of blood in his body was passionate about cultivation. In his past life, his youth was just an endless cycle of learning, schools, dorms and youth associations. When he became an adult, he spent his life in entertainment centers, drinking sessions, cons and schemes... It was a miserable life in the end. He was not able to change his fate and thus wasted his whole life. This time, Fang Lang was introduced to cultivation. Even though he knew his core was not suitable, he never gave up. He cultivated day and night for three whole years. Although his improvement was below average, he enjoyed the fact that he was able to enrich his life and grow through cultivation. With the System¡¯s modification to his core, he was able to expand his view and be more motivated for cultivation! He had no intentions of stopping¡ªhe wanted to see more. This was typical of human nature. When one conquered the peak of a mountain, one would see more summits peaking above the sea of clouds. The majestic view would wash away the exhaustion and inspire one to break limits¡ªto prepare to conquer the next peak and explore more unseenndscapes. Perhaps there would be more breathtaking views. Since he decided to take the path of cultivation, his goal and beliefs were... ¡®May I one day surmount the highest of peaks, where I could gather a sight of all mountains thereid!¡¯ He intended to witness the boundlessndscapes and admire all the flowers in this world! The only goal was to not waste this lifetime. Fang Lang lifted his head¡ªdroplets of sweat dripped from the ends of his hair. His eyes sparkled with determination and confidence in himself. It was as if the pressure from the Emperor¡¯s spiritual sense had waned, but in reality, it was Fang Lang who had grown stronger. The smile on Fang Lang¡¯s face grew wider as he straightened his body. Even though every inch of his muscle was trembling, he felt rather calm and serene on the inside. He finally understood the purpose of the Spirit Pagoda¡ªit was for him to realize his true self! To forge and mold his cultivation intent! It was like the final puzzle piece that bridged the gap between him and the Emperor. Fang Lang¡¯s footsteps echoed through the empty fifth floor. Finally, he reached the honor roll of the fifth level. The writing brush absorbed the ink fully, awaiting its writer. Fang Lang did not stop there. With a nonchnt smile on his face, he walked up the stairs towards the sixth floor with his chest lifted high and back ramrod straight. He climbed higher to explore more sceneries. Chapter 63 - Fang Lang Was Here

Chapter 63: Fang Lang Was Here

Fang Lang walked past the honor roll on the fifth level without hesitation. Even though the immense pressure was still there, he was no longer immobilized. He dragged his legs forward with much difficulty as if his entire body was infused with lead. He left the fifth floor and ascended to the sixth. The moment Fang Lang stepped foot on the sixth floor, an enormous surge of spiritual energy shot out from the ultimate spirit crystal. The surge headed for Fang Lang¡¯s body. The energy seeped into his skeleton and charged the core in his energy center! This surge of spiritual energy was of the highest purity, meaning it was absorbed effortlessly! Within the core, arge portion of spiritual energy started to transform into de energy. Fang Lang¡¯s cultivation as a new first-grade sword master stabilized and his energy began to rise slowly! ¡®Absorbed Spiritual Energy: 1200 (low-grade spirit crystal)¡¯ Fang Lang narrowed his eyes as he stood on the staircase between the two floors. Then, he took a deep breath. Amazing! This stream of spiritual energy was equivalent to 400 low-grade spirit crystals! He was thrilled! ¡®No wonder so many geniuses want to leave their names on the higher floors. Imagine the awarded spiritual energy after passing each level!¡¯ Fang Lang was instantly motivated to go on. His aspirations stemmed from his faith and the materialistic rewards. There was no other excuse for him to not strive forward! Bong! Upon reaching the sixth level, Fang Lang could sense he was one step closer to the phantom on the almighty throne. In the next second, a colossal amount of pressure exuded from the phantom and crushed Fang Lang from above. Fang Lang felt a massive weight pressing on his waist, almost snapping his spine! However, the spiritual energy Fang Lang had previously absorbed started boiling inside him, fusing instantly with his flesh. The transformation rate of spiritual energy into de energy in his energy center had elerated as well! Fang Lang¡¯s cultivation was heading towards the level of a second-grade sword master! Fang Lang was exhrated! This would save him a lot of hardships. Perhaps he could reach the cultivation level of most geniuses before the Imperial Examination! Nevertheless, Fang Lang did not expect to catch up with Old Jiang¡¯s cultivation grade. An eighth-grade sword master was just an impossible task. Fang Lang was drenched in sweat when he reached the sixth level. His pace was painfully slow¡ªsometimes it would take him a quarter of an hour to take one step. However, he maintained hisposure. He could not afford to hurry as he might be swept away by the immense pressure. The spiritual sense was revolving at high speed! Fang Lang clenched his jaws and stayed in Triple Binding Mode. The silhouettes of Jiang Linglong, Ni Wen and Liu Bubai appeared around him, apanying him through the journey ahead! His core started altering at that moment,tching onto the spiritual energy. Fang Lang¡¯s spiritual sense and physical body were also silently transforming under the pressure of the Emperor¡¯s spiritual sense. The almighty phantom sat on the high throne with gold dragon carvings¡ªhis eyes were like brilliant stars in the gxy, overlooking the traveler below who was climbing one mountain after another. Something was moving beneath the pair of eyes. ... Outside the Spirit Pagoda, the two officials from the Ministry of Rites watched awkwardly as Fang Lang stepped onto the sixth level, especially the one who kept betting Fang Lang would not go beyond the fifth level. Mentor Wen and Headmaster Cui were smiling. Atst, Fang Lang had defended the honor of Luojiang Academy. The official took a deep breath and said, ¡°This kid got lucky! Not only did he trigger the appearance of the Emperor¡¯s spiritual sense, he also managed to withstand the massive pressure while ascending to the sixth floor. He must¡¯ve received a generous reward of spiritual energy after passing the fifth level. Those spiritual energies are of the highest purity from the Spirit Pagoda, distilled from multiple runes. They are free from contaminants and side effects, and hence are perfect for elerating the transformation of spiritual energy into de energy!¡± The smiles on Mentor Wen and Headmaster Cui¡¯s faces widened. Even though they did not benefit directly from this, it was still gratifying to see their student¡¯s achievements! The two officials¡¯ expressions looked odd. Their primary concern was Fang Lang had absorbed too much spiritual energy! The Spirit Pagoda¡¯s spirit crystals were supplied by the Ministry of Rites, but it was not unlimited. They would need to bear the cost of the exceeding amount, which bothered them slightly. However, Fang Lang showed no signs of stopping. Was he going to ascend to the seventh floor? ¡°Impossible. He won¡¯t make it!¡± the official who lost the previous bets clenched his fist and mumbled softly. Mentor Wen tilted his head and asked, ¡°Do you want to... bet on it?¡± The official¡¯s expression froze. He harrumphed coldly and turned away, ignoring Mentor Wen¡¯s question. No more bets! He would just bet with himself in secret! Anyway, he refused to believe Fang Lang could reach the seventh floor! Time passed unknowingly, the day had turned into night. In the blink of an eye, the two days wereing to an end. On the sixth floor, Fang Lang was still moving at a painfully slow rate. He stopped after every few steps as if he was in deep thought. This went on for some time. Soon, it was already the second evening. The setting sun painted the sky with an array of brilliant colors. Surprisingly, Fang Lang had inched his way to the honor roll of the sixth level. The heart of the official who had made the internal bet sank. ... On the sixth level of the Spirit Pagoda. Fang Lang stood at the stairway leading to the seventh floor. He stared at the dark, oppressive stairway and turned around to nce at the sixth level¡¯s honor roll. There were more than a dozen names on the honor roll. Fang Lang was astonished. He had first-hand experience of how tough it was to reach this point under the pressure of the Emperor¡¯s spiritual sense! If he had not stayed in the Triple Binding Mode, he would not be able to climb up to the sixth floor. Yet so many people had left their names on this floor! How great were they! Fang Lang briefly nced through. ¡®Nanyuan Academy, Luo Qiuqiu was here.¡¯ ¡®Donglu Academy, Lin Yun was here.¡¯ ¡®Beijiang Academy, Song Qingyun, signing off.¡¯ ... Fang Lang raised his eyebrow unexpectedly when he saw the familiar names. Thete Lin Yun, and his neighbor in Gatherings of Swords, Song Qingyun. They were all such geniuses! Fang Lang suddenly felt he was inadequate and unworthy topete with them. Initially, he thought of leaving his name on the sixth floor, but he dismissed the thought immediately when he saw Lin Yun¡¯s name. ¡®No, it¡¯s not auspicious to leave my name on the same page as Lin Yun! I must go to the seventh level! I have to!¡¯ A weird obsession took over Fang Lang and motivated him to climb to the seventh floor! His spiritual sense was on the verge of exploding. Every inch of his skin turned blood-red! Bong! He struggled to put his foot down¡ªsweat was pouring down his face. Fang Lang finally reached the seventh floor. Instantly, he received the rewards in the form of spiritual energy. Fang Lang felt as if he achieved sublimation. Boom! Another enormous surge of spiritual energy drove into his energy center, intensifying his core. Within the core, about one-tenth of the spiritual energy was transformed into de energy. Second-grade sword master! In addition, Fang Lang felt every muscle fiber in his body shake¡ªevery cell in his body was roaring! His physical body was also evolving into a martial arts master! With these cultivation advancements, Fang Lang could sense the weakening of the pressure caused by the Emperor¡¯s phantom. Even though the difference was minute, it allowed Fang Lang to take a few steps forward on the seventh floor. ... On the practice grounds of Luojiang Academy, a dead silence permeated. The setting sun was like a burning me. Both the officials were breathing heavily and speechless, especially the one who kept losing his own bets. He swore he would never make another bet in his life ever again. Suddenly, the other official¡¯s eyes fluttered. ¡°It¡¯s been two days, we should let the students out.¡± The eyes of the official who was fed up with betting lit up. ¡°Finally!¡± he yelled excitedly. Then, he started another wager in his mind. There was no doubt Fang Lang was remarkable, but the official bet the boy would not leave his name on the honor roll of the seventh floor! He was confident he would not lose this time! Why? Time was running out! Mentor Wen and Headmaster Cui looked regretfully at Fang Lang who was merely a few steps away from the honor roll. It was very unfortunate. The official held the talisman and flew towards the entrance of the Spirit Pagoda¡ªhis robe billowed in the air. He reached out eagerly to open the gates. However, the moment his fingers touched the gate, a thunderous voice echoed from within the Spirit Pagoda as if it was bellowed from the heavens. ¡°Stand down!¡± The official was stunned! Blood sprayed out of his nose as he stumbled a few steps backward. He crouched down on the floor with both hands on his forehead and said in a trembling voice, ¡°Yes... Your Majesty.¡± ... Fang Lang felt a little nauseous. The summit was right in front of him. He raised his leaden legs and walked with much difficulty. He would need to climb over the peak of this mountain in order to see the scendscapes that he had never experienced before. After an unknown period of time, his robes werepletely soaked with sweat. With trembling hands, he grabbed the writing brush beside the honor roll of the seventh floor. He raised his hand as if he was about to reach for the stars. He had to brave through storms for every stroke he wrote. Fang Lang was here. ... On the fourth floor of the Spirit Pagoda, Liu Bubai, Ni Wen and the other top students of Luojiang Academy stopped cultivating. They gathered together and watched the stairway towards the fifth floor with an odd expression. ¡°How long has it been?¡± ¡°Two days,¡± Liu Bubai answered. ¡°Why hasn¡¯t Lang¡¯zi been struck down yet?¡± Right, Liu Bubai fell off the fifth floor after he was struck by Chao Xiaojian¡¯s spiritual sense. ¡°Is it possible... that he¡¯s still ascending?¡± Ni Wen bit her lips and said. Nheless, it was taking too long. Withstanding that amount of pressure continuously for two days, will Fang Lang¡¯s spiritual sense... copse? Ni Wen could not understand the reason behind Fang Lang¡¯s determination. Several students squinted and said from a distance, ¡°It¡¯s been two days, which floor is he at?¡± One of them even said enviously, ¡°He probably stayed on the fifth floor and refused toe down. Sadly, it¡¯s pointless to stay there as he won¡¯t receive any rewards if he didn¡¯t leave his name on the honor roll. He¡¯ll just make a fool of himself.¡± However, the moment this guy finished talking, the entire pagoda jerked. Suddenly, a booming voice resonated from the tip of the Spirit Pagoda like a morning bell that announced the time to the whole world. ¡°Year 276 of the Tang Dynasty, Fang Lang from Luojiang Academy left his name on the seventh level. Only two have achieved this in the past two centuries. Congrattions.¡± The voice reverberated through the entire practice grounds, academy... and even Luojiang City! Instantly, the whole world fell silent. Everyone was quiet. The ethereal clouds floated across the sunset-tinted sky. Chapter 64 - Sword Master, Martial Arts Master… or Spell Master?

Chapter 64: Sword Master, Martial Arts Master... or Spell Master?

The booming voice gradually faded away. Silence filled Luojiang City, leaving only the remnant of the echoes. Under the brilliant hue of the sunset, a student stuck his head out of the study block in astonishment. Who was behind the voice that reverberated through the entire academy and Luojiang City? More importantly, what was with the public announcement and celebration for leaving a name on the seventh level? The announcement baffled many students. The students knew about the Spirit Pagoda, but they had never witnessed anything like this before. Was Fang Lang getting special treatment? Autumn leaves decorated the practice grounds. Both officials from the Ministry of Rites were in awe. It was also their first time hearing the congrattory message. Mentor Wen and Headmaster Cui were smiling. Only two people had achieved this in two centuries. This was an impressive feat! Not to mention, themendation came from the most dignified person in the Tang Dynasty. Xuanyuan Taihua had done it two centuries ago. Fang Lang from Luojuang Academy did it moments ago. Even though both arrived at the seventh floor, their backgrounds were vastly different. Xuanyuan Taihua had the cultivation of a fifth-grade sword master and above when she aplished this. What was Fang Lang¡¯s cultivation? Beneath the untrimmed mess of hair, Mentor Wen¡¯s eyes sparkled brightly. Initially, he believed Fang Lang had a chance to be on the Imperial Examination honor roll. At that moment, the boy stood a chance to be the champion! Fang Lang hadpleted an impossible challenge! ... In Luojiang City, the murmurs on the market street near the Fang Manor grew louder. Fang Beihe who was doing the ounts in his office lifted his head when he heard the chatter. He was surprised to hear mentions of his son¡¯s name. ¡®Is he showing off again? What¡¯s with the public announcement?¡¯ There were hurried footsteps approaching. Several business owners from the neighboring market streets rushed over to congratte Fang Beihe. ¡°Mr. Fang, you¡¯re blessed to have such a great son.¡± ¡°Let¡¯s head over to the entertainment house tonight, I have a few business proposals for our coboration.¡± ¡°Old Fang, I reserved the entire Chunmei Courtyard tonight. Let¡¯s have a drink to celebrate your son¡¯s achievements!¡± The overweight businessmen said with huge smiles on their faces. They were all opportunists. The entire city was celebrating the Fang genius¡¯s aplishments. Coupled with the events that happened several days ago, the business owners could foresee the potential of the Fang family! The probability of Fang Lang being on the Imperial Examination honor roll was incredibly high. By then, a meal at the entertainment house would be insufficient to gain brownie points. Old Fang was grinning from ear to ear. The joy he felt was much more than when he earned his first 10,000 gold coins. He entertained everyone who came to congratte him, immersing himself in the merry atmosphere. ... At the end of the quiet Chang Street, sparks were flying everywhere in the cksmith¡¯s store. A young man was covered in a thinyer of sweat. He was listening closely to the announcement that echoed through the streets. The rocking chair halted and the old man opened his droopy eyes. ¡°Wei Sheng, which floor of the Spirit Pagoda did you reach before?¡± the old man asked after a long pause. Wei Shengbed through the inch-long hair with his fingers and smiled. ¡°I got to the eighth floor, Master.¡± ¡°Oh? Eighth floor? Was there an announcement like this?¡± the old man raised his eyebrow and asked with interest. ¡°No, there were a few others from the Imperial City who were on the eighth floor together with me. However, there was no announcement like this. Even when some of the royals reached the ninth floor, an apuse of this scale was unheard of,¡± Wei Sheng answered in a serious tone. The old man stood up and walked to the door. He stared at the color gradient in the sky andughed. ¡°That¡¯s interesting. The only two within two centuries. Fate works in mysterious ways. Wei Sheng, set out for Changan tomorrow and begin your preparations for the Imperial Examination. It¡¯ll be apetitive fight for the title of grand champion. The other candidates in Changan will be facing a strong opponent. How interesting,¡± the old man said smilingly as he resumed rocking his chair. Wei Sheng narrowed his eyes and bowed slightly. ¡°Yes, Master.¡± ... Fang Lang came down from the sixth floor energetically. The staircase brought him to the fifth level. Even though the climb was an uphill battle, the journey down was a breeze. When he left his name on the seventh level¡¯s honor roll, Fang Lang had absorbed an enormous amount of spiritual energy. Not only was it enough to fill his cultivation to the maximum of a second-grade sword master, it also washed away the exhaustion of his spiritual sense! It was rejuvenating! He felt like he had won the lottery. How he wished he could sign his name on every floor of the Spirit Pagoda. He wanted to camp here for decades. That way, he would be undefeatable when he resurfaced into the world! Of course, this was just his imagination running wild. Life had to go on. ¡®Ding! Mission aplished. Do you want to sum up the rewards?¡¯ The System notified him. Fang Lang thought for a moment and decided not to total up the rewards then. He nned to do that after he got back to the Fang Manor. On the fifth floor, Liu Bubai and Ni Wen were delighted to see Fang Lang. Ni Wen¡¯s worries disappeared right away. Both of them were surprised when the Spirit Pagoda announced a public congrattory message for Fang Lang. What on earth was that! The other students stared at Fang Lang with envy. They were jealous to see Fang Lang basking in spiritual energy. How much did he benefit from the Spirit Pagoda? The habit ofparing with others would just lead one down the rabbit hole. The majority of students did not linger in the Spirit Pagoda after the officials called out to them. Fifty students walked out of the Spirit Pagoda. They had gained much confidence to face the Imperial Examination after improving much within these two days. The expressions of the two officials were ratherplicated, especially the one that was constantly losing wagers. ¡°It¡¯s impressive that you were able to trigger the Emperor¡¯s spiritual sense. I hope to see you on the roll of honor. Do not bring disgrace to the glory you earned today,¡± the official said in an indecipherable tone. He looked at Fang Lang with admiration as his eyes filled with hope. If Fang Lang performed badly during the examination, the Spirit Pagoda¡¯s praise would be a joke. If so, it would be an embarrassment to the Emperor! Both officials did not say anything further. In fact, they were actually honored to witness the phenomenon that had happened only once two centuries ago! The officials retrieved the Spirit Pagoda and flew back to Changan on their sword. Headmaster Cui stared at Fang Lang smilingly, eyes filled with wonderment. ¡°Now that you guys havepleted the Spirit Pagoda quest, your next goal will be... the Imperial Examination! Waste no time cking, continue with your cultivation. Get your name on the roll of honor, do not let the advancement you gained from the Spirit Pagoda go to waste!¡± Headmaster Cui gave the students a motivational speech after they resurfaced from the tower. After that, he told everybody to head home to process the spiritual energy and benefits from the tower. No one gave Fang Lang special treatment, but their expectations for him were higher. ... Fang Lang bade farewell to Ni Wen and Liu Bubai before rushing back to the Fang Manor. The Fang Manor was livelier and more crowded than usual. People were going in and out of the brightly lit manor. Old Fang was chatting happily with guests in the living room. Upon Fang Lang¡¯s return, the guests instantly surrounded him, introducing themselves enthusiastically. Old Fang quickly hurried over to block them. ¡°Everyone, the Imperial Examination is just around the corner. Lang¡¯er will need to continue his training. Please head over to the entertainment house. I¡¯ll be paying tonight, we¡¯ll drink till our hearts¡¯ content!¡± Old Fang said gleefully. After that, he escorted Fang Lang back to his room. ¡°Go ahead and focus on your cultivation. Let your dad deal with guests.¡± Old Fang tapped on Fang Lang¡¯s shoulders. Fang Lang felt a warmth spread inside his heart. He put on a wide smile before entering his room. He was quite excited to check on the System¡¯s rewards. Old Fang closed the door and left the courtyard quietly. He pped his face gently and put on a smile before walking out to the main hall to entertain the guests. ... Fang Lang sat cross-legged on the bed and exhaled slowly. ¡°System, tally the rewards.¡± ¡®Ding! Calcting... Your total spiritual energy absorbed: 2000 (low-grade spirit crystals), equivalent to 20,000 experience points. Conversion in progress. Ding! System leveled up!¡¯ Fang Lang was thrilled when he heard the System notification rang in his head. The sound of the System upgrading was the most melodious sound ever! ¡®Ding! Friendly reminder, this upgrade will not provide a binding slot for the host¡¯s ability.¡¯ ... Host: Fang Lang Cultivation Discipline: Second-Grade Sword Master (Second ss) Level: LV5 Experience: 0/150000 Core: 36 (White) Cultivation Resource: 50,000 gold coins, 500 low-grade spirit crystals, 5 mid-grade spirit crystals (usage limited to cultivation) Items: Power Loan Card (1) Equipment: None Binding Partners: Ni Wen (60%); Jiang Linglong (60%); Liu Bubai (60%); Empty slot (60%) Sole Passive Ability: Additional rewards may be granted when the host bonds with the binding partner over cultivation. ... Fang Lang was stunned. There were a few changes after the System¡¯s upgrade. There was an equipment category under the items... What was the difference between these two? Fang Lang asked the System and was given a direct answer. ¡®Equipments can be equipped by the host for permanent effects.¡¯ Fang Lang¡¯s eyes lit up instantly! The cards and reward eggs that were drawn in the item category were mostly single-use with short-lived effects. However, the effects of the equipment were permanent. ¡®Ding! Detected 20,000 System experience points gained the host. 10,000 points was used to level up the System. For the remaining 10,000 points, the host can choose to draw a random piece of equipment. Do you wish to continue?¡¯ ¡°Proceed!¡± Fang Lang squinted and said. Experience points could be umted by cultivating spirit crystals whereas lucky draws were few and far between. Fang Lang did not know what triggered these lucky draws. ¡®Ding! Congrattions for drawing an ancient spell mastery¡¯s Instant Casting Staff. Instant Casting Staff effects: The host can cast any runes and spells with instant effects (effects will be lost upon equipment removal). Spiritual sense protection¡ªan ultimate defense from spiritual sense¡¯s attack (three-day cooldown time). This equipment... Fang Lang was confused. The System... was the System crazy? Why was he given a spell mastery equipment? Was the System nning to let him master all three disciplines? If he got into a fight in the future... On the surface, he would appear as a sword master with the hidden physique of a martial arts master, but his true identity would be a... spell master? Tsk! ¡®How cool am I!¡¯ Chapter 65 - Something’s Off With Your Core

Chapter 65: Something¡¯s Off With Your Core

The System¡¯stest addition to the equipment category was a pleasant surprise. It was worth it to convert 10,000 System experience points for one equipment. As Fang Lang thought, with his current rank as a second-grade sword master and a first-grade martial arts master, the equipment would be able topensate for his weakness in the spell mastery discipline. Although these would not be useful for the uing Imperial Examination, there were things beyond the Imperial Examination for a cultivator. He should look at the bigger picture. ¡®Ding! Core Card effectpleted. Core stats have been modified. Do you wish to view stats?¡¯ The System¡¯s notification rang just as Fang Lang was done exploring the equipment function. Fang Lang instantly straightened up, excitement sparkled in his eyes. Was it finally done? ¡®Please do not make it worse. The original core was white... if it goes any lower, it¡¯ll turn ck.¡¯ He thought it was unlikely the System would humiliate him. Fang Lang immediately called out the System disy. His eyes were drawn to the core category. [Core: 36 (White) [Modified Core: 66 (Purple)] The smile on Fang Lang¡¯s face faded. Not red, not yellow, not gold, but purple? What did it mean? After three years of studying in the academy, Fang Lang had never heard of a purple core. Was the System pulling his leg? A gold core would have been nice. After all, his cultivation speed was two-thirds of Old Jiang¡¯s without any Amplification Cards. A gold core would justify his current abilities and allow him to pass the Imperial Examination¡¯s core evaluation without raising suspicions. He would be treading on thin ice with this purple core. Would he be sentenced to death? Fang Lang frowned, regretting his decision. He was distressed due to the unexpected oue. What should he do? Fang Lang waspletely puzzled. The purple core was an unknown factor to him. ¡°I should do some digging tomorrow. Mentor Wen might know something about this.¡± Fang Lang took a deep breath... how troubling. Fang Lang decided not to dwell further. He upied his mind with happier thoughts. ¡°System, sum up the bonus rewards,¡± Fang Lang said enthusiastically. ¡®Ding! Calcting bonus rewards... ¡®Calctionpleted. Bonus spiritual energy from binding partner (Ni Wen): 50 (low-grade spirit crystal); Bonus spiritual energy from binding partner (Liu Bubai): 30 (low-grade spirit crystal). Bonus rewards will be channeled into the host¡¯s energy center for sword mastery cultivation.¡¯ The System¡¯s notification slowly dimmed. Fang Lang felt a surge of spiritual energy flowing into his energy center, elerating the rotating core. 80 low-grade spirit crystals was a considerable amount of spiritual energy. On top of that, Fang Lang had received an abundance of spiritual energy in the Spirit Pagoda as a reward for reaching the seventh level. The spiritual energy from these 80 low-grade spirit crystals pushed Fang Lang¡¯s cultivation to the boundary of a third-grade sword master. The autumn weather intensified as the night deepened. Stars embellished the sky like countless fireflies floating in the dense forest. The enchanting moonlight shone through the windows and spilled silvery rays onto Fang Lang. The boy opened his eyes slowly as he soaked in the sudden surge of spiritual energy in his body. Within the course of three days, he had reached the apex of a second-grade sword master from a lowly ninth-grade sword disciple... This was the magic of the Spirit Pagoda. Of course, besides his relentless drive to seed, he had the support of the Grade-Rush Card. Fang Lang had spent the entire night trying to advance into third-grade sword mastery. He put his entire focus on his energy center, trying to convert a third of the spiritual energy into de energy. Even though he was at the boundary of a third-grade sword master, he could not break through no matter how hard he tried. Fang Lang let out a breath but was not too dejected about the oue. He retrieved the spirit crystals and activated the Triple Binding Mode to continue absorbing the spiritual energy. Fang Lang decided to wear down the boundary with time and patience. ... The next day was cloudy as the autumn rain brewed. The chilly weather seeped into the bones. After having breakfast, Fang Lang headed straight for the academy. Students walked through the main street hastily as the Imperial Examination was just around the corner. Everyone was anxiously preparing for the exams. Fang Lang reached the Luojiang Academy before ss started. He did not head to the study hall. Instead, he walked towards the Mentors¡¯ Office. Mentor Wen had just woken up and was preparing a pot of wolfberry tea when he heard Fang Lang. Mentor Wen had a porcin cup in hand. He was yawningzily with his beard untrimmed. He stared quizzically at Fang Lang who was here so early in the morning. ¡°Spit it out, what do you want to ask me?¡± Mentor Wen said while he blew gently at the steaming wolfberry tea. ¡°What a great mentor you are! You can sense my eagerness to learn just by one look!¡± Fang Lang tried to butter him up. Mentor Wen took an audible sip of his tea and rolled his eyes. ¡°Otherwise you won¡¯t be here. You¡¯ll be stuck at Ni Wen¡¯s side right now.¡± Fang Lang put on an innocent smile. ¡®Looks like Mentor Wen figured out my routine.¡¯ He just could not resist Little Wen¡¯s charms. The Grade-Rush Card fragments she provided were extremely beneficial! ¡°Spit it out then, Old Yang¡¯s gonna ring the bell soon. Head back to ss once you¡¯re done,¡± Mentor Wen said. Fang Lang nodded as he tried toe up with problems rted to sword mastery. Wen Ting raised an eyebrow as he analyzed and addressed the issues raised by Fang Lang. Suddenly, Fang Lang slid the question in smoothly. ¡°Right teacher, have you ever heard of core change?¡± Wen Ting was surprised. The next moment, he narrowed his eyes and answered, ¡°You were beating around the bush this whole morning. This is the reason why you¡¯re here, isn¡¯t it?¡± Fang Langughed and did not refute his mentor. After all, he could not pretend any longer now that he had a purple core. Wen Ting stared at Fang Lang as he fell into deep thought. He sipped on the wolfberry tea, chewing on the berries that slipped into his mouth. After some time, Wen Ting continued speaking, ¡°Themon understanding is that the core of the Tang Dynasty¡¯s cultivators is categorized into five grades, starting from ck, white, red, yellow, and finally, gold... ¡°However, there are also other cores. Beyond the golden core is the starry core. When tested with the corepass, it radiates with the brilliance of a star. People with this core are naturally gifted. They are so rare that one might not even appear in a thousand years,¡± Wen Ting exined. Fang Lang was startled when he heard what Wen Ting said. ¡®Doesn¡¯t purplee after gold?¡¯ he wondered. ¡°What about the next rank after the starry core? Is there a purple core?¡± Fang Lang asked curiously. He was genuinely curious. They would not have learned this from the textbooks. Wen Ting nced at Fang Lang and asked, ¡°Purple? Of course not. After the starry core is the divine core... that¡¯s just one of a kind, reserved for God¡¯s favored son. I haven¡¯t heard anyone with a divine core. What kind of bloodline will be worthy of someone with a divine core? ¡°Perhaps... The person living in the Changan pce might have it.¡± Wen Ting did not continue speaking. He avoided mentioning that person¡¯s name as if he was afraid. ¡°Of course, there are records about changes to the core after birth...¡± Wen Ting sipped on his tea again before continuing. ¡°A cultivator¡¯s core can be altered by their environment, after the awakening of their bloodline ability, or it could be transnted... The first two can happen under certain conditions, the transntation process is just utterly cruel and evil and goes against thews of nature. The Tang Dynasty¡¯sw forbids people from doing it. There¡¯s a term for core alterations due to the changes in the environment and the bloodline¡ªcore mutations.¡± Core mutations? Fang Lang took a deep breath. ¡°There are good and bad mutations. Some mutations will improve the core significantly, some just get worse...¡± After saying that, Wen Ting stared at Fang Lang. A realization struck the man. The next second, Wen Ting extended his hand. Fang Lang opened his arms without resisting. He narrowed his eyes while he let Wen Ting check his core. After all, he had been expecting this. Wen Ting ced one hand on Fang Lang¡¯s shoulder des while holding the teacup with the other. He grazed his hand over Fang Lang¡¯s spine with a unique gesture. Wen Ting¡¯s eyes widened gradually! ¡®Something¡¯s not right! ¡®Something¡¯s wrong with him!¡¯ ¡°Something¡¯s... something¡¯s off about your core!¡± Mentor Wen felt the changes in Fang Lang¡¯s core. He had not checked his core prior to this, but Chao Xiaojian did back in the Sword Guild. With Chao Xiaojian¡¯s ability, it was not likely he would make a wrong judgment when it came to core reading. Fang Lang had a white core back then. However... Fang Lang¡¯s core right now was definitely not white! The feedback from his core felt simr to... a gold rank? It still felt weird. Wen Ting personally had a gold core. He could sense the difference between Fang Lang¡¯s core and an actual gold core. What was it? ¡®He advanced to a second-grade sword master from a third-grade sword disciple within a month and conquered the seventh floor of the Spirit Pagoda. He even disyed amazing sword mastery talents...¡¯ Wen Ting was astounded by his own deductions. Wen Ting¡¯s eyes burned brightly. This kid¡¯s core definitely mutated! He was in a daze. He had discovered the reason behind Fang Lang¡¯s spectacr performance! No wonder this kid came to him in the wee hours of the morning, it was to ask him this question. The boy was probably terrified by the uing core evaluation for the Imperial Examination! There were only two oues of core mutations. Either one would be a brilliant genius or they would end up a nobody! The kid¡¯s recent achievements suggested he was the former! ¡°Stay here, don¡¯t move. Wait for my return!¡± In a sh, Wen Ting turned into a de light and disappeared into thin air. Shortly after that, Wen Ting returned with an intricate device¡ªthe corepass. At the same time, Headmaster Cui stood beside Wen Ting with an interested look. They would test Fang Lang¡¯s core! Chapter 66 - That Year, That Day, That Sunset

Chapter 66: That Year, That Day, That Sunset

The corepass was an instrument used to measure the quality of a person¡¯s cultivation core. Every academy had a corepass provided by the Ministry of Rites. The instrument was precious and only used during the triennial academy admissions. Fang Lang could not believe Mentor Wen managed to get his hands on the corepass. His purple core was not some useless piece of garbage. It managed to shock Mentor Wen which meant it was of some quality. Fang Lang let out a relieved sigh. That was one issue solved for the uing Imperial Examination. ¡°This is the corepass borrowed from the headmaster. You must be confused about your own core, right? We can test it and you¡¯ll know for sure,¡± Mentor Wen said expectedly. Headmaster Cui had a kind smile as he stroked his white beard. ¡°Wen Ting tells me you might¡¯ve experienced a core mutation, so I got curious. A core mutation is a rare phenomenon and I¡¯m here to learn more about it.¡± Wen Ting said, ¡°Fang Lang, rx.¡± Then, he moved the corepass down Fang Lang¡¯s spine. The spoon[1]ofpass turned and a faint glimmer began to show. Humm... A purplish glow grew from the center of the spoon. After a moment, a bright purple light shone. There were ten markings on thepass te. The spoon stopped at the sixth marking, indicating Fang Lang¡¯s core was at the sixth grade of that ss. Wen Ting was shocked by the purple light on the corepass. His pupils contracted as surprise registered on his face. ¡°A purple core? Damn! An actual core mutation?¡± Mentor Wen drew in a sharp breath. Even the wise Headmaster Cui was stunned by the development. It would not be as shocking if it was a white to red core or a red to gold core. This core change was abnormal because the final core was beyond the usual core colors. The boy was unique among the whole Tang Dynasty. Wen Ting turned to look at Headmaster Cui. After an inhale, he said, ¡°Headmaster, have youe across a purple core?¡± Headmaster Cui shook his head and continued stroking his beard. He studied Fang Lang with wonder in his eyes and smiled. ¡°I¡¯ve never seen one but I have read the Record of Core Mutations. The purple core is mentioned in it... ¡°Three thousand years ago, during the era of the Eight Dynasties, a purple core was born. Unfortunately, the oddball ended up dying at the hands of a ninth-ss demon in the demon world. Without a doubt, a purple core is a rarity and definitely on par with a gold core.¡± Headmaster Cui delivered his lecture. His cloudy eyes sparkled¡ªno wonder the boy was chosen by Lady Jiang. The Jiang family¡¯s investment in the boy was worth it. Headmaster Cui said with a smile, ¡°Your performance in the Spirit Pagoda and your purple core will guarantee you a spot in the top-tier sects. As long as you don¡¯t fail dramatically in the uing Imperial Examination, all will be mbering to win your favor. You stand a chance in entering the top ten honor roll. You¡¯ll be the first under my administration of Luojiang Academy to achieve that honor.¡± At that point, Headmaster Cui let out a heartyugh. Wen Ting put away the corepass and gave Fang Lang a once-over. With a teasing smile, he said, ¡°Chao Xiaojian is on Mount Shu waiting patiently for you to fail the Imperial Examination and crawl back to the Sword Guild. He¡¯s gonna regret not letting you in when he finds out about your core mutation and that you¡¯ve been poached by other sects. ¡°A purple core who managed to climb seven floors in the Spirit Pagoda and has sword techniques that put his peers to shame. When the Imperial Examination ends, you will be highly sought after. Just as I was back in those days.¡± Wen Ting grinned. Hearing thepliments, Fang Lang smiled. Who knew the day woulde when Fang Lang would have his pick of sects. However, he was not satisfied yet. ... Autumn was in full swing. A third episode of rain hit Changan as rain clouds gathered above the Imperial City. Raindrops fell in a flurry like the sweeping of willow trees. Changan was shrouded in a misty rain. A bell chime echoed throughout the ancient city, reverberating through every brick like ripples on the water surface. In the ancient city of Changan, the protected center of the Tang Dynasty stood in reverence. The passageways leading to the core were 20 miles long, shaped like spokes of a wheel. Lining the passageways were rows and rows of pces akin to talisman writings. From afar, the whole city looked as if it sat upon a magnificent rune. Along the well-constructed city street, a luxurious-looking carriage made its way into the center of Changan. The carriage wheels were drenched with the autumn rain. As the Imperial Examination approached, even the high and mighty Imperial Academy was filled with a nervous atmosphere. Deep within the city, the horse carriage came to a halt. The blinds of the carriage were pulled away. A veiled Jiang Linglong appeared with an oil paper umbre in hand, dressed in the Imperial Academy robes. She walked toward the pce that housed the Imperial Academy. The Imperial Academy and Changan Academy were not the same. Students of the Imperial Academy came from distinguished families. Many were the sons and daughters of court officials in the Tang Dynasty. ording to thew, one had to partake in the Imperial Examination to be considered for a position in the courts. Jiang Linglong entered the pce. A servant girl from the Imperial Academy took the umbre away, dissipating the autumn raindrops. Many pairs of eyes lingered on Jiang Linglong as she walked to her own desk. Her aura was cold and impassive like an iceberg. She flipped open her book. The students looked away and resumed their chatter. A handsomed with expressive features raised his voice as he spoke to hispanions, trying to get Jiang Linglong¡¯s attention. ¡°I heard something none of you will know. My dad mentioned this when he came back yesterday. Yesterday, something interesting happened to the Spirit Pagoda that was assigned to Luojiang Academy. A student managed to reach the seventh floor of the Spirit Pagoda and the Spirit Pagoda voiced out a congrattions!¡± the handsomed narrated with bright eyes. The surrounding students¡¯ curiosity was piqued. ¡°The Spirit Pagoda spoke? Many of us from the Imperial Academy have entered the seventh floor but the Spirit Pagoda has never uttered a word.¡± ¡°Your dad is the Minister of Rites. Don¡¯t you think that¡¯s a bit fishy?¡± The handsomed knew all eyes were on him. He smiled charmingly and said, ¡°My dad didn¡¯t exin but I think he doesn¡¯t believe it. I find the news to be hrious. I think the student must have set up an announcement spell beforehand to rile up the crowd.¡± ¡°Who caused the Spirit Pagoda to speak?¡± an Imperial Academy student asked. The handsomed shot a look at the faraway Jiang Linglong who was reading her book. He pped the desk once and called out, ¡°It¡¯s that Fang Lang!¡± Loud noises of surprise rose within the Imperial Academy. Many made furtive nces at the impassive Jiang Linglong. ¡°The Fang Lang who wrote, ¡®May I one day surmount the highest of peaks, where I could gather a sight of all mountains thereid.¡¯?¡± the daughters of court officials asked. The handsomed pursed his lips and said, ¡°My dad said the person is of questionable character. I believe he¡¯s an attention seeker with ill intentions. The poem might not even be his own creation...¡± A cool autumn breeze blew past the area. As the handsomed¡¯s voice diminished, the veiled Jiang Linglong silently appeared behind him. The starry eyes were fixed on the boy. Sensing her presence, the handsomed put on a courteous smile. ¡°Linglong¡ª¡± He was quickly interrupted. ¡°Shut up. Practice grounds, keep up.¡± Jiang Linglong said in a cool tone before turning to leave. The handsomed¡¯s expression twisted but Jiang Linglong¡¯s cold gaze made it hard to back down. 15 minutester, the boy¡¯s face was severely bruised and he lost a tooth. He returned sobbing and learned his lesson about spreading false rumors. Jiang Linglong appeared unaffected as she resumed reading at her desk. Within the Imperial Academy, the students trembled as a burgeoning curiosity built around the boy, Fang Lang. The rain continued to batter the ancient city. The boy had never visited Changan but his name was already known. ... The trees that loomed over Luojiang City¡¯s streets were turning yellow as autumn arrived. It was the end of the month. The Imperial Examination was approaching and the atmosphere only got more tense. The students whomuted between the academy and their residences all wore stern and unsmiling expressions. Even the entertainment house¡¯s business was affected by the examination season¡ªthe ce was less rowdy than usual. Since the core evaluation, Fang Lang felt a huge weight lifted from his chest. At that moment, all he had to focus on was making the most out of his interactions with Ni Wen and Liu Bubai. In theing days, he managed to squeeze out four Grade-Rush Cards and five Physical Buff Cards from Ni Wen and Liu Bubai, respectively. The drop rate was lower than before mainly because as Fang Lang¡¯s cultivation level increased, some of themon cultivation topics were no longer considered as modest interactions by the System. Therefore, the rewards dwindled. There was another piece of good news. Under Fang Lang¡¯s patient training, he managed to break through his second-grade sword mastery. Finally, he was able to convert his peaked spiritual energy into de energy and step into the third grade. Fang Lang¡¯s confidence in the uing Imperial Examination grew. Getting into the honor roll would not be a problem but Fang Lang wanted more than that. In Luojiang Academy, on the third floor of the seventh study block. Students sat at their desks with their sleeves rolled up as they wrote their formal application for the Imperial Examination. The formal letter had to be submitted for them to qualify for the Imperial Examination. Fang Lang concentrated as he wrote. His brush strokes ran across the rice paper like a soaring dragon, dancing in the air. The students handed up their handiwork and obtained an Imperial Examination handbook from their mentor. The detailed information about the exam was listed within. Fang Lang received his handbook and kept it inside his sleeve. He walked back to his desk and sat down with aplicated expression on his face. Behind the bench above the dais, Mentor Wen was dressed in a tidy attire and his beard was trimmed. As he studied the 100 students in his ss, a kind smile graced his face. There was a warm gentleness in his eyes. The students¡¯ chatter simmered down. ¡°From today onwards, you will have officiallypleted your three years of cultivation studies in Luojiang Academy. The path of cultivation is slow and tiring but I am thankful of each and every one of you for the past three years. ¡°I, Wen Ting, wish you all a smooth journey ahead! And I hope all of you can achieve greatness in theing exam!¡± At the end of Mentor Wen¡¯s speech, every student stood up and folded their hands. They bowed at their mentor. ¡°Thank you for these three years of teachings. We¡¯ll always remember you, Master Wen.¡± The students¡¯ voices were loud as one, cutting through the mncholy vibe of the season. ... The sunset bled into the sky. The fiery ze spilled over Chang Street and the branching alleys. Yang Zhengyi and Liu Bubai bade farewell to Fang Lang as they went their separate ways, intent on making the final preparations for the Imperial Examination. For once, Ni Wen did not hurry to go home. She intentionally hung back and trailed behind Fang Lang. The main street of Luojiang City was crowded with people from all walks of life. Ni Wen¡¯s face had a red tint, a result of the setting sun¡¯s irradiation. She stared at Fang Lang and bit her lip. With a soft voice, she asked, ¡°Lang... Lang¡¯zi... After the Imperial Examination, which sect will you join? The Sword Guild?¡± Fang Lang turned around and met her eyes. He weighed the expectations in her eyes and sighed internally. The Imperial Examination was a major crossroad in life. After that day, they might never meet again. It was an honor to have been friends. Fang Lang smiled warmly and said, ¡°That¡¯s a matter for the future. Focus on preparing for the exams. Do your very best and don¡¯t leave regrets.¡± That year, that day, that sunset. Ni Wen bit her bottom lip. There was a shimmer in her eyes as her fingers twisted and pinched within her sleeves. ¡®No regrets, huh?¡¯ Fang Lang gave her a dashing smile and reached out with a hand. He gently patted Ni Wen¡¯s head¡ªthe long, ck strands flowed through his fingers. Crash! Suddenly, the sound of y bowls cracking disturbed the silence. A beautiful woman with a headscarf stood a distance away in the sunset. She had a carrying pole on her shoulders. The woman¡¯s face was pale. [1] The corepass takes after a ¡°South-pointer¡±¡ªan early version of the modernpass invented in ancient China which uses a spoon-shaped lodestone ced on a bronze te. The handle of the spoon is always facing south, hence the name. Chapter 67 - Rain at the Start of the Tang Dynasty’s Imperial Examination

Chapter 67: Rain at the Start of the Tang Dynasty¡¯s Imperial Examination

The sunset painted the streets in vibrant colors. The pale-faced woman stood before the broken y bowls. From afar, the scene was beautiful like an oil painting but up close, one could see the faults and defects on the canvas. Fang Lang watched the beautiful woman with suspicion. Ni Wen entered a trance as her brain tried to process what was happening. There was distraught in her eyes and her calm was broken like an overflowing cup of tea. ¡°Mo-Mother...¡± Ni Wen made herself appear smaller. Her bottom lip quivered as she looked at the beautiful woman. Fang Lang was shocked. ¡®Mother? ¡®This beautiful woman is Ni Wen¡¯s mother?¡¯ The crowd around them hurried along. Horse carriages went by speedily as the sun continued to set. Soon, the main street was left with Fang Lang, Ni Wen and the mother. The atmosphere was awkward, to say the least. Fang Lang wisely retracted his hand from Ni Wen¡¯s head. It seemed inappropriate to be petting Ni Wen¡¯s head in front of her mother. ¡®Why does it feel like I¡¯ve been caught doing something wrong?¡¯ Fang Lang nced at the shrunken Ni Wen who was trembling in fear. Then, he turned to face the beautiful woman who was ring at Ni Wen. Fang Lang put on his sincerest, polite smile. ¡°Madam, I¡¯m Ni Wen¡¯s ssmate, Fang Lang. Fang like a square, Lang like a wave.¡± Fang Lang kept his smile bright. He had to remain calm and be careful with his presentation¡ªhe did nothing wrong and he should act as such. The beautiful woman was unaffected by Fang Lang¡¯s warmth. Her expression remained frosty. ¡°Girl,e here!¡± the mother ordered in a barely restrained tone. She had told her daughter many times and yet her advice was ignored. Ni Wen continued to frolic with the sons of the rich. She had done her best to dress up Ni Wen in the drabbiest outfits but it was to no avail. The tableau of the boy stroking Ni Wen¡¯s head in the sunset stabbed at the mother¡¯s heart. It felt like a repeat of history, a repeat of her own personal nightmare. Was the same to happen to her daughter? Why did the gods bully them? Immense sadness filled the woman¡¯s heart. The daily struggles and hardships never once made her cry but at that moment, the devastating blow to her heart was enough to make her shed tears. She did not question or berate the fates. She was just frustrated at the cards she was dealt. ¡°Mother... Mother, don¡¯t cry...¡± The tears falling from the beautiful woman¡¯s face startled Ni Wen from her trance. Ni Wen rushed forward and picked up the fallen items. She took the carrying pole and led the woman away. The mother and daughter disappeared into the sunset. As the sun sank further into the West, the shadows of the interdependent mother-daughter pair extended. Fang Lang remained where he was. He watched as they melded with the crowd of Chang Street and felt a pang of sadness in his heart. ... That night, the moon was bright but the stars were shy. Birds were flying south for the night. Autumn was in high gear and the moonlight reflected the thin frost covering the ground. Fang Lang put Ni Wen and her mother out of his mind. Thinking about it would not improve the situation. Under the moonlight, he sat cross-legged on the bed, hands sping a spirit crystal. He was absorbing the spirit crystal in the Triple Binding Mode¡ªspiritual energy flowed out like a water stream. Fang Lang was a third-grade sword master and the spiritual energy of one low-grade spirit crystal had little effect on his body. At a sword master¡¯s level, spiritual energy absorption was the least of his concerns. More importantly, he had to convert the spiritual energy into de energy. When all the spiritual energy in his energy center was converted into de energy, he would be at the peak of second-ss sword mastery, ready to break through into the third ss. Fang Lang pulled up Jiang Linglong¡¯s status. ... Binding Partner: Jiang Linglong Age: 15 Cultivation: Ninth-Grade Sword Master (Second-ss Sword Mastery) Core: 55 (Gold) Cultivation Speed: 15 low-grade spirit crystals/two hours Conversion Speed: 10 wisps/two hours (spiritual energy > de energy) ... Jiang Linglong¡¯s cultivation had improved again. She was a ninth-grade sword master with a significant increase in cultivation speed. Fang Lang¡¯s step into the sword master realm unlocked a new stat in the disy¡ªthe conversion speed from spiritual energy to de energy. This meant he would benefit from the binding partner¡¯s ability. Unfortunately, whatever bonuses he got would be useless as he did not have the proper cultivation method. Without the knowledge, the conversion would be slow regardless. Fang Lang toned down his excitement and decided to continue cultivating. Just then, a light knock sounded. Old Fang called out through the door. Fang Lang opened the door and was greeted with a bowl of steaming wontons. The old man walked in with a smile. ¡°There must be a bnce between work and rest. Bnce is the way of cultivation. Come, have some wontons. The Imperial Examination is tomorrow. Rx if you have to, and don¡¯t bring too much stress onto yourself. You did your best,¡± Old Fang said. Fang Lang immediately sat down and began eating. Old Fang watched his son devour the food. He had witnessed Fang Lang¡¯s hard work in this period leading up to the Imperial Examination. He did not know why Fang Lang was putting so much effort into cultivation but as his father, he would support Fang Lang unconditionally. Even if Fang Lang failed the Imperial Examination, Old Fang would still be able to leave him a sizable fortune to manage as he grew older. When Fang Lang was done with the meal, he felt azy warmth in his belly. Old Fang did not rush to clear the dishes. Instead, he spent some time shooting the breeze with his son, clearly trying to alleviate whatever nervousness Fang Lang felt. Fang Lang did not resist his father¡¯s attempts and entertained the chatter. As the night grew darker, the stars filled the sky. Old Fang yawned and left with the dirty dishes. Fang Lang resumed his original position on the bed. The absorption process carried on through the night. Staring at the brightening sky, he let out a breath of stale air and took another spirit crystal. ... In the Year 276, Tang Dynasty. It rained on the ninth of August. The triennial Imperial Examination was held on a rainy autumn day. The autumn drizzle and wind bathed the city in mncholia. The rain fell like a enveloping Luojiang City. A horse carriage was ready at the entrance of the Fang Manor. Old Fang had the driver on standby early in the morning. It was his son¡¯s big day, Old Fang would ensure everything went smoothly. Old Fang had slept early and postponed all his business matters in order to personally apany his son to the exam venue. Old Fang held the umbre for Fang Lang, a nervous expression on his face. The rain soaked one side of his shoulder but he did not mind. He told Fang Lang to not be nervous. There was a hint of frustration in Fang Lang¡¯s eyes. ¡®You¡¯re clearly more nervous than I am. Frankly, I¡¯m not worried about the examination in Luojiang City. I¡¯m more worried about the final section of the Imperial Examination in the Imperial City.¡¯ As for whether he would qualify for the final section, Fang Lang was at least that confident in his abilities. The withering leaves were crushed as the carriage made its way onto the main street. The streets were quieter than usual. There were patrol officers in the rain chasing away the street vendors. Luojiang City was silenced, providing a conducive environment for the candidates. In Luojiang Examination Tower. The examination tower was a special venue used for the Imperial Examination. The venue was opened once every three years. Most cities did not have an examination tower, thus the students from other academies would flock to the few cities that had examination towers. The Fang family¡¯s horse carriage made its way to Luojiang Examination Tower. The venue was crowded with parents who were sending off their children and attending servants. Including the candidates, the crowd had 100,000 to 200,000 people. The number was significant. Under the foggy autumn rain, Luojiang Examination Tower was bustling with activity. Thankfully, the authorized official stepped up and cleared a path for the students to enter the examination tower. The state of the crowd became more orderly then. ¡°Son, rx. Just do your best and we won¡¯t have regrets! Even if you fail, I have the inns, the market streets and acres of fertile soils for you. Don¡¯t feel too pressured by this!¡± Old Fang said agitatedly as the umbre in his hand wavered. His words drew the attention of the apanying parents around them. Fang Lang smiled and made a sound of acknowledgement. Then, he flicked away a drop of rain from his green robe before striding into the examination tower, examination handbook in hand. Before the crimson gates of the tower, he presented the handbook to the official. He was allowed into the venue. Old Fang did not leave. He stood guard under the autumn rain outside Luojiang Examination Tower, peering expectantly at the gates. ... The autumn chill was brought upon by the rain. Wen Ting stood on the top floor of the Mentors¡¯ Office. He was dressed in a bamboo hat and drab clothing. A swordid in his arms, the hilt facing the gray skies. Headmaster Cui glided across the autumn rain¡ªhe nced in the direction of Luojiang Examination Tower with a smile. ¡°ording to the news from the Imperial City, this year¡¯s examination is heralded as the toughest one in two centuries. The grand chancellor, Lu Taixuan, personally wrote the papers. Some even say the one deep within the pce had a hand in drafting the questions. Rumor has it... The question has something to do with the Jiang family...¡± Headmaster Cui collected a drop of rain on his fingertip. With a profound expression, he said, ¡°No one can grasp the Emperor¡¯s intentions. Perhaps, this is a sign?¡± Wen Ting did not answer. His bamboo hat tipped forward and the rain water dripped from the brim. He stared at Luojiang Examination Tower and vaguely saw the students rushing into the examination venue. The chilly autumn rain could not dampen the exuberance of the young. This group of students were about to change their fates. Wen Ting hoped his three years of teachings would benefit them. Hopefully, they would live up to the standards of cultivation. ... Dang! The deep-sounding bell echoed within Luojiang Examination Tower, even reaching the city beyond. With their handbooks, the students entered the hall. Within the main hall, dozens of red doors opened and armed men stood before them with stern expressions. In every examination hall, there were sharp-eyed examiners dispatched by the Ministry of Rites. Fang Lang passed the rune and quickly found his seat. Some students were deep in thought, some were taking deep breaths while some prepared their inkstones. Once all the candidates were in the hall, the invigting head examiner from the Ministry of Rites went through some reminders. Then, he activated his spiritual sense and touched a rune. The heavy curtains along the long corridors in the examination tower closed shut, silencing the rain and noise from the outside. Once the invigting spell was activated, the head examiner and fellow examiners waited patiently for the bell that signified the start of the Imperial Examination. The whole room was as silent as a graveyard and the atmosphere was solemn. Dang! The second bell sounded. The head examiner, who was dressed in an official robe, opened his eyes¡ªlight shone in his eyes. ¡°Begin!¡± At that, the other examiners distributed the papers. The crinkling papers sounded as loud as a downpour. Fang Lang prepared his inkstone and let the wolf wool brush absorb the ink. His eyes fell on the examination paper. The heady scent of ink filled his nostrils as a thought crossed his mind. Within the span of his two lives, this was likely the most life-altering examination he would ever sit for. ... In the Imperial City, Changan Examination Tower. The beautiful Jiang Linglong pulled back her sleeves. Her brush touched parchment. ... Ni Wen bit her lower lip. Her face was pale but with determination, she began writing. ... Liu Bubai held his head high. Confident as always, his brush moved like a flight sword. ... The drizzle continued outside Luojiang Examination Tower. A smile crossed Fang Lang¡¯s face. Ink smudged as his brush moved along the paper. Chapter 68 - This Boy Has Signs of an Honor Roll Student

Chapter 68: This Boy Has Signs of an Honor Roll Student

The Tang Dynasty¡¯s Imperial Examinationsted for three days. The first two days were simr to academy examinations. The first day consisted of the theoretical assessment: poetry, policy and demon tongue. The only difference was the Imperial Examination had no breaks in between the papers. Once the examination started, all three papers would be distributed and they had toplete them within the allocated time. The second day involved thebat assessment, split into written and practical sections. The third day was the core evaluation. After the core evaluation, the results would be released the next day. The Imperial Examination was not tooplicated. Truthfully, it was simr to the examination the students took in their three years in the academy. The weight of the Imperial Examinationid in the fact that it decided a cultivator¡¯s fate. ... Brushes moved like slithering snakes across the white rice paper, eliciting rustling sounds. Fang Lang was wholly-focused on his calligraphy. In all honesty, he was not at all anxious. Perhaps it was his personality¡ªwhen the going got tough, Fang Lang¡¯s nerves became steel. He answered a series of questions about the Tang Dynasty¡¯s history and the demon world. As long as one spent some time memorizing the notes before the Imperial Examination, the questions were easy to answer. The questions were a breeze to Fang Lang. He let out a short breath and let his vision slide. He stared at the poetry paper. One could submit a poem or a vite. Most importantly, the writing had to bring out the main theme with a direct approach. A vague entry would earn a candidate meager scores for the poetry section. Fang Lang focused his mind and looked at the question. He read out the lines under his breath. ¡°Year 266 of the Tang Dynasty, the Lon Demon Portal had an uprising. Those of impure blood from Xijiang joined forces with a hundred thousand demons and broke out from the portal borders. Blood drenched thends of Xijiang and countless Tang Dynasty cultivators fell during the battle. ¡°Martial Arts King Jiang led his forces from Changan and engaged in a bloody battle at the Lon Demon Portal. He invited Taihua First Sword of Mount Shu to assist in the military expedition. Hundreds and thousands of demon carcasses littered the area and the demon horde was forced back to the Jade Pass and into the demon portal. ¡°Then, Martial Arts King Jiang and Taihua First Sword chased after the hordemander into the portal. The Martial Arts King returned severely injured and Taihua First Sword was lost, never to be seen again. Lon Demon Portal remains fractious and Tang Dynasty¡¯s sword mastery has stagnated since. Based on this scene,pose a poem or vite.¡± Fang Lang frowned as he realized what he was reading. A suspicious glinted shed across his eyes. ¡®Who came up with this question? ¡®What are they trying to do? ¡®Martial Arts King Jiang... Which Jiang is this? ¡®Jiang Linglong¡¯s father?¡¯ Fang Lang did not expect the Imperial Examination to involve Martial Arts King Jiang. The tone of the message was vague¡ªwas it praise or a condemnation? However, the question was given to candidates throughout the empire, as if seeking judgment from the younger generation. In a way, it was akin to publicly shaming Martial Arts King Jiang for his mistake at Lon Demon Portal. Fang Lang did not hurry to answer. He rested his head on one palm while his other arm was folded on the desk. Ideas ran through his mind. Surprised gasps could be heard from the students around him. They were quickly silenced by the cold-hearted head examiner. ¡°Is this how the Tang Dynasty treats the Jiang family?¡± ¡°For the Jiang family to appear as a topic in the Imperial Examination. It seems they¡¯ve fallen from favor.¡± Fang Lang let out a slow breath. He had inadvertently offended the third prince and Donglu¡¯s God of des. This meant if he entered the Imperial City, he would be faced with an unfriendly environment. Fang Lang closed his eyes and calmed down. He arranged the vocabry in his mind for the poem. Whether the Martial Arts King Jiang was right or wrong, Fang Lang could not judge. As themander, the Martial Arts King Jiang¡¯s judgment was not wrong. However, he was to me for Taihua First Sword¡¯s disappearance in the demon portal. However, the examination asked for the candidates to use the scene as the setting. Anyone who wrote kindly about the topic would likely have fallen into the question¡¯s trap. Although the question had an obvious angle, biting down on the proffered fruit might not end well. Who knew what would result from a nderous work? The main focus of the poem was important, the background included Lon, the foreigners, demons... He could interpret the question as a request for a poem about the battler frontiers. For many students, war poems were not easy topose as theycked personal experience. Fang Lang was different from the average student. He had approximately 5,000 years of experience in him. Lon Demon Portal was located in Xijiang, deep within the green ins. There was a well-knownke called the Green Sea that melded with the snowy mountains and horizon. Fang Lang spent several minutes in thought. Then, he picked up his brush and dipped it in ink. Brush strokes stained the rice paper. ¡®Beyond the Green Ocean, the mile-long clouds cast shadows on the snowy mountains. A lonely city guards the Jade Pass. ¡®Battles after battles, with weary armor we fight. If Lon is not taken, we shan¡¯t find respite.¡¯ A poem was born. The brush strokes were firm as Fang Lang wrote. He ended the poem with a flourish. The Martial Arts King¡¯s actions were not for Fang Lang to judge but the story had elements beyond him. The city guarding Lon Demon Portal, the bloodstained Jade Pass and the countless warriors of the empire were all important aspects of the scene. Once done, Fang Lang ced the script aside for the ink to dry. He brought out the policy paper and continued answering. The elegance of the poetry managed to clear his mind. The policy paper was a thesis-writing paper. Compared to the poetry section, it was much easier yet it still required significant brain power. The discussion was to be centered around the current affairs in the Tang Dynasty. After the unification of the Tang Dynasty, the surrounding foreign cities paid tribute to the Tang Dynasty. Many foreign cities were willing to guard the demon portals to show fealty to the Tang Dynasty. This generated discussions about the empire¡¯s treatment of foreigners. A court official suggested elevating the strong cultivators into official positions¡ªthey would assist to guard the borders and minimize conflict with the outside. That was the policy paper¡¯s main topic. Fang Lang raised an eyebrow. He thought about the question and wrote a draft of ideas. Luojiang Examination Tower was dead silent. Under the silencing spell, the only sound heard was the brush moving on paper. Even the sound of raindrops striking y tiles were muted. The head examiner was seated high above with a stony expression, dressed in an official robe. A few examiners were walking among the rows of candidates. Their presence made candidates wary of their movements. One of the examiners was behind Fang Lang and saw the poetry paper drying by the side of his desk. He took a second to study the work. The examiner was surprised by the speed at which the candidate finished the poetry section. The examiner stopped his footsteps. He did not touch the paper¡ªhe was not supposed to. The poem was not long. He read the creation. ¡®Battles after battles, with weary armor we fight. If Lon is not taken, we shan¡¯t find respite.¡¯ This line alone reverberated with the Tang Dynasty cultivators who guarded the faraway demon portals. The examiner was hit with shbacks of when he and his fellowrades fought on the battlefield. As memories clouded his mind, he could not resistplimenting. ¡°Excellent!¡± The man¡¯s voice resounded in the silence of the hall. Every candidate turned to look¡ªthere was a mixture of shock, wonderment and anger in the sea of faces. Even Fang Lang was startled by the exmation. He nearly spilled his ink onto the paper. The examiner realized his mistake and color drained from his face. He turned to look at the head examiner who was staring daggers at him. How f*cking excellent! The head examiner¡¯s eyes seemed to scream at him. However, before the examiner was escorted away, he gave Fang Lang a thumbs up. ¡®I like this poem! This boy has signs of an honor roll student!¡¯ The examiner was ushered away by the head examiner. A soundless reprimandter, the examiner disappeared from the examination hall. The Imperial Examination carried on. Fang Lang¡¯s mind went back to the topic of foreign policy. Putting foreigners in official positions and letting them guard the borders in order to reduce rising tensions... Fang Lang¡¯s eyebrows furrowed as he dipped his brush in ink. After a long while, a determined look appeared in his eyes. He wrote down the main clincher of the essay: ¡®Those who are not us are different in attitude and views. They are not to be considered as part of the Tang Dynasty.¡¯ The sound of the autumn rain continued. The head examiner took over the role of patrolling the hall. He walked past Fang Lang. The boy¡¯s work had elicited a response from the other examiner. Curious, he nced at the boy¡¯s opening line for the policy essay. Huh? ¡®Those who are not us are different in attitude and views...¡¯ The head examiner was shocked. His eyes twinkled and the glow grew brighter like the first light of dawn. Blood rushed to his head and he could not resist expressing his approval. ¡°Good!¡± Chapter 69 - Recommended! Highly Recommended!

Chapter 69: Rmended! Highly Rmended!

¡°Good!¡± The praise went off like a grenade. Heads turned and angry res were shot in the direction of the noise. Even Fang Lang had a dark expression. ¡®Again? Is there an end to this? ¡®All we want is toplete the examination.¡¯ The furious stares made the head examiner shiver. He made a mistake. The atmosphere was incredibly awkward. However, the head examiner maintained a coolposure and said, ¡°Good...ness, that examiner will no longer be invigting. Everyone, focus on your papers. Don¡¯t make a ruckus, don¡¯t look around!¡± With that, he continued walking down the aisle as if nothing had happened. A distance away, the examiner who had been pulled away for his outburst chewed his lip. ¡®An old fox, no wonder you¡¯re the head examiner.¡¯ The head examiner had a knowing smile as he passed Fang Lang¡¯s desk. He did not take a peek at the boy¡¯s writing despite his curiosity. As the head examiner of Luojiang Examination Tower, he had some insider knowledge about the topics in this Imperial Examination. The policy paper was prepared by the right administrator, Li Puyi, and the grand chancellor, Lu Taixuan. Both men were in the third prince¡¯s camp. This topic was highly debated in the courts and had caused many arguments. The issue of reliance on foreign manpower, the establishment of the individual border regiments, having individual cities responsible for the demon portals on the frontiers... The Emperor had yet to provide a response about said topic. The head examiner was on the opposing camp, hence when he saw Fang Lang¡¯s opening line, he was deeply intrigued. ... Fang Lang concentrated and continued writing. With the opening line, he clearly stated his stance on the issue. After all, staying on the fence was the worst way to handle a policy paper. This was a different world and the Tang Dynasty in this dimension was unlike the one in his previous life, but certain simrities still existed. In terms of the foreign policy, there were ovepping areas. Having the foreign cultivators lead the frontier armies could work but if their powers went unchecked, the foreignmanders would enlist more foreigners and unbnce the military poption. The imbnce would cause a rift within the empire. The Tang Dynasty here might face a different fate as the Tang Dynasty of before but it did not cost to be cautious. ¡®Those who are not us are different in attitude and views.¡¯ The line he wrote echoed such sentiments. There was no guarantee the foreign cultivators would not have ulterior motives after achieving power, therefore a check and bnce had to be enforced. Other than foreign powers, the Tang Dynasty had to concern itself with the demon world. ording to the textbooks, many of the foreign tribes had suffered at the hands of the demons¡ªmany had demon blood flowing in their veins. This was theplicated part of the issue as the policy involved not only the Tang Dynasty and the foreigners, but also demons. Fang Lang¡¯s brush ran along the paper rhythmically¡ªeach aspect of his argument was clearly detailed. Time ticked by as Fang Lang poured his heart into the policy essay. Once the essay wasplete, Fang Lang took some time to recuperate and reorganize his thoughts before continuing on to the demon tongue paper. It did not take long for Fang Lang toplete the section. When the autumn day came to an end, candidates in Luojiang Examination Tower began handing up their papers. The officials led the students out of the venue. The sun was resting on the western horizon by then. Fang Langpleted thest question of the demon tongue paper and proceeded to double check his answers before choosing to submit his exam script. An examiner came to his desk and gave Fang Lang a once over. Satisfied, he took Fang Lang¡¯s papers and ced them within a special seble bag. Fang Lang left the examination tower. As he exited the silencing spell area, the noise of the rain and the chatter of the students outside fought to gain his attention. The rowdiness was amplified after the silence. The theoretical assessment wasplete. Fang Lang had no idea what his scores would be. The scoring of the policy paper was very much subjective. If the grader appreciated his views, the scores would receive a boost. Otherwise, his scores would suffer a minor loss. However, his essay showcased a solid stance on the issue so a bottom-of-the-barrel grade would be unwarranted. The noise level outside the examination tower was over the top. As students exited Luojiang Examination Tower, discussions were abound and the apanying attendees who stood outside joined in the conversation. Many candidates had gloomy expressions, some were kneeling on the ground in agony. ¡°What a gruelling assessment!¡± ¡°I filled up my script but I don¡¯t even know what I wrote.¡± ¡°I¡¯m done for sure. That question about the foreign policy... My mentor never mentioned anything about the topic...¡± A majority of the candidates looked utterly despondent as sighs of despair filled the area. Seeing that, the cheer of the apanying attendees turned sour. Fang Lang followed the stream of candidates out of Luojiang Examination Tower. He bumped into the extremely confident Liu Bubai. The boy was giving off an aura that screamed ¡®I¡¯m a genius!¡¯. Liu Bubai was confident and came out of the examination hall in a happy mood. Most importantly, he could not be carried to victory in the Imperial Examination. Without that possibility, his motivation to showcase his talents rose and he wrote his answers with vigor. The determination and enthusiasm of a burgeoning genius came back to Liu Bubai. ¡°Lang¡¯zi! How did it go for you? These theory papers are surprisingly difficult. The poetry section and that policy paper! What a killer exam! But I have faith that I¡¯ll get into the honor roll!¡± Liu Bubai said confidently at Fang Lang. Fang Lang cocked an eye and said, ¡°Oh? How did you answer the policy question?¡± As the two boys walked, they discussed the policy essay question. Liu Bubai smirked and lifted his chin. ¡°Naturally I disagree with using the foreign tribes for our military. The Tang Dynasty is vast and powerful, why should we rely on foreign cultivators? Do we not have strong warriors within our empire? I think it¡¯s quite a dumb question to be debated. I wonder who set it? The person has no faith in their own self, their own empire! Trash!¡± Fang Lang was speechless. ¡®What candid words...¡¯ He wondered how the grader would grade such candor. Fang Lang caught sight of Old Fang amidst the tightly-packed crowd. He parted ways with Liu Bubai and went to his father. Together, they left the crowd behind and rode away in the carriage. When they arrived at the Fang Manor, Fang Lang retired to his part of the house to continue cultivating. He began absorbing the spirit crystals in order to increase his cultivation for tomorrow¡¯sbat assessment. ... Three flight swords tore through the hazy autumn sky likeets, the flight sword runes spinning at full speed. The head examiner for Luojiang Examination Tower was escorted by two imperial examiners as they ferried the candidate¡¯s exam scripts to the Imperial City, Changan. Despite the darkening sky, Changan was brightly lit¡ªit was known as the city that never sleeps. Flight swords arrived from all parts of the empire, couriering the examination papers of the empire¡¯s student body. The autumn rain was interrupted by numerous flying bodies. Tens of thousands of flight swords zoomed into the ancient city. Changan would witness this phenomenon for every Imperial Examination. In Changan¡¯srgest inn, the Moonlight Inn. The high ceilings and the decorative carvings on the walls announced the establishment¡¯s luxury and extravagance. The rainfall battered the ck roof tiles, causing water to ssh into the air. In the Heaven¡¯s Sign private room, two silhouettes sat by the railing. They had a chessboard between them. As they yed, they admired the streaking flight swords that flew in from all corners of the Tang Dynasty. ¡°The theoretical assessment has ended.¡± ¡°This year¡¯s questions are intriguing indeed.¡± Dressed in a fine robe, the man of the upper crust exuded an inexplicable charm. Opposite him was an old man of rotund physique. The elder had a long beard and a twinkle in his eye. The old man picked up a chess piece and made his move. ¡°Your orders have been sent forward. That Fang fellow will be pitied, an innocent caught in the Jiang family¡¯s debacle.¡± The man from the upper ss smiled faintly. ¡°This boy, Fang Lang, was able to kill Lin Yun. He clearly has some talent. The graders will take a closer look at his papers. If he truly has merit, he¡¯ll rise above all. ¡°The Imperial Examination was created by the Emperor, it is as sacred as thew. Raising the difficulty of the examination is within reason. The higher standards will separate the wheat from the chaff, a benefit to the empire as a whole.¡± The old man stroked his beard andughed. ¡°The third prince is right. I concur, raising the bar brings more boon than bane.¡± Then, their conversation moved on from the Imperial Examination. Fang Lang was just a footnote in their dialogue. They were more focused on tackling the Jiang family. The third prince had a smirk on his face as he moved his chess piece. The countless flight swords reflected in his eyes as he gazed upon the rainyndscape of Changan. ... The Ministry of Rites, the Tang Dynasty. Droves and droves of flightswordsnded. The runes were deactivated and the head examiners dded in official robes made their way into the guarded pce. The corridors within were brightly lit. Inside the pce, the official graders were on standby. After a round of distribution, the oilmps were lit and the grading began. ¡°Secure the area, check the scripts, seal the names! Examiners, please step back. ¡°Nomunication, no whispering!¡± The pce¡¯s red gates were shut tight. The intense grading session was beginning. The papers from Luojiang Examination Tower were being marked by a group of graders. The lead grader was an old man with eagle-sharp eyes. Under the orders of the right administrator, he went through the papers from Luojiang City with a fine-toothb. Such treatment was not out of the ordinary and was not against the rule. If the candidate was of caliber, even the strictest grader would not make a significant difference in the final score. The me in the oilmps flickered. Desks were lined in orderly fashion in the pce hall. Silence permeated, only broken by the asional rustling of papers. Seconds ticked away and the night turned to day. In the zone designated for the Luojiang Examination Tower scripts, a grader had his brows knitted. He took a sip of tea to vanquish the lethargy after a whole night of reading. However, he did not lower his marking standards one bit as instructed by his superior. Therefore, candidates who straddled the qualification line were irrevocably failed. ¡®What nonsense! Did they even read the poetry question? Passing judgment on the Martial Arts King? ¡®An inexperienced youngling weighing in on the Martial Arts King¡¯s actions? What rubbish! ¡®Irrelevant poem! Useless!¡¯ For the policy paper, the answers came in a variety of perspectives. At times, the grader nearly had his breathing stop due to the anger he felt. One candidate done, another set of papers to be graded. He went through the easy part of the assessment. Full marks for the objective questions. The grader was unperturbed¡ªit was not the first time a candidate received a perfect score for the section. Then, he went on to the poetry paper. Huh? From the barracks? The poem¡¯s perspective was unique¡ªthere was no mention of the Martial Arts King Jiang. The old grader¡¯s eyebrows rose as he perused the work. ¡®Battles after battles, with weary armor we fight. ¡®If Lon is not taken, we shan¡¯t find respite.¡¯ The grader¡¯s eyes were wide when he was done with the poem. His body trembled with emotions. The piece of poetry had stood out among the hazy sea of unimaginative answers. Like a beacon in the dark, the poem touched the old grader¡¯s heart. He suppressed the intense emotions in his chest and continued grading the candidate¡¯s policy paper. His face was flushed when he was done reading the policy essay¡ªhis body vibrated with the surge of feelings. Like an uncivilized, drunken man, he let out an untactful squeal. ¡°Amazing!¡± His voice reverberated in the silent hall. Many graders were startled by the sudden outburst¡ªtea was spilled and brushes were dropped. The old grader was unconcerned. He lifted the candidate¡¯s papers and turned to the head grader. Red-faced, he called out with much enthusiasm. ¡°Rmended! Highly rmended!¡± Chapter 70 - The Name, Fang Lang

Chapter 70: The Name, Fang Lang

Beyond the sealed doors of the pce, eyes turned to stare at the excited grader. A grader could nominate exceptional works to be evaluated by the lead grader. However, graders would often shortlist a few candidates and perform a round of detailedparison before putting forth rmendations. It was rare to witness graders unabashedly shout out a rmendation in the midst of grading. ¡°Silence!¡± The head grader in the hall shushed. ¡°Provide your reasoning for the nomination and hand it over to the lead grader responsible for your zone. I will have a look as well.¡± That was the proper nomination process. The head grader followed the procedure meticulously though a part of him was eager to see what had elicited such a huge response from the fellow grader. A nomination meant the grader deemed the candidate¡¯s work was worth a perfect score. The lead grader who was responsible for Luojiang Examination Tower had a dark expression. He had just received orders from the right administrator to be more stringent when it came to the Luojiang City papers, yet his subordinate nominated a candidate¡¯s work? It was a p to the lead grader¡¯s face. The lead grader was aware the instructions came down from the third prince. Therefore, he had to be thorough when checking the nomination. Silence fell over the room again as the graders got back to grading. The grader who was responsible for the outburst was writing down his reason for the rmendation with utmost zeal. In the eyes of this grader, the candidate¡¯s poem was terrific. However, what made him squeal was the answer to the policy question. The pragmatic views elicited strong emotions from him. The foresight and long-term nning detailed in the essay was the reason why the grader was taken aback. He handed over the candidate¡¯s exam script and the nomination slip to the lead grader in charge of Luojiang Examination Tower. The unfriendly gaze of his superior deterred him from staying any longer. He scurried back to his seat and continued grading the rest of the papers. The lead grader cleared his throat. He rustled the papers and let his eyes roam through the writing, a critical look on his face. He would grade this work with the highest requirements. ¡®The memorization and history questions were objective by nature. There¡¯s no point picking at this section.¡¯ The lead grader carried on to the next section. Gradually, his expression changed. When he finished reading the poem, he let out a breath. The poem was written with great ir and there was not much to criticize. The next page! The lead grader¡¯s expression was unpleasant but he continued the evaluation. His eyes widened as he read the opening line for the policy essay. Unknowingly, the lead grader was captivated by the well-thought-out discussions put forth in the policy essay. After a long moment, he huffed out a breath. ¡°The right administrator? The third prince? Who were they in the face of the sacred Imperial Examination? ¡°To bury this work would be a sin!¡± The poem was secondary. The foresight presented in the candidate¡¯s policy essay was astounding. The lead grader could not bury such talent. He took a deep breath and picked up his brush. He marked the script as nominated. ... The night grew darker. In the depths of the pce, a figureid on his side before the desk. A jug of wine stood on the desk. The figure grabbed the jug and poured¡ªthe stream of alcohol swirled in the cup. He gulped down the cup of wine and let out a sigh. Then, he retrieved the sheathed sword on the desk. Under the orange candlelight, he pulled out the sword and admired the carvings on the de. Outside the door, the head grader had arrived. The man entered politely with a bow. ¡°Chancellor Lu.¡± The figure inside put down the sword and took a sip of wine. With a smile, he said, ¡°Yes?¡± The head grader handed up a sheet of papers. ¡°This submission has been nominated for the perfect score in this round of examinations. As the preparer of the Imperial Examination, please have a look.¡± Lu Taixuan took the examination script. He flipped through the papers and read the entries. A momentter, Lu Taixuan picked up the jug of wine and chugged down a good portion of it. ¡°Great wine for the great poetry! ¡°Excellent essay!¡± The head grader was surprised by the grand chancellor¡¯s reaction. Joy danced in the head grader¡¯s eyes¡ªif Chancellor Lu agreed with the policy essay, it would be used as a standard for the grading. The head grader left the building. Back in the grading hall, he announced that answers rejecting the individual border regiment policy would be granted bonus marks. ... On the tenth of August, thebat assessment began. The autumn rain stopped in the middle of the night. The temperature fell a few degrees, suggesting some light snow was to be expected. Fang Lang¡¯s forehead was beaded with sweat. He gradually opened his eyes and breathed out. He had used another Physical Buff Card to strengthen his physical body. However, since he had graduated from the rank of disciple, the Physical Buff Card did not work as effectively and the pain was much more manageable. He stretched before getting up and changing into a fresh set of green robes. He stepped out of his room and basked in the sunlight. He exhaled a breath of stale air. After breakfast, he took the carriage and arrived at Luojiang Examination Tower with Old Fang. Like the day before, the venue was filled with candidates and theirpanions. People milled around the shut gates of the examination tower, waiting for the admissions to begin. Dang! The familiar bell rang. A rustling sound was heard as candidates clutched at their examination handbook and shuffled forward. Fang Lang bade farewell to his father and entered the examination hall. He took his seat at the same desk. Thebat assessment was split into the written and practical sections, just like the academy examinations. The morning was the written section, the afternoon was the practicalbat. For most students, a whole morning was sufficient toplete the written assessment. For Fang Lang who was aiming for the highest distinction, the time might not be in his favor. He wanted to answer all major sections of the three masteries¡ªevery second had to be utilized to the fullest! When the bell rang for the second time, the head examiner materialized a stack of papers from his space ring. He ordered the examiners to distribute the papers. Every candidate received threerge piles of papers. Each paper represented one mastery and contained a major studies section and a minor studies section. Candidates had to answer at least one major studies section in order to qualify for abat written score. Fang Lang raised his brush and dipped it in ink. He started with the sword mastery paper. His answers spilled onto the paper like an ocean wave, quick and unrelenting. Like the theoretical assessment, the difficulty for this year¡¯s paper was hiked up a notch. Candidates in the Luojiang Examination Tower were anxious in their seats. Despite the cool autumn climate, many candidates were sweating. Some had tears in their eyes while others chewed on their brushes. Eyes were darting left and right, the candidates looking as if they would faint any moment. Unlike the theoretical assessment which allowed for freeform writing, the written section for thebat assessment was incredibly specialized. If one did not know the answer, no amount of hand-wringing and nail-biting would help. Minutes and hours passed. Several candidates could not stand the pressure and decided to hand in their papers as is. Some answered whatever they could before submitting the papers. Fang Lang never stopped writing since the bell rang. His spiritual sense was in overdrive as thoughts fired in his mind. He answered one question after another. There were 108 questions in the major section of the sword mastery paper. Hepleted every single one of them. His answer sheet was filled with his flowy handwriting. Then, he picked the spell mastery¡¯s major section and took a deep breath. He began answering the 108 questions. The morning sun crept slowly across the sky. Soon, it reached the apex and warm light cascaded overhead. Luojiang Examination Tower barely had any candidates left. This year¡¯s paper was too difficult and the majority of candidates decided to give up. They ced their hopes in the uing practicalbat. In the cavernous hall, Fang Lang was the only green robe left. He focused on his writing. The hall was dead silent but for the rustling of a single candidate¡¯s brush. Several examiners held cups in their hands, asionally ncing at Fang Lang. The boy was ambitious to answer three major sections. However, he must be careful not to bite off more than he could chew. Each paper required a certain level of specialization and if something was amiss, it might backfire and cause a bad impression. Moreover, in the previous Imperial Examinations, no one had sessfullypleted all three major sections. No one! Dang! Thest bell rang. The head examiner stood up and shouted, ¡°Time¡¯s up! Put down your brushes!¡± Fang Lang made hisst stroke and mmed his brush down on the desk. He exhaled deeply. He stood up and folded his hands. He took a deep bow before the examiners and left the examination hall by his lonesome. When the examiner collected his papers, he was shocked to find all 328 questions answered. The boy hadpleted all three major sections! ... In the Tang Dynasty¡¯s Ministry of Rites. The theoretical assessment score was published. Zhao Wuji brought the carriage to a halt at the entrance of the ministry. The blinds of the carriage were swept aside and out came a tall and slender woman. The beautiful woman had exquisite features. Zhao Wuji trailed behind the woman respectfully. As they entered the main hall of the Ministry of Rites, they encountered the third prince and the right administrator, Li Puyi. The third prince gave the beautiful woman a gentle smile. ¡°Princess.¡± Princess Pei Shi was Jiang Linglong¡¯s mother. After a polite exchange of greetings, she carried on walking into the hall. In the horizon, a sh of light zoomed through the autumn sky, tearing through the clouds. The flight sword slowed down and a white-robed, white-haired man disembarked. Chao Xiaojian strode fearlessly into the main hall, chest and abdomen exposed. Chao Xiaojian¡¯s appearance took both the third prince and the princess by surprise. The undisciplined Chao Xiaojian had never cared for the Imperial Examination. Why was he there to check on the theoretical assessment results? ¡°I¡¯m here to check on that kid¡¯s results. He dared to turn down my invitation to join the Sword Guild. Let me see what he¡¯s capable of. I¡¯m gonna mock him if his results are barely passing.¡± Chao Xiaojian grinned. His hair was white as snow. Hearing the mentioned name, the third prince smirked. With his instructions, that boy should not stand a chance in the Imperial Examination. A series of footsteps sounded¡ªthe Minister of Rites and a few other officials walked out with the scores The scroll unfurled inch by inch. Zhao Wuji¡¯s eyes were locked on the top position. His eyes went wide and he let out a shocked cry when he saw the results. Chao Xiaojian muttered a curse under his breath. He was agitated. ¡®How?¡¯ The smirk on the third prince¡¯s face disappeared when he saw the name at the top of the list. It was a metaphorical p across his face. ¡°Fang Lang, Luojiang Academy, 150 points.¡± Fang Lang¡¯s name was at the very top of the theoretical assessment scoreboard. He was the best and the brightest! Chapter 71 - I Don’t Like to Be Beaten

Chapter 71: I Don¡¯t Like to Be Beaten

Silence reigned in the main hall of the Ministry of Rites. No one spoke¡ªthe third prince, Li Puyi, Chao Xiaojian and Zhao Wuji were all speechless. They were still digesting the surprise. Fang Lang took the first ce in the theoretical assessment. Although it did not mean he was the overall champion of the Imperial Examination, it was still an impressive feat. The Tang Dynasty¡¯s Imperial Examination was split into theory andbat. Therefore, there was a champion for theory and another champion forbat. If a candidate achieved the highest distinction for both theory andbat, they would be the undisputed champion of the Imperial Examination. This meant Fang Lang was the champion of the theoretical assessment. If Fang Lang were to fail thebat practical section for some reason, he would still be able to gain a seat in the courts. The third prince¡¯s expression turned somber. The right administrator, Li Puyi, raised an eyebrow. That did not make sense! He had intentionally instructed the lead grader responsible for Luojiang Examination Tower to be more stringent with the papers. The champion for the theoretical assessment should not havee from Luojiang City! The silence was broken by a surprised gasp. ¡°Huh? Ling¡¯er is in third ce.¡± Princess Pei Shi¡¯s surprised tone rang out in the quiet hall. In second ce was the talented Ximen Xianxian from Changan Academy. The boy was predicted to be the champion for the theoretical assessment. Although his cultivation was average, he showed promise in poetry and policies, surprising everyone in Changan Academy. The boy had frequented the entertainment house andposed poems for every Queen of Flowers. The neverending poetry touched the hearts of thedies. The most outstanding Queen of Flowers even permitted Ximen Xianxian to enter her courtyard without paying a single coin. He was free toe and go as he pleased. Everyone had expected Ximen Xianxian to take the first ce but here he was in second. The princess stared at the top name. Her red lips chewed on the sybles. ¡°Fang Lang... ¡°Old Zhao, this... Is this the person Ling¡¯er has been mentioning?¡± the princess turned to ask. The question made Zhao Wuji feel extremely awkward. He pushed down the fear in his chest and nodded. ¡®Yes, this is the boy who¡¯s trying to pick at your garden...¡¯ A surprise look crossed the princess¡¯s face. The beautiful eyes nced at the third prince. The princess covered her mouth and let out huff. Then, she exited the main hall smiling, with Old Zhao in tow. The third prince and the right administrator¡¯s expressions darkened after that. The third prince turned to Li Puyi and asked coldly, ¡°What happened?¡± His voice was augmented by his spiritual sense. ¡°Are you actively working against me? There¡¯s not one but two Luojiang candidates in the top ten... Who is this tenth ce, Liu Bubai? What happened to lifting the bar?¡± Li Puyi was at a loss. He did not expect things to turn out this way. After all, he had passed on the order. He could only maintain hisposure and say, ¡°Maybe something went wrong with the theoretical assessment grading. However, there¡¯s still the practical section of thebat assessment. I¡¯ve made arrangements for that. Rest assured, Your Highness.¡± The Minister of Rites overheard the chatter and chuckled. He came to rify the situation. ¡°The champion was decided by Chancellor Lu. He read the policy essay and set it as the standard. A few candidates got bonus marks as a result and made it into the top ten.¡± An exnation for the phenomenon. Chancellor Lu? Lu Taixuan! The third prince¡¯s eyes narrowed. Then, he put on a stiff smile and dusted his sleeves. He turned and left regally. ... The written section of thebat assessment ended. After an hour of rest, the practicalbat would begin in the afternoon. Tenbat halls were built into the examination towers. The candidates lined up ording to the details in their handbook and moved to the individualbat halls in groups. Fang Lang¡¯s handbook indicated he was bound for the sixthbat hall. His candidate number was 366. Under the guidance of the court officials, Fang Lang arrived at the sixthbat hall¡¯s preparation area. Many candidates sat cross-legged in the preparation area, moderating their energy for the actualbat. There were a few candidates who were absorbing spirit crystals up till the veryst minute. Fang Lang scanned his surroundings and found a familiar face. Liu Hao was staring at him with aplex reaction. Liu Hao pretended he did not know Fang Lang. However, he despaired when he realized by random assortment, he was assigned the number right after Fang Lang. Ever since Fang Lang was ranked first in the academy, Liu Hao realized he had underestimated his nemesis. Fang Lang was a ninth-grade sword disciple but after the trip to the Spirit Pagoda, he might have advanced to a sword master ss. The sixth-ranked Liu Hao was no match for him. Liu Hao ignored Fang Lang. There were no good memories between them despite being ssmates. Fang Lang smiled and sat down. He regted his spiritual energy. The preparation area was silent. Dang! The practicalbat assessment was beginning! Under the examiners¡¯ instructions, the candidates removed their space rings. Some space rings had defensive runes and thus were forbidden in thebat examination. Candidates were also not allowed to bring spell talismans into thebat zone¡ªit was considered cheating. Fang Lang removed the two space rings he owned and patiently waited. Moments after the beginning of the practical assessment, candidates who exited thebat hall were found to be covered with bruises. Some had shaking limbs while others fell onto their knees in despair. The morale of the candidates in the preparation area were severely impacted. This round of Imperial Examination seemed different from the previous years. Many candidates¡¯ performance suffered and affected their results. A Ministry of Rites official entered the preparation area with a thin book in hand and shouted, ¡°Number 366.¡± Fang Lang stood and followed the official out of the preparation area. ¡°Weapons and spell casters are allowed. Spell talismans and medicinal pills are prohibited. If found, your score will be zero,¡± the official reminded sternly at the entrance of thebal hall. After a search, Fang Lang entered thebat hall with two swords in his sword box. The door closed behind him. Hum. Inside thebat hall, the walls, ceiling and floor were filled with rune carvings that were glowing. His surroundings began to shift. ¡°The timekeeping spell is in effect. Engage with your opponent, your performance will be graded. The longer youst, the higher your grade. Randomizing battle arena. ¡°Arena chosen: Winter Temple.¡± The illusion spell made Fang Lang¡¯s world spin. White filled his eyes¡ªan endless expanse of snow appeared before him. Snow was falling at a rapid pace, resulting inyers andyers of white. Ten paces away, an old and crumbling Mountain God temple was covered by snow. Fang Lang gazed beyond the temple. He could hear the sound of heavy footsteps on snow. In the far distance, a silhouette in clinking armor was approaching. The practicalbat for the Imperial Examination was truly different from the academy examinations. The atmosphere itself was vastly different. When the armored figure was 15 meters away, he stopped and revealed his face. The man had sharp features and wore a faint smile. ¡°To be given the chance to pummel the Tang Dynasty students, what a blessing! I¡¯m d to be chosen as the examiner for practicalbat,¡± the figure said. The malicious intent surprised Fang Lang. The figure continued speaking, ¡°I am the subordinate and bodyguard of General Asi Luoshan. Third-ss, first-grade martial arts master, blood-bending realm. The longer youst against me, the higher your score. However, I will not hold back. I¡¯ll trash you and let you gain not a single point.¡± The figure¡¯s warm breath was visible in the cold weather. ¡°I enjoy beating up you academy students. Students of the Tang Dynasty who im to be geniuses. To me, you¡¯re nothing but dog shit. The children in my tribe can ride horses and shoot arrows at the age of seven, theirbat prowess is unbeatable. What can students like you do? Probably still ying with dirt,¡± the figure mocked cruelly. His voice was booming and his tone was cynical. Fang Lang just raised an eyebrow and studied the man with a cool disposition. A foreigner. The examiner for the practical section was a foreign cultivator! No wonder the candidates were beaten badly. Who allowed a foreign cultivator to be the examiner? Which dumb*ss made the decision? Just horrible! Fang Lang wondered if all the practical assessments in the Tang Dynasty were examined by foreigners or it was just Luojiang City. Realization hit him as he recalled the policy question and figured it was just the Luojiang Examination Tower that received such treatment. Having a foreigner as the examiner was likely a ploy by the high-ranking officials who supported utilizing the foreign tribes militarily. As to why Luojiang Examination Tower was selected as the testing ground, Fang Lang could only guess it had to do with their third prince. Regardless, Fang Lang was in a pickle. The sharp-eyed foreigner with an aquiline nose stared at Fang Lang like he was prey. A hint of savagery shed in his eyes. Fang Lang pulled out the Obsidian Sword from his sword box. The ck sword was a contrast to the white, snowy backdrop. ¡®Ding! Honor Mission activated. ¡®Honor Mission: A cultivator should honor their ethnicity and fight for their own kind. Defeat the foreign examiner and defend the Tang Dynasty¡¯s honor! The host will be rewarded with Splitting Punch (Martial Arts Mastery Specialty),¡¯ the System chimed. Fang Lang¡¯s calm eyes roamed. In the distance, the sharp-featured foreign cultivator let out a shrill cry and drew his sword tied at the waist. His vital energy roared and a series of afterimages appeared. Snow billowed in response to the disy of power. Whoosh! The disturbed snow transformed into a spiralling white dragon that blocked Fang Lang¡¯s line of sight. Suddenly, a de sliced through the curtain of whiteness. Beyond the snowy curtain, the foreign cultivator grinned malevolently as he closed in on Fang Lang. The sword was aimed at Fang Lang¡¯s skull and swung with brutish force. The intention was to cleave open the boy¡¯s head and let his insides spill all over the snowy ground. In that crucial moment, Fang Lang met the eyes of the cruel cultivator. ¡®You wish to beat me up? You want to trash me and let me gain not a single point? ¡®I don¡¯t like to be beaten so... Let¡¯s see who trashes who!¡¯ ng! The Obsidian Sword swept out in a graceful arc. Snowkes danced around Fang Lang and formed a white lotus bud. At that moment, Fang Lang concentrated. The whitendscape reflected in his eyes. ¡®Switch to Triple Binding Mode. Activate Power Loan Card with Jiang Linglong as the binding partner.¡¯ Swoosh! de energy suffused into the snowkes and caused a flurry. The foreign cultivator was approaching swiftly. In a sh, blood exploded from his body as he was flung back. He fell through the thicklyyered snow, carving a huge tunnel in the soft ground. Chapter 72 - Sir, My Hand Was Forced

Chapter 72: Sir, My Hand Was Forced

With the ever-present autumn rain, the temperature plummeted significantly and people were starting to put on their winter clothing. After the end of the practicalbat section, the Imperial Examination would officially conclude. The core evaluation on the third day was just a formality with no suspense. A person¡¯s core was unlikely to undergo any major changes throughout their lives. The autumn rain continued without an end in sight. At the rooftop of the Mentors¡¯ Office in Luojiang Academy, the wolfberry tea in Wen Ting¡¯s hand had cooled. Fine raindrops fell from the sky but none could touch him. The de energy surrounding Wen Ting kept him from being drenched. Suddenly, Wen Ting lifted his head and looked into the distance. A flight sword was streaking across the sky. As it approached, Wen Ting could make out the rider. Wen Ting was surprised and quickly masked his energy. Chao Xiaojian was here. ¡°Vice Leader Chao,¡± Wen Ting greeted with his hands folded. Chao Xiaojian disembarked and the flight sword returned to the sword box with a sh. He studied Wen Ting then smirked. ¡°There¡¯s no need to suppress your negligible cultivation. You had innate talent but sadly, it was wasted. As the saying went, women will weaken your sword. And yet you abandoned your sword for that woman.¡± Wen Ting only smiled in return. He was not angered by the words. ¡°Everyone has their method when ites to mastering the sword. My sword is different from yours.¡± Chao Xiaojian pursed his lips. ¡°You should stop masking your abilities. Prolonged suppression is damaging to your body.¡± Wen Ting smiled and asked curiously, ¡°Why is Vice Leader Chao here in person?¡± Chao Xiaojian¡¯s eyes lit after the reminder of the main reason for his visit. ¡°That boy, Fang Lang... He managed to rank first in the theoreticalponent of the Imperial Examination. I came to follow his progress. It¡¯s such a shame, the boy onlycks a good core. Otherwise, he would no doubt rank well in the honor roll.¡± Wen Ting only chuckled at that. ¡®You know nothing.¡¯ Then, the two men had nothing more to say to each other. They waited in silence for the practicalbat section to end. As Wen Ting took a sip of his wolfberry tea, he watched as candidates walk out of the Luojiang Examination Tower. His eyebrows knitted together. The exiting candidates were bruised and battered, some were trembling in fear while some broke down sobbing. Chao Xiaojian¡¯s white eyebrow lifted. ¡°Such unforgiving assessments will destroy morale and affect the future generations of cultivators...¡± Wen Ting spat out the remnants of a wolfberry. His eyes married. There was something off about this practical session... The autumn rain was dissected by the sudden eruption of de energy. Wen Ting flickered and vanished from the rooftop of the Mentors¡¯ Office. A white eyebrow lifted. Chao Xiaojian took a seat and waited for the drama to unfold. ... The snow had a long passage carved into it. In the distance, heavy snow covered half of the Mountain God temple. Fang Lang remained where he was, one hand clutching the Obsidian Sword. The energy in him continued to climb and the snow around him was pulverized by the intensity. A fine Spirit Suit enveloped Fang Lang. He held the Obsidian Sword at an angle, sword tip pointing forward. The foreign warrior rose. A stunned expression was on his face. His disbelief resulted in a loud howl. ¡°You!¡± The man touched the wound on his chest. Fang Lang¡¯s attack nearly cut through him! Unbelievable! This was the caliber of a Tang Dynasty candidate? ¡®If the Tang Dynasty has geniuses like this, when will my tribe have a chance at glory?¡¯ The foreign man tightened his grip on his sword. The ferocity and malevolence in his eyes intensified. ¡°Unfortunately, I¡¯m not allowed to kill you. I won¡¯t survive if I killed you, but I can crush your soul and deter you from the path of cultivation,¡± the foreign cultivator said coldly. Boom! With a heavy step, the untamed vital energy surrounding his body exploded, blowing away the nearby snow. The man charged forward with all his might as if he was rushing into battle. As a soldier who had fought in actual battles on the frontline, he would not lose to an inexperienced student who was sitting for the Imperial Examination. The Tang Dynasty had invited the top fighters from the many armies throughout the empire to join this Imperial Examination. The strength of the army was to be used to educate the candidates about the truth of cultivation. However, only Luojiang Examination Tower was assigned a foreign examiner¡ªthis was Li Puyi¡¯s arrangement. It was Li Puyi¡¯s idea to rely on the foreign tribes to protect the Tang Dynasty¡¯s borders. Therefore, he appointed a foreign cultivator to be the practicalbat examiner as a test run. Coincidentally, the third prince wanted Li Puyi to pressure Fang Lang. Therefore, he made arrangements for the foreign cultivator to be posted at Luojiang Examination Tower. Fang Lang did not flinch from the foreign warrior¡¯s attacking charge. A third-ss, first-grade martial arts master was no big deal. Of course, a martial artist in the blood-bending realm had power running through all parts of the body. He was strong, no doubt, and it would be a tough battle if Fang Lang were to fight as his own self. Why struggle when Fang Lang could decisively win? Without hesitation, Fang Lang used the Power Loan Card and whipped out Jiang Linglong¡¯s ninth-grade sword mastery. Old Jiang, the golden-core genius! True geniuses could win despite being outranked. The rule might not be applicable to others but with Old Jiang¡¯s power, Fang Lang was sure she could. A golden-core ninth-grade sword master against a normal first-grade, blood-bending realm martial artist. The foreign warrior who wanted to trash Fang Lang would soon understand... Two could y the game. Clink! The Blooming Lotus Sword was unsheathed. The overbearing killing instinct from the brutish foreign cultivator did not make Fang Lang flinch. Thete Lin Yun¡¯s intensity and ferocity wereparable to the foreign warrior¡¯s. The des shed and Fang Lang let out a burst of speed. Both swords moved at high speed, causing the foreign cultivator to struggle to keep up. He was struck multiple times by Fang Lang¡¯s swords. The man could only block blow after blow... Even after Fang Lang stopped his attack, the man still raised his sword in a defensive stance. Fang Lang activated his Spirit Step and afterimages appeared across the snowynd, confusing the foreign cultivator¡¯s sight. Fang Lang hurled the Obsidian Sword. Like a ck arrow, it shot forward and struck the pile of snow behind the foreign cultivator. Then, Fang Lang rushed forward and leapt. His jump caused the snow to rise from the ground. Nearer to his target, Fang Lang¡¯s vital energy exploded and shocked the foreign warrior. A sword master? A martial arts master? Before the man could make head or tail, Fang Lang¡¯s knee shot out and struck the man¡¯s head. Thud! The foreign warrior was physically strong. His body simply wavered while his head was momentarily twisted to one side. When Fang Lang dropped to the ground, he pulled out the Obsidian Sword that was stuck in the pile of snow behind the man. Sword Draw Technique! The de¡¯s light was brilliant and exuded a sharpness. It poured forth and caused a flurry of snow. Snowkes danced in the strong winds. The foreign cultivator¡¯s blood armor was ripped apart. Snow was in the air and so was his blood. Warm blood sprayed seven feet across the whitendscape. Fang Lang did not stop his barrage. With two swords in hand, he delivered lightning strikes that pierced through armor and broke defenses. His strikes were akin to his brush strokes during the written section of thebat assessment. Within a few breaths, he had managed tond a dozen blows. The harried foreign cultivator was bleeding from multiple wounds. Scarlet bloomed across the snowy fields. He was breathless. As a third-ss martial artist, he could not believe he was losing. Bloodied and bruised, he let out a frustrated roar. He lunged forward and caught Fang Lang¡¯s des. Blood ran down his arm but he managed to restrict the boy¡¯s movements. It was his chance to counterattack. However, Fang Lang immediately released the two swords. The foreign warrior¡¯s jaw dropped. Fang Lang raised his hand to the man¡¯s forehead and flicked. Finger Flick Energy Wave! A ninth-grade sword master¡¯s Finger Flick Energy Wave... Whoosh! The rippling de energy poured out from his fingers. The snowy grounds shuddered in the wake of the energy st. The foreign cultivator¡¯s head was decimated into an unrecognizable mess. Fang Lang rushed forward and got hold of the man¡¯s head. Fingers clutching tight, he forcefully rubbed the skull into the snow, a cold expression on his face. ¡°Crush my soul? Deter me from the path of cultivation? You? Hrious...¡± The words were uttered in a flippant tone. With his fist, Fang Lang delivered blow after blow. The grounds shook and the snowden Mountain God temple copsed as if the scene was too gory for it to witness. ... The doors to thebat hall swung open loudly. Fang Lang walked out in a bloodstained robe with a dark expression. Despite his savage battery of the examiner, he was not the least bit happy. The third prince had put a target on his back and Fang Lang felt the imminent danger. At his current state, he would be bullied when he entered the Imperial City. When he achieved the third-grade sword mastery, he had thought to take a break from his rigorous cultivation. However, reality seemed to dictate otherwise. Some distance away, an examiner from the Ministry of Rites escorted Liu Hao to thebat hall. Noting the blood-soaked robes on the unhappy Fang Lang, Liu Hao wondered if the boy had failed the practical section like many others. That assumption tasted as sweet as honey to Liu Hao. Fang Lang¡¯s unhappiness was Liu Hao¡¯s happiness. Liu Hao¡¯s joy in life was to see Fang Lang suffer. As if sensing Liu Hao¡¯s delight, Fang Lang stared at the boy and smirked before leaving the area. Liu Hao stepped into thebat hall. The Winter Temple was chosen again as the arena after the randomization. The illusion runes glowed. Liu Hao saw the fallen Mountain God temple and... A bloodied and bruised examiner withbored breathing. What did Fang Lang do to the examiner? He smacked the examiner around? Were the examiners so weak this round? Then, Liu Hao rejoiced¡ªthe examiner was injured. It meant he could easily pass this round. However, his joy did notst. The foreign cultivator who was severely beaten by Fang Lang slowly rose from the ground. With bloodshot eyes and a broken blood armor, he charged at Liu Hao. Rage fueled his rampage and he let out a roar. Liu Hao only managed to utter, ¡°Be¡ª¡± Tears sttered everywhere. Be gentle. ... Fang Lang exited Luojiang Examination Tower. The icy rain struck his skin. Swoosh! A zooming sound in the sky. Wen Ting slowed down and got off his flight sword. He appeared beside Fang Lang. Seeing Fang Lang¡¯s bloodied robe and downcast expression, trepidation filled Wen Ting¡¯s heart. ¡®Did Fang Lang fail the practical assessment?¡¯ There must be something wrong with the examination. ¡°What happened?¡± Wen Ting asked in a stern tone. Fang Lang saw his mentor and pursed his lips. In a miserable tone, he said, ¡°Master Wen, I¡¯m sorry...¡± ¡°What happened? Just tell me what happened,¡± Wen Ting replied with a frown. Fang Lang took a deep breath as if he was truly regretful. ¡°I almost killed the examiner. Sir, my hand was forced!¡± Wen Ting was speechless. Chapter 73 - An Announcement to the World

Chapter 73: An Announcement to the World

Trantor: EndlessFantasy Trantion Editor: EndlessFantasy Trantion Wen Ting stared at Fang Lang. He kept staring silently. ¡®He almost killed the examiner? Did I hear that right? ¡®Why do you have such a pitiful look on your face? ¡®You¡¯re the one who almost killed him! Where is all this self-pitying from?¡¯ ¡°What exactly happened there?¡± Wen Ting interrogated, furrowing his brows. A situation like that should not have urred in a practical assessment. The fact that Fang Lang almost killed the examiner must have meant there was real friction between the two. More importantly, the examiner was a third-ss cultivator. How did a boy who just became a sword master almost pummel him to death? Fang Lang took some time to manage his emotions, then narrated what had urred in thebat hall in detail. The moment Fang Lang mentioned the examiner was a foreign soldier from Asi Luoshan¡¯s army, Wen Ting¡¯s expression changed drastically. ¡°Li Puyi!¡± Wen Ting eximed. He raised his clenched fist abruptly. Atst, he understood why Fang Lang almost killed the examiner¡ªhe was a foreigner! Usually, examiners would be picked from third-ss cultivators of the Tang Army. No foreigner had ever been allowed to take part in the Imperial Examination. After all, the Imperial Examination was meant to select the geniuses among Tang Dynasty¡¯s citizens. If a foreigner was involved in the exam, there was a risk of betrayal. The foreigner could assassinate the geniuses of the Tang Dynasty! ¡°Li Puyi is insane! What does he take Luojiang Academy for?¡± Wen Ting¡ªwho had always maintained a calm and elegant exterior¡ªwas infuriated. The next moment, he vanished from his spot. Fang Lang watched as his mentor vanished into thin air. Fang Lang spat out a mouthful of stale air. Many were involved in the incident but Fang Lang never considered the possibility the third prince had altered the rules of the Imperial Examination for the sole purpose of causing him trouble. After all, Fang Lang was just a nobody. He thought the third prince¡¯s faction must have always wanted to test this out. It was just a coincidence Fang Lang got caught up in it. Simrly, Fang Lang ruining his ns was also a mere coincidence. Fang Lang felt the looming sense of threat intensifying. He left the exam venue and was met with the perfect sunset. The entire evening sky was painted crimson red! Fang Lang hadpleted both his theory andbat exams, marking the end of the Tang Dynasty¡¯s triennial Imperial Examination. Fang Lang stretched out his body. He felt as if a heavy burden was lifted off his shoulders. Within the examination tower, thebat exam continued. Nheless, it had nothing to do with Fang Lang anymore. Upon exiting the examination tower, he was met with Old Fang¡¯s kind smile. Fang Lang reciprocated with a smile of his own and entered a carriage with his father. As the setting sun glowed, the shadow of the carriage was stretched out long and narrow. ¡°Lang¡¯er, the Imperial Examination is over. You should get some proper rest,¡± Old Fang advised with a smile. ¡°I can¡¯t. If everything goes as nned, the final section will being up soon.¡± At the same time, Fang Lang wanted to study the ¡®Splitting Punch¡¯ reward he obtained earlier. ¡°Are you really not gonna rx? How about we... take a stroll at the entertainment house?¡± Old Fang suggested in a serious tone after a moment of thought. Suddenly, Fang Lang went quiet. In an instant, the carriage was filled with nothing but silence. ... After Fang Lang left, Wen Ting and Headmaster Cui arrived at the examination tower together. The headmaster¡ªwho always wore a cheerful smile¡ªhad a dark expression on his face. The head examiner from the Ministry of Rites was leaving when Headmaster Cui burst through the doors of Luojiang Examination Tower. Headmaster Cui raised a hand and gathered all the spiritual energy in the air, turning them into a rune. He knocked the head examiner over and pressed him hard against the ground. ¡°I¡¯ve been asking around about the other examination towers. Luojiang Examination Tower is the only venue with foreign soldiers acting as examiners! Who ordered you to do this? The rules are supposed to be irond! How is it fair to bully the students from Luojiang? Do you think this old man won¡¯t make a scene out of it? ¡°Outrageous!¡± Headmaster¡¯s rage made the sky turn dark. Even the setting sun outside was quickly dimming. When a spell master was enraged, they could shake thend and seas. ¡°I¡¯m going to bring this to the Emperor and he shall punish you for your crimes!¡± Headmaster Cui¡¯s long hair and beard fluttered in the wind as he yelled furiously. The head examiner¡¯s expression darkened, yet he did not dare utter a word. Lying face down on the floor, he clenched his teeth as an odd feeling of grief swelled in his heart. He could already predict the end that awaited him. s, though unwilling, he was inevitably caught up in this borate scheme. The practicalbat assessment in Luojiang Examination Tower came to a halt. After a dy of two hours, order was restored and the Imperial Examination resumed. Examiners from another examination tower came over to rece the foreign examiners in Luojiang Examination Tower. Finally, the practical section of the Imperial Examination was concluded. At the same time, it marked the end of both the theory andbat assessments of the Tang Dynasty¡¯s Imperial Examination. Even so, Headmaster Cui was not satisfied. The moment the practical assessment ended, he picked up the head examiner and started walking on air. Every step he took, runes formed beneath his feet, lighting up the night sky as they made a beeline for Changan. In the ancient Changan City, curtains of autumn rain fell. It was destined to be a sleepless night. ... Changan City, Ministry of Rites¡¯s grading faculty. In the pouring rain, Cui Cheng¡ªa man very close to mastering the forbidden spells¡ªcame rushing to Changan in person. Multiple pces of the ministry were still burning the midnight oil. The graders of thebat examination were finally done marking the written scripts. The ministry had brought in hundreds of mentors to mark the exam papers that came in from all the examination towers. After a long day, they were finally done marking. Several exam graders gathered together. There were four sets of exam scripts before them. They picked up the first exam script and revealed the candidate¡¯s name. ¡°This is the exam script of Wei Sheng from Changan Academy. Major studies section of martial arts mastery, a hundred and eight questions answered with perfect uracy, obtaining one hundred points. Major studies section of sword mastery, seventy correct answers out of seventy-five questions answered. Major studies section of spell mastery, answered forty-eight correct answers out of fifty questions. Total score obtained, two hundred and eighteen.¡± Some graders praised the student while others simply stroked their beards. ¡°This is the exam script of Jiang Linglong from the Imperial Academy. Martial arts mastery, answered a hundred and eight questions with perfect uracy. Sword mastery, answered eighty-eight questions with perfect uracy. Spell mastery, fifty correct answers out of sixty questions answered. Total score obtained, two hundred and thirty-eight.¡± Jiang Linglong¡¯s results received a fair amount of apuse from the graders. ¡°This is the exam script of Li Yuanzhen from the Imperial Academy. Sword mastery, answered a hundred and eight questions with perfect uracy. Spell mastery, eighty correct answers out of eighty-one questions answered. Martial arts mastery, sixty-three correct answers out of seventy-one questions answered. Total score obtained, two hundred and forty-three.¡± His results were better than both Wei Sheng and Jiang Linglong¡¯s. Whenpared to the scores from the previous Imperial Examination, Li Yuanzhen would have been the champion! Thus, his scores made many graders gasp. ¡°As expected of Administrator Li¡¯s son! Smart and talented! He has the potential to be the next grand chancellor!¡± ¡°Yuanzhen must have inherited the right administrator¡¯s talent and intelligence. His future is limitless. He will surely be a man of great importance!¡± ¡°It seems like the ¡®champion¡¯ title of this Imperial Examination is no doubt Li Yuanzhen¡¯s.¡± ... The graders from Li Puyi¡¯s faction were all singing the praises of Li Yuanzhen. However, when their gaze fell onto thest set of papers, their apuse gradually died down. The head grader revealed the candidate¡¯s name on the final exam script. ¡°This is the exam script of Fang Lang from Luojiang Academy...¡± The moment his name was uttered, all the graders gasped in shock. ¡°Fang Lang? The one that scored the highest in the theory exam? That Fang Lang?¡± ¡°Well, it can¡¯t be another person with the same name. There¡¯s only one Fang Lang in Luojiang Academy!¡± ¡°Damn... That student is terrifying! He topped both the theory andbat exams!¡± Fang Lang¡¯s impressive answers in the theoretical assessment made him famous among the graders of the Imperial Examination. Just the progressiveness of his policy essay made it impossible to ignore the boy¡¯s brilliance! The head grader kept hisposure and continued to read out Fang Lang¡¯s results. ¡°Sword mastery, answered a hundred and eight questions with perfect uracy. Martial arts mastery... answered a hundred and eight questions with ny-eight correct!¡± It was pindrop silence in the room. The head grader¡¯s heart was pumping. His voice trembled as he spoke. ¡°Spell mastery, answered a hundred and eight questions... ny-two correct... Total score... ¡°Two hundred and ny!¡± Once he finished, the room wentpletely silent. Both inside and outside the pce, not a single sound could be heard with the exception of the autumn rain striking the pce roof tiles. ¡°He answered every single question in the major studies section of all three disciplines... Moreover, his uracy is insanely high! The student is an expert in all three disciplines... What a monster!¡± The head grader eximed before calming himself down. Just months before the Imperial Examination, Fang Lang was a nobody. No academy had ever produced a student as exceptional as him. A boy that no one batted an eye at had gone against all odds and surfaced as the grand champion of the Imperial Examination! A cough broke the silence in the pce. The head grader turned to the other graders and asked, ¡°Have the physical assessment scores of all the examination towerse in yet? ¡°Once we total the physical assessment score, the honor roll of this year¡¯s Imperial Exam can be confirmed.¡± A grader came out from the crowd and reported, ¡°Besides Luojiang Examination Tower, every other examination tower has submitted the physical assessment scores.¡± The head grader furrowed his brows but rxed them a secondter. ¡°Let¡¯s add up the scores sent in from the other examination towers for now,¡± the head grader said. ¡°Understood.¡± The graders whispered their tasks to one another and began to add up the scores. Minute by minute, time passed. Just then, a tardy flight sword tore through the rain andnded within the pce. Rain covered every inch of the vehicle. The physical assessment results from Luojiang Examination Tower had finally arrived. Just as before, the graders got a sneak-peak of the results before they were released. All their eyes were fixed on the practical assessment results that just came in from Luojiang Examination Tower. They flipped through the papers and searched for Fang Lang¡¯s name. Finally, under the dim light of the pce, they found Fang Lang¡¯s unforgettable name. ¡®Fang Lang. Physical assessment score: Full marks. Assessment evaluation: It¡¯s a miracle the examiner did not die.¡¯ His score was eptable. After all, most geniuses who took part in the exam scored full marks as well. However, what was up with that terrifyingment? The pce fell silent again. After a long while, the head grader sighed. Fang Lang¡¯s score had already ced him ahead of the majority of students. Even with additional points, it would be difficult topete with him. ¡°This year¡¯s theory andbat champion can already be confirmed...¡± Nheless, topping the theory andbat honor roll did not mean Fang Lang was the grand champion of the Imperial Examination. The grand champion would be decided in the final section hosted by the Emperor himself. Even so, topping the honor roll was already an unparalleled honor! He was truly a dark horse! The biggest dark horse in the entire country! He was a nobody who managed to surpass the likes of Wei Sheng, Jiang Linglong, Li Yuanzhen and other top-tier geniuses! It was as if the boy was standing on top of a cliff with his de unsheathed, announcing his arrival to the world beneath. That was the image his earth-shattering scores painted. The head grader took a deep breath and headed deep into the pce with the honor roll draft in his hand. He handed the list to the person in charge of the Imperial Examination that year¡ªLu Taixuan. Lu Taixuan was drinking wine as he scanned through the list. His gaze fell onto the name on the top of the list. He lifted his brows in astonishment, thenughed. ¡°Hahaha! ¡°Good! ¡®What of the great mountains that hither stood? The green extended across once warring states.¡¯ ¡°Alright, publish it!¡± ... As the autumn rain continued to fall, the sun rose in the east of Changan. One after another, flight swords carrying the honor roll lists tore through the curtains of rain. Like a blooming lotus, they flew off into every direction, heading toward the 3,000 academies of the Tang Dynasty. The moment the honor rolls touched ground, the earth would shake in the Tang Dynasty. Chapter 74 - The Joke Was on Him

Chapter 74: The Joke Was on Him

The sunrise in Changan was breathtaking, its beauty mesmerizing. As dawn set in, it was as if a stove had been lit on a cold winter night. A brilliant light dawned upon the world beneath, encapsting Changan City with purple streaks in the sky. Above the towering walls of Changan City, armored soldiers stood at the ready to defend the city. They had swords on their waists and stern expressions on their faces. The rising sun painted the sky purple, dispelling the haze and stale air from the night before. In the horizon. A cluster of bright runes was soaring through the sky in the rain, above which sat the hunchbacked headmaster of Luojiang Academy in his grey robe. He was like a fairy soaring in the sky but his eyes were filled with contempt. Beside him was the head examiner of Luojiang Examination Tower. His face was as pale as snow. On the high buildings of Changan City, the sound ofughter burst out. Following theughter was a group of spell masters with fluttering robes. They stepped into the air and ascended as if there was an invisible flight of stairs. They floated in the sky above the wall. ¡°Cui Cheng, it¡¯s been years. I see you¡¯re still as idle and carefree as ever.¡± A spell master dressed in a loose robemented while smiling and stroking his beard. Cui Cheng¡¯s eyes shone as he said coldly, ¡°Someone misused Asi Luoshan¡¯s soldier as an examiner for the practical assessment in Luojiang Examination Tower! Bullying the students in Luojiang Academy means picking on me! ¡°I demand to see the Emperor! ¡°Don¡¯t stand in my way!¡± After hearing that, the expressions of the spell masters blocking his way changed abruptly. The incident was bing a big deal! The spell masters were not idiots. After recalling the topic that was fiercely debated in the congress, they knew Cui Cheng was not a man they should hinder. Standing in his way would only bring trouble upon themselves. ¡°We¡¯ll allow you to enter the city but bear in mind, there is an irond rule against seeking an audience with the Emperor without a formal request.¡± The spell masters warned. Having said that, they allowed Headmaster Cui to enter Changan. In the imperial pce of Changan. The Grand Pce. The pce stood majestically under the rising sun. It emitted a glorious golden glow, like a heavenly pce above the skies. On the four curved corners of the Grand Pce¡¯s roof, a sword-wielding royal guard dressed in golden armor stood solemnly at each corner. Their gazes were intense like lightning brewing in the clouds. The Grand Pce was where the Emperor resided. The four royal guards were all sixth-ss martial arts masters of the transformation realm. A pce eunuch led Headmaster Cui down the street in front of the Grand Pce. The moment Headmaster Cui looked up, his expression changed. He clenched his teeth and muttered under his breath. ¡°F*ck!¡± The right administrator, Li Puyi, was kneeling on the white jade stairs in front of the Grand Pce with his head held high. A few droplets of dew still lingered on the cket of his robe. Li Puyi remained kneeling on the stairs, not moving an inch. He looked like a sculpture. Humble and pious. ... The adults had their own troubles to worry about. As a measly student, Fang Lang did not bother with thoseplicated problems. All he cared about was the Imperial Examination results. Just as Wen Ting had discussed with him before, the Imperial Examination results would determine whether Fang Lang could live afortable life in the future. After all, he had beenbeled as a member of the Jiang family¡¯s faction. That alone would bring out the wrath of the third prince and the right administrator, Li Puyi. If he did not make it into the honor roll, his existence would be insignificant in the eyes of the third prince. Nheless, the third prince¡¯s subordinates would all be scrambling to have Fang Lang¡¯s head in an effort to gain the prince¡¯s favor. Fang Lang wanted to protect himself and Old Fang, and the only way to do that was to climb up the ranks. After all, life was meant to be a game of survival. Fang Lang let go of the emptied spirit crystal husk in his hands and exited his room. He had just spent the entire night cultivating. In the end, he still rejected Old Fang¡¯s suggestion to visit the entertainment house. The true highlight of the Imperial Examination was the final section. Fang Lang still needed to work hard. After eating breakfast, Fang Lang left the Fang Manor in a carriage and headed to Luojiang Examination Tower. It was the third andst day of the Imperial Examination. The candidates¡¯ core would be tested that day. Moreover, their rankings in the theory andbat exam would be revealed. Fang Lang arrived at the examination tower to see that it was already packed with candidates. The moment he got off the carriage, Yang Zhengyi and Liu Bubai sauntered over. ¡°Lang¡¯zi!¡± Both of them yelled as they greeted and smiled at Fang Lang. Since the theory andbat exams ended, the candidates were all much more rxed. After all, there was not much to do during the core evaluations. Even so, Yang Zhengyi had a troubled expression on his face. On the other hand, Liu Bubai was holding his head high with confidence. ¡°Lang¡¯zi, I heard those of you who went in early for the practical assessment had foreign examiners?¡± Liu Bubai inquired curiously. Fang Lang and Yang Zhengyi nodded. Yang Zhengyi was terribly agonized by the practical assessment. He cursed himself for having such bad luck. He was sure he would not score well in that section. ¡°What a shame... I wish I had a foreign examiner. Too bad, I didn¡¯t get the chance. ¡°Because of what happened with your batch, the new examiners they brought in were all so gentle with us. The fight was no fun at all.¡± Liu Bubaimented. Liu Hao, whose face was covered with bruises, overheard Liu Bubai¡¯s words as he passed by. His sorrowful eyes instantly darted toward Liu Bubai, thinking, ¡®What the hell are you saying?¡¯ Liu Bubai returned his re. ¡®What? You angry?¡¯ Liu Hao quickly blended into the crowd. Liu Bubai did not bother to chase after him. He turned back and continued to chat with Fang Lang. ¡°Fang Lang, how high do you think your score is? ¡°What do you think your rank will be in the honor roll? ¡°I, for one, am very confident that I¡¯ll make it into the honor roll!¡± Liu Bubai was indeed very confident in his results, and he was not one to hide his confidence. Fang Lang smiled and said calmly, ¡°Tenth ce, I guess?¡± The moment he uttered those words, the air turned silent for a while. Liu Bubai and Yang Zhengyi both nced at him, thinking that Fang Lang was just making a joke. No matter how confident Liu Bubai was, he was only certain he could make it into the top 100 honor roll. After all, the Imperial Examination that year was incredibly tough. Moreover, there were 3,000 academies taking part, including well-established academies like Beijiang and Donglu; not to mention academies within the Imperial City, like Changan and Nanyuan, that were littered with geniuses. On top of that, there were the big shots from the Imperial Academy... Getting into the top 100 was already not an easy task. Fang Lang¡¯s tone was cool as a cucumber, making it sound as if getting into the top ten honor roll was easy-peasy. Fang Lang¡¯s performance in the academy might have been exceptional, but the Imperial Examination was on a different level. Neither Yang Zhengyi nor Liu Bubai took Fang Lang¡¯s words seriously. They continued to chat. Ni Wen arrived at the examination tower in a floral dress that was as white as snow. The timid girl was a little intimidated by the crowd. Among the crowd, Fang Lang instantly spotted the petite girl and came up to her. ¡°Little Wen, how was the exam?¡± Fang Lang questioned kindly. He had been a little worried about Ni Wen¡¯s mental state ever since he ran into her mother prior to the Imperial Examination. ¡°O-o-okay...¡± Ni Wen took a quick nce at Fang Lang and mumbled in a low voice. She was blushing. To run into her own mother while walking with Fang Lang... Although there was nothing going on between Fang Lang and her, it still made her feel embarrassed. Seeing Ni Wen¡¯s flustered face, Fang Lang realized she had not been affected by the incident at all. He smiled and rubbed Ni Wen¡¯s head. Just then, Yang Zhengyi and Liu Bubai joined in. They were curious to know Ni Wen¡¯s predictions about her rank in the honor roll. Ni Wen waved her hands frantically, iming she would be immensely thankful if she was lucky enough to get into the honor roll. She did not make any predictions about her rank. Time passed by quickly. Rain poured continuously the day before, yet the balmy sun hung high in the skies that day. Finally, the tightly-shut doors of the examination tower opened up. The core evaluation session began. Countless candidates entered the examination tower with their exam handbooks. An examiner had long since been waiting inside the tower with a corepass in his hand. The order in which the candidates¡¯ core would be analyzed was based on the candidate number for the practical section. Thus, Liu Hao was once again queued behind Fang Lang. Liu Hao red at Fang Lang with his swollen eyes¡ªhis resentment toward him ran deep. ¡°This is all your fault! If you hadn¡¯t got under the examiner¡¯s skin, I would never have ended up like this!¡± Liu Hao ground his teeth in rage. Nevertheless, Fang Lang did not bat an eye at him. In truth, even if Fang Lang had not pummeled the foreign examiner, Liu Hao would have still ended up in a pitiful state. When Liu Hao noticed Fang Lang ignoring him, he started mocking Fang Lang. ¡°If I remembered correctly, when your core was analyzed in the academy, it turned out to be white, right? ¡°What a shitty core! ¡°No matter how spectacr your theory orbat scores are, they will never change the fact that you have a trashy white core! At the end of the day, your potential is limited.¡± Liu Hao clenched his teeth and let out all his spite at once. He realized Fang Lang¡¯s core was the only aspect he could insult. Liu Hao had a red core and his red core was the only thing he could be proud of when it came to Fang Lang. ¡°Trash will always be trash. The prominent sects are very strict with their recruitments and a good core is one of the key criteria. No matter how good your scores are, no top-tier sect will ever recruit you!¡± Even after hearing the insults, Fang Lang did not show an ounce of reaction. It made Liu Hao¡¯s blood boil even hotter. He felt as if he might lose it. ¡®Say something, you bastard! How am I supposed to have an argument if you won¡¯t say a word!¡¯ ¡°Next, Fang Lang,¡± said the examiner who was holding a corepass. Fang Lang dusted his green robe and marched forward with confident strides. ¡°You can¡¯t change your fate!¡± Liu Hao smirked contemptuously. He could not wait to see the helplessness and despair in Fang Lang¡¯s expression when his core came out to be white. Suddenly, a hugemotion broke out among the candidates who were lining up to get their cores tested. ¡°They¡¯re here!¡± ¡°Quick, look! The honor roll has been published!¡± ... All the students looked up into the sky. Above Luojiang Examination Tower, an official from the Ministry of Rites was walking on air. The man in white held a golden scroll in both hands. He tossed out the scroll, which remained floating in the sky. ¡°In the glorious Tang Dynasty that is second to none, the honor roll consisting of five hundred top students in the theory andbat assessments is officially released. ¡°Congrattions to all that made it into the top five hundred!¡± The man¡¯s ceremonious announcement was loud and high-pitched. Having said that, the official ced his hands together and made a gesture that unlocked the seal on the golden scroll. A wave of energy rippled out. The scroll suddenly took flight and expanded in the air. It became bigger and bigger... The scroll unfurled. It cascaded down like a golden waterfall. The golden glimmer of the honor roll bathed the entire examination tower in a sea of gold. Names appeared one after the other on the honor roll, giving out light that shone as bright as stars. Jiang Linglong, Li Yuanzhen, Fang Lang, Wei Sheng, Lu Ze... All these names appeared on the honor roll! ... Within Luojiang Examination Tower. All the candidates fixed their gaze on the very top of the honor roll with awe and anticipation. What an honor it was to be in the top five hundred! Everyone¡¯s gaze was fixed on the honor roll, wondering who would im the top spot. However, when the champion was revealed, the entire examination tower fell into silence. After a period of two or three breaths, someone let out a gasp of shock. The ripple effect was set off. Gasps of disbelief filled the examination tower. Like a wave crashing onto the shore, the revtion brought disarray upon thisnd! Liu Hao, who was standing in line to get his core analyzed, continuedughing about Fang Lang¡¯s white core. He lifted his bruised and swollen face to look at the honor roll. The moment heid eyes on the scroll, his expression froze. The first ce on the honor roll... It belonged to Fang Lang! Liu Hao waspletely dumbfounded. s, the joke was on him. At the same time, the examiner that was holding the corepass let out a gasp as loud as thunder! Liu Hao looked down instinctively. His contemptuous smirk was still frozen on his face. His gazended on thepass reading Fang Lang¡¯s core... The oue was not white! Instead, it was a brilliant purple! A purple that represented royalty; a purple that was exquisitely eye-catching. Chapter 75 - The Taste of Reward

Chapter 75: The Taste of Reward

Trantor: EndlessFantasy Trantion Editor: EndlessFantasy Trantion Purple! Did purple cores even exist? At that moment, despite the captivating honor roll, the brilliant purple on the corepass still attracted its fair share of attention. In Luojiang Examination Tower, half of the crowd¡¯s gaze was fixed on the honor roll hanging in the sky, while the other half had their attention on the never-seen-before brilliant purple shown by the corepass. Even the examiner had his lips slightly parted. bbergasted by the result, he lost his ability to control his expression. A purple core... It was something beyond his knowledge. The uproar in the tower was like hail falling from the sky, bombarding the calm surface of a pond, forming rippling sounds one after another. ¡°It can¡¯t be real, right? Do purple cores even exist?¡± ¡°Maybe the corepass malfunctioned...¡± ¡°Who is it? Who has a purple core? How odd!¡± Noisy discussions broke out among the students. Liu Hao¡¯s mouth opened and closed. As he stared at the vibrant purple, he did not im it was some trashy core because purple cores were extremely rare. Even more so than red or yellow cores. Thus, he did not continue his mockery¡ªdoing so would only make him look like a clown. Liu Hao had aplex expression on his face. He closed his eyes and thought about how Fang Lang improved by leaps and bounds in such a short period of time. Perhaps it was due to his purple core. Far away. The new head examiner of Luojiang Examination Tower walked out with Wen Ting, who had a cup of wolfberry tea in his hand. The head examiner spoke, ¡°This is a purple core. It¡¯s ssified as a mutated core. There¡¯s an entry for it in the Record of Core Mutations. You can score him as a golden core. ¡°Candidates with any core above the yellow tier will receive twenty points.¡± Beside him, Wen Ting had a casual yet elegant smile on his face. In truth, the head examiner had no idea what a purple core was. It was Wen Ting who told him about it and showed him the entry in the Record of Core Mutations. A purple core was equivalent to a golden core! Sharp gasps could be heard from the crowd. The students who were questioning the purple core were instantly rendered speechless. They were left with nothing but jealousy. No, it was not jealousy. It was envy! People of their level were not even worthy of jealousy. After all, the mutated core wasparable to a golden core! The students were curious to know who was the owner of this purple core. However, when they found out it was Fang Lang, the entire examination tower turned silent again. Following the silence was another uproar! Not only was Fang Lang a monster who surpassed geniuses from 3,000 academies to be the theory andbat champion of the Imperial Examination, he had a purple core too?! Was that not overkill? Perhaps it would be worse if he did not have a purple core. Countless students would be outraged if a student with a white core were to be the theory andbat champion. That moment, they had nothing to be outraged about¡ªall they had left was admiration. Among the crowd. Yang Zhengyi¡¯s long fringe hung over his forehead. He was shocked to the point where he forgot to flip his hair. His jaw dropped to the ground. Not only did the imbecile turn into a genius, he ranked first on the honor roll! Yang Zhengyi even thought Fang Lang was just joking when he predicted he would rank tenth. Who would have thought Fang Lang was actually being humble? It was as if he was living in another world. Liu Bubai was equally as shocked by both Fang Lang¡¯s rank and his purple core. Nheless, his shock turned into a sudden realization soon after. ¡®No wonder Fang Lang could carry me to victory so many times! Wait, that¡¯s not it. No wonder he could walk alongside a genius like me! ¡®After all, birds of a feather flock together!¡¯ Liu Bubai¡¯s lips curled up as he gazed at the floating honor roll. ¡¯39th rank, Liu Bubai.¡¯ Even Liu Bubai himself was taken aback! How did he manage to achieve such a high rank? Nevertheless, a momentter, Liu Bubai acted as if it was only natural. ¡®Perhaps... this is what they call talent.¡¯ Ni Wen saw her ranking too. She was ranked 199th on the honor roll. It was not bad, but she could have done better in the practical assessment. She was unlucky too. Even so, Ni Wen was very satisfied. She was thankful to have gotten into the honor roll and gained the right to participate in the final section. Although her achievement was far from Fang Lang¡¯s, Ni Wen clenched her tiny fists with determination. Her eyes were filled with resolve. She was determined to give her all¡ªshe would follow in Fang Lang¡¯s footsteps! ... Cloud Inn, owned by the Fang family. It was one of the best inns in Luojiang City. Old Fang was sitting by the window on the third floor, gazing through the curved corners of some roofs that faced the direction of Luojiang Examination Tower. From there, he could see the floating roll of honor slowly unfurling. However, he could not see the names written on it. Old Fang¡¯s palms were drenched in sweat. ¡®How did Fang Lang do in his exam? What¡¯s his rank?¡¯ He was anxious to know Fang Lang¡¯s results. A moment passed. Suddenly, there was a loud racket below the inn. Old Fang stood up hastily and leaned against the beautifully engraved balustrade to gaze down below. That was when he saw a few of the servant girls from his manor scurried cheerfully toward Cloud Inn with an official from the court. ¡°Good news, good news! There¡¯s good news about the Imperial Examination! Congrattions, to the Fang household! Their young boy, Fang Lang, had topped the honor roll!¡± The official was being dragged along by the servant girls who repeatedly announced the good news for all to hear! Their voices filled the entire street! The street turned rowdy in an instant! They spread the news from the Fang Manor to the inn. Even customers enjoying a meal in the inn turned their heads to the news. The Cloud Inn was instantly surrounded by dozens of carriages. Many businessmen had heard about Fang Lang¡¯s great achievement and immediately came rushing to Cloud Inn to congratte Old Fang. The Fang family¡¯s boy had topped the honor roll! That year, the champion did not belong to the well-established academies in Changan, nor did it belong to the Imperial Academy. Instead, it belonged to Luojiang Academy! The moment the honor roll was revealed, the wonderful news spread to every corner of Luojiang City like giant waves of the ocean. On the third floor of Cloud Inn, Old Fang was not as surprised as one would imagine. In fact, he sat back down on his chair. He thought about how Fang Lang worked his fingers to the bones, how he burned the midnight oil and how his food was always cold because he was too busy cultivating. Old Fang could not help but weep when he thought about Fang Lang¡¯s sacrifices. ¡®Lang¡¯er¡¯s hard work has finally paid off! ¡®My beloved wife, your son has seeded! ¡®He got into the honor roll!¡¯ ... Wen Ting left Luojiang Examination Tower with Fang Lang, Liu Bubai and Ni Wen. Out of 3,000 students in Luojiang Academy that year, only the trio managed to get into the honor roll. The student who ranked fourth in the academy ranked below the 600th in the Imperial Examination. Even so, Wen Ting felt extremely content. It was the best result Luojiang Academy had achieved in recent years! Moreover, there was Fang Lang! First in the honor roll! Once again, he set a new record in Luojiang Academy! From the day Luojiang Academy was founded, they had not produced a student who ranked first in the Imperial Examination¡¯s honor roll before! Although topping the honor roll did not mean Fang Lang was the champion of the Imperial Examination, it was still an incredible honor! On top of that, Fang Lang managed to triumph over Li Yuanzhen, who was second in the honor roll. Li Yuanzhen¡ªson of Administrator Li Puyi¡ªwas exceptionally talented and unrivaled in the whole of Changan City. Everyone thought Li Yuanzhen would be the one to top the honor roll and be the grand champion. Fang Lang¡¯s abrupt appearance made many eat their own words. Wen Ting was overjoyed. He marched on with a spring in his steps as he sipped his wolfberry tea. Meanwhile, Liu Bubai had his head held high and his chest puffed with pride. Ni Wen, on the other hand, hung her head low with her cheeks flushing red. She shuffled forward along Chang Street, following behind Fang Lang as countless students¡¯ gazes fell on them. As for Fang Lang, his eyes appeared empty at the moment¡ªhe was busy reaping his rewards! Ding, ding, ding! The crisp notification sound of the System sounded again and again. The taste of reward lingered in the autumn rain. ¡®Ding! Congrattions on making the honor roll. Achievement missionplete. You are rewarded with Innate Sword Intent Seed and one Silver Reward Egg. ¡®Innate Sword Intent Seed: You have achieved 1st rank on the honor roll. You are rewarded with a supreme-grade Sword Intent Seed. ¡®Ding! You have appeared on the honor roll with your binding partner, Ni Wen, and thuspleting a meaningful interaction. Passive ability triggered. You are rewarded with a Grade-Rush Card. ¡®Ding! You have appeared on the honor roll with your binding partner, Liu Bubai, and thuspleting a meaningful interaction. Passive ability triggered. You are rewarded with a 5X Physical Buff Card. ¡®Ding! You have appeared on the honor roll with your binding partner, Jiang Linglong, and thuspleting a meaningful interaction. Passive ability triggered. You are rewarded with Spell: Spirit Awl.¡¯ ... There were too many reward notifications from the System. Fang Lang was seeing stars. Fang Lang knew getting into the honor roll would trigger thepletion of the achievement mission and bring in rewards, but he did not know his binding partners making the honor roll would bring rewards as well. Moreover, he could milk a reward from Old Jiang even though she was in the faraway city of Changan! Fang Lang was more than pleased with this fair treatment by the System. He was beaming internally. It was an extremely fruitful harvest! Even so, Fang Lang was in no hurry to study his rewards. Wen Ting led the three students back to Luojiang Academy. A figure abruptly shot down from the sky, appearing out of nowhere in front of the four. Fang Lang and the others were all taken by surprise. They quickly bowed down and greeted, ¡°Vice Leader Chao.¡± Chao Xiaojian¡¯s long white hair ran down his back, where he carried his de. His gaze was fixed on Fang Lang. Suddenly, he reached out and squeezed Fang Lang¡¯s shoulder. Chao Xiaojian¡¯s expression changed instantly. Fang Lang was different from before! His core had mutated! ¡°First on the honor roll. Not bad, not bad. As expected from the champion of my Gathering of Swords.¡± Chao Xiaojian regained hisposure and ced his hands behind his back. Wen Ting rolled his eyes at the conceited man. Chao Xiaojian did not bat an eye at him. His eyes were still fixed on Fang Lang. He continued. ¡°However, don¡¯t be too proud of yourself. You won¡¯t be given any advantage in the final section. ¡°Let¡¯s not mention the monsters of the royal family yet. If you run into people like Li Yuanzhen, Jiang Linglong or that senile cksmith¡¯s disciple, Wei Sheng, your defeat is already a given.¡± Wen Ting nodded in agreement. ¡°The honor roll has been published today. Ten dayster, the final section will begin. This ten-day period is your only chance for exponential improvement.¡± Wen Ting continued. ¡°Travel to Changan will take a day. You will await the final assessment there. Thus, that leaves only nine days. ¡°We will prepare an intensive cultivation schedule for you. ¡°Pack up your valuables tomorrow and gather on the academy¡¯s practice grounds,¡± Wen Ting instructed sternly. ¡°Thank you, sir.¡± Fang Lang, Liu Bubai and Ni Wen bowed at the same time. Nheless, Fang Lang did not care about anything Wen Ting just said. Instead, he asked with twinkling eyes, ¡°The senile cksmith... are you referring to the elder from the cksmith workshop on Chang Street?¡± Wen Ting pressed his lips together and nodded. ¡°Yes. His disciple¡¯s name is Wei Sheng. He came in second in the Grand Martial Arts Championship. However, that was only because he¡¯s still a young boy. The disciple has incredible core and talent¡ªwhen he grows up, he will surely be a giant in the martial arts world.¡± ¡®Wei Sheng? ¡®The one who ranked 4th on the honor roll?¡¯ Ni Wen and Liu Bubai stole curious nces at Fang Lang when he inquired about the disciple. They were shocked by the sight they saw. A smile gradually appeared on Fang Lang¡¯s face. After a while, it turned into a creepy grin. ¡®Hehehe!¡¯ That was... The joy of being rewarded! Chapter 76 - A Father’s Worry for His Son’s Thousand-Mile Journey

Chapter 76: A Father¡¯s Worry for His Son¡¯s Thousand-Mile Journey

Trantor: EndlessFantasy Trantion Editor: EndlessFantasy Trantion Wen Ting looked forward to Fang Lang¡¯s performance. The man ced his once-shattered dreams onto Fang Lang. In the year of Wen Ting¡¯s Imperial Examination, he encountered an exceptionally strong opponent in the final section and was defeated, losing his right to be the grand champion. Every cultivator only had one shot at the Imperial Examination. There were no repeats for those who missed their shot. Thus, Wen Ting carried the regret with him. Although Wen Ting was part of The Great Four and was known to all as the Schrly Sword Master with prodigious talent, it still could not quell his anger and discontent at losing the grand champion title. Holding his cup of wolfberry tea, Wen Ting gazed sternly at the three students. ¡°Getting on the honor roll is truly an achievement worth celebrating. However, if you think that¡¯s a high enough honor for you, I suggest you leave immediately. Go rx and enjoy yourself. Maybe go to the entertainment house... ¡°Because from tomorrow onward, I will personally train you. ¡°The final section is not as simple as you think. You will bepeting beneath the feet of the Emperor himself. Be it the theory champion or thebat champion, no achievement can trump the honor of having the Emperor grant you the title of grand champion!¡± Wen Ting said in a serious tone as the autumn sun fell below the horizon. Fang Lang, Ni Wen and Liu Bubai stared silently at Wen Ting. Chao Xiaojiang stoodzily at a spot far away from them. He did not interrupt Wen Ting¡¯s little speech. After all, the things he said made sense. Wen Ting took a sip of his wolfberry tea. ¡°I must remind you all... ¡°The test begins the moment you set foot in Changan. ¡°As long as you¡¯re in Changan City, any person whose name is on the honor roll can challenge you. They¡¯ll probe you to reveal your abilities and trump card! Remember, these actions are all allowed under the Tang Code! ¡°The day you enter Changan City will be the start of an endless.¡± Wen Ting¡¯s gaze fell on Fang Lang. ¡°Especially for some of you who had made a name for himself. You¡¯ll have to suffer the consequences. ¡°Those who aren¡¯t strong enough will be chewed up and spat out. You¡¯ll be left on the floor like nothing but a rotting flower.¡± When Fang Lang, Ni Wen and Liu Bubai heard those words, they were instantly staggered. They just had the chance to breathe a sigh of relief as the assessments concluded. However, Wen Ting¡¯s words redoubled pressure on them. Chao Xiaojian smiled from afar. ¡°He may have exaggerated it a little, but otherwise, everything is on point. During the final section, all sect leaders of the top ten sects in Tang Dynasty will gather in Changan to witness the exam alongside the Emperor. ¡°That is also when the sect leaders can take their pick at the names that appear on the honor roll. ¡°Although students on the honor roll are allowed to pick their sects, if their performance falls short during the final section, the sects will have reason to deny their entrance.¡± The setting sun was crimson red, filling the sky with a beautiful twilight. The atmosphere was extremely solemn. On the practice grounds, the setting sun stretched out the shadows of the three students into impressive lengths. ... ¡®Ding! ¡®Challenge mission unlocked. ¡®Challenge mission: Cultivating is like climbing mountains. Only by ascending higher and higher peaks will one witness the breathtaking views from above. The host aspires to be the grand champion of the Imperial Examination. You will be rewarded with Supreme Cultivation Method, Volume One.¡± The sun had vanished from the sky. Fang Lang returned to Fang Manor and heard the System¡¯s notification ringing in his head. He had a new mission¡ªto be the grand champion. Fang Lang remained unperturbed. He was not surprised by the appearance of the mission at all. Cultivating was like trying to conquer the highest peak and there were innumerable mountains in the world. Every time one ascended a peak, they would realize a distance away, thereid another peak higher than the one they stood on. Even so, Fang Lang did not fear this journey. In fact, he was exhrated. Fang Manor was overflowing with the elements of a celebration. Red ribbons andnterns hung all over the manor. Countless businessmen of Luojiang City hade to congratte the family with gifts and smiles. Old Fang¡¯s face was glowing red. He did not turn away a single guest. Instead, he invited all into the main hall to join the celebration banquet. When Fang Lang arrived home to the celebration party, he did not ignore the guests and selfishly return to his room like he didst time when he was the top scorer in the final internal examination. He knew doing so would put Old Fang in an awkward position. He should not act so arrogant. Thus, Fang Lang stayed at the party, greeted all the guests and drank a cup of wine. Once everyone¡¯s faces were flushed red, Fang Lang used the final section of the Imperial Examination as a reason to politely excuse himself from the party of indulgent people. He retreated to his own little courtyard. Fang Lang was going to deal with the rewards he just earned. ¡®Ding! Innate Sword Intent Seed is ready to be used. Would you like to nt it?¡¯ ¡°Yes.¡± Fang Lang did not hesitate for a second. The moment he agreed, Fang Lang could feel a tiny golden de forming in the whirlpool of energy in his energy center. Fang Lang was already a third-grade sword master. The de energy in his energy center began to collect at the tip of the tiny de. The de energy that was previously scattered all over had converged in one concentrated center! The golden de emitted a peculiar intimation. Fang Lang lifted his head up abruptly. His hair stood up and his robe fluttered. He felt a unique energy surging through every inch of his body. Deep within his eyes, the tiny de was trembling. The sound of a de¡¯s ring shattered the silence in the room. The Blooming Lotus Sword unsheathed itself and floated beside Fang Lang. A peculiar intimation oozed out the Sword Intent Seed in Fang Lang¡¯s energy center and merged with the Blooming Lotus Sword. At that moment, Fang Lang felt as if the Blooming Lotus Sword was alive! It was no longer a sword, but a human! A short whileter, the Sword Intent Seed went quiet. The strange energy vanished. Fang Lang spat out a mouthful of stale air. ording to the System¡¯s notification, Fang Lang only needed to continue condensing his de energy and showering the seed with it. Then, one day, the Sword Intent Seed would blossom. On that day, a supreme sword intent would awake. Even before the sword intent was awakened, the seed had already brought many benefits for Fang Lang. He could feel the massive improvement in the dense collection of de energy that resided within his energy center. Moreover, there was a tremendous increase in the conversion rate of spiritual energy to de energy. That, alone, was enough of an advantage to satisfy Fang Lang. ¡°System, smash reward egg!¡± Fang Langmanded. A glimmering silver egg instantly appeared in front of his eyes! Fang Lang swung the hammer at the egg. Crack! Beams of colorful light shot out! ¡®Ding! Congrattions, you have obtained two 5X Amplification Card, one Enlightenment Card, one Double Cultivation Card and one Experience Card (will be automatically activated).¡¯ The light faded away and so did the shell fragments of the silver reward egg. Fang Lang waspletely dazzled by the five action cards that burst out of the reward egg. Finally, a reward egg that was thrilling! ¡®Ding! Automatically activating Experience Card. System experience bar will be filled until the next level is reached. ¡®Ding! System experience bar is full. System upgraded!¡¯ ... Host: Fang Lang Cultivation Discipline: Third-Grade Sword Master (Second ss) Level: LV6 Experience: 0/200000 Core: 36 (White) Altered Core: 66 (Purple) Cultivation Resource: 50,000 gold coins, 500 low-grade spirit crystals, 10 mid-grade spirit crystals (usage limited to cultivation) Items: Grade-Rush Card (1), Grade-Rush Card Fragment (4), 5X Physical Buff Card (1), Physical Buff Card (3), 5X Amplification Card (1), Enlightenment Card (1), Double Cultivation Card (1) Equipment: Instant Casting Staff Binding Partner: Ni Wen (60%); Jiang Linglong (60%); Liu Bubai (60%); Empty slot (60%); Empty slot (60%) Sole Passive Ability: Additional rewards may be granted when the host bonds with the binding partner over cultivation. ... Fang Lang grinned from ear to ear when he saw his overflowing inventory. Another empty slot appeared under the binding partner section. Coincidentally, Fang Lang had just found out who Wei Sheng was. He was not hesitant about binding to him. The final section of the Imperial Examination was drawing near. Fang Lang was aiming to be the grand champion so naturally, he had to utilize all the resources at hand. At that moment, Wei Sheng was the best choice for Fang Lang¡¯s next binding partner. He had met him, fought him and knew his name. Moreover, Wei Sheng was a genius in martial arts mastery! ¡®What am I waiting for? ¡®I¡¯ll bind to him now!¡¯ ¡°System, lock in binding partner, Wei Sheng!¡± ¡®Ding! Locking in target... ¡®Targeted binding partner is a second-ss, ninth-grade martial arts master. Estimated binding time is three days.¡¯ The System¡¯s notification appeared. Fang Lang had long prepared for this. ¡°Exchange three Grade-Rush Card Fragments to reduce binding time.¡± ¡®Ding! Exchangeplete. Bindingplete. Binding partner: Wei Sheng.¡¯ ... Binding Partner: Wei Sheng Age: 15 Cultivation Discipline: Ninth-Grade Martial Arts Master (Second ss) Core: 45 (Gold) Cultivation Speed: 14 low-grade spirit crystals / two hours Bloodline Ability: Rampage ... ¡®Oh?¡¯ Fang Lang took a nce at Wei Sheng¡¯s introduction. His core was slightly weaker than Jiang Linglong¡¯s, but one particr section of his stats stood out¡ªthe bloodline ability. Even Old Jiang did not possess anything like that! ¡®Ding! When binding mode is activated, you will obtain 60 percent of your binding partner¡¯s bloodline ability.¡¯ Fang Lang¡¯s eyes twinkled with excitement. ¡®I can steal this ability too? ¡®Awesome!¡¯ Fang Lang had uncovered another benefit of partner binding! It was a hazy autumn night. Dim rays of moonlight shone from above. Fang Lang stacked three Physical Buff Cards together and used them all at one go. Every inch of his skin turned crimson red as the blood boiled within his body. An agonizing pain overwhelmed his spiritual sense. He took a long hour toplete thirty breaths worth of training. Even so, its effect was amazing. Fang Lang felt his body tremble as the energy surged through his meridians. He had finally be a second-grade martial arts master! After resting for a short moment, Fang Lang sat cross-legged and began to absorb spirit crystals. Suddenly, he was reminded of an unusual card he obtained from the Silver Reward Egg. Fang Lang rubbed his hands together excitedly. ¡®Double Cultivation Card: One-time use. After activation, a clone of one selected binding partner will form. The clone has identical cultivation inspiration and cultivation speed to the selected binding partner. All products of the clone¡¯s cultivation will all be transferred to the host when the clone dissolves. Effect of the cardsts for six hours.¡¯ Fang Lang¡¯s hands froze. He found the card¡¯s effect to be dull and unimpressive. ¡°Switch to Quadruple Binding Mode! ¡°Activate Double Cultivation Card with the binding partner, Jiang Linglong.¡± Fang Langmanded in aposed tone. The System¡¯s notification sounded. Following that, a clone of Old Jiang gradually took shape beside Fang Lang. The clone had a veil over her face. Like a holographic image, the clone was blurry and can only be seen but not touched. Fang Lang prepared a pile of spirit crystals for her. Then, he activated the 5X Amplification Card and started cultivating at five times the speed! Boom! The lightning-fast cultivation speed bombarded him with spiritual energy. A night of double cultivation brought rity to his mind. Whoosh! After days of stagnant progress, Fang Lang finally rose to be a fourth-grade sword master. ... The next day. Autumn rain continued to pour. The air grew more frigid by the day. After a whole night of double cultivation, Fang Lang packed up his clothes and valuables. He would soon head to the Imperial City of Changan along with Wen Ting to undergo special training. Thus, Old Fang wanted to see him off personally. Old Fang held an oil-paper umbre in his hand as the father and son headed to Luojiang Academy together. Old Fang nagged Fang Lang all the way there. He even prepared tens of thousands worth of cash and stuffed it into Fang Lang¡¯s arms. The journey to Changan was a long one. Any father would surely be worried about his child who would be a thousand miles away. Thus, it was only natural for him to nag Fang Lang. Even so, he knew his son was not a child anymore and would eventually soar into the boundless skies. Old Fang would not stand in his way. He would merely stand at the foot of the mountain and watch as his child reached higher and higher peaks, silently apuding his achievements. If there came a day when his child was too tired to continue, he would be there to provide a cozy ce for him to rest. Fang Lang held his umbre and slowly stepped into the academy. He looked back. The autumn rain was like a veil that obscured Chang Street. It cast a blur over the scene of Old Fang waving in the rain. Chapter 77 - A Girl in Changan Was Waiting for Her Soldier’s Return

Chapter 77: A Girl in Changan Was Waiting for Her Soldier¡¯s Return

Trantor: EndlessFantasy Trantion Editor: EndlessFantasy Trantion Luojiang Academy. The autumn rain was fine as silk, making the academy appear like a scene from a poem. Wen Ting was dressed in a in blue robe. He carried his sheathed sword at his waist with its tassel hanging at the edge. His get-up made him appear somewhat cool and unruly. Tucking away his mentor persona, Wen Ting appeared as if he had returned to his youthful days when he took Changan City by storm as the Schrly Sword Master. ¡°Have you all said your goodbyes to your family?¡± Wen Ting had a gourd canteen in his hand but it did not contain any wine. Instead, it was filled with warm wolfberry tea. Fang Lang was rendered speechless when he saw Wen Ting spit out some wolfberry seeds. It seemed like Mentor Wen¡¯s life was not all about swords and travel¡ªit was also about wolfberries. Ni Wen was carrying a notable amount of non-perishable food in a thick cloth that was tied into a bag. She shyly hung her head low as she held her umbre under the rain. Fang Lang had to persuade her for a long while before she finally agreed to let him carry her bag in his space ring. Liu Bubai had arrived too. He strode proudly toward them, radiating the confidence of a self-proimed genius. Seeing that everyone was here, Wen Ting whipped out his extravagant flight sword. Once Fang Lang and the others had climbed onto the flight sword, Wen Ting took out his Flight Sword Examination pass. The flight sword burst through the autumn rain, slicing through the curtains of rain that engulfed the whole city as it flew toward Changan. ¡°Sir, are we heading straight to Changan?¡± Liu Bubai inquired curiously. Mentor Wen shook his head as he maneuvered the flight sword. ¡°Yes, but technically no. ¡°I¡¯m bringing you guys to a ce where you can level up your abilities in a short amount of time,¡± Wen Ting answered with a smile. It piqued Fang Lang¡¯s curiosity too. ¡°The Spirit Pagoda?¡± Wen Ting chuckled. ¡°Of course not! The Spirit Pagoda is under the Ministry of Rites¡¯s jurisdiction. It is not open to the public.¡± ¡°Then where are we going?¡± ¡°A demon portal.¡± Wen Ting¡¯s reply stunned not only Fang Lang, but Ni Wen and Liu Bubai as well. They already knew the terrors of demon portals from their textbooks. After all, they were key barriers that stood between the two worlds! With their current abilities, going to the demon portal would be suicide! ¡°Of course, I won¡¯t be bringing you to a real demon portal. This particr portal has been abandoned after suffering many rounds of rigorous attacks from our world. The demons have surrendered this portal and sealed up their side. They left behind many other-worldly items in the portal. Moreover, the unique pressure of a demon portal still remains. Thus, after the Tang Dynasty conquered the portal, it was turned into a training ground for disciples of sects from all over the empire. There are even some powerful men who go hunting there as a pastime. ¡°With your current abilities, you can only practice cultivation at the outermost area of the hunting ground. ¡°If you¡¯re lucky enough, you might even run into creatures that carry tiny amounts of demon energy. It¡¯ll be goodbat training.¡± Wen Ting smiled as he exined. His words brought some excitement and motivation to Fang Lang and the others. An abandoned demon portal was still a demon portal nheless! ¡°The academy has rewarded you with ten low-grade spirit crystals each to congratte you for your achievement in the honor roll.¡± Having said that, Wen Ting took out 30 spirit crystals from his space ring. It was not a big deal for Fang Lang. After all, with his-worth, ten low-grade spirit crystals were nothing to him. On the other hand, it was a pleasant surprise for Ni Wen and Liu Bubai. ¡°Also, you guys can only cultivate at the demon portal¡¯s hunting ground for three days. Even if you haven¡¯t finished absorbing your spirit crystals by then, we¡¯ll still have to leave for Changan. The final section of the Imperial Examination requires all participants to report to the Ministry of Rites in Changan five days prior to the exam. This is an irond rule that cannot be broken. ¡°With the help of the demon portal¡¯s pressure, three days should be enough for you to absorb ten spirit crystals. This will help you be a little more powerful and perhaps help you reach a few ranks higher in the final section,¡± said Wen Ting. The flight sword soared above the clouds for a long while before finally reaching the demon portal¡¯s hunting ground, which was located 300 miles away from Changan City. Fang Lang sat upright on the flight sword with his sword box ced on his knees. His palm was gently wrapped around the hilt of his Blooming Lotus Sword. He felt as if the Sword Intent Seed that resided within his energy center had an inextricable link with his de. It gave Fang Lang an odd feeling as if the sword was alive. Fang Lang squinted his eyes and gazed into the horizon. From there, he could see the ancient Changan City encapsted by rain and mist. However, he quickly shifted his gaze away from the city and turned to the pce that was growing bigger and bigger before his eyes. It sat among the clouds, suspended in mid-air. An abandoned demon portal. ... The Imperial City of Changan was ancient yet magnificent. It was worthy of its position at the very center of the Tang Dynasty. The ancient city was filled with artistic inspiration coveted by countless poets. Its regality was enough to bring anyone to its knees. A bell rang in the archaic temple situated outside the city. Its ring reverberated through every street in the city. It traveled along the streets and entered the Royal City which was located at the heart of Changan. Countless pces stood within the Royal City, making it appear like a field of blooming flowers. The yellow zed tiles of the pces¡¯ roofs emitted a majestic golden glow as sunlight shone upon them. High vermilion walls surrounded the pce, isting it from the rest of the city. The pce exuded a sense of pressure unique to itself. On the promenade of the Aqua Pavilion, within the pce garden. The third prince, Li Liancheng, was walking leisurely along the quiet promenade. Beside him was an extraordinarily handsome man dressed in white. He exuded an air of elegance as he strolled alongside the third prince. The third prince stopped in his tracks. He gazed at the wonderful tranquility of autumn that filled the courtyard. With his hands behind his back, he uttered calmly, ¡°You did not top the honor roll this year. ¡°Yuanzhen, I¡¯m a little disappointed.¡± An apologetic expression appeared on the elegant man¡¯s face. ¡°Your Highness, I¡¯ve disappointed you. ¡°Fang Lang¡¯s talent in poetry isparable to Ximen Xianxian¡¯s. I definitely fall short in that aspect. ¡°As for thebat exam¡¯s written assessment, I did not anticipate him to answer every question in all three disciplines.¡± Li Yuanzhen admitted, ¡°I was careless.¡± The third prince turned to Li Yuanzhen with a cold expression. After a long while, a smile appeared on his noble face. ¡°You¡¯re still as carefree as before. You should really learn to be more scrupulous like your father. You must always have a thorough n. And never underestimate anyone.¡± ¡°Thank you for your teachings, Your Highness,¡± Li Yuanzhen smiled and replied. The third prince nodded. ¡°I never have to worry about you. Nheless, you have brought shame upon me for failing to top the honor roll this year. You have to work hard for the uing final section. Don¡¯t mess up again.¡± ¡°Understood.¡± Li Yuanzhen cupped his fist in his palm and bowed. The third prince extended his arm and caught a withered leaf that was blown away by the wind between his slender fingers. ¡°Fang Lang... He has a purple core. Mutated cores are hard toe by. Even I did not anticipate this turn of events. ¡°It¡¯s no wonder the boy could emerge at the top almost overnight. Jiang Linglong has a good eye. ¡°Yuanzhen, you must prepare yourself well. His cultivation skills may be far behind yours, but you mustn¡¯t take him lightly.¡± The third prince advised as he narrowed his eyes and gazed at the withered leaf in his hand. The corners of the elegant man¡¯s lips curled, shing a noble smile that reminded one of plum blossoms that bloom proudly despite the winter cold. He did not speak; he did not feel there was a need to. He simply replied by cupping his fist with his palm and bowing. ¡°I¡¯m guessing Fang Lang¡¯s skill is stillcking. He¡¯ll have to makest-minute grinds to stand a chance in the final battle. Hence, Wen Ting will bring him to the hunting grounds of the abandoned demon portal to improve his cultivation. ¡°I think we should give the boy more pressure. Pass my order along to the students of Changan Academy and the Imperial Academy who didn¡¯t get into the top five hundred honor roll to take a trip to the hunting grounds. Whoever can defeat Fang Lang in a duel will be granted a spot in any of the top ten sects. ¡°Let¡¯s make it a ¡®special training¡¯ for him.¡± The third prince smirked. ¡°You should go too. It¡¯ll be a good chance to meet the first-ranked whose poem took half the empire by surprise.¡± Having said that, the third prince flicked his finger. The withered leaf in his hand was instantly turned to dust. ... The gates of ancient Changan City opened slowly. Dozens of figures exited the gate with umbres in hand. They were students from Changan Academy and the Imperial Academy who did not get into the top 500 honor roll. For them, getting any rank below 500 was considered a failure. Their future was uncertain after losing the chance to pick their own sects. The third prince¡¯s promise had rekindled their lost hope. They wanted to give it a shot. They wanted to challenge thebat and theory champion of that year¡¯s Imperial Examination. They acknowledged Fang Lang¡¯s talent in poetry writing, but they had not recognized his strength inbat. Those who did not make the honor roll had no right to challenge him in Changan City. Nheless, the same rule did not necessarily apply to the demon portal¡¯s hunting ground. If they could defeat Fang Lang, not only would their victory be the talk of the town, they would also have the third prince¡¯s support, so why not give it a shot? No matter how strong Fang Lang was, they still had to try. After all, students who did not make the honor roll had little chance of altering their fate. They had nothing to lose. Their hopes were reignited. They would not let it be extinguished so easily. Whoosh! Whoosh! Whoosh! The students took off into the sky in twos and threes, on flight swords driven by their mentors. The mass travel stirred up the air currents as they soared toward the demon portal hunting grounds located 300 miles away from the city. The students vanished into the horizon. When they were gone, an over-the-top luxury carriage slowly approached the gates. Inside the carriage sat a figure dressed in a red hooded robe. The carriage wheels crushed the withered leaves on the ground, mixing it with the autumn rain. The carriage advanced toward the gates of Changan City. The soldiers of the gates bowed as the carriage passed by. It exited the gates to the sound of trampling hoofbeats. Then, the carriage took flight and soared toward the hunting grounds 300 miles away from Changan, slicing through the curtains of rain. It looked as if the person inside had ns for a day of sport hunting. However... No one knew if he was off to hunt man or beast. ... Changan, the manor of the Martial Arts King. In a little courtyard deep within the manor. Zhao Wuji stood outside the courtyard respectfully, emitting an impressive aura. Even the pouring rain was intimidated and curved around his body as they fell. Within the courtyard, Princess Pei Shi and Jiang Linglong sat where the fragrance of tea and sandalwood permeated. Jiang Linglong was dressed in bright clothes. She prepared a cup of tea for Pei Shi. Pei Shi held the tea in both hands, taking tiny sips from the cup while stealing nces at her daughter. Her longshes trembled a little as the refreshing tea soothed her throat. Pei Shi felt as if she was losing touch with her daughter. As the girl grew older, she became more and more like her father¡ªstately and impressive. On the other hand, Pei Shi always saw herself as a little doll who had never truly grown up. She was still timid when faced with her parents. ¡°Ling¡¯er, I heard from Old Chao you¡¯re familiar with Fang Lang¡ªthe boy at the top of the honor roll. Is that true?¡± The princess cleared her throat and asked in a low voice. Jiang Linglong had a faint smile on her beautiful face. She shot a nce at the man looking around suspiciously outside the courtyard. Her nce made Old Zhao tremble in fear. The corner of her lips curled up slightly. ¡°Mother, Fang Lang has retrieved Sect Leader Taihua¡¯s Blooming Lotus Sword. Do you think... I should establish a connection with him? Should I protect him?¡± Princess Pei Shi covered her mouth and gasped after hearing Jiang Linglong¡¯s words. ¡°Taihua¡¯s Blooming Lotus? ¡°Wow, the boy must be amazing then! ¡°You should introduce him to me someday.¡± Jiang Linglong could not help but press her hand on her forehead. Shemented silently, ¡®Mother, how old are you? How can you be so innocent and naive?¡¯ ¡°Alright.¡± Hearing that, the princess¡¯s eyes curved into little crescents. She was excited for that day toe. ¡°Ling¡¯er, let me recite Little Fang¡¯s poem to you. This is the poem that won him first ce in the theory exam! It triumphs even the poem of Ximen Xianxian that impressed the entire entertainment house!¡± Jiang Linglong smiled with her lips pressed tightly together. The princess began to recite the poem. Jiang Linglong listened silently. The scent of sandalwood filled the autumn air. Jiang Linglong gazed at the clouds that hung peacefully in the skies outside the courtyard. There was a girl in Changan waiting for her soldier¡¯s return. It was almost time for Fang Lang to enter the city; it was almost time for him to fulfill the promise they made to each other. Jiang Linglong wondered what kind of entrance the sword-wielding teen from Luojiang City would make when he set foot into Changan. She was... a little excited. Chapter 78 - I, Fang Lang, Am Willing to Help Them Fulfill Their Dreams

Chapter 78: I, Fang Lang, Am Willing to Help Them Fulfill Their Dreams

Trantor: EndlessFantasy Trantion Editor: EndlessFantasy Trantion After soaring through the drizzle that enveloped the world, the extravagant flight swordnded in front of the demon portal that stood among the clouds. ¡°Get off.¡± Wen Ting instructed after he took a sip of the wolfberry tea in his gourd canteen. Fang Lang and the others got off the flight sword and gazed at the gates of the demon portal that reached high into the clouds. At the top of the gate, there was a giant sign that said, ¡®Quiling Demon Portal¡¯. Countless stone-faced soldiers dressed in heavy armor stood guard at the bottom of the gate. The atmosphere felt immensely solemn. Wen Ting approached the guards with his de slung around his waist. After a short discussion with the guards, he paid an entrance fee ording to the rules. Finally, the guards allowed them to pass. Wen Ting thanked them with a smile then led Fang Lang and the others into the abandoned demon portal that was shrouded in mist and rain. Just as they were about to begin, a sonic boom tore through the sky. Amidst the clouds and rain, numerous flight swords soared through the sky, carrying students and mentors. Theynded in front of the demon portal gates. Wen Ting froze for a moment. He red at the descending crowd with a serious expression. It could not be a mere coincidence. Someone must have guessed that he would bring Fang Lang to the demon portal¡¯s hunting ground to undergo special training. Moreover, it seemed like a whole crowd had found out about this. ¡°They¡¯re students from Changan Academy and the Imperial Academy... They¡¯re probably here for you.¡± Wen Ting turned slightly to his side and gestured at Fang Lang. Fang Lang¡¯s green robe fluttered in the rain and mist. He furrowed his brows lightly. ¡°In Changan City, anyone in the top five hundred has the right to probe, challenge andpete with you, but anyone with a ranking lower than five hundred has no right to take part in this contest. ¡°Nheless, there¡¯s no such rule in the demon portal as it is beyond Changan City. Thus, those who did not make it into the top five hundred want to challenge you here. They wanted to take their chance with you. ¡°From my guess... some noble from the Imperial City must have promised them something.¡± Wen Ting held his de. His eyes were calm and unwavering. He could already guess the kind of situation they had been caught in. As for the ¡®noble¡¯ he mentioned, he had good reason to suspect this was the doing of the arrogant and overbearing third prince. Situations like this urred frequently. Wen Ting once ran into a simr situation when he came to cultivate in the demon portal¡¯s hunting ground for his Imperial Examination. Back then, he did not have as many challengers. The students who did not make it into the top 500 were hoping by defeating Fang Lang, they would earn the attention of a few distinguished sects. There would always be people who would abandon everything for a chance to alter their fate. Ni Wen and Liu Bubai were getting nervous. Wen Ting turned to Fang Lang and asked, ¡°Fang Lang, what do you say? Do you want to stay on the hunting grounds? Or avoid this battle altogether?¡± The autumn rain was beginning to let up. Only a few drops of rain continued to fall. Fang Lang scanned through the students who broke through the autumn rain to arrive at the hunting grounds. He debated his decision. Just then, the System¡¯s notification sounded in his mind, breaking the silence. ¡®Ding! ¡®Proving mission unlocked. ¡®Proving mission: Cultivation is all about constantly challenging and proving yourself. Every challenger is a tool for you to cheat the system. Your enemies will arrive on the battleground in thirty seconds. Defeat them all and prove you are worthy of the highest rank! You will gain ten low-grade spirit crystals worth of spiritual energy for every challenger you defeat¡ªInstant Gratification Without Dy. ¡®Is this mission for real?¡¯ Fang Lang was rendered speechless. The System did not see the students who failed to appear in the honor roll as humans at all! However, Fang Lang felt a sense of gratitude after scanning through the rewards of the mission. He rejoiced and let out an eerie smile... He gazed at the crowd of challengers as if they were a field of unlimited rewards. ¡®Should I keep in mind that they are still people? ¡®Maybe not!¡¯ Fang Lang loved this new way of leveling up! When Wen Ting saw the boy in a daze, he furrowed his brows and sighed. ¡°Why don¡¯t we head straight to Changan City...¡± ¡°No!¡± Fang Lang snapped out of his daze and rejected Wen Ting¡¯s suggestion. The look in his eyes changed abruptly. ¡°Sir, these students came all the way here to wee me! How can I disappoint this hospitable crowd? They might have ranked lower than five hundred, but that doesn¡¯t mean they don¡¯t have hopes and aspirations! They are all teens chasing their own dreams! I, Fang Lang, am willing to help them fulfill their dreams!¡± ¡®Avoid this battle? ¡®Never!¡¯ Fang Lang did not care about cheating the system¡ªall he wanted to do was help the fallen students fulfill their dreams! Wen Ting was rendered speechless. Liu Bubai had a dumbfounded expression on his face. He could not shake the feeling that something was not right. Ni Wen, on the other hand, gazed at Fang Lang with twinkling eyes. ¡®Fang Lang... you¡¯re such a kind person!¡¯ ¡°Enter the demon portal¡¯s hunting grounds then. Take it as your special training...¡± Wen Ting instructed. Instead, Fang Lang turned around, holding his sword box behind his back. An elegant yet carefree smile bloomed across his face in the autumn rain. His smile made the students from Changan Academy and the Imperial Academy stagger. As he smiled, he slowly lifted his arm and gracefully presented his middle finger to the students with much sincerity. He had the most punchable expression on his face, paired with the exceedingly vulgar action. His action did not harm anyone, but it was still terribly insulting. An uproar instantly broke out among the students¡ªmany were infuriated. Fang Lang smirked. That was the reaction he wanted to evoke. With rage backing them up, the students will not back down easily. Subsequently, Fang Lang would have more rewards to reap. ¡®These students are sent by the third prince, right? The third prince... What an amazing provider of experience points!¡¯ Then, Fang Lang turned around and entered the hunting grounds. ... Quiling Demon Portal. A vast open spaceid behind the gates. That was the world beyond the demon portal¡ªone that was filled with vast, undting mountains. It was truly a whole new world. An invisible pressure pressed down on them. They could feel it in their hearts. The spiritual energy flowing in their bodies had slowed down significantly. That was the mighty pressure of the demon portal¡ªa force created when two worlds collide. The demon portal they entered was an abandoned one. One side had been sealed, making the pressure much weaker than before. An unweakened pressure was much more terrifying than what they were experiencing! Wen Ting led the trio into the demon portal¡¯s hunting grounds. The hunting grounds were vast and boundless. At one nce, all they could see was a lush jungle that stretched out indefinitely. Beneath all that lushness were countless remains of cultivators from the past. ¡°Ni Wen, Bubai, you two stay at the outer edges of the hunting grounds and absorb your spirit crystals. Strive to absorb all ten crystals within these three days.¡± Wen Ting instructed when he turned to Ni Wen and Liu Bubai. However, Liu Bubai and Ni Wei eximed, ¡°Sir, there¡¯s too many of them! We can fight alongside Fang Lang!¡± Fang Lang smiled and waved his hands. ¡°Go ahead and absorb your spirit crystals. This is my fight, so don¡¯t try to snatch them from me, okay? ¡°I have a lot of spirit crystals and I absorb them by tens each session, so sitting this one out won¡¯t affect me much. You guys, on the other hand, shouldn¡¯t let this opportunity go to waste,¡± Fang Lang said. The others did not utter a word. ¡®What the hell is he saying!¡¯ Even Wen Ting was at a loss for words. He had to take a sip of his wolfberry tea to alleviate his shock. ¡®Does he think he can be so cocky just because he has spirit crystals?¡¯ Liu Bubai and Ni Wen did not insist. They departed into the woods to find a suitable spot to absorb their spirit crystals. Wen Ting spread out his spiritual senses to get a feel of Liu Bubai and Ni Wen¡¯s position. He had to keep track of them lest they run into any danger. Meanwhile, Fang Lang was smiling. He did not find a spot in the woods. Instead, he took out his Obsidian Sword from his sword box and held it by its hilt. He stuck the tip of his de into the soil and started walking slowly, drawing out a circle in the dirt. The circle would be his battle ring! After that, Fang Lang leaned against his Obsidian Sword and gazed into the horizon with keen eyes. He waited for the students from Changan Academy and the Imperial Academy to set foot into the demon portal. Wen Ting floated to the top of a tree branch a distance away and watched inquisitively. ¡®What is Fang Lang trying to do? ¡®Is he really trying to fight a whole crowd alone?¡¯ Wen Ting was puzzled but he was not going to stand in Fang Lang¡¯s way. The autumn rain turned into a drizzle. The ground that was soaked with rainwater was a little sticky. Water ripples appeared like plum blossoms in the mud, formed by rain droplets. From afar, the students of Changan Academy and the Imperial Academy appeared in a swarm. They saw the green-robed boy standing in a makeshift battle ring, holding his des in the autumn rain. Most students knew Fang Lang had gotten full marks in the practical section of thebat exam. Nheless, one only had to reach a certain level of skill to obtain full marks. Among the crowd, quite a number of students had also obtained full marks too! They had heard Fang Lang became a sword master right before the Imperial Examination with the help of the Spirit Pagoda. They wondered how a boy who had just became a sword master could be so arrogant! ¡°You¡¯re here to challenge me, right? ¡°Come.¡± Fang Lang put on a gentle smile as he leaned against his Obsidian Sword. His robe fluttered in the wind as the autumn rain continued to fall. ¡°Let me!¡± An attractive young man from the Imperial Academy broke away from the group and made a hot-headed charge toward Fang Lang. He stepped into the circle Fang Lang had drawn and red. ¡°Linglong went to the extremes to protect you! I¡¯d like to know what you¡¯re made of. Why does Linglong want to protect you! ¡°In order to protect you, she broke my front tooth! Today, I shall get my revenge!¡± After the attractive young man was done talking, a strong aura encapsted his body and a blood armor materialized! He was a second-grade martial arts master! A few students from Changan Academy gasped. ¡°That¡¯s Zhou You! The son of Zhou Tao, the Minister of Rites!¡± ¡°Isn¡¯t he in the top five hundred? Why is he here?¡± ¡°Clearly, this is a fight for love. His resentment for Fang Lang runs deep.¡± ... The students from Changan Academy and the Imperial Academy were chattering in the distance. Fang Lang overheard their conversation. He could not help but raise his brows thinking, ¡®Oh, Old Jiang broke this guy¡¯s tooth? ¡®Perhaps I should break another in kind.¡¯ As Fang Lang was pondering, Zhou You made his move. He had waited for this day for too long. Initially, he had decided to challenge Fang Lang the moment the boy set foot in Changan. However, Fang Lang came to Quiling Demon Portal before he entered the city. Seeing that, Zhou You did not wait any longer. The aura he emitted shifted. His step was powerful like a tiger¡¯s pounce! With a single step, he sent mud flying everywhere. He lifted his leg and kicked. His kick was so strong the air exploded! Even so, Fang Lang¡¯s lips curved up into a strange smile. He let go of his Obsidian Sword. As Zhou You¡¯s kicking leg approached, Fang Lang stacked his palms on top of one another and struck out. He was quick as lightning and viscous as a poisonous snake. Fang Lang¡¯s attack was like a thunderstrike. Zhou You felt his outstretched calf cramping up. Fang Lang felt the blood and spiritual energy surge through his body, giving him a burst of strength! Splitting Punch! Zhou You felt as if the leg he kicked out was split in half. The pain was agonizing! He fell to the ground but quickly swung his fist again! Nheless, Fang Lang¡¯s punch was faster! Fang Lang¡¯s punch intercepted Zhou You¡¯s attack, causing Zhou You¡¯s spiritual energy to flow backward. Zhou You almost coughed out blood. Fang Lang found the martial arts technique, Splitting Punch, to be extremely effective in counteracting Zhou You¡¯s physical attack! Fang Lang performed the punch several times, making Zhou You roar in anger! Fang Lang drew closer to his opponent and used Zhou You¡¯s own technique against him. Hended a series of Splitting Punches. His fists rained down on Zhou You like a storm, breaking his blood armor! Finally, Fang Lang aimed his fists at Zhou You¡¯s mandible, ready to release the terrifying punch that was as violent as the crashing waves against the shore. His green robe fluttered in the wind. He was inches away from Zhou You¡¯s jaw! Splitting Punch! Zhou You¡¯s head was flung back violently like an intoxicated person dancing in a club. A muffled noise was heard. Blood spewed and teeth flew! Zhou You¡¯s eyes rolled back. He was sent four feet into the air beforending bonelessly onto the ground. Aside from the drizzle, everything else was silent. The students stared dumbfoundedly at the defeated Minister of Rites¡¯s son. No one knew what to say. Fang Lang dragged the unconscious boy to the edge of his makeshift battle ring and tossed him out. ¡®Ding! Congrattions on defeating your first challenger. You have been rewarded with the spiritual energy of ten low-grade spirit crystals.¡¯ The System¡¯s notification appeared. Fang Lang felt a sudden swelling within his energy center! Spiritual energy appeared out of thin air! The amazing feeling nearly made Fang Lang groan. A warm smile appeared on his face again as he gazed at the silent crowd of students from Changan Academy and the Imperial Academy. All he saw was unlimited rewards. His green robe fluttered as the autumn rain continued. He was grinning ear to ear. ¡°Don¡¯t attack one by one. ¡°Juste at me all at once.¡± Chapter 79 - Kill Him, Persuade Him, Destroy Him

Chapter 79: Kill Him, Persuade Him, Destroy Him

Trantor: EndlessFantasy Trantion Editor: EndlessFantasy Trantion The rain fell at an angle as the wind blew. There was dead silence on the hunting grounds of Qiuling Demon Portal. Zhou You was on the ground, bleeding from his nose and mouth. He stared nkly at the darkening horizon with a chill in his heart. He lost in the worst way possible. Zhou You figured Fang Lang was able to top the honor roll due to his exceptional performance in the theory and writtenponent of the Imperial Examination. Fang Lang was a newly-minted sword master and Zhou You was at a simr level. However, Zhou You was trashed decisively. The boy under Jiang Linglong¡¯s protection was undoubtedly unique. Rain sttered on Zhou You¡¯s miserable face. At that moment, no one paid attention to Zhou You who had two incisors missing from the battle. Everyone¡¯s eyes were on Fang Lang. The boy returned to the ck sword that stood erect¡ªhe leaned on the Obsidian Sword. Fang Lang¡¯s tone was gentle but his words oozed confidence. When he grinned, the whole world went silent. A distance away, atop a tree branch, Wen Ting¡¯s eyes shimmered. ¡°Second-ss martial arts master?¡± This was Fang Lang¡¯s trump card? Wen Ting never noticed Fang Lang cultivating the martial arts discipline¡ªto think he was a martial arts master. Wen Ting thought he knew the boy but evidently, the truth was far from that. No wonder Fang Lang was able to achieve first ce in both the theory andbat assessments. Wen Ting looked at the fallen Zhou You impassionately and turned his attention to the uing battle. A mob? In response to Fang Lang¡¯s words, the students from Changan Academy and the Imperial Academy exchanged looks. To attack him all at once... Would it be hical? They were students of top-tier academies who came to fight Fang Lang for a chance to change their fates. If they fought and won as a group, who would win the favor? Fang Lang saw the hesitation in the students¡¯ eyes¡ªworry bloomed in his chest. The fools were going to escape. No! Fang Lang grinned wildly. He craned his head and shouted at the group of students, ¡°Come on! Hit me! Here! You bunch of dirty cowards!¡± He leaned on his sword and pointed at his skull. The tone in his voice was full of mockery. Silence persisted but emotions were boiling like hot oil. Wen Ting uncorked his gourd canteen and took a swig of wolfberry tea to calm himself. ¡®The boy was too antagonistic for his own good! ¡®Such crassness! Such grance!¡¯ Even Wen Ting felt like punching Fang Lang. The Changan and Imperial Academy students narrowed their eyes¡ªanger roiled within them. Never had they seen someone speak so boldly. Who did he think he was? The challenge was irresistible. One against many, did Fang Lang believe his energy center was limitless? The Changan students exchanged a look¡ªthey no longer cared about their pride. They set out in a ferocious arc of white light, tearing through the autumn rain with screams. The air was filled with sounds of swords unsheathing, spell-chanting and vital energy pumping. Like a handful of jewels striking a jade te, chaos erupted across the hunting grounds. The show of power made the raindrops explode into steam. A mob fight? As you wish. Dozens of Changan and Imperial Academy students charged at Fang Lang, their rampage kicking up mud and soil. Murderous intent filled the atmosphere. The martial arts masters were the first to make contact. Their bodies were protected by blood armor and their footsteps made the ground shake as if there were a horde of galloping stallions. One of the approaching martial arts masters clenched his fist and angled his body. He leaped forward like a coiled spring released and aimed a punch at Fang Lang. The heavy strike seemed to make the air particles vibrate. The air currents rushed backward as the fist descended. Fang Lang¡¯s eyes twinkled. He turned aside and revealed the sword box on his back. He extended his hand. His forefinger and middle finger touched the sword guard and tugged forward. Shing! The de energy in Fang Lang¡¯s energy center spun like a cyclone. The Blooming Lotus Sword shot forward with a frightening force. The sword flew hilt first and left a silvery streak in its wake. The falling raindrops were split apart by the fast-moving Blooming Lotus Sword. The intricate carvings on the sword were akin to the veins on a lotus flower petal. The speed at which the Blooming Lotus Sword moved put gravity to shame as the rain staggered. The martial arts master from Changan Academy was struck in the chest by the hilt of the Blooming Lotus Sword. His blood armor dissolved upon contact like a popped bubble. The head-on collision between two high-speed objects resulted in a loud crash. The Changan Academy student had a dent in his chest¡ªblood stained his white robe. His body was flung back on the same flight path and he crashed onto the ground, causing mud to stter everywhere. The expressions of the charging students changed. The Blooming Lotus Sword returned to Fang Lang¡¯s hand and he activated his Spirit Step. Afterimages appeared as he moved in the rain. He drew the Obsidian Sword from the ground. Sword Draw Technique! The earth acted as the sheath for the ink-ck sword. A snake-like crack split the muddy ground. As the mob drew closer, Fang Lang rushed forward fearlessly, like a lone raft taking on the huge ocean waves. ¡®Ding! Congrattions on defeating the challenger. You have been rewarded with the spiritual energy of ten low-grade spirit crystals.¡¯ ¡®Ding! Congrattions on defeating the challenger. You have been rewarded with the spiritual energy of ten low-grade spirit crystals.¡¯ ... Fang Lang¡¯s energy center was constantly being depleted and replenished! The two swords danced synchronously. At that moment, the swords were akin to a demon¡¯s punishing mace and an immortal¡¯s whip, bulldozing through the group of Changan students! The autumn raindrops turned into mist. The bodies spilled blood as they sailed through the hazy atmosphere. ... Rain continued to fall. An elegant figure walked along the main street of Changan City, oil paper umbre in hand. His footsteps were steadfast and did not disturb the pools of rainwater. He headed toward the gates of Changan. After greeting the guards, he left the city. His foot came down on the ancient limestone path beyond the city perimeters. He stopped. The environment was silent but for the raindrops striking the umbre. He lifted his head and gazed into the distance. A youth with short hair stood in the rain with a ck sword strapped to his back¡ªthe raindrops battered his body. The youth had his back to him. When the elegant teen approached, the youth turned. ¡°Wei Sheng?¡± Li Yuanzhen said. The autumn rain lingered on his elegant face and a look of surprise crossed his face. As Wei Sheng turned, a smile formed on his face. ¡°Are you going to the demon portal¡¯s hunting grounds?¡± An intrigued look crossed Li Yuanzhen¡¯s face. ¡°I¡¯m considering. Are you here to stop me?¡± Wei Sheng sighed. ¡°I¡¯m not confident I¡¯d win against you but my mentor has asked me to look after him... I don¡¯t have a choice, I owe him too much. I can¡¯t let you go. Also, if you want to fight him, it should be during the final section of the Imperial Examination, not at the hunting grounds.¡± The excitement on Li Yuanzhen¡¯s face intensified. After a moment, he let out a low chuckle. ¡°Interesting. Then, I shall have a warm-up exercise with Brother Wei before the final section begins.¡± As soon as he was done talking, Li Yuanzhen made a tugging motion with his slender fingers. A raindrop rolled down the umbre. He pulled the droplet into a string, plucking it like one would a stringed instrument. The sound of a rushing waterfall resounded after the string of water was strummed. Beneath Li Yuanzhen¡¯s feet, the rain puddles shifted to form a rune. The rain froze in the air and as he yed his imaginary tune, the raindrops transformed into arrows that shot at Wei Sheng. Wei Sheng scratched his head and smiled sheepishly. Then, he pulled out the dark sword on his back. A bolt of ck lightning shattered the earth. ... Droplets of unequal size fell from the sky, pattering the cedarwood carriage¡ªthe sshes looked like plum blossoms. Water rained down on the driver in a red-hooded robe. The expensive-looking custom silk blinds swayed in the winds, asionally revealing the noble figure sitting inside the carriage. The carriage wheel made tracks in the mud but the rain quickly erased the trail. The horse carriage came to a gentle halt. The horse¡¯s warm breath could be seen as it stood motionless. A mountain ridge away, a green-robed youth was fighting dozens of white-robed students. The blinds of the carriage slowly parted. A pair of eyes stared out into the distance. Through the heavy rain, he watched the ongoing battle. ¡°What an impressive honor roll student. It is no surprise he ranked first and took the city by storm,¡± azy voice spoke from the carriage. ¡°No wonder he managed to kill Lin Yun. Sect Leader Nan, what do you think of him?¡± the third prince asked. The red-hooded figure trembled and lifted his head. An old man with a unibrow was under the hood. It was the sect leader of Donglu¡¯s Sword League, Donglu¡¯s God of des, Nan Yehuo. ¡°This child¡¯s talent is monstrous. He is the genius among geniuses, unrivaled across the three thousand academies. ¡°Lu Ze, Luo Yang and Li Yuanzhen are nothing like him.¡± Nan Yehuo¡¯s throaty voice croaked. ¡°Oh?¡± The third prince was surprised to hear the sect leader¡¯s appraisal of Li Yuanzhen. ¡°Only Jiang Linglong, Wei Sheng and Ximen Xianxian are in his league,¡± Nan Yehuo continued speaking. The third prince was taken aback, to say the least. ¡°For Ximen Xianxian¡¯s case, I know he¡¯s been gathering his energy. Although he didn¡¯t rank high in the honor roll, I¡¯m sure he¡¯ll surprise everyone in the final section. Unfortunately, he¡¯s been recruited by the eldest prince. ¡°Wei Sheng is a descendent of the lost royal family from the Eight Dynasties and holds a bloodline ability. ¡°Lady Linglong is the only child of the Martial Arts King. She inherited his new blood, though unawaked, her potential is limitless ¡°On what basis is Fang Lang considered to be in the same tier as them?¡± the third prince questioned. Donglu¡¯s God of des shook his head. His hoarse voice overpowered the rain. ¡°Instincts, and the fact that he managed to retrieve the Blooming Lotus Sword.¡± In a light tone, the third prince replied, ¡°This is not a joke.¡± ¡°Your Highness, if he is your enemy, my advice is to kill him before he realizes his full potential. It is why I am here in person,¡± Nan Yehuo said solemnly. The world was dead silent. Momentster, the third prince let out an airyugh. The words he spoke were cold as ice. ¡°It¡¯s a shame he can¡¯t be killed by me. He is the top scorer in the theory andbat assessment, all eyes will be on him. If he dies at my hands, my father would be livid. ¡°That policy essay of his ruined a huge part of my ns. Let¡¯s have a discussion with him, if he submits, I¡¯m open to negotiations.¡± Nan Yehuo was silent. He thought of the Emperor¡¯s rage from deep within the pce. The silence went on, then Nan Yehuo spoke, ¡°If he can¡¯t be persuaded, destroy him?¡± ¡°Yes.¡± The third prince let the silk blinds fall andzily leaned back against the soft cushions. If Fang Lang was stubborn, the third prince would do what was necessary, even if it meant angering his daunting father. He would willingly pay the price for his ns. The rain had no intention of stopping. The red-hooded Nan Yehuo lifted his hand. A sharp cry sounded from the dense forest. A wolf with demonic energy was trapped by an invisible forcefield¡ªit howled at the sky. Nan Yehuo¡¯s scrunched unibrow rxed as he flung his arm to the side. Like beingunched by a catapult, the wolf sailed through the sky in a huge arc,nding on the neighboring mountain range upied by a certain green-robed teen. Nan Yehuo gently urged the horse into motion. The carriage wheels began to spin, breaking the still ink wash painting. ... Fang Lang leaned on both swords. His energy center was filled with spiritual energy and the Sword Intent Seed worked to convert the spiritual energy into de energy. Out of a sudden, a wisp of de energy formed within his core. Whoosh! The shackles of the fourth grade crumbled. The surrounding raindrops twisted as Fang Lang became a fifth-grade sword master. The spiritual energy rewards continued to rush into his energy center, pushing at his energy boundary and filling up his newly acquired fifth-grade energy core. Although Fang Lang wanted to break through, the spiritual energy had to be converted into de energy. Thest challenger had fallen. The Changan Academy student limped away from the battle ring, pale-faced and heavily injured. Fang Lang lifted his head and stared into the autumn sky. There was a writhing mass of darknessing his way. ... The horse carriage zapped past the mountains as winds and rain hammered on the outside. They were only 1,000 meters away from the green-robed teen. Chapter 80 - A Buddha Flicking a Flower Petal

Chapter 80: A Buddha Flicking a Flower Petal

Trantor: EndlessFantasy Trantion Editor: EndlessFantasy Trantion Changan, Jiang Manor¡ªalso known as the Martial Arts King Manor. The sunlight was dimming as a fine shower of rain bathed the area. Thenterns along the long corridor were lit by the servant girls. As the autumn rain carried on, thentern me flickered in the haze. Within the courtyard, Princess Pei Shi and Jiang Linglong¡¯s conversation came to an end. Jiang Linglong held the oil paper umbre and escorted her red-cloaked mother out of the courtyard. Swoosh! An ear-splitting sound apanied the arrival of a flight sword¡ªa white streak tore through the rain-filled sky. Zhao Wuji¡¯s vital energy roared. He raised a hand and caught the flight sword. Jiang Linglong and the princess halted their footsteps. Silence filled the courtyard. Zhao Wuji retrieved the letter on the flight sword. His eyes narrowed after reading the contents. He rushed to Jiang Linglong¡¯s side and handed over the missive. ¡°Mydy, please have a look.¡± Jiang Linglong¡¯s brows were furrowed. Her eyshes trembled as she scanned through the letter. The temperature in the courtyard plummeted as if a vacuum had formed. The unbearable cold turned the falling rain into ice. Jiang Linglong¡¯s beautiful features were frozen. Princess Pei Shi¡¯s neck twitched when she felt the sudden change in her daughter¡¯s aura. ¡°Ling¡¯er, did something happen to Little Fang? You¡¯re so agitated.¡± As the words left her mouth, Jiang Linglong¡¯s starry eyes met Princess Pei Shi¡¯s. The princess kept her mouth shut thereafter. Jiang Linglong turned her gaze to Zhao Wuji. ¡°Old Zhao, prepare the carriage. We¡¯re leaving the city. We¡¯re going to the hunting grounds of Qiulin Demon Portal.¡± Leaving the city? A sh of recognition crossed Zhao Wuji¡¯s eyes. He cupped his fist and said, ¡°Understood.¡± After that exchange, Princess Pei Shi timidly raised her fair hand. Jiang Linglong nearlyughed at her mother¡¯s gesture. ¡®Are you even my mother?¡¯ ¡°Go on.¡± The princess smiled happily and said, ¡°Ling¡¯er ah, it¡¯s dangerous to leave the city. Old Zhao might not be a good choice. Why not... call your father? ¡°No, your father won¡¯t even leave his room. There¡¯s no way he¡¯ll rescue Little Fang. How about your uncle? I¡¯m sure he¡¯ll lend you a hand.¡± Princess Pei Shi received the umbre and gave her advice. ¡°I like Little Fang¡¯s poem, he¡¯s an impressive boy. Go ahead.¡± Although Princess Pei Shicked character, Jiang Linglong appreciated her concern. She gave her mother a faint nod and a smile warmed the autumn day. ¡°Sure,¡± Jiang Linglong replied. ¡°If your uncle refuses, tell me. I¡¯ll pull off his ear!¡± Princess Pei Shi rolled up her sleeve, acting like she was ready for some ear-pulling. She was unable to reign in her husband and daughter, but not that little rascal of a brother! Jiang Linglong chuckled. Then, she ordered the servant girl to escort her mother back before leaving the manor with Old Zhao. ... Fang Lang studied the horizon¡ªthere was a ck massing toward him like a meteor. The object roared. A concealed weapon? Approaching. The thing was approaching. Fang Lang saw that it was a malevolent wolf with a demonic presence. The rain had soaked into the wolf¡¯s fur. The wolf bared its teeth in the air. It howled and roared as it neared its destination. Fang Lang¡¯s eyebrows were knitted together as he raised his sword. The Obsidian Sword was utterly ck¡ªit appeared like a ck line slicing through the scene. de energy rose from his feet. When the wolfnded, it was cleaved in half by Fang Lang¡¯s de. A loud cry. Blood sttered everywhere. The separated wolf body fell to both sides of Fang Lang, the gore stains reached a distance away. Wen Ting sat on a tree branch as he sipped his wolfberry tea. A shocked expression was on his face. He closed his gourd canteen with a stopper and let it fall to his waist. He stood upon the branch as the rain soaked his in clothes. Wen Ting studied the cleaved demonic wolf that fell from the sky. Fortunately, the wolf¡¯s demonic energy was fairly manageable. A flying wolf? What was happening? Something was off. Fang Lang had defeated dozens of students on his lonesome without exhausting his spiritual energy. On the contrary, the longer he fought, the stronger he got. He even managed to attain fifth-grade sword mastery during the fight. His performance challenged Wen Ting¡¯s views on cultivation. It was a question without an answer, so Wen Ting could only chalk it up to Fang Lang¡¯s umon purple core. Perhaps this was a case of an outstanding core mutation! Huh? Wen Ting frowned. Subconsciously, his sleeved hand moved to his sword hilt. He stared out into the rainyndscape. An extravagant carriage hovered in the air. Rain fell on the cedar wood carriage, creating a misty haze. The rain curved around the shape of the horse carriage and blurred the view. The carriage was unmoving, 1,000 meters away. The weather made the silk blinds flutter and an aristocratic silhouette was revealed. Wen Ting¡¯s sword hand tightened around the hilt. Suddenly, the carriage wheels began to spin. It moved through the rain and wind. 1,000 meters, 600 meters, 200 meters... The details of the carriage were rified. Rainwater washed away the thick scent of blood and the two halves of the wolfid on the ground¡ªthe corpse was turning cold. Fang Lang leaned on the Obsidian Sword. The Blooming Lotus Sword was back in the sword box. He slowly turned around and faced the iing horse carriage. The vehicle came to a halt 30 meters away. In Fang Lang¡¯s eyes, the horse carriage was clear as day¡ªhis eyes could make out the markings on the cedarwood. A short distance stood between the carriage and the green-robed teen. Like two faraway points on an ink wash drawing, they were worlds apart. The world was silent but for the downpour. Fang Lang focused on the carriage and clenched his fist around his sword. He frowned and stared, the stench of blood dissipating. The rain parted for the horse carriage. ¡°Did you know that the wolf you just killed was my prey?¡± Azy drawl came from within the carriage. Fang Lang nced at the dead wolf and cocked an eye. ¡®ident scams were already a thing in this era?¡¯ ¡°It was not my intention but the wolf came at me suddenly. It was an act of defense,¡± Fang Lang said. Light-heartedughter echoed from the carriage. ¡°Sure. I¡¯ll forgive you and let you live. If you cut ties with the Jiang family, I¡¯ll make you a promise, from today onwards, you¡¯ll need not worry about food or shelter and all your cultivation needs will be met.¡± The tone was casual. ¡°Where¡¯s your gratitude?¡± The voice carried through the rainy weather. Gratitude... The demanding words coupled with the austere presence... Without a doubt, the person in the carriage was the third prince. Fang Lang leaned on his sword and asked, ¡°I¡¯ve never had to worry about food or shelter. As for cultivation resources, ten-fold of what I have now would entail a hundred mid-grade spirit crystals... Do you have millions for me to spend?¡± His question was met with silence. Fang Lang smirked and said regretfully, ¡°Well, I guess you don¡¯t. Then, your offer is garbage.¡± Just as he said that, a roar sounded from the carriage. ¡°Insolence!¡± The falling rain froze. At the driver¡¯s spot, the red-hooded Nan Yehuo widened his eyes. The wind blew the hood down and revealed a unibrow. A frightening pressure emanated from the man, causing countless raindrops to explode into a fine mist. The rain battered the earth. A dragon awoke amidst the mountain ranges. The terrifying pressure pressed down from the sky and raindrops were forced into the ground, not allowed to create a single ripple. Fang Lang felt as if a mountain rested on his shoulders, utterly immobilizing him. The Earth¡¯s core had reached out and held his legs firmly, rooting him to the spot. The world was spinning! Zoom! In the jungle and rain, Wen Ting¡¯s eyes sharpened. The de shot out from the sheath at his waist. His feet touched the wet ground. Three steps, two steps, one step! The muddy puddles sshed about. Wen Tingnded by Fang Lang¡¯s side and stabbed his sword into the ground. A surging sword intent shot out from Wen Ting¡¯s body, pushing back the frightening pressure and creating a three-foot-wide safe zone. Within the bubble, everything was clean. The safe zone was free of rain, wind and most importantly, the terrifying pressure. Wen Ting¡¯s thin and narrow sword jutted out like a resilient bamboo. He leaned on the sword. The man stood in between Fang Lang and the earth-shattering pressure. Nan Yehuo sat atop the carriage with an impassive expression. ¡®Wen Ting... The Schrly Sword Master who took Changan by storm, yet now... ¡®He¡¯s just a sword master who peaked in the sword intent realm.¡¯ Fang Lang stood behind Wen Ting with a solemn expression. ¡®When you¡¯re powerless, no one wille to your support. Is this the tragedy of an insignificant person? ¡®Is this the oue of the powerless?¡¯ At that moment, Fang Lang experienced a calm like never before. In contrast, his ambition to be stronger burned brighter than ever. The Sword Intent Seed in his energy center felt his intent and ambition. His core began spinning at high speed and de energy was being churned. A strong wind blew through thends. The rain was scattered. The silk blinds of the horse carriage were swept aside by a pale hand. An aristocratic face appeared from within. Li Liancheng exited the carriage. There was a coldness to his eyes and his loose garment fluttered in the high winds. He peered at Fang Lang and Wen Ting from the high ground. When he saw Wen Ting, his lips curled into a mocking smirk. ¡°That year, you were chased out of Changan by my elder brother. You fear my brother but you don¡¯t fear me?¡± A bright golden light appeared in Li Liancheng¡¯s eyes¡ªit spread and engulfed the entire pupil. The ends of his hair slowly turned gold. He exuded the brilliant power of royalty. At that moment, even Donglu¡¯s God of des felt the difort brought upon by the third prince¡¯s disy of power. The bloodline of the Tang Dynasty royalty! The blood of the Emperor who stood unrivaled at the peak of the Tang Dynasty. The carriage was bathed in a golden light. Li Liancheng had one hand on the side of the carriage as he observed Wen Ting. In a calm tone, he said, ¡°Kneel.¡± The sound was like a thunderstrike. Wen Ting¡¯s pupils constricted¡ªhe recalled the nightmarish scene from his past. The three feet of protection was about to cave. The thin sword was bent in a dramatic fashion and looked as if it would break at any moment. The royal blood was demanding Wen Ting and Fang Lang to kneel¡ªhis daunting aura seeped into the safe zone. At that moment, Li Liancheng¡¯s golden eyes looked away. He gazed beyond the struggling Wen Ting. His eyes fell on Fang Lang, who had just entered the second ss. Under the royal pressure, the green-robed teen maintained a death re. His spine was upright and he appeared unperturbed by Li Liancheng¡¯s overbearing presence. The green robes fluttered. The rain puddles at the teen¡¯s feet were spiraling into the shape of a lotus flower. A light gasp sounded from the sword box tied on the teen¡¯s back. Within that inhuman gasp, the evening sky lit up as if it was on fire. Fang Lang felt the Sword Intent Seed in his energy center weaken significantly as the Blooming Lotus Sword unsheathed itself. A brilliant white light emerged from the Blooming Lotus Sword. The white light coalesced into a handsome but hazy silhouette... The magnificence shocked everyone present. The dashing figure approached and took hold of the Blooming Lotus Sword with ease. The figure passed Fang Lang and Wen Ting. Li Liancheng¡¯s golden eyes narrowed. The red-robed Nan Yehuo spoke for the first time in this engagement. ¡°Xuanyuan Taihua!¡± Nan Yehuo stood up from the carriage, unibrow in a scowl. A fiery sword was in his hand... Before he could swing his sword, the dashing figure sent out her sword. The strength and grace of her movement were akin to a Buddha flicking a flower petal. The sword flew low and struck high. Swish! Nan Yehuo¡¯s sword arm was sliced away. Chapter 81 - A Sword to the Tang Code

Chapter 81: A Sword to the Tang Code

Trantor: EndlessFantasy Trantion Editor: EndlessFantasy Trantion Within Changan City, a mid-sized inn stood in the middle of a quiet alley. The crowd was rather sparse on that alley. However, the inn¡¯s business was booming¡ªit was famous for the plum wine they served. At that moment, there were two silhouettes seated in the inn. They faced each other in the window seat, admiring the yellow blossoms in the autumn rain. The table before them had peanuts and marinated chicken feet. The duo ate and drank merrily. Cui Cheng ordered the plum wine for Lu Taixuan. Lu Taixuan took a sip and groaned. ¡°This old inn¡¯s plum wine is the best. Old Cui, when was thest time we drank together? Sixteen years ago?¡± Lu Taixuan¡¯s eyes were squinty as he spoke through a mild haze of inebriation. Cui Cheng picked up a peanut with his chopsticks and ate it with a smile. ¡°Back then, Wen Ting was still the Schrly Sword Master who took Changan by storm, Martial Arts King Jiang had yet to marry Lady Pei. Changan¡¯s waters were less murky then.¡± Lu Taixuan¡¯s eyes were cloudy as he reminisced. Unfortunately, at his cultivation state, it was difficult to achieve a state of total intoxication. Cui Cheng lowered his wine cup and said, ¡°Let¡¯s not talk about the past. I hear the third prince personally left the pce and set course for Qiuling Demon Portal¡¯s hunting grounds.¡± ¡°The third prince is a rambunctious man whose actions are often impulsive and erratic. It is his nature and the simplicity makes him predictable. The eldest prince is an overthinker and his thoughts can¡¯t be deciphered. ¡°The second prince... Well, I won¡¯t say anything. The fourth prince died young. And then there¡¯s thest princess who thinks the whole world is out to get her... ¡°The Emperor wants to cultivate an heir who can shake the heavens and earth. Among the three princes, the eldest prince is the best choice but the third prince does have a sizable following,¡± Lu Taixuan said with a smile. Under the inn¡¯s shelter, the two elders discussed the young men and women of royal blood. Headmaster Cui said lightly, ¡°There¡¯s no need to drag an innocent boy into the feud between the third prince and the Jiang family.¡± Lu Taixuan swirled his wine cup and stared out into the autumn rain. ¡°The boy has shown outstanding promise... Otherwise, he would never have been dragged into the storm. ¡°The boy threatens Li Yuanzhen¡¯s ce as this year¡¯s grand champion. Naturally, the third prince would interfere. The grand champion is not merely an honorary title, you know this well, Old Cui.¡± The weary lines on Cui Cheng¡¯s face deepened. There were things he wished to say but he remained silent. Silence filled their corner. As they sipped their wine, the rain doubled its efforts outside. ... Outside Qiuling Demon Portal, among the ck clouds, Chao Xiaojian stood with his hands folded at his back¡ªwhite robe, white hair and white beard swaying in the wind. An ordinary three-foot-long sword hovered beside him. The winds and rain parted before him. Like everyone, he was shocked when he found out the third prince and Nan Yehuo had paid a personal visit to Qiuling Demon Portal. The third prince¡¯s impulsiveness outranked his own? More importantly, Chao Xiaojian was surprised to learn the old Nan Yehuo had left his mountain for a child who had not even realize his sword intent. All because Fang Lang managed to draw the Blooming Lotus Sword left behind by their reverent sect leader? How deep was the psychological scar left by the sect leader? Frankly, Chao Xiaojian had much admiration for Fang Lang. The boy¡¯s passion for sword mastery was out of this world. Finally, his hard work and dedication paid off. After a core mutation, Fang Lang held amendable purple core. Calluses lined the boy¡¯s hands, proof of his diligent sword training. Why would Chao Xiaojian not admire such a disciple of the sword? Despite his feelings, Chao Xiaojian could not reach Qiuling Demon Portal at that moment. Before him, two figures stood in silence. Beneath their feet, gray clouds gathered and rain poured down in buckets. Frustration wed at Chao Xiaojian but he let out azy drawl. ¡°The headmaster of Changan Academy and the principal of the Imperial Academy... Men of the eldest prince and the second prince, respectively... I see the princes want an all-out war to break out between the third prince and the Jiang family.¡± Chao Xiaojian¡¯s white robes fluttered, revealing his torso and abdomen. He toyed with the sword in hand and said with a sigh, ¡°You dare stand in my way. Your identities mean nothing to my sword.¡± He had a feeling there would be resistance but the involvement of the eldest prince and the second prince took him by surprise. The waters of Changan City were murky beyond salvation. The Sword Guild was so much better. With his senior gone, Chao Xiaojian was the boss there! If only Fang Lang had joined the Sword Guild, all this could have been avoided. Chao Xiaojian grinned at the two men¡ªhis love for theater never waned. The two men ovepped their palms and made the scene twist. The sky and earth were bending under the area¡¯s spell, trapping Chao Xiaojian within. Chao Xiaojian smiled. He lifted his hand and flicked the sword before him. At that moment, the de ray rippled within the spell area. ... The power of bloodlines should not be underestimated in the Tang Dynasty. The ancestors of the rare bloodlines had taken a leap to alter their own blood in order to grant the next generation immense power. In the Tang Dynasty, the most powerful bloodline was none other than the Tang Dynasty¡¯s royal family. Li Liangcheng was the Emperor¡¯s third son. He had pure royal blood in his veins and he was proud of it. The man was fearless and impulsive, and his behavior was permitted solely because of his royal bloodline. However, at that moment, Li Liancheng¡¯s prized bloodline was failing him. He was able to pressure Wen Ting but not the green-robed teen. His aura also had no effect on the elegant mirage summoned from the Blooming Lotus Sword. The figure who captivated the eldest prince and frightened the second prince¡ªXuanyuan Taihua! The name slipped from Li Liancheng¡¯s teeth. Whoosh! Blood sttered everywhere. Nan Yehuo gritted his teeth as his arm was cut down. It was a clean cut and blood flowed without any signs of stopping. Nan Yehuo was like a leaf swept away by the sword intent of the Blooming Lotus Sword. Did that woman store her spiritual sense inside the sword?! Fang Lang was able to trigger the spiritual sense?! Darkness crept into Nan Yehuo¡¯s heart. He was a ninth-ss, yet he could not summon the guts to face the spiritual sense. Had he fallen behind? Did she surpass the ninth ss? Nan Yehuo red at the blurry figure¡ªthe energy she exuded was faint but Nan Yehuo found himself unable to raise his sword in her presence. Then, a frightening aura spread through his body like a drop of ink in water. Hum. The energy in Nan Yehuo exploded. The fallen arm hit the ground and disturbed the soil. The fiery red sword levitated and charged forward like a ming serpent. It twisted and turned in the air, snapping its jaws at Xuanyuan Taihua. The slender figure gently waved her sword. Beneath the horse carriage, the rain puddles formed a lotus flower that bloomed. Nan Yehuo¡¯s other arm held his sword and blocked the intense sword intent¡¯s attack. His muscles trembled with the effort. He was flung faraway by the huge force that struck the carriage. Gouges were formed in the mud as the de energy of the lotus flower tore a path. At the end of the path was the one-armed Nan Yehuo who held his sword. The red robe he wore was filled with cuts from the de energy. Only the third prince and the dashing figure were left on the horse carriage. Li Liancheng¡¯s flowy white robe tugged at his body. His gold-tinted hair was disheveled in the wind. The golden eyes exuded an aura of nobility. He stared at the white silhouette and the Blooming Lotus Sword. In all honesty, behind those golden eyes was barely concealed fear. It was the first time he had felt such intense pressure from a person who was not the Emperor. ¡°All belong to the Emperor! The Tang Dynasty is ruled by the Li family! ¡°The empire submits to the Tang Code! Every spiritual sense and soul must abide by the Tang Code. ¡°Byw, any who spill royal blood will be persecuted without mercy! It is inescapable!¡± The third prince stood before the white-robed figure¡¯s imposing presence atop the horse carriage. The royal blood in his veins allowed him to withstand the spiritual sense of the Tang Dynasty¡¯s First Sword. ¡°You dare kill me?¡± The third prince knew the figure before him was the remnant of a spiritual sense and not the actual person. Regardless, his golden eyes shed with a glint of brash theatrics. Li Liancheng carried on with his thuggish behavior, ignoring the fact that the Tang Dynasty¡¯s First Sword was able to give off an aura as imposing as his father. He was willing to bet she would not make a move. Below the horse carriage, 30 meters away, Wen Ting was breathing heavily. shes of pain crossed his eyes. The royal blood¡¯s imposing pressure... The veins on Wen Ting¡¯s sword hand were distended as he gritted his teeth. The curve of his sword was like his once-crooked spine. Just as the third prince had said, ¡®All belong to the Emperor.¡¯ Wen Ting¡¯s de feared the royal¡¯s blood. Spilling royal blood would mean breaking the Tang Code that governed the empire, summoning the wrath of the otherwise peaceful sky. Whatever gods, masters or immortals would be squashed! Ten years ago, Wen Ting¡¯s back was bent by the eldest prince, Li Tianlin. Wen Ting had spent ten yearsing to terms with the past¡ªwould the third prince make him relive his punishment? A battle of wills took ce in his mind. He was helpless and at a loss. Suddenly, the green-robed teen beside him took a step forward, making a ssh in the rain puddle. Fang Lang drew the Obsidian Sword. The immense pressure from the third prince did not seem to affect the teen. When the teen heard the third prince¡¯s words, he grinned. After a few tentative steps, Fang Lang picked up speed. The murky rainwater rose into a wave. The teen swung his ink-ck sword as he ran into the storm. The image of a sword-handling teen reflected in Wen Ting¡¯s eyes. In a sh, the teen¡¯snding kicked up the puddles on the ground. With a twist of his body, he leaped forward. He was aiming for the horse carriage that ferried the most revered bloodline in the Tang Dynasty¡ªhe was going for the third prince Li Liancheng. The Obsidian Sword acted as a high jump pole¡ªthe darkness it exuded was icy cool. ¡°Stop!¡± Wen Ting shouted as his pupils constricted. The teen did not hear or he feigned deafness. If blood was spilled, thews of the Tang Dynasty would descend upon Fang Lang. A bullseye would be drawn on Fang Lang¡¯s back. He would be branded a criminal and sentenced to eternal damnation! The heavy hand of the Tang Code would break the second-ss Fang Lang¡¯s spiritual sense and grind his soul into dust. Wen Ting¡¯s shout was quickly masked by the rumbling storm. He watched as Fang Lang jumped onto the horse carriage. The boy¡¯s eyes were firmly locked onto the pair of royal golden eyes. The imposing aura of the third prince would crush Fang Lang¡¯s spine! Fang Lang tightened his grip on the Obsidian Sword. A light flickered across the de like a ze igniting the grass ins. ¡°The Tang Code applies to all spiritual senses and souls? Well, I¡¯m not afraid! ¡°She can¡¯t but I will!¡± ¡®If you want me killed, why can¡¯t I kill you too?¡¯ thought Fang Lang. ¡®Just because you¡¯re royalty? The Tang Code andws can go f*ck themselves!¡¯ Fang Lang struck out his de, like a sword to the Tang Code. nk! A golden shield appeared before Li Liancheng¡ªit was the bloodline¡¯s defense ability. Fang Lang was not deterred. He continued his relentless attack, causing ripples to form across the shield. Behind the shield, Li Liancheng watched the boy¡¯s struggle with mockery in his eyes. Soon, the mockery died down. A sigh echoed through the area. ¡°Little one, why the trouble?¡± As soon as the words ceased, Xuanyuan Taihua¡¯s white mirage waved the Blooming Lotus Sword. A lotus bud appeared in the air, awaiting for its cue to bloom. Taihua¡¯s Lotus de! The technique tore apart certain connections. Li Liancheng¡¯s eyes narrowed. Suddenly, the third prince¡¯s body shuddered. His face paled and the gold tint in his eyes faded. Xuanyuan Taihua¡¯s silhouette disappeared in the form of a white light after dispelling the third prince¡¯s bloodline ability. The Blooming Lotus Sword ttered onto the horse carriage. Fang Lang made another thrust. Crack! The golden shield shattered! Golden rays shot out as the shield fell to pieces like a broken mirror. Then... Fang Lang headbutted the dumbfounded Li Liancheng whose bloodline connection was severed. The ink-ck sword found its way to Li Liancheng¡¯s chest. A small rune appeared, protecting the third prince¡¯s heart. It was difficult to untangle, as it should be. Fang Lang was expressionless as he switched targets¡ªthe sword came down on Li Liancheng¡¯s abdomen. ¡®The runes can¡¯t protect all of you! ¡®Even if I can¡¯t kill you, I¡¯ll make sure to scar you! ¡®Never bled before, right?¡¯ The Obsidian Sword was thrust forward and pulled back. One strike. Two strikes. Three strikes. Each stab found flesh. Golden liquid sttered onto Fang Lang¡¯s green robe, decorating him with unusual golden flowers. Chapter 82 - The Tang Code Is Strangely Comforting

Chapter 82: The Tang Code Is Strangely Comforting

Trantor: EndlessFantasy Trantion Editor: EndlessFantasy Trantion Dusk was approaching. The autumn rain did not let up¡ªit became heavy rain and thunder shook the skies. The streets of the ancient city were washed clean and the puddles turned into flowing rivers. A horse carriage emerged. The carriage wheels spun quickly on the limestone path, sshing water as the carriage bounded for the city gates. Zhao Wuji had a bamboo hat on as he urged the horse forward. He raised the token as the carriage approached the gates. The soldiers who guarded the city walls rushed to open the gates. The carriage raced past the narrow opening without hesitation. Not long after they left the city, Zhao Wuji tugged sharply on the reins. The horse whinnied and reared before falling back onto all fours. Its heavy hooves stomped on the wet ground and caused rainwater to ssh up. The passenger in the carriage peeled open the blinds¡ªa veiled Jiang Linglong looked out. ¡°Mydy, look,¡± Zhao Wuji said as he stared into the distance. Jiang Linglong let her sight roam. Surprise registered on her face. Under the roaring rain, she saw two silhouettes on the official path¡ªit was a standoff between two capable opponents who were ready to kill. The ground around them was a mess¡ªsword marks, craters from punches, footprints... There were also signs of spell casting. A huge battle had urred here. Wei Sheng¡¯s top was torn in multiple areas, showing his toned torso. A long, ck sword was stabbed into the earth. He leaned on the sword with both hands as he panted. Across Wei Sheng stood a pale-faced Li Yuanzhen who had blood running down his fingers. There were holes in Li Yuanzhen¡¯s long robe but the boy retained his elegant look. The carriage rolled to a stop 30 meters away. The two boys turned and saw Jiang Linglong exit the carriage, umbre in hand. Wei Sheng gave Jiang Linglong an honest smile. ¡°My mentor told me to help Fang Lang. Wanna double team?¡± Wei Sheng asked. Jiang Linglong¡¯s starry eyes gave Li Yuanzhen a once-over. The look was enough to make Li Yuanzhen freeze. He quickly put on an amiable smile and picked up his fallen oil paper umbre. ¡°This is merely a misunderstanding.¡± Li Yuanzhen smiled courteously at Jiang Linglong. Then, he turned and left for Changan, the thought of joining the ruckus in Qiuling Demon Portal abandoned. ¡®It probably isn¡¯t that great anyway. No point wasting my time.¡¯ Wei Sheng and Jiang Linglong were not normal cultivators. Li Yuanzhen knew he could only take them on one at a time. Having to fight both of them at once would result in his defeat. Hence, Li Yuanzhen did as he said and returned to Changan to avoid embarrassment. They would meet again for the final section of the Imperial Examination so there was no point fighting then and there. Outside the city, Jiang Linglong bowed slightly at Wei Sheng before returning to her carriage. Just as she lifted the blinds, a shockwave rippled through her slender figure. She lifted her head and peered at the ancient city of Changan through the curtain of heavy rain. Wei Sheng¡¯s smile fell as he nced at the city with a serious expression. On the main street of Changan City, Li Yuanzhen¡¯s footstepsnded in a rain puddle. He lifted his head, a startled expression on his face. ... In the inn on a small alley. The storm was worsening. Lu Taixuan¡¯s belly was filled with wine when he bade farewell to Cui Cheng. Umbre in hand, he waded through the ankle-deep waters and headed back to his official residence. Dong! An austere bell rang from within the Royal City. The ominous ring shattered the falling raindrops, echoing through every corner of the city. The chime was akin to the Sky God reciting the sins of humankind, demanding the rain to cleanse the Earth. Someone had offended the Tang Code that hung over every head in the Tang Dynasty. Lu Taixuan¡¯s footsteps stalled. The hunchbacked Cui Cheng rose and stepped out of the inn. The storm drenched the old man. The two elders raised their heads and stared at Changan¡¯s skyline that was gued by dark clouds. ... The golden imperial decree hung above Changan City. The raindrops vibrated like the old foreign tribesmen dancing frantically. The falling droplets in the night sky gathered around the golden imperial decree. On the decree, an endless list ofws was set. Every raindrop that collected around the royal decree formed oneplicated rune after another. The runes exuded a destructive aura. This was a forbidden spell. Anyone who raised their heads could see an alluring drop of crimson rolling down the golden imperial decree¡ªsomeone had drawn the royal family¡¯s blood. Hum. Suddenly, a shockwave rippled through the empire. Then, the drop of blood on the golden decree congealed and shot out in the form of an arrow. The red arrow speared through the air like a brushstroke through an ink wash painting, splitting Changan¡¯s sky in half. The arrow headed straight for Qiuling Demon Portal¡¯s hunting grounds. ... The autumn rain continued. The world was silent except for the sound of rain striking the soil. Li Liancheng looked at the wounds on his abdomen in shock. The stabbing pain ran up his torn muscles and registered in his mind¡ªfear struck his heart. He was... injured! He nced at the boy who was stained with his royal blood¡ªthose eyes were determined and shone with a hint of madness. Even the lowly had episodes of madness... The third prince was incredulous. ¡°How dare you stab me?!¡± This was the first time Li Liancheng was injured, the first time he saw blood flowing out of his body... Royal blood flowed in his veins. The issue of session had always gued the three princes but their exchanges were cordial despite wishing each other death. Their restraint was due to the Tang Code that governed the whole empire. Thews varied in weight and severity but the most important... ¡®Anyone who draws royal blood will be executed.¡¯ By thews of the Tang Dynasty ruled by the Li family, the Tang Code was incontestable. No one dared to oppose thews, except this teen. This teen who ran his sword into the third prince¡¯s abdomen! This teen who tore the third prince¡¯s skin and flesh! This teen who took his sword to the Tang Code! Li Liancheng studied Fang Lang. With a calm expression, he said, ¡°You¡¯re dead.¡± The third prince eagerly awaited Fang Lang¡¯s execution. Boom! Fang Lang drew the Obsidian Sword from Li Liancheng¡¯s abdomen. The urge to move overcame him and he leaped onto the horse carriage, picking up the rxed Blooming Lotus Sword. With both swords in hand, Fang Lang retreated back into the muddy ground. Li Liancheng¡¯s face was pale. He had one hand on the carriage wall and another on a jade bottle. He swallowed a medicinal pill, then ced a hand over his abdominal wound. All the while, his eyes never once left Fang Lang. A distance away, Nan Yehuo crawled up, using his remaining arm and sword as support. His unibrow was scrunched into an ugly expression. He nced between the injured Li Liancheng and the golden bloodstains on Fang Lang¡¯s robes¡ªhe rxed his muscles. Nan Yehuo was not needed, Fang Lang was a dead man walking. Nobody was exempted from the Tang Code¡ªa forbidden killing spell that acted on the soul. Even the Blooming Lotus Sword was useless against it. Nan Yehuo breathed out a sigh of relief. Amidst the rain, despair painted Wen Ting¡¯s face¡ªhe of all people was intimately familiar with the horrors of the Tang Code. Fang Lang would die without a doubt. As his mentor, Wen Ting had failed him. ... Rumble! Outside Qiuling Demon Portal, a de of light zoomed through the sky like a white dragon. The rain and clouds were decimated by its speed. Chao Xiaojian had a head in one hand as he rode the currents of his three-foot long sword. His face was drawn into a frown while fear clouded his eyes. The power of the Tang Code... There were more than a thousandws etched into the Tang Code¡ªsome were insignificant footnotes that could be easily bypassed but a few were immutable. ¡°That... That aura was the senior¡¯s...¡± Chao Xiaojian¡¯s white hair billowed in the wind. He looked into the Qiuling Demon Portal¡¯s hunting grounds. His eyes sparkled. The Blooming Lotus Sword held a secret. Someone had uncovered the secret. Chao Xiaojian flung the decapitated head into the mountains and rivers below. Then, he turned just in time to catch the ming red arrow that shot out from Changan City. Chao Xiaojian stood among the clouds with his hands pressed together. Suddenly, his sword hovered above his head and he appeared as if he was a devout Buddha. He waited for the judgment arrow to arrive. The sky was split open by the red streak. Chao Xiaojian¡¯s eyes opened wide, a sh of madness shone within. All would run and hide from the Tang Code. All but the White-Haired Sword Demon Chao Xiaojian! He stood against the iing missile. Like a madman, heughed as he raised his hands above his head. White hair flew in all directions as he brought his pressed hands down. The raindrops in the atmosphere transformed into de rays. Chao Xiaojian¡¯s body was flung backward. de rays continuously bloomed at the arrow tip. The red arrow spun in the air as it flew, destroying the light¡¯s attempt to impede it. The three-foot steel sword stood against the Tang Code! Within the demon portal, the third prince and Nan Yehuo stared incredulously at the man who was fighting the judgment arrow of the Tang Code. Lunatic! Dang! A loud noise. Chao Xiaojian¡¯s white hair was blown back. With a swing of his sword, he deflected the red arrow and sent it soaring toward the earth. However, before the arrow touched ground, it switched directions and flew straight at Fang Lang. Frustration boiled in Chao Xiaojian. He tried. Whoosh! Fang Lang stood motionless with a calm expression. He faced the iing arrow with both the Obsidian Sword and Blooming Lotus Sword in hand. Danger was approaching. At that moment, Fang Lang sent out the Blooming Lotus Sword. Lotus de, strike! A lotus blossom appeared before Fang Lang, shielding him from the attack. Zoom! The lotus flower wilted on impact. The Tang Code¡¯s judgment continued its flight toward Fang Lang¡¯s head. ¡®Just die already,¡¯ Li Liancheng thought with a snide chuckle. The chuckle soon died down in the third prince¡¯s throat. ¡®Ding! Instant Casting Staff effect activated! Spiritual sense protection provides an ultimate defense against spiritual sense¡¯s attack.¡¯ A chime echoed in Fang Lang¡¯s ears. Suddenly, his world took on a golden tint. As the red arrow plunged into his golden world, it was taken apart inch by inch. The residual energy from the spell was condensed into a ball of spiritual sense energy which fused with Fang Lang. The fusion raised Fang Lang¡¯s spell mastery abilities¡ªthe shackles on the spell master ss were broken. Fang Lang advanced from a measly eight-grade spell disciple to a third-grade spell master after the absorption of the Tang Code¡¯s judgment. The rain continued to fall. Silence filled the atmosphere. The teen who was just punished by the irondws of the Tang Dynasty stood under the pouring rain with his heart beating wildly. Fang Lang slowly turned to face the third prince atop his carriage. A bright smile appeared on his face as he said, ¡°That¡¯s all? ¡°The Tang Code is strangelyforting.¡± Chapter 83 - Old Jiang, Changan, I’m Coming for You

Chapter 83: Old Jiang, Changan, I¡¯m Coming for You

Trantor: EndlessFantasy Trantion Editor: EndlessFantasy Trantion The heavy rain turned the soil muddy. Silence reigned. The teen¡¯s words struck everyone to the core. Shock, incredulity and surprise graced everyone¡¯s features. These emotions dripped like ink, spreading through the clear water of a porcin bowl. ¡®The Tang Code is strangelyforting?¡¯ Was this something a human would say? After enduring an arrow shot from the Tang Code, he was not even injured? Not only was he unscahthed, Fang Lang was glowing! Everyone present witnessed the long distance missile strike Fang Lang. With Fang Lang¡¯s second-ss sword mastery, his soul would have been obliterated by the strike. He was supposed to die. However, Fang Lang looked better than ever, smiling beneath the rainfall. His smile was as bright as sunlight. The third prince did not appreciate the warmth of the sunlight. All he felt was a chill epassing his body. The Tang Code... failed to kill Fang Lang. Impossible, it could not be! The irond rule hung over every citizen¡¯s head¡ªeven the ninth-ss cultivators feared it. How did the Tang Code not kill the boy? Nan Yehuo leaned on his only arm, eyebrows nted in a permanent scowl. ¡®He¡¯s still not dead? ¡®My instinct was right!¡¯ There was a narrow window of opportunity to kill this monster. They had to strike Fang Lang down as early as possible. Chao Xiaojian arrived with his battered sword. After deflecting the red arrow of the Tang Code, fine cracks spread across his sword which looked to shatter at any moment. However, Chao Xiaojian did not mind. He was more curious about how Fang Lang survived the Tang Code¡¯s judgment. The power of the Tang Dynastyws was absolute¡ªno one could bear the weight of its judgment. It could kill even ninth-ss cultivators! Yet Fang Lang stood unscathed. Oddball! Chao Xiaojian watched Fang Lang with inquisitive eyes. His fondness for the sword-loving boy grew after witnessing the heavens protect him. A distance away, Wen Ting was dumbfounded in the rain. Raindrops soaked his clothes and obscured his line of sight. Wen Ting¡¯s biggest fear¡ªthe Tang Code¡ªwas neutered just like that. A shimmer appeared in Wen Ting¡¯s eyes¡ªFang Lang had survived the imperial judgment! A ray of sunlight shone down on the darkness in Wen Ting¡¯s chest. Inch by inch, the darkness evaporated. The fear in Wen Ting¡¯s heart abated slightly as the Tang Code¡¯s absolute power was proved otherwise. Perhaps, one day, he would have the guts to point his sword at thew. As the numbing fear in his heart faded, Wen Ting wondered why Fang Lang was unafraid of the Tang Code¡¯s judgment. Once again, Fang Lang had triggered a paradigm shift in Wen Ting. The boy seemed to be oozing a strange aura all the time. A normal cultivator could never take on the imperialws. Fang Lang was not a normal cultivator. Realization shed in Wen Ting¡¯s eyes¡ªhe understood! ¡°The core mutation! The purple core!¡± What a terrifying core mutation! There were records of core mutations in the Tang Dynasty but mentions of the purple core were few and far between¡ªone in a few millennia. The rarity of the purple core meant it was special. Wen Ting¡¯s sudden exmation shocked Fang Lang. Unwilling to exin the effects of the Instant Casting Staff, Fang Lang could only roll with his mentor¡¯s exnation. He mimicked Wei Sheng¡¯s sheepish smile and scratched his head innocently. ¡®As long as I stay silent, they¡¯ll think they¡¯ve figured it out!¡¯ Chao Xiaojian¡¯s eyes brightened. ¡®Right! The purple core!¡¯ Standing atop the horse carriage, Li Liancheng and the one-armed Nan Yehuo wore looks of surprise and bewilderment. A purple core? Li Liancheng gave Fang Lang a frigid look. ¡®Nan Yehuo was right! The boy has to be killed as soon as possible! ¡®If he grows up and aligns himself with the Jiang family, things would be tricky,¡¯ Li Liancheng thought regretfully. It was impossible to kill Fang Lang when Chao Xiaojian was present. The third prince suffered three stabs... all for nothing! Li Liancheng could not publicly file a suit with the Imperial Court of Judicial Review. After all, he was the one who initiated the confrontation. In addition, being stabbed by Fang Lang was not something he wanted publicized! Therefore, the three stabs were like three ps to the third prince¡¯s face! ¡°Great.¡± Li Liancheng red at Fang Lang. Then, his eyes fell on Chao Xiaojian. ¡°The mighty Sword Guild.¡± The third prince retrieved a paper talisman from his space ring and tore it into pieces. The talisman had a teleportation spell restricted to spell masters of the seventh ss and above. The space rippled and swallowed the third prince. Not a trace of royalty could be found. The rain continued. Nan Yehuo clenched his jaw and retrieved the appendage that was chopped off. Then, he flew away with his fiery red sword. Chao Xiaojian had to tamp down the urge to give chase and stab the man. He stayed put only because Fang Lang needed protection. The autumn rain became a trickle. The earthy smell of wet soil filled the mountains. The white-haired Chao Xiaojian approached Fang Lang. The man¡¯s clothes left his chest and belly exposed. ¡°Don¡¯t worry, Li Liancheng won¡¯t be spreading the news about a mere second-ss stabbing him. I suspect the cultivator sent by the eldest prince will be med for whatever transpired,¡± Chao Xiaojian said casually. ¡°Moments ago... Was that my senior¡¯s aura? Can you tell me more?¡± Fang Lang did not hide the incident from Chao Xiaojian who came to assist him. When Fang Lang was done, Chao Xiaojian had an intense look. The man shut his eyes and exhaled deeply. ¡°A wisp of spiritual sense trapped within the Blooming Lotus Sword can wield such destructive powers? The sect leader must still be alive, and that is good news!¡± A glimmer of joy shone in Chao Xiaojian¡¯s eyes. He was very impressed by Fang Lang who was able to evoke the spiritual sense of Xuanyuan Taihua. He could find no fault with the boy. Liu Bubai and Ni Wen carefully walked out of the dense jungle Throughout the whole battle, the two teens stayed hidden and held their breaths. Wen Ting nced at his students and sighed. ¡°Let¡¯s head to Changan. This ce is not safe.¡± He turned to Fang Lang and said, ¡°You¡¯ve thoroughly offended the third prince this time. The third prince is temperamental and brash and he¡¯s unlikely to forgive you. ¡°As long as you stay within Changan¡¯s perimeters, you¡¯ll be protected under the final section of the Imperial Examination. But as soon as the examination is over, things will get messier unless you emerge as the grand champion.¡± Wen Ting took a deep breath. It was not easy to achieve the highest distinction, especially with the incredibly tough standards that year. Jiang Linglong, Li Yuanzhen, Wei Sheng, Ximen Xianxian... Every single one of them was in the running for the title of grand champion. Fang Lang would have to defeat Jiang Linglong for the highest distinction. ¡°For now, let¡¯s get back to Changan. I¡¯lle up with a detailed n for you then...¡± Wen Ting said. The group quickly left the hunting grounds of Qiuling Demon Portal. The flight swords bound for Changan City tore through the hazy rain. ... It had been raining in Changan for the longest time. The golden imperial decree slowly vanished¡ªthe golden beams of light faded away. The pressure that enveloped the whole city was alleviated. The sounds of wind and rain were restored and the city sprang back to life. Within the inn, Lu Taixuan and Cui Cheng exchanged a solemn look. The two men said nothing and parted ways, each walking off in the opposite direction. One was headed for the imperial pce, the other was off to the Martial Arts King Manor. The rising waters in the city got murkier. ... Droplets fell incessantly on the colored ss. A ripple in space. The raindrops in the air collected into the shape of runes which then exploded, sshing rain water everywhere. The third prince emerged from the wall of water. He staggered a few steps and clutched his abdomen to center himself. Li Liancheng¡¯s face was pale and shock registered in his eyes. He was taken aback by the appearance of Xuanyuan Taihua¡¯s spiritual sense. Moreover, his heart was still racing from the fact that Fang Lang managed to drive a sword through his body. The pain etched deep in his consciousness, threatening to be a nightmare that would disturb his sleep. Suddenly, Li Liancheng glimpsed into the distance. A white-robed middle-aged man stood with an umbre under the rain, free hand folded at his back. Li Liancheng met the man¡¯s eyes. The droplets of rain between the two gazes froze. ¡°Brother.¡± Li Liancheng raised his palm. The in-robed man watched impassively¡ªhis eyes were vast, as if containing gxies. Li Liancheng had to avert his gaze. The eldest prince was a man of strategy and foresight. Li Liancheng was worried if he stared any longer, his ns and intentions would be revealed by that searching gaze. The eldest prince had a serene look as he assessed Li Liancheng. After a moment, the eldest prince shook his head and turned away, umbre disappearing into the Imperial City¡¯s haze. No words were exchanged but that knowing look was enough to rile Li Liancheng up. There was no mocking or snideughter. Just a look that conveyed, ¡®Li Liancheng, you utter trash! To let a mere plebeian spill the blood of royals. You are a shame to the crown!¡¯ One look was enough to haunt him forever. Li Liancheng was having a horrible day. ... Night was falling at the gates of Changan. The downpour made the surroundings blurry. Jiang Linglong held her oil paper umbre and watched the quieting Tang Code overhead. Her heart trembled with fear and anticipation. That red arrow spelled doom. Even the immortals and gods would be shot down by the imperialws. Who was the target? Who was to be punished? The arrow flew in the direction of Qiuling Demon Portal where Fang Lang was. Her gut told her the arrow was meant for Fang Lang. Wei Sheng stood across from her. He scratched his head and took a deep breath. Why did he have the feeling the judgment arrow was heading toward the second-ss Fang Lang? Fang Lang managed to harm the third prince? Jiang Linglong was about to board the carriage and get Zhao Wuji to hurry when a figure wearing a bamboo hat appeared above the carriage. The figure ced his leather scabbard down, knocking gently on the roof of the carriage. Water droplets fell as a result of the force. ¡°Dummy, there¡¯s no need for that. They¡¯re on their way here.¡± The figure lifted his head and revealed a countenance prettier than most girls. It was Jiang Linglong¡¯s uncle, Pei Liao¡ªa high official of the Imperial Court of Judicial Review. Jiang Linglong was startled but she refrained from getting into the carriage. Instead, she held the oil paper umbre and stood atop the carriage. Her eyshes fluttered as she gazed into the distance. As she observed the horizon, the dark clouds beyond the city walls were split in half. An extravagant flight sword roared in the autumn rain, tearing through the scendscape. On the flight sword, Fang Lang sat cross-legged with his sword box across his knees¡ªthe Obsidian Sword and the Blooming Lotus Sword rested within. Fang Lang raised his head and stared at the ancient city that gradually appeared. He squinted his eyes. At the forefront of the city, on the main passageway stood a horse carriage in the rain. Thedy wore a veil and a fluttering dress robe. Eyes shiny in the dark, Old Jiang was perched atop the carriage. A bright smile graced Fang Lang¡¯s features. ¡®Old Jiang, Changan, I¡¯ming for you!¡¯ Atop the carriage, Jiang Linglong saw the happy smile on Fang Lang¡¯s face and felt her heart rx. Her eyes crinkled as her worries dissipated. All was good. ... On the road, Wei Sheng was mildly confused as he leaned on his ck sword. Was Fang Lang smiling at him? ¡®What¡¯s this odd sense of familiarity?¡¯ Chapter 84 - Time to Work Hard

Chapter 84: Time to Work Hard

Trantor: EndlessFantasy Trantion Editor: EndlessFantasy Trantion The majestic ancient city of Changan was like a sleeping dragon in an ink wash painting, austere and reverent. Fang Lang climbed down from the flight sword. When he saw the weing party at Changan¡¯s gates, the smile on his face widened. Jiang Linglong and Wei Sheng were both present. It felt like he was meeting his ancestors, for some reason. The rain continued to fall on the city of Changan, like a delicate scene in an artist¡¯s masterpiece. Fang Lang was excited. Finally, he could milk Old Jiang for rewards again! Old Jiang was his main binding partner. He had to use this opportunity to get more rewards before the final section of the Imperial Examination began. He might even ascend another grade before the test started. All the partners were gathered in Changan and Fang Lang was incredibly pleased. It was the golden opportunity to milk for rewards! A sparkle shone in his eyes and his smile kept growing. Ni Wen and Liu Bubai disembarked. Ni Wen was timid and moved carefully while Liu Bubai kept his head high. He nced at the veiled Jiang Linglong and smiled, ¡°Lady Jiang Pei, we meet again.¡± Liu Bubai remembered his teammate from the Gathering of Swords. Chao Xiaojian and Wen Ting soon appeared. Wen Ting startled when he saw the man with the bamboo hat hop down from the carriage roof. He quickly nodded and said, ¡°It¡¯s been a long time.¡± The refined features on Pei Liao¡¯s face¡ªthe envy of both men and women¡ªbarely moved. He returned the nod and let his eyes settle on Fang Lang. ¡°You¡¯re the one who drew the Blooming Lotus Sword? Fang Lang?¡± Pei Liao¡¯s maic voice echoed. Fang Lang found the man to be extremely cool¡ªcoolness seemed to naturally radiate off him. ¡°The red arrow of the Tang Code was meant for you?¡± The question was asked tentatively but Pei Liao could smell the stench of royal blood on Fang Lang. Before Fang Lang could speak, Wen Ting strode up to Pei Liao and tried to hug the man. ¡°Old Pei, can we step aside for a second?¡± Pei Liao raised a well-sculpted eyebrow and pressed the leather scabbard into Wen Ting¡¯s chest. Wen Ting masterfully dodged the object and looped an arm around Pei Liao¡¯s shoulders. Pei Liao¡¯s pupils constricted immediately and he raised his voice. ¡°Wen Ting! Get your dirty hands off me!¡± ... The atmosphere inside the extravagant horse carriage was rowdy. The carriage wheels waded through the ankle-high waters, making a sshing sound with each rotation. Throughout the journey, Fang Lang was busy dissecting the art of sword mastery with Jiang Linglong. The veiled Jiang Linglong entertained him. Her eyes turned into half crescents as she listened to Fang Lang¡¯s question about sword techniques¡ªto be honest, the discussion benefitted her too. The ovepping sounds of rain and Fang Lang¡¯s voice filled her with a sense of satisfaction. ¡®Ding! The host has engaged in meaningful interactions with the binding partner, Jiang Linglong. Passive ability triggered. Your reward is Spell: Frost Bow (Spell Mastery Specialty).¡¯ Amazing! This was the power of a meaningful interaction! Old Jiang was truly a great partner. Fang Lang was incredibly happy. Jiang Linglong led Fang Lang, Ni Wen and Liu Bubai into the Martial Arts King Manor. Wen Ting too was staying in the Martial Arts King Manor. After all, the real estate spanned a vast area and room avability was not a question. Most importantly, if Fang Lang stayed at any of Changan inns, there was a risk of interference by others. Although the third prince would not kill Fang Lang in Changan, there were many other ways to sabotage his cultivation training. Within the Martial Arts King Manor, Fang Lang would also be shielded from the top 500 honor roll candidates. Without the impromptu challenges, his training would be much smoother. When everyone was settled, the night was dark and Jiang Linglong returned to her own courtyard. Princess Pei Shi hiked up her skirt and tiptoed over to Jiang Linglong. The princess had an umbre in her hand. ¡°Ling¡¯er, is Little Fang alright? I hear he¡¯s staying with us. Can I pay him a visit? ¡°A person who can write such impressive poetry, let mother see if he is as cavalier as your father.¡± Princess Pei Shi had a burning curiosity. She craned her neck and tried to catch a glimpse of the boy behind Jiang Linglong. Jiang Linglong¡¯s lips pulled into a straight line. She remained silent, hand on her umbre. The smile on Princess Pei Shi¡¯s face slowly vanished and her enthusiasm escaped her. The beautiful woman rearranged her posture. ¡°Ahh, this cold weather is giving me a headache. I¡¯m retiring to my room.¡± Princess Pei Shi gently rubbed her temples and left the courtyard with the escorting servant girl. Jiang Linglong rolled her eyes but said nothing. ... In one of the courtyards of the Martial Arts King Manor. The me flickered. Fang Lang sat cross-legged on the bed and exhaled a breath of stale air. He rubbed his forehead. The spiritual sense energy that came from the deconstructed judgment arrow of the Tang Code was overwhelming. It brought Fang Lang¡¯s spell mastery up to the rank of a third-grade spell master and gave him a splitting headache. The forceful absorption made him frustrated. He shut his eyes and investigated the new skill he obtained from Old Jiang. ¡®The Frost Bow Spell will be incorporated through spiritual memory and mental memory. The ins and outs of the technique will be revealed to the host. Happy cultivating!¡¯ Information regarding the Frost Bow Spell rushed into Fang Lang¡¯s mind. A unique scene yed out in his head. ... Snow fluttered from the sky above. The teen stood amidst the snow. His arms were by his side, fingers syed. When a snowke touched his fingertip, he opened his eyes. The fingers moved and his spiritual sense was activated. The snowkes in the air were guided by a mysterious power, forming a bow in his hand. His spiritual sense was the bowstring while the snow was the bow. The teen held the bow in one hand as fingertips plucked the string. With a draw, the snowkes transformed into an ice arrow. He lifted the bow and fired. The snowkes in the air were pierced in a consecutive fashion. Day after day, year after year. ... Fang Lang opened his eyes and found the candle had already burned past the halfway mark. Molten wax spilled from the holder. The internalization of the spell soothed his expanded spiritual sense and he felt much better. Once the three-day cooldown time for the Instant Casting Staff was over, Fang Lang might make an attempt on the third prince¡¯s life again. If Fang Lang triggered the Tang Code¡¯s judgment spell once every three days, he might be able to ascend to the third-ss spell advisor realm before the final section of the Imperial Examination. He could potentially reach the fourth ss in half a year and rise above themons. These were just errant thoughts in his head. The third prince was not a weakling. The appearance of Xuanyuan Taihua made it possible for Fang Lang to stab the third prince. The third prince¡¯s bloodline abilities were temporarily severed by Xuanyuan Taihua and the shock made him an easy target for Fang Lang. A head-on collision with the third prince would likely end with Fang Lang¡¯s demise. It was best to wait and see. ¡®Steady, don¡¯t rush.¡¯ Fang Lang shook the bloodthirsty urge away. As he prepared to stabilize his cultivation, a silhouette appeared outside. ¡°Can we talk?¡± a neutral voice called out. Surprised, Fang Lang got up and opened the door. Old Jiang¡¯s uncle¡ªthe man with unrivaled beauty¡ªstood at his door. ¡°Master Pei.¡± Fang Lang cupped his hands in respect. Pei Liao nodded and entered the room with his leather scabbard in hand. ¡°I hear Sect Leader Taihua¡¯s spiritual sense was summoned from the Blooming Lotus Sword at Qiuling Demon Portal¡¯s hunting grounds.¡± Fang Lang nodded his reply and gave the man a rough summary of what had happened. After hearing the story, there was a sh of strong emotions on Pei Liao¡¯s face. His eyes glimmered and he shook his head. ¡°I consider Sect Leader Taihua my mentor. You currently hold the Blooming Lotus Sword, therefore I¡¯ll protect you while you¡¯re in Changan,¡± the man said. The deration surprised Fang Lang. He nced at the sword in the leather scabbard, then at Pei Liao. Pei Liao said coolly, ¡°If I don¡¯t, I¡¯d have failed as her disciple.¡± In a flurry, he picked up his weapon and turned to leave. Fang Lang watched in admiration. ¡®So cool. But, why do I feel like you¡¯re not actually her disciple?¡¯ After the day¡¯s encounter, Fang Lang had many questions and he wanted answers. He took a deep breath and asked, ¡°Master Pei, I have some questions.¡± Pei Liao stopped and replied sinctly, ¡°Ask.¡± Fang Lang thought, ¡®Your name really doesn¡¯t match your personality1.¡¯ ¡°I¡¯m the top scorer on the honor roll. Is there no consequence to the third prince¡¯s tant attempt on my life? Will the Emperor not address it?¡± Fang Lang fielded his question. Qiuling Demon Portal was not far from Changan¡ªthe ce could easily be considered part of the Emperor¡¯s personal domain. The third prince had tried to kill an Imperial Examination candidate who ranked first in both the theory andbat assessments. If there was no justice, how could the Imperial Examination be taken seriously by the future generation? The question took Pei Liao off guard. His eyes shimmered and he ced the leather scabbard on the table. With a neutral expression, he began his exnation. ... The lightless sky was akin to a pot of ink. The carriage rolled through the rain puddles, kicking up sshes. Lu Taixuan exited the carriage. He uncorked the gourd canteen on his waist and took a swig of alcohol before ambling toward the imperial pce. At the entrance of the Royal City, a figure was dressed in the splendor of an official robe. Even the night could not diminish the brilliance of the imperial court robes. Li Puyi held an umbre as he walked out. The raindrops struck the material surface and turned into mist. Lu Taixuan swallowed the alcohol and made an ungainly walk toward Li Puyi. The two men stopped in front of each other. The sound of the rain quieted down when they spoke. ¡°Administrator Li, since you¡¯re in the third prince¡¯s camp, you should¡¯ve advised him to restrain himself. An assassination attempt right under the Emperor¡¯s nose when the final section of the Imperial Examination hasn¡¯t even begun? The Emperor is old but still present,¡± Lu Taixuan said. Li Puyi spoke in a light tone, ¡°Chancellor Lu, you¡¯re mistaken. In the world of cultivation, the weak are beneath the strong. Technically, the third prince is at fault but it is simply his brash nature, how could one me him? More importantly, the Emperor will only acknowledge the existence of cultivators in the eighth ss and above. As long as the irondws of the royal family are in ce, everyone below a ninth-ss cultivator will stay in line as the Tang Code is their only hope of transcending. ¡°Losing one champion of the theory andbat assessments is nothing. There¡¯ll be many more toe.¡± The drumming sounds of raindrops echoed. Lu Taixuan drank his wine in silence. Li Puyi¡¯s words rang like a thunderp striking down from the dark skies above the Tang Dynasty. With a smile, Lu Taixuan shook his head. ¡°You¡¯re right. The Emperor has his ns and strategy. A mere top scorer on the honor roll is not a concern.¡± Li Puyi grinned. ¡°Chancellor Lu is right, a champion on the honor roll is insufficient. If he was the grand champion, he would have the right to speak to the Emperor. The Tang Dynasty bows before the royal family and the Emperor¡¯s blood runs in the third prince. If that boy wishes to seek justice, snatch the title of grand champion, then we¡¯ll talk.¡± Li Puyi dusted his robe and walked past Lu Taixuan. ¡°However, I don¡¯t believe he stands a chance. My son will be the grand champion this year, it will be his era.¡± The words were uttered in a calm and confident disposition. Li Puyi left. The falling rain carried a sense of mncholy as the temperature dropped further. Lu Taixuan drank a mouthful of wine. The liquid burned his throat as it went down. He stroked his beard and smiled. ¡°Li Yuanzhen... I don¡¯t think so.¡± ... Beyond the window, the rain and winds gradually stopped. Within the room, the burning candle was at the end of its life¡ªcandle wax spilled onto the table. Pei Liao exited the room. Sitting on a chair, Fang Lang was deep in thought. After a long moment, he let out a breath of stale air. ording to Pei Liao, in the world of cultivation, the Emperor was the ruler of themon folk and the cultivators. Written in the Tang Code was every cultivator¡¯s hope¡ªto transcend the mortal world. It was nothing personal. A person of Fang Lang¡¯s stature was simply beneath the threshold whereby the Emperor¡¯s involvement was required. Only by bing the grand champion would Fang Lang earn the right to speak with the Emperor. Fang Lang got up and went to his bed. He assumed the cultivation position. The cultivation world was just like thest world he lived in, realistic to a fault. Thest world focused on wealth and authority, this world focused on power. A person¡¯s cultivation strength determined their worth. Power was fundamental in this world. The root cause of everything boiled down to a simple, ¡®You¡¯re too weak.¡¯ Fang Lang was not powerful enough to matter in the eyes of thew. Fang Lang shut his eyes and reyed Pei Liao¡¯s words. ¡°The Tang Code governs the hopes of every cultivator. If one day you reach the level of Sect Leader Taihua who tore apart the cage that is the sky of the Tang Dynasty, if you can transcend without relying on the Tang Code, then you will have the right to speak with the Emperor as equals.¡± Fang Lang¡¯s eyes opened. ¡®Switch to partner-binding mode.¡¯ Four silhouettes appeared around him¡ªNi Wen, Jiang Linglong, Liu Bubai and Wei Sheng. It was time to work hard. ¡°System, activate Grade-Rush Card!¡± Chapter 85 - The Final Section Begins at the Emperor’s Feet

Chapter 85: The Final Section Begins at the Emperor¡¯s Feet

Trantor: EndlessFantasy Trantion Editor: EndlessFantasy Trantion Fang Lang always knew this world worshipped power. However, this was the first time he experienced the helplessness of the powerless. He used the Grade-Rush Card from Ni Wen in hopes to break into the sixth-grade sword mastery. At the hunting grounds of Qiuling Demon Portal, Fang Lang gained a significant amount of spiritual energy from the System¡¯s mission and ascended into the fifth-grade sword mastery. The excess energy filled him to the brim of the fifth grade. Fang Lang decided to try using the Grade-Rush Card to break the shackles of the sixth grade. In this experiment, Fang Lang wanted to see if the Grade-Rush Card was able to bypass the conversion of spiritual energy into de energy for the breakthrough. He entered the Quadruple Binding Mode and absorbed a few more spirit crystals. When his energy center was at maximum capacity, he activated the Grade-Rush Card. ¡®Ding! Grade-Rush Card activated. Happy cultivating!¡¯ The System notification popped up. Then, Fang Lang felt the swell of spiritual energy pop in his energy center. A warmth spread from his core. The roiling spiritual energy in his core was being condensed. It formed a mass of pure de energy that hovered around the Sword Intent Seed. Suddenly, the metaphorical gates to the sixth grade opened and Fang Lang was through! He breathed out the stale air and in return, all the spiritual energy in the room rushed into his body. A smile graced his features. The magnificent Grade-Rush Card! Fang Lang was a third-grade spell master, second-grade martial arts master and sixth-grade sword master... His multidisciplinary cultivation would be functional in a fight, though the individual disciplines fell short whenpared to the likes of Old Jiang and Wei Sheng¡ªit was an eptable difference. He could fight them but winning was a different story. The remaining days would be spent on hardcore cultivation in hopes to increase his battle capabilities. ¡°Activate 5X Physical Buff Card,¡± Fang Lang said through gritted teeth. He utilized the item obtained from interacting with Liu Bubai. Having a full inventory was useless if the items were not used. With the 5X Physical Buff Card, Fang Lang was confident he could advance into the third grade for martial arts mastery. Whoosh! Fang Lang felt every muscle contract. His body was curled into a tight circle as pain tore through every fiber of his being. He felt as if he was continuously being struck by lightning. A low groan sounded from the room, like a wounded tiger licking its wounds. ... After a night of rain, the morning began with clear skies. Sunlight filtered down onto the fallen leaves. The dewdrops on the leaves refracted the light, creating a multitude of tiny rainbows. While Changan in spring was beautiful, Changan in autumn was beyond words. The trees were decorated with golden leaves,plimenting the pces¡¯ zed roof tiles. Along the main street, golden leaves fluttered in the wind¡ªthe scene was poetic and evocative. Taiji Pce in the Royal City. Many officials gathered for the morning assembly at the imperial court. The Emperor who had not hosted a morning assembly for the longest time was present in the day¡¯s meeting. He sat upon the dragon throne and listened to the reports. The grand chancellor, Lu Taixuan, was dozing off while Li Puyi was detailing the arrangements for the uing section of the Imperial Examination. The eldest prince and the third prince were dressed in neatly-ironed dragon robes and stood opposite one another. The eldest prince wore a peaceful expression and a courteous smile. In contrast, the third prince¡¯s facecked color. His mind seemed to be elsewhere. ¡°Liancheng.¡± All of a sudden, a voice rang out within the hall. The speaker, Li Puyi, held his tongue¡ªhis ongoing speech was interrupted. The third prince¡¯s head swiveled and he stepped forward. Head bowed and hands cupped, Li Liancheng said, ¡°Here.¡± The imperial court was filled with a deadly silence. Every official¡¯s eyes were on the third prince. Many had heard about the incident that happened a day ago. How would the Emperor react? ¡°From today onwards, you are forbidden from leaving your residence. The Ministry of Revenue will cut your cultivation resource by half. Before the end of the Imperial Examination, you are not to step out of your confines.¡± The calm voice echoed throughout the hall, emotionless. The Emperor had spoken. Silence reigned after themand was made. The submissive third prince looked up with disbelief in his eyes. The order struck him like a bolt of lightning. Was this his punishment? Why did the Emperor punish him? Was it because of the incident yesterday? Did the Emperor know Fang Lang? At that moment, even the mature eldest prince turned to squint at the figure seated high above. Lu Taixuan startled awake and rubbed his nose. A curious glint shone in his eyes. Li Puyi¡¯s jaw was open but he did not know what to say. ¡°As a prince, you should do what is necessary, not as you please. Please show some decorum. Is there anyone who wishes to plead his case?¡± The voice echoed from the elevated tform. After hearing the Emperor¡¯s words, fear gripped the few officials who were in the third prince¡¯s camp and they failed to speak up. They remained silent and wondered about the hidden message behind the Emperor¡¯sment. Fang Lang was clearly involved with the Jiang family. Did the Emperor side with the Martial Arts King instead of his own son? The Emperor was not one for doublespeak. The third prince chewed on his bottom lip for a moment. Then, he knelt before the dragon throne and said, ¡°I understand.¡± The eldest prince was deep in thought. He was reminded of a passing piece of news he heard about Luojiang Academy and the Spirit Pagoda. Rumor had it Fang Lang managed to leave his name on the seventh floor and received a congrattory message from the Spirit Pagoda. Perhaps that was why the Emperor was punishing Li Liancheng. Li Tianlin¡¯s eyes shimmered. Although not a grand champion, Fang Lang was worth looking into. The imperial court was silent for a long while. Then, Li Puyi shuffled forward with his head bowed respectfully. ¡°Your Majesty, regarding the individual border regiment policy¡ª¡± The Emperor interrupted without hesitation. ¡°The policy essay submitted by the Imperial Examination candidate makes a good point. Let us wait until the final section is over before deciding.¡± The decision silenced the whole court of high-ranking officials. The atmosphere within the room was intense. Li Puyi¡¯s pupils constricted as he breathed out slowly. ¡°Understood.¡± The morning assembly was the most tumultuous in years. There was no mention of the person¡¯s name but everyone knew the main reason behind themotion¡ªit was the green-robed teen from Luojiang City who was not even a grand champion. ... Fang Lang was unaware of the happenings within the imperial court, and even if he knew about the Emperor¡¯s judgment, he would notin. Fang Lang exited his room and enjoyed the autumnndscape in the courtyard of the Martial Arts King Manor. The fresh air swept away the fatigue he felt after a whole night of cultivation. The 5X Physical Buff Card felt awful but the effects were imminent. He was satisfied with the end result¡ªhis physical body was strong and powerful. The gradual improvement was addicting and perhaps that was why people got into cultivation. Soon, Ni Wen and Liu Bubai joined him outside. A servant girl came to escort them to the main hall for breakfast. When they were done with breakfast, a veiled Jiang Linglong ordered Old Zhao to prepare the carriage. They were bound for the Ministry of Rites. The top 500 honor roll candidates had to report to the Ministry of Rites in order to be qualified for the final section of the Imperial Examination. Hence, they set out as soon as possible. As the number of candidates for this section shrank to 500, the entrance of the Ministry of Rites was not as crowded as the examination towers had been. Passersby were sparse and the area was spacious. The carriage stopped at the pce entrance. After an identification check, one of the ministry officials led them into the pce to perform their registration. A Ministry of Rites official was dressed in his official robe. His head was lowered as he held a brush. ¡°Which academy are you from?¡± ¡°Luojiang Academy.¡± ¡°What is your name?¡± ¡°Fang Lang.¡± Huh? The official paused when he heard the name. He lifted his head and met Fang Lang¡¯s eyes. There was a glimmer of joy in the official¡¯s eyes¡ªhe was the one who marked Fang Lang¡¯s theory assessment! ¡°Your poem was well-written and that policy essay, impable!¡± The official gave Fang Lang a smile of admiration. He carried out the remaining registration process in a friendly fashion¡ªhe was not even that hospitable when serving Jiang Linglong. When the group was done, the official even personally escorted them to the gates of the Ministry of Rites. The official watched with an approving smile as Fang Lang¡¯s silhouette disappeared into the distance. ¡°The boy who wrote, ¡®If Lon is not taken, we shan¡¯t find respite.¡¯ He truly has the face of a champion!¡± A sense of satisfaction filled the official¡¯s heart. ¡°The major betting houses have set up the betting rounds in anticipation of the final section. This year¡¯s Imperial Examination is an exciting one! ¡°Jiang Linglong, Li Yuanzhen, Lu Ze, Luo Yang, Wei Sheng... All geniuses with outstanding cores! Although Fang Lang has taken first ce in the theory andbat assessments, the betting houses rank him way below the other geniuses. ording to their calctions, the probability of him winning is slim, hence the payout is significantly higher. ¡°But you know what, I believe Fang Lang will win the grand champion title!¡± The official smiled at the diminishing silhouette. He ced his bet on Fang Lang, not because of the high returns¡ªhe simply admired the small-town boy. ... Autumn was in full swing and so were activities in Changan. The final section of the Imperial Examination was beginning and the powerful cultivators of major sects rushed to the Imperial City to bear witness. The elusive cultivators could be seen on the streets of Changan, including powerful cultivators from the top-tier sects such as the Karma Society, the All-Seeing Buddha Sect, the Immortal Martial Association and the Sword Guild. Many second-ss sects would also be in attendance to handpick talents from the final section candidates. It was like the great migration of cultivators¡ªmany visited Changan for the seasonal entertainment and betting pools. The offered cash prizes could secure abundant cultivation resources so one would never have to worry about the future. Hence, Changan was bustling with activity¡ªevery inn, tavern and rest stop was packed. Business was great for the amodation and entertainment houses. Lights burned brightly and nightly at the entertainment houses. Everyone was eager for the final section to begin. Who would win the grand champion title this year? In the Martial Arts King Manor. Fang Lang did not leave the manor for the past few days. After the incident in the Qiuling Demon Portal, many candidates avoided challenging Fang Lang. There were a few stubborn mules who wanted to try their luck and visited the Jiang Manor. Needless to say, they were taken care of by Jiang Linglong. They had the right to challenge and Fang Lang had the right to refuse. Old Jiang stood at the entrance with her veil. Her cold stare was enough to scare the challengers away. Their scalps tingled when the candidates met her eyes. All who came were swiftly turned away and Fang Lang found a rare moment of respite in the Martial Arts King Manor. During this period, Fang Lang had wanted to engage in some meaningful interaction with Old Jiang but the girl was rarely around. He only saw her during mealtimes but mealtimes were a tad inappropriate for any sort of interactions. Ni Wen and Liu Bubai kept to themselves¡ªthey were focused on their individual training. Oddly, Fang Lang was gued with a sense of loneliness. He missed Old Fang and home. His father would be bringing him aforting bowl of wontons at that time if he was here. ¡®Oh well, back to cultivating.¡¯ He entered the Quadruple Binding Mode and started absorbing spirit crystals. A day before themencement of the final section, Fang Lang ended his istion. He came out to find a letter from his father in Luojiang. Old Fang wanted him to take it easy and prepare well for the final leg of the Imperial Examination. He nagged Fang Lang about the trivial things: wearing thicker clothes, remembering to eat and rx. The old man reiterated that if Fang Lang was unsessful, the family still had farnds, inns and market streets that could sustain him. Fang Lang¡¯s buildup pressure was nearly popped by Old Fang¡¯s letter. The old man was constantly trying to weaken his resolve. After some thought, Fang Lang decided not to reply. Winning the grand champion title would be an adequate reply to Old Fang. During that period, Wen Ting also sent him a handbook containing the information of the top three contenders in the final section. Their cultivation disciplines, age and hobbies were recorded in detail. ... The skies were clear the next day. The autumn breeze was cooling. Dang! A bell in the old Buddhist temple outside Changan City rang. Two horse carriages were at the ready in the Martial Arts King Manor. Jiang Linglong and Ni Wen boarded one while Fang Lang and Liu Bubai took the other. The two carriages traveled through the limestone path of Vermillion Street, heading toward the imperial pce of the Tang Dynasty. The autumn sunlight spilled onto the city, rolling out a carpet of gold in the direction of the imperial pce. Spectators lined two sides of the street, several had betting slips in their hands. The city was bustling with activity as people shuffled from ce to ce. Inside the carriage, the veiled Jiang Linglong was calm as still water. On the other hand, Ni Wen was filled with anxiety¡ªher fists were clenched as she recited words of motivation in her head. Fang Lang lifted the blinds and stared at the rising sun on the horizon. His eyes were aze. Liu Bubai rested his head on his palm while his other hand stroked his de. Deep in thought, he naturally exuded confidence. He would rely on no one in the uing examination! Dang! The ancient bell within the Royal City rang. The candidates disembarked from their respective carriages. Facing the morning sun, they marched toward the lofty Royal City. At the Emperor¡¯s feet, the final section of the Imperial Examination began! Chapter 86 - Plucking A Leave From the Forest

Chapter 86: Plucking A Leave From the Forest

1 Trantor: EndlessFantasy Trantion Editor: EndlessFantasy Trantion Year 276 of the Tang Dynasty,te autumn. The final section of the Imperial Examination that took ce in the imperial pce would be thest grand event before winter. Tens of thousands of students from all 3,000 academies of the Tang Dynasty would be paying close attention to the examination oue and honor roll. The pce stood majestically within the vermillion walls that stretched to both ends of the horizon. The pce¡¯s Vermillion Bird Gate sat at the end of Vermillion Street. The pce buildings rose proudly with tall spires and high roofs. The students looked unusually vibrant under the brilliant morning rays reflected by the zed tiles. Before the Vermillion Bird Gate, troops of Royal Guards in full armor marched orderly with swords hanging on their waist. The intensity in their eyes made people avoid eye contact. There were also armed guards on horses above the walls, their eyes fixed on the front gates. The pce exuded a breathtaking quality that left the students in awe. Everyone kept their voices to a whisper. After passing through the gates, there was a huge white jade za before the main building. The choice of color made it look like it was covered by ayer of snow from the first snowfall. At the far end of the za were flights of stairs made of white jade. Along the sides of the elevated tform were carvings of the five-wed dragons. The White Jade Court was surrounded by enchanted runes, making it seem as though the dragons were about to leap out from the walls and disappear into the rain clouds. Taiji Pce was just right beyond the White Jade Court. Under the enhancement of the runes, it looked like a heavenly pce hidden behind clouds, solemn and majestic. It was the authoritative establishment of the Tang Dynasty. The gigantic square that could hold tens of thousands of people was upied. The Royal Guards had formed a line surrounding the entire square. Some civilians and cultivators were allowed to enter but they could only stand on the sidelines and observe. The first prince, other royalties and noblemen were nearby the White Jade Court. They perched high above the elevated tform, overlooking the whole za. A tier below the aristocrats were the infamous sect leaders of the ten great sects. Chao Xiaojian¡¯s upper bodyid exposed beneath his open white robes. He looked wild and unrestrained with his cracked steel sword in hand. The Sword Guild was originally ranked first in the ten great sects, but ever since Xuanyuan Taihua disappeared into the demon realm, the Sword Guild¡¯s ranking plummeted. If it was not for Chao Xiaojian, they would have dropped out of the top ten long ago. Auspicious clouds hovered above the pce. The glorious sunlight flowed down from both sides of the ceramic ze roof like streams of liquid gold. In front of the Vermillion Bird Gate, students alighted from their carriages. Some of them wore in white robes while others were cloaked in extravagance. All of them were walking in the direction of the square excitedly. It was as if they could hear the heartbeat of the Tang Dynasty the moment they set foot on the white jade tiles. Fang Lang was unnoticeable in his in green uniform among the five hundred students. He was carrying the sword box that had the Blooming Lotus Sword and the Obsidian Sword. He stood at the end of the Vermillion Bird Gate right before the imperial pathway. At this moment, the Ministry of Rites officials and eunuchs were all standing around the pce, quietly waiting for their arrival. Each candidate was required to go through registration and confirmation from a name list before entering the imperial pathway that led to the preparation area. Jiang Linglong had a veil on. Her training clothes entuated her sculpted figure. Her twinkling eyes became crescents after she noticed Fang Lang. ¡°Fang Lang, we¡¯ll be... opponents once we step onto the imperial pathway.¡± Jiang Linglongughed and said in a gentle voice. She thought back to her first meeting with Fang Lang. The stubborn youngd she met back in the Jade Pavilion was at the same level as her. The world worked in mysterious ways. Fang Lang smiled warmly and said, ¡°Don¡¯t go easy on me. Promise me you¡¯ll give your best. Grant me a chance to experience your true skills, Old Jiang.¡± The passive ability would not be activated if she withheld her powers. It would not count as a cultivation exchange and the battle would just be a waste of time. Jiang Linglong was stunned when she heard him. Then, she gave him a soft smile. ¡®Again with the Old Jiang?¡¯ Shortly after, Jiang Linglong walked towards the imperial pathway. After she passed the inspection by a female official from the Ministry of Rites, she was let into the preparation area. ¡°What a bold statement.¡± Right when Fang Lang was about to step onto the imperial pathway, he heard someone pping. He saw a beautiful youth with a folded fan looking at him. A gorgeous smile was on the youth¡¯s face. ¡°I¡¯m Ximen Xianxian. It¡¯s an honor to meet the theory andbat champion. I was wondering if you¡¯re free after the final battle? I can bring you to the entertainment house in Changan. You can choose to visit any one of the twelve Queens of Flowers for free. We can have an academic discourse and recite poems. What do you think?¡± Ximen Xianxian said smilingly. Fang Lang was speechless. This was the infamous schr who had unrestricted ess to the entertainment houses in Changan? ¡®Interesting! He looks exactly like what I imagined! And so unapologetic!¡¯ ¡°Freeloading is not my thing.¡± Fang Lang smiled politely at Ximen Xianxian. Then, he turned around and strode towards the imperial pathway. Ximen Xianxian was stunned. ¡®Brother, you¡¯ve got the wrong focus here!¡¯ Nevertheless, Ximen Xianxian was still smiling while he watched Fang Lang leave. ¡®What an interesting guy.¡¯ After going through the official inspection, Fang Lang entered the imperial pathway and walked towards the preparation area. 500 students stood at their assigned spaces with their nametes, waiting for the final battle to begin. Fang Lang smiled brightly when he saw Wei Sheng among the crowd. Wei Sheng nodded awkwardly and thought, ¡®Are we that close? Although you gave me some insights and motivation, I helped you fight against Li Yuanzhen. I don¡¯t owe you anything.¡¯ Dang! A sound echoed from deep within the pce as an old eunuch struck the ancient bell. The resonance of the bell quieted the tumultuous crowd in the square. All the civilians and cultivators turned around and looked in the direction of the Taiji Pce. The officials, royalties and sect leaders rose from their seats and faced the Taiji Pce. ¡°Herees His Majesty...¡± The Emperor¡¯s eunuch announced loudly in his piercing voice. His voice alone without using any spiritual sense was so loud it could be heard from every corner of the square. An invisible royal pressure spread across the za instantly. Everyone including the Royal Guards, spectators, officials and candidates kneeled at once... Even the second-ss sect leaders scrambled to their knees... The entire world bowed before the Emperor. Only the top ten sect leaders and a boy dressed in green remained standing in the White Jade Square. Fang Lang had the urge to kneel when he felt the royal pressure against his body. However, this sensation was simr to the one he experienced in the Spirit Pagoda. He managed to endure the pressure with his strong will. His previous encounter had made this pressure much easier to withstand. Inside the Taiji Pce, a pair of brooding eyes on top of the dragon throne locked onto Fang Lang. The eyes seemed to have traveled through time, climbed every mountain and crossed every sea. He could easily crush this proud young man by exerting his strength, but he did not. The eunuch beside him stared at Fang Lang in disbelief. He was about to berate the boy when the Emperor raised his hand. The eunuch was silenced before he could open his mouth. The atmosphere thickened. The ten sect leaders turned their gaze to Fang Lang, including Chao Xiaojian. ¡®How dare he stand at their level?¡¯ The Emperor allowed it? Amazing! Fang Lang was calm. His green robe swayed in the morning breeze as he stood upright like a bamboo. He attracted many eyes, including Old Jiang who was kneeling at a far corner. The court eunuch stared at the boy with a weird expression. However, since the Emperor was not bothered by it, the eunuch would be overstepping His Majesty¡¯s authority if he interfered. The eunuch opened the royal decree and announced the rules and regtions of the final battle. His voice reverberated through the main court and the square. ¡°By the orders of the Emperor, the final section of the Imperial Examination will have two segments. For the first segment, each sect leader of the ten great sects wille up with a task. Those who pass five rounds will be allowed to proceed to the second segment. The second segment consists of abat battle before the Emperor. It will decide the ranking of the top three winners.¡± The entire square fell silent right after the eunuch¡¯s announcement. The rules were totally different. This Imperial examination was nothing like the ones held before. A majority of the students in the preparation area frowned worriedly. Some of them were extremely stressed while some were rather se about the change. The ten sect leaders were slightly caught off guard by the announcement but they bowed before the Taiji Pce in acknowledgment soon after. ¡°At yourmand, Your Majesty,¡± all ten sect leaders answered together. ¡°After you,¡± the sect leaders said to each other, thenughed. The ten sect leaders flew down onto the imperial pathway and stood in order of their sect rankings. Chao Xiaojian from the Sword Guild stood at the very end of the imperial pathway. The sect leader of the Main Path Guild stood right below the White Jade Court as befitting the guild¡¯s number one ranking. The candidates were standing face-to-face with the ten sect leaders, the strongest people in the Tang Dynasty. The atmosphere was terrifyingly stressful. The leaders were like celestial beings overlooking them. All of the students were intimidated by their presence. Fang Lang took a deep breath as he stared at the cracked steel sword that Chao Xiaojian was carrying. Excitement danced in the boy¡¯s eyes. Dang! The bell rang once more from deep within the pce. The sun had fully risen to the sky¡ªsunlight shone onto the imperial pathway like a golden nket. The court eunuch in Taiji Pce yelled, ¡°Let the final section begin!¡± His high-pitched voice pierced through the sky, reaching above theyers of clouds. On the imperial pathway, Chao Xiaojian smiled and said, ¡°My test is simple.¡± Just after he finished saying, the weatherbeaten steel sword darted out and hovered in front of him. Chao Xiaojian extended a finger and touched it. Buzz... The sword cry exploded and resonated in each corner of the square, prating even the depths of Taiji Pce. The green steel sword spun slightly in front of him, exuding a wisp of sword intent. Chao Xiaojian swung his arms back. Suddenly, the hovering sword split into two and started multiplying until there were 500 swords! The 500 steel swords were twisting in the air, generating a thunderous vibration. It was like a forest of swords had sprouted on the imperial pathway. ¡°Each sword contains a wisp of my sword intent. If anyone can resist it and draw a sword, they shall pass. I name this test?, Reflection of the des.¡± Chao Xiaojian chuckled openly like his loose, untied robe. ¡°Anybody?¡± The entire preparation area was silent after he finished, no one dared to make the first move. Chao Xiaojian from the Sword Guild was a ninth-ss sword master with exceptional sword mastery skills. Even a wisp of his sword intent would not be easily suppressed. Every student knew this was a test with a solution. Nevertheless, Chao Xiaojian was not someone to be underestimated. The scene of 500 hovering swords was a spectacle for the spectators alongside the imperial pathway. The officials and cultivators from other sects were transfixed by the impressive disy. All eyes were on the floating swords. Seconds and minutes passed, nobody moved a step. Suddenly, a light chuckle broke the silence. ¡°If that¡¯s the case, I¡¯ll go first.¡± Li Yuanzhen said with augh. The right administrator¡¯s son was as polite and charming as always. He took a step forward whileughing. His clothes billowed in the air as he walked towards the 500 hovering steel swords. Beside him, Fang Lang raised his eyebrow and thought, ¡®Someone finally took the lead.¡¯ Fang Lang followed right behind him. The moment Fang Lang started moving, Liu Bubai walked out confidently and thought, ¡®Sword mastery is my major!¡¯ The three of them stopped in front of the imperial pathway. The remaining students in the preparation area who were considering joining them halted and stared at the three of them curiously. Li Yuanzhen was at the very front. He stopped in front of a sword and reached out. However, just as he was about to make contact, a surge of sword intent burst out and engulfed Li Yuanzhen. Time was ticking away. Li Yuanzhen¡¯s brows furrowed deeply as he remained rooted to the ground with his eyes closed. Both of his hands were on the sword but he struggled to pull it free. Fang Lang and Liu Bubai exchanged a brief look before approaching the forest of swords with a heavy expression. They stayed close to each other and each chose a hovering sword. Fang Lang extended his hand and grabbed the hilt of a sword. Boom! A strong wave of sword intent shot out of the sword. Fang Lang frowned, trying to focus on his defense. Suddenly, the Sword Intent Seed in his energy center cyclone shook violently. Chao Xiaojian¡¯s sword intent was instantly devoured. The Sword Intent Seed was still unsatiated and proceeded to absorb seventy percent of the sword intent from the adjacent sword. Under everybody¡¯s gaze and Chao Xiaojian¡¯s frozen smile, Fang Lang grabbed hold of the sword and passed through the forest of sword effortlessly as if he was plucking a leaf from the forest. Chapter 87 - Displacement Is The Shortest Distance Between Two Points

Chapter 87: Discement Is The Shortest Distance Between Two Points

Trantor: EndlessFantasy Trantion Editor: EndlessFantasy Trantion The sun shone brilliantly above the sky. As the first candidate who made a move, Li Yuanzhen was apuded by the crowd alongside the imperial pathway. He was the first rock that made a ssh in the otherwise quietke. The payout for betting on Li Yuanzhen was not that high as many people were confident he would be the grand champion. He had an outstanding background: the best student of the Imperial Academy¡ªa rank higher than Jiang Linglong, the right administrator¡¯s son, the best spell master in this Imperial Examination... His payout was not high, but with his exceptional qualities, those who bet on him would not lose much. He was like a sprouting leafling that would eventually grow into a giant tree, everyone knew that. Therefore, there were roaring cheers from all directions. Fang Lang and Liu Bubai who went in right after him were ignored. Fang Lang had a bit of fame as he came first in thebat and theory assessments. However, the leverage was too high. No one wanted to bet on him, thus he was not their main focus. No one recognized Liu Bubai, who was beside Fang Lang. The tumultuous crowd fell silent the moment the green-robed boy withdrew the sword effortlessly from the forest of swords as though he was picking a leaf. The young man emerged from the sword forest casually. He had solved the test set by Chao Xiaojian from the Sword Guild effortlessly. Li Yuanzhen was still struggling with the sword. A pin-drop silence filled the entire square. Liu Bubai also grabbed a sword. He felt a weight against his body when the sword intent charged towards him. The core in his energy center paused as if it was blocked by something! Liu Bubai¡¯s face paled! ¡®This seems rather difficult.¡¯ Was he so useless that he could only depend on others to win? ¡®No!¡¯ Liu Bubai felt a surge of anger rising in him. The spark in him was able to scorch grass ins! ¡®I need to ovee this!¡¯ Finally, he felt the sword intent weaken as if it was bitten by something. Liu Bubai took this window of opportunity to work the core in his energy center. He managed to suppress the weakened sword intent! Liu Bubai opened his eyes and was met with the forest of swords. He grabbed the sword with his chin held high and walked out confidently, following closely behind Fang Lang! The crowd¡¯s attention shifted from Li Yuanzhen to both of them. Li Yuanzhen was still frowning, trying his best to suppress Chao Xiaojian¡¯s sword intent. The other two boys had cracked it. That... That was all? That was what the best spell master in this cohort could do? What a letdown. The officials and great cultivators from different sects frowned at his performance. However, it was excusable when they considered the fact that Li Yuanzhen was a naturally gifted spell master and rarely dabbled in sword mastery. The civilians and gamblers did not make such a connection and started sighing. Some of them even pounded their own chests and almost cried out loud. They made the wrong bet. On the imperial pathway, Chao Xiaojian¡¯s expression froze as he watched Fang Lang walk through the forest of swords casually with Liu Bubai close behind. Chao Xiaojian was baffled. He did not set this test lightly. He would not dare to do so under the watchful gaze of the Emperor. In the end, Fang Lang solved his test without any hesitation. His test was like a thin membrane was easily popped by Fang Lang with an awl. Fang Lang walked on the white jade tiles on the imperial pathway calmly under the bright sun. The vibration stopped abruptly when Li Yuanzhen sessfully held the sword after suppressing the sword intent. The corner of his lips curved slightly, thinking that Chao Xiaojian¡¯s sword intent was nothing great after all. He raised his head to look ahead, thinking of leaving the forest of swords. His footsteps faltered midway. Liu Bubai was standing further ahead with his chin held high. The boy turned around and nced at Li Yuanzhen like a proud swan. Li Yuanzhen was triggered by his arrogant gaze. Even though Liu Bubai did not utter a word, his smugness irked Li Yuanzhen. ¡®I can ept that Fang Lang managed to ovee the sword intent quickly but who the hell is this guy? How did he manage to surpass me?¡¯ In the preparation area, Jiang Linglong gasped lightly under her veil, ¡°Ah.¡± Then, she started walking to the first obstacle set by Chao Xiaojian. Others followed suit and walked towards the forest of swords. Ximen Xianxian opened his paper fan with a flick and entered the sword forest. Lu Ze who was beside Ximen Xianxian muttered, ¡°yboy,¡± before entering the sword forest together with a chuckling Wei Sheng. The students started battling the sword intent with their eyes closed, simr to what Li Yuanzhen had gone through. No one managed to fight the sword intent and grab a sword as effortlessly as Fang Lang. Chao Xiaojian let out a sigh of relief. It was not his problem but Fang Lang¡¯s. After some time, there were several students in the sword forest who managed to control the sword intent and drew a sword to continue on to the next stage. Some of the students were pale-faced, coughing up blood as they copsed in regret. Those were the ones who failed the first test. ... There were three figures on the imperial pathway. Fang Lang and Liu Bubai walked alongside each other while Li Yuanzhen was a step behind them. The polite smile on his face was somewhat awkward. Li Yuanzhen stared at Fang Lang¡¯s back and wondered, ¡®This is the young man who single-handedly fought against a few dozen students from Changan Academy and the Imperial Academy in the demon portal¡¯s hunting grounds? Even the third prince...¡¯ Li Yuanzhen¡¯s eyes sparkled and a grin spread across his face. ¡®Sword mastery is not my forte. I¡¯ll definitely outss you in the following tests.¡¯ Li Yuanzhen was very confident but unlike Liu Bubai, he was more reserved. His father, Li Puyi, was a supporter of the third prince while Fang Lang had support from the Jiang family. He could not afford to lose, not only that, he needed to defeat and crush Fang Lang like the ants beneath his feet. The smile on Li Yuanzhen¡¯s face widened as he thought of this. The tension surrounding the three candidates thickened. The imperial pathway was like a river and Li Yuanzhen and Fang Lang werepeting to cross it. ... After the Sword Guild was the Sky Cloud Sect, which ranked ninth among the sects of the Tang Dynasty. This sect was founded by a flight sword master. Their test included high-difficulty maneuvering and flight sword techniques. The three candidates passed the test swiftly as it was not too challenging. The eighth sect was the Four Rings Tower, a sect with simr expertise to the Sky Cloud Sect. Hence, their test was more or less the same. Medicine Valley¡ªknown for alchemy¡ªwas ranked seventh. The alchemists had entric personalities, thus their test was rather weird. The three of them swallowed the pills given by the alchemists and managed to control the after-effects. After a round of cold sweat, Fang Lang and Li Yuanzhen emerged unaffected but Liu Bubai followed them with much difficulty. Finally, they reached the sixth sect. After this round, they would be qualified topete in the second segment of the final battle. Therefore, this test was crucial! Fang Lang was very familiar with this sect as he frequently visited their store¡ªthe Jade Pavilion. The sect leader of the Jade Pavilion was an alluring beauty with a jaw-dropping figure. She wore a skin-tight long dress with a split that ran up her thigh. The fair skin of her thighs was elusive underneath the sheer fabric, indulging others in their wildest dreams. Most men would flush red in her presence. Fang Lang was reminded of Manager Yu from the Jade Pavilion. When the sect leader saw Fang Lang, Liu Bubai and Li Yuanzhen arrive, she raised her hand with a beguiling smile. There was an intricate silver space ring on her delicate fingers. ¡°The Jade Pavilion¡¯s quest is not difficult either.¡± After that, she removed her ring and waved gently in the air. Suddenly, the ring started duplicating and growing. The rings spun continuously, finally turning into two identical doors that were several meters apart. ¡°If you can walk from end to end... you will pass the test,¡± the woman said with a chuckle as she pointed with her slender fingers. On top of the tower, the first prince had his eyes fixated on the imperial pathway. Lu Taixuan, Li Puyi and the other officials were seated not too far away from him. ¡°The Jade Pavilion¡¯s specialty is space maniption. This test is rooted in that fundamental skill,¡± an official stated. The others around him nodded in agreement. ¡°Space maniption falls under the category of spells. Yuanzhen is Administrator Li¡¯s son and ranked first in spell mastery for this Imperial Examination. He will definitely ace this test.¡± ¡°Right, sword mastery is not Yuanzhen¡¯s forte, but he¡¯s the best in spell mastery.¡± ¡°The apple doesn¡¯t fall far from the apple tree, don¡¯t you worry, Administrator Li,¡± one of the officials told Administrator Li with a respectful smile. They had high hopes for Li Yuanzhen. Li Puyi nodded lightly with a polite smile as he responded. Lu Taixuan scoffed before dozing off again. He felt drowsy without liquor in his blood. ... Changan City was no longer covered in the misty rain. The Vermillion Street glittered brightly under the brilliant sun rays. Yu Xiao wore a modest long robe that was the uniform of the Jade Pavilion. She strolled through the street and headed in the direction of the pce. She came all the way from Luojiang City for one person. Ever since she saw Fang Lang¡¯s improved flight sword rune in the recall spell, Manager Yu had been finding an opportunity to speak to Fang Lang about it. Initially, she wanted to contact Fang Lang after he hadpleted the theory andbat assessments. However, when she visited the Fang Manor after the exams, Fang Beihe informed her that his son had left for Changan to undergo intensive training for the final section. She panicked after hearing that. The greatest cultivators would be gathering in Changan to watch the final battle of the Imperial Examination, including those from the Four Rings Tower and the Sky Cloud Sect who were experts in flight swords. If the Four Rings Tower got their hands on Fang Lang first, the Jade Pavilion would have no hope of advancing their flight sword division! Therefore, she came to Changan City for this sole purpose. Yu Xiao squeezed through the crowded Vermillion Bird Gate and tiptoed to get a better view of the imperial pathway. ... Space maniption? Fang Lang¡¯s heart sank when he saw the space ring transformed into two doors. He was not very confident in spell mastery. After all, his spiritual sense was only enhanced due to the destruction of the Tang Code¡¯s red arrow. The sudden improvement made his spiritual sense too irritable and difficult to control. He hesitated for a moment and did not enter the test immediately. Li Yuanzhen also remained rooted in front of the door. His spiritual sense started peeking out like a snake. It entered the door and explored the surroundings. A crowd started gathering behind the trio, including Jiang Linglong, Lu Ze, Ximen Xianxian, Ni Wen... They seemed to have all returned to the same starting line. ¡®On the surface, it seems as if they are testing us on space maniption, but it all depends on the strength and depth of one¡¯s spiritual sense.¡¯ Li Yuanzhen retrieved his spiritual sense and smiled softly. After the door was a maze created by space maniption. They needed to go through the maze and reach the other door at the end. Inparison to Chao Xiaojian¡¯s test, Li Yuanzhen had more confidence in this. Space maniption was part of the curriculum in spell mastery. This was what he did best. ¡®I might becking in sword mastery, but in spell mastery, I¡¯m ten times better than Fang Lang. Maybe even more...¡± Li Yuanzhen nced briefly at a frowning Fang Lang. He smiled politely and waved his sleeve confidently before entering the door. He disappeared into the mist. Fang Lang remained grounded, Liu Bubai too. Liu Bubai looked terrible. He was purely a sword master and wanting him to break a spell was simply too much. Jiang Linglong, Wei Sheng, Ximen Xianxian and the others followed suit. They nced at Fang Lang and Liu Bubai shortly before entering the space. After a long while, Fang Lang clenched his jaws and decided to give it his all! Fang Lang and Liu Bubai entered one after another. Both of them vanished into thin air once they entered the magic realm created by the space ring. They were engulfed by a grey, misty void. Fang Lang was also aware that this was a test of their spiritual sense strength. They would need to find their way out by using their spiritual sense. He walked for quite some time with the guidance of his spiritual sense. However, he took a wrong turn and found himself back where he started. Fang Lang frowned. If he continued to use his spiritual sense to find his way, he would be able to walk out of this contraption. It was just a matter of time. However, that would take ages. He might lose his qualification for the second segment of the final section if he spent too much time inside the maze. ¡°This leaves me with no choice...¡± Fang Lang took a deep breath. ¡°If I can¡¯t do it by the books. I need to think out of the box! Either way... the only thing that matters is that I make it out of here! ¡°Spell: Spirit Awl!¡± ¡®Ding! Spell usage activates the equipped Instant Casting Staff.¡¯ The System notification came up. Without the help of a seal, spiritual sense merged into a triangr awl that was aimed at the walls obstructing Fang Lang. ¡°Spirit Awl! Spirit Awl!¡± Fang Lang¡¯s eyes glimmered while he continued to cast the spell. It managed to drill big holes through the walls ahead of him. The holes were slowly mending themselves. Nevertheless, it was sufficient. Fang Lang followed the holes and continued to clear his path with the Spirit Awl aided by the Instant Casting Staff. This was basic knowledge. Discement is the shortest distance between two points! The winding path was just too time-consuming. It was better to dig his way through! ... Li Yuanzhen closed his eyes, his robe billowing in the air as he breezed through the maze. His spiritual sense flowed out fiercely to help him scout the right path. Space maniption was aplicated spell but he had toyed with it since young and grew tired of the art after the age of ten. The spiritual sense would guide him to the best path. Soon, his spiritual sense felt a ray of light from the exit! As expected, this maze was too easy for him. He must be the first candidate to exit the maze. No one couldpete with him. Not Jiang Linglong, not Ximen Xianxian. Not even Fang Lang. Li Yuanzhen walked towards the exit with confidence. Suddenly, his footsteps halted. A strong wave of spiritual sense exploded near the exit and a huge hole appeared. Fang Lang emerged from it and stepped out of the exit, greeting the glorious sun. Li Yuanzhen stood there in shock as he watched Fang Lang rob him of his first ce. He raised his hand to cover his chest. Li Yuanzhen was heartbroken. Chapter 88 - Bloodline Awakening: The First Battle

Chapter 88: Bloodline Awakening: The First Battle

Trantor: EndlessFantasy Trantion Editor: EndlessFantasy Trantion Liu Bubai was in despair. The entire world was gray. He felt as lost as a headless fly. His spiritual sense was not strong as he was a sword master¡ªhe would rather wield a sword than solve this winding puzzle of a maze! When he recalled the beguiling female sect leader with gorgeous legs who set up the maize, he finally understood the true meaning of the words of Vice Leader Chao! Women dyed a swordsman¡¯s drawing speed! Liu Bubai was exhausted. Even though he was confident, he knew his own limits. This fifth test might just be the end of his journey. All of a sudden, Liu Bubai stumbled upon a big hole while wandering around aimlessly! The hole was gradually repairing itself, but it looked very tempting in the endless gray void. Liu Bubai¡¯s expression changed. Could it be... a bug in the maze? He was thrilled that he found this glitch all by himself without the need to depend on others! After deliberating for less than a second, Liu Bubai clenched his jaws and entered the hole. ... Fang Lang was gasping for air. He almost drained all the spiritual sense in his mind. If he did not reach the end of the maze soon, he would copse. He did not gain this newfound spiritual sense through cultivation. Even though its strength was immense, it was erratic and he had little control over it. After this, not only should he work on sword mastery and martial arts mastery, he should also spend more effort on spell mastery. ¡®It seems like I have to work harder!¡¯ He should find more opportunities to fight the third prince. Fang Lang looked a little pale when he stood by the exit. He was stunned when he noticed Li Yuanzhen¡¯s gaze on him from afar. ¡®He¡¯s fast!¡¯ He chose to dig his way out, but Li Yuanzhen went through the entire maze. Technically speaking, this boy was faster than him! No wonder the right administrator¡¯s son, Li Yuanzhen, was the popr candidate for the Imperial Examination grand champion! Fang Lang did not show any emotions even though he was impressed. He maintained a calmposure as he walked out of the door gracefully. Li Yuanzhen was in a daze. How did he lose in spell mastery... the discipline that he took most pride in? This hit him even harder than the previous defeat! Impossible! Blood drained from Li Yuanzhen¡¯s face, he was so shaken that his fingertips were trembling as well. Nheless, he had no choice but to face reality since it already happened. Then, he started walking towards the exit, epting his fate as the runner-up. Suddenly, the hole that Fang Lang emerged from started expanding. Liu Bubai appeared squirming out. Li Yuanzhen waspletely dumbfounded and stopped in his tracks once again! It was as though he had been struck by lightning. He burned from inside out! ¡®You again!¡¯ He did not know Liu Bubai¡¯s name, but he remembered the boy¡¯s disgusting face! Liu Bubai was already very anxious when he chose to take the shortcut. When he saw Li Yuanzhen, he quickly raised his chin and put on an unperturbed expression to conceal his guilt. ¡°You¡¯re not bad,¡± Liu Bubai said nonchntly. Then, he walked out of the maze with his chin held high. The warm sun greeted him outside. Li Yuanzhen felt as if he was about to explode. ... When the sect leader of the Jade Pavilion saw Fang Lang emerge from the maze, a strange expression shed across her beautiful face. She was aware of everything happening inside the maze since it was constructed by her spiritual sense. The cheering crowd fell silent once again. Those who betted their entire fortune on Li Yuanzhen were fuming! ¡®F*ck! Why is it him again?¡¯ ¡®Isn¡¯t Li Yuanzhen the best in spell mastery?¡¯ ¡®Why is Fang Lang first?¡¯ Their hearts dropped. It was as if they could hear the sound of their heart shattering into pieces after losing their entire fortune. Nothing good ever came from gambling. Other than the civilians and gamblers, the sect leaders also were astonished and surprised. On the elevated tform, the first prince raised his eyebrow. Administrator Li¡¯s face froze and the ttery from the other officials stopped instantly. Lu Taixuan¡¯sughter could be heard clearly, an oddity in the silence. How did Fang Lang surpass Li Yuanzhen in the Jade Pavilion¡¯s test? The entire square was silent. The first segment of the final battle caught everyone by surprise. The sect leader of the Jade Pavilion crossed her arms around her chest and stared at Fang Lang with her pretty eyes. This boy... dug his way through her space maze through brute force, tearing apart the spell. She did not infuse much spiritual sense on the walls of the maze. Even so, an average spell master would not be able to tear it down easily. This boy seemed to have a spiritual sense attack spell that allowed continuous casting! Furthermore, there was a hint of intimidation in his testy spiritual sense that allowed him to rip through the walls of the maze and win by unconventional means. ¡®Does this count as a valid attempt?¡¯ The sect leader of the Jade Pavilion pursed her red lips. Of course, it was valid. Even though she requested them to go through the maze, she also mentioned that as long as the candidates found the exit made from the space ring, they would pass the test. Fang Lang¡¯s actions were within the stated rules. The sect leader of the Jade Pavilion focused her mind and channeled more spiritual sense to strengthen the maze. ¡°This youngd¡¯s rather interesting. He¡¯s devious, demagogic, doesn¡¯t y by the books and prefers shortcuts!¡± The sect leader of Jade Pavilion¡¯s gentle voice gradually grew louder. The other sect leaders shook their heads but they were smiling. It seemed Fang Lang had a trick up his sleeve and won by using shortcuts, irritating the Jade Pavilion¡¯s sect leader. Chao Xiaojian enjoyed watching how Fang Lang got on Su Yunyu¡¯s nerves. This crazy woman was all looks and no brains. She would not tolerate such trickery! In the crowd beside the imperial pathway, Manager Yu turned pale and her heart sank when she heard her sect leader¡¯s criticism. Fang Lang who had just emerged from the maze frowned and wanted to justify himself. However, Su Yunyu¡¯s tone changed suddenly. She continued with a chuckle. ¡°I believe the other sects will not tolerate such a disobedient student. However, the Jade Pavilion is willing to take up the responsibility of guiding him towards the righteous path. ¡°Fang Lang, will you join us in the Jade Pavilion after the examination? I guarantee you¡¯ll have abundant cultivation resources,¡± Su Yunyu asked in all seriousness. Fang Lang was stunned, and so were the other sect leaders who looked at him with an intense gaze. Chao Xiaojian was also shocked by the sudden recruitment. A minute passed and Chao Xiaojian¡¯s white eyebrows shot up. His expression changed. This woman was trying to steal Fang Lang from him! How could he let her snatch such a valuable asset from the Sword Guild! ¡°Fang Lang is the chosen student of the Sword Guild!¡± Chao Xiaojian imed as he suppressed his anger. Sect Leader Su looked at Chao Xiaojian with a gorgeous smile. ¡°The Imperial Examination is a chance for the students to choose a sect they desire. What can the Sword Guild offer?¡± Chao Xiaojian was stunned for a moment before he muttered something under his breath, ¡°We have... swords.¡± With her hands around her chest, Sect Leader Su boasted, ¡°The Jade Pavilion can offer ten times the cultivation resources that the Sword Guild is offering him.¡± Jade Pavilion had nothing else but money. ¡°Fang Lang, do consider the Jade Pavilion¡¯s offer,¡± Su Yunyu said smilingly. Everyone around them was quiet. The two sect leaders from the top ten sects were poaching Fang Lang in public! Fang Lang did not give Su Yunyu a direct answer. He did not know how to reply to her. Liu Bubai emerged from the maze shortly after with a lost expression on his face. Li Yuanzhen was right behind him. The elegant boy¡¯s face was pale and his eyes looked like he was doubting his entire existence. Not long after, other candidates started to exit the maze. The students who finished the maze had passed all five rounds sessfully. They were qualified to enter the second segment of the final battle¡ªthe Royal Battle. The remaining tests set by the other sect leaders were optional. The candidates had the choice to continue or they could stop here. ¡°I¡¯ll stop here. I¡¯m exhausted.¡± ¡°I¡¯m done.¡± Liu Bubai shook his head. He knew he had reached his limits with the fifth test. ¡°Ni Wen¡¯s not out yet?¡± Fang Lang frowned. Liu Bubai and Fang Lang turned around to look at the maze that held Ni Wen. ... The longer a person stayed in the maze, the weaker their spiritual sense would be, making it harder to find the exit. Ni Wen had been walking in the gray maze for a long time but she could not seem to find the light at the end of the tunnel. Regardless, she refused to admit defeat. Although she had given her best shot, got her name on the roll of honor and passed the first four tests, she was not ready to give up. She still had hope. Not only did she want to follow in Fang Lang¡¯s footsteps, but she also wanted to do this for her mother. She wanted that bastard who abandoned them to realize he made a grave mistake! She had never met the man but she believed he would see her one day if she climbed high enough! Ni Wen kept grinding forward with extreme difficulty¡ªher face was pale from the exertion of spiritual sense. Her body was so frail she was on the verge of copsing. Her heart ached when she thought of her mother tearing up at sundown. Ni Wen had always been a diligent kid since young because she knew how much suffering her mother went through to bring her up. Her mother¡¯s beauty was tarnished by winter frost, the delicate skin of her hands became rough like tree barks over the years. Her mother would only smile when Ni Wen achieved excellent results. Ni Wen had to persevere! Blood started dripping from Ni Wen¡¯s nose when her spiritual sense was depleted. However, she could feel her blood boiling inside her body. Redness returned to her face and there was a golden tint deep within her pupils. After that, a continuous wave of spiritual sense spread out like ripples. Ni Wen stood up and continued to move forward. ... A thin figure wobbled at the exit of the maze. Liu Bubai called out in surprise, ¡°Ni Wen!¡± Fang Lang looked pleased as well. The three musketeers of Luojiang Academy were finally reunited. However, while Fang Lang was still rejoicing over Ni Wen¡¯s sess, the crisp notification sound rang in his head. ¡®Ding! Binding partner Ni Wen is undergoing core mutation. Unable to switch to binding partner mode within this period.¡¯ ¡®Ding! Binding partner Ni Wen is undergoing bloodline awakening, bloodline ability attained. Updating binding partner data...¡¯ Fang Lang was startled by the multiple notifications from the System. Bloodline ability awakening? ¡®Isn¡¯t Ni Wen a normal civilian?¡¯ Bloodline awakening... Could it be that the man who broke her mother¡¯s heart was a person of significance? Ni Wen was unaware of the changes that were happening to her right then. She walked towards Fang Lang gleefully. She finally made it out! She finally caught up with Fang Lang! Fang Lang was mildly curious about the origin of the other half of Ni Wen¡¯s bloodline. Dang! The bell rang. Out of the 500 candidates, only 80 passed the fifth test. The remaining 420 candidates failed to do so. The tests by the Sword Guild and the Jade Pavilion filtered out most of the students, especially the fifth test. Nearly seventy percent of students failed this test. ¡°For those who passed the fifth test, register your name on the scroll. You¡¯ll proceed to the second segment of the final section, the Royal Battle. All of you are also allowed to challenge one of the remaining five sect leaders. Any volunteers?¡± a eunuch asked loudly. As expected, no one wished to continue. Li Yuanzhen and Wei Sheng chose to give up. Fang Lang nced at Old Jiang and saw her shake her head. Fang Lang thought about it but decided not to continue. Liu Bubai and Ni Wen followed suit. The other five sect leaders smiled casually when no one took up the challenge. They were ustomed to such a scenario as previous cohorts were simr. The test set by the top five sect leaders would not be easy to pass. It was not worth the risk of hurting oneself during the test and affecting their performance in battle. The ten sect leaders left the imperial pathway. A eunuch dressed in blue led the 80 candidates in the direction of the White Jade Court. All of them walked solemnly in procession. Finally, they reached the tform before the White Jade Courtoutside the Taiji Pce. The dragon carvings looked as if they were alive. The candidates felt a strong presence emanating from the deepest end of the Taiji Pce, behindyers andyers of borate doors. There was a majestic figure on the throne, overlooking the 80 students who came from various academies of the Tang Dynasty. ¡°The Royal Battle is a one-on-one duel. This is a chance to showcase your cultivation and skills,¡± the court eunuch walked out from the Taiji Pce and announced loudly. Then, the eunuchs who were escorting the candidates stood before the White Jade Court and raised their nametes in the air. The court eunuch turned around and gave a deep bow towards the Taiji Pce. ¡°Your Majesty, please decide the first duel pair!¡± Buzz... Right after the eunuch¡¯s announcement, the nametes of the eighty candidates were sucked into the air by a force. The officials and sect leaders in the pce were watching the circling nametes that looked like shooting stars. Their eyes were fixated on the whirlwind. The entire court was silent. After some time, a faint voice sounded within the Taiji Pce. ¡°Stop.¡± The nametes which were spinning at high speed halted abruptly. nk! Two nametes shot out from the cluster and collided with each other. The ricochet pulled them apart and they hovered in the air. Everyone¡¯s attention was on the two nametes. They squinted their eyes to focus their vision. The crowd on both sides of the imperial pathway gasped in shock! The court eunuch briefly scanned the two nametes before he announced, ¡°The first battle: Li Yuanzhen of the Imperial Academy against Fang Lang of Luojiang Academy.¡± Chapter 89 - Thrown Up Into The Air and Crashed Down

Chapter 89: Thrown Up Into The Air and Crashed Down

Trantor: EndlessFantasy Trantion Editor: EndlessFantasy Trantion Changan¡¯s view was breathtaking in mid-autumn. The lush greens had transformed into a gorgeous shade of yellow, hanging on trees like shimmering gold leaves. The sun was burning brightly in the afternoon, showering its passionate warmth onto the earth. Deep inside the courts of the pce. A branch peeked out from the secured walls of the pce with leaves rustling in the afternoon breeze. There was a small courtyard behind the wall, the entrance was heavily guarded by pce guards in full armor. No one was allowed to enter or exit the courtyard. There was a beautiful garden in the courtyard¡ªan elegant pavilion sat amidst a rippling pond surrounded by flowery bushes. Koi fish swam in the clear waters, creating ripples when they maneuvered their tails. When fish food was sprinkled onto the pond, the peaceful surface started to bubble as if the water was boiling. The Kois were scrambling for food. The third prince, Li Liancheng, was wearing a in white robe. His hair was disheveled and a few tousled strands covered his forehead. A blue-robed eunuch was standing behind the third prince with his back hunched. The eunuch described the final battle that was happening in the square before the Taiji Pce. The third prince was grounded and was not allowed to attend the final section of the Imperial Examination. ¡°You killed Lin Yun; your policy shook the entire nation; you strongly opposed the individual border regiment policy; you were also the one who stabbed me three times...¡± The third prince stared at the Koi fish in the point and grinned menacingly. There was so much bad blood between them. That policy essay was especially troublesome¡ªit deeply impacted his political strategy. The foreigners were separated into pure blood and impure blood. Most of the pure-blood foreigners in the Tang Dynasty helped control the demon portals surrounding the borders and they were major supporters of the third prince¡¯s campaign. The policy was the main reason he personally went to Qiuling Demon Portal. If Fang Lang became the grand champion and was summoned by the Emperor to discuss this policy, many of Li Liancheng¡¯s plots and schemes would be disrupted. He had yet to fully grasp his father¡¯s thinking. Moreover, he could not figure out why he was grounded. Was it because of the individual border regiment policy or because heid hands on Fang Lang? ¡°Your Highness, there are eighty candidates who sessfully entered the second segment of the final battle. The first draw of the Royal Battle is... Li Yuanzhen against Fang Lang.¡± The little eunuch conveyed the message sent to them. Right after he finished his sentence, he could feel the chilly mid-autumn air freeze in an instant. The eunuch felt a suffocating sensation in the atmosphere. The third prince turned his head and red at him with an icy expression. ¡°Who was drawn for the first battle?¡± Li Liancheng asked. The little eunuch immediately dropped to his knees, trembling and unable to utter a word. The third prince ignored him and lifted his head to look in the direction of the Taiji Pce, a grin spread across his face slowly. ¡°Are you doing this on purpose, my dear father?¡± ... Before the Taiji Pce, the noise of the tumultuous crowd was deafening as if it could pierce the sky and strike down the wild geese soaring above. The first Royal Battle would have the theory andbat champion, Fang Lang against Changan¡¯s well-known right administrator¡¯s son, Li Yuanzhen. It caught everyone by surprise. It was as if the draws were rigged. However, the Emperor was the one who drew their names. Even if others felt it was rigged, no one dared to speak up. The first prince raised an eyebrow and put on an ambiguous smile. Li Puyi¡¯s expression was dark and serious. After a long while, he rxed his frown and maintained a calm demeanor. If only one could be the winner, so be it. After all, it was just a matter of time before they had to battle one another. What difference was there if they were the first orst pair? All of the sect leaders watched curiously. The surrounding crowd was excited for the first Royal Battle. ... The battle would be between the two of them. The winner would have a pristine namete while the loser would have a crack on theirs. If the namete did not shatter, the candidate could continuepeting for the title of grand champion. This was the rule of the final battle. Therefore, it was inevitable they would meet in battle. Li Yuanzhen¡¯s restlessness caused by the space maze dissipated immediately when he heard his name. Why should he worry? As long as he beat Fang Lang, all of his distress would be gone with the wind. ¡°Li Yuanzhen of the Imperial Academy, enter the ring,¡± the court eunuch waved his horsetail whisk and announced. ¡°Understood.¡± Li Yuanzhen cupped his hands together and bowed before the Taiji Pce. Then, he turned around and separated from the group of candidates. He walked toward the elevated battle ring right before the White Jade Court. The ring was very wide, enough to contain the uing vigorous battle. Li Yuanzhen stepped onto the ring, looking downward with his eyes half-closed. ¡°Fang Lang of Luojiang Academy, enter the ring.¡± ¡°Understood,¡± Fang Lang replied with a bow as well. He turned around and walked towards the ring with his rosewood sword box. Jiang Linglong, Liu Bubai, Ni Wen and the others kept their eyes on him and cheered him on. Fang Lang chuckled before walking up to the ring. He stood opposite Li Yuanzhen. Suddenly, the clear blue sky was filled with looming rain clouds. The clouds were blown by the autumn winds, surrounding them with a deadly atmosphere. The entire Taiji Pce and the White Jade Square fell silent. Even though this could be the premature battle for the title of grand champion, they had to contain their exhration once the battle started. Everybody was watching the ring closely, including the Emperor in the Taiji Pce. ... Thud, thud, thud! The anticipation built as the golden drums sounded. This meant the battle had begun. However, there were no movements in the ring, only fallen leaves tumbling in the wind. Li Yuanzhen stared at Fang Lang calmly and confidently. ¡°The third prince ordered me to defeat you. You have no clue the damage you¡¯ve done with the essay you wrote for the policy exam. Your lowly existence has hindered the progressive wave that was going to bring the Tang Dynasty into a new era. Someone like you... can¡¯t be the grand champion,¡± Li Yuanzhen shook his head and said. Fang Lang was stunned. The written policy examination? The reason the third prince tormented him was because of that essay? Fang Lang thought it was ridiculous. Even though he had yet to experience the individual border regiment policy himself, the current situation suggested history might repeat itself if the Tang Dynasty implemented this policy. Although the Emperor of the Tang Dynasty seemed to be an almighty leader, Fang Lang was still a strong believer in history and fate. Unless the Emperor was a deity who could change the fate of the world. Unfortunately, he was just a man. Fang Lang burst out inughter. His low-pitchedughter resonated through the ring. He raised his head to look at Li Yuanzhen. ¡°People like you are no different from robbers... using ambition and your so-called logic as an absurd excuse. What if I said that to ordain conscience for Heaven and Earth, to secure life and fortune for the people, to continue lost teachings of past sages, to establish peace for all future generations, I need you to end your life. Will you kill yourself? Do you have the courage to do so? Do you?¡± Fang Lang asked without pausing for breath. His heavy words echoed through the ring, spreading across the Taiji Pce and its surroundings. Boom! It was as though a mighty tide washed over the ears and hearts of every official, cultivator and student. In the preparation area, Ximen Xianxian¡¯s entire body began trembling. He stood up with the paper fan in his hand, lips quivering and eyes sparkling with euphoria. ¡°What a great speech... To ordain conscience for Heaven and Earth. Even though it was not quite appropriate in this setting, the first half of his speech was impable. No wonder he came first in the theory exam! That¡¯s my brother!¡± ... Li Yuanzhen was taken aback by Fang Lang¡¯s interrogation. The words struck his soul and made him question his own intentions. The speech was so powerful he started doubting himself. Both of them had their own principles. Suddenly, a chill swept over Li Yuanzhen and made his hair stand up. His spiritual sense was rmed. Fang Lang started moving! He charged across the ring without drawing his sword, closing the distance between him and Li Yuanzhen. ¡°It¡¯s useless. Even though you¡¯re good with words, you¡¯re still far from my level. The grand champion is just beyond your reach. I am a ninth-grade spell master and I¡¯ve transformed ny percent of my spiritual energy into mana energy and incorporated it into my spiritual sense. I¡¯m just a step away from being the third-ss spell advisor. How can you beat me?¡± Li Yuanzhen looked at Fang Lang proudly. Fang Lang was just a sixth-grade sword master. There was a significant three-grade difference¡ªone would need to cultivate for a year or two to catch up. It was still dangerous if a sword master or martial arts master got too close to a spell master. However, Fang Lang stood no chance since the disparity between them was too great. He would not be able to get through Li Yuanzhen¡¯s defense. Li Yuanzhen lifted both his hands and gestured quickly with his slender fingers. Waves of spiritual sense spread out from him like ringing bells. Boom! Boom! Boom! It was as if walls of air rose from the ground. Li Yuanzhen pushed his palm forward¡ªaplicated rune started spinning rapidly in the middle of his palm. Then, it shot up above the ring and formed a dome. At that moment, Fang Lang was just 30 meters away from Li Yuanzhen. Fang Lang was expressionless. His green robe rustled against the strong turbulence at high speed. He stared at the defenses around Li Yuanzhen and ignored the rising rune above his head. Li Yuanzhen was really powerful. The only chance Fang Lang could win was to catch him off guard! The polite smile on Li Yuanzhen¡¯s face disappeared. He had a cold expression as he stared at Fang Lang. he aimed his hand at Fang Lang and pressed downwards. The rune above the ring started spinning! A cold rain droplet fell from the rune. Then, the rain started pouring down in torrents from the middle of the rune. ¡°It¡¯s over,¡± Li Yuanzhen said softly. Stter! The rain fell in buckets, dampening everything it touched. This was not ordinary rain, it was made for the sake of killing! Hiss! Small holes were visible on the bricks of the battle ring. They were pierced through by the rain droplets as if the water was a sharpened de. They sliced through the air, the sleeves of Fang Lang¡¯s green robe, the floor tiles... As though it was about to split the earth in half. This was the ultimate rune that required the skills of a second-ss spell master! It started raining des. Suddenly, Fang Lang vanished, leaving only Li Yuanzhen and the air walls. He watched the rain and smiled. The entire square was dead silent, all of the candidates were focused on the situation in the ring. The skills of the greatest spell master in this Imperial Examination were impable. In the preparation area, Wei Sheng was speechless. He had fought against Li Yuanzhen before, it was a close fight as both of their strengths were simr. If he could get close to Li Yuanzhen, he was confident that he could take him down. He had no chance of winning otherwise. He would eventually lose to a spell master in the long run. Suddenly, Wei Sheng¡¯s eyes narrowed. Jiang Linglong¡¯s frown also rxed slightly. There was a figure bent over at a sharp angle in the middle of the stormy ring. Then, the figure shot out like a spring decked out in blood armor¡ªa defensive skill unique to a martial arts master. There was a damaged Spirit Suit¡ªa sword master special skill¡ªthat was drenched in the rain of des. Those with a sharp eye would notice there was a translucent spirit shield beneath the blood armor and spirit suit! Fang Lang managed to endure the de rain with the protection of three defenseyers! He was like a fish swimming against the current. He leaped upward in a perfect arc and went through the peak of the dome above the ring, higher than the rune! Everyone stared in awe at the flying teen in green. Then, Fang Lang raised his hand. The fiery red space ring between his fingers flickered. A red flight sword appeared under his feet. Flight sword! An ordinary transportation tool that was hardly useful in a battle! Everybody was dumbfounded, including Li Yuanzhen. Was Fang Lang going to use a flight sword to disarm his defense? He saw Fang Lang gesturing vigorously, forming a mark almost instantly. It was the Flight Sword Crossover Turbo Charge! Boom! The runes started spinning in opposite directions. Fang Lang stirred up a fierce storm of spiritual sense and channeled it into the rune to enhance it significantly. Fang Lang was like a ming meteorite in the roaring current elerating to maximum speed. It was like the judgment arrow that shot out from Changan and sliced through the horizon. Instantly, he flew across Li Yuanzhen¡¯s defensive walls and charged at him with immense speed and power! Li Yuanzhen was stunned by his speed, unable to react for a moment. ¡®What is this strategy? ¡®Was he nning to kill them both?] Sword master, spell master... or martial arts master? None of the disciplines taught such an absurd strategy. Shing! Fang Lang drew the Blooming Lotus Sword from its sheath! Boom! Just as his flight sword was about to crash into the ground, Fang Lang maneuvered it and drove it upwards sharply. Dragon Awakening! Strong winds started blowing fiercely! Li Yuanzhen felt like there was a giant dragon against his body, charging towards the sky! Fang Lang wielded his sword above him. Li Yuanzhen finally regained his senses when Fang Lang was just inches away from him. He immediately raised his hand to strengthen his defense rune. However, Fang Lang directed his spiritual sense and cast the Spell: Spirit Awl. Pop!! Li Yuanzhen felt a sharp pain in his spiritual sense and his rune was disabled halfway. With the help of the flight Sword, Fang Lang raised the Blooming Lotus Sword and stabbed Li Yuanzhen¡¯s abdomen! The sword impaled Li Yuanzhen and drove him into the air! Secret Technique: Lotus de! sh! Blood sprayed out from Li Yuanzhen¡¯s back like lotus flower petals. Fang Lang trembled as Li Yuanzhen slid off the tip of the Blooming Lotus Sword. He came crashing down from the sky, right through the rune he had cast above the ring, shattering it into pieces like a broken mirror. Bang! Li Yuanzhen¡¯s hit the ground. On his back, a blood lotus that had bloomed from the ground. The softened rain droplets fell on his face. The entire square fell into a deadly silence. The top spell master in this Imperial Examination, defeated by Fang Lang¡¯s weird skills. It was totally unexpected. He was thrown up into the air and came crashing down... Knocked out! Chapter 90 - Reasons Not To Lose

Chapter 90: Reasons Not To Lose

Trantor: EndlessFantasy Trantion Editor: EndlessFantasy Trantion The white robeid in the ring like a blossoming flower, the blood spots on it looked alluring yet heart-wrenching. The whole world was silent, only the sound of the flower blooming. Cold droplets sttered on Li Yuanzhen¡¯s face, mixed with the warmth of his blood and tears. The surroundings were still. This highly anticipated battle was supposed to have both opponents engage in a ferocious battle, each struggling to get the upper hand. However, the events that unfolded before their eyes were totally unexpected. The oue of the first battle was opposite of the public¡¯s prediction. They believed Fang Lang would never win against Li Yuanzhen, a ninth-grade spell master. How could the strongest, most talented spell master in this Imperial Examination lose? When the de storm appeared, everybody thought Fang Lang would be defeated¡ªobliterated by the de rain and lose all strength to fight. They pictured Fang Lang dragging himself across the ring, begging Li Yuanzhen to stop. In reality, it was Li Yuanzhen who was thrown up into the air by Fang Lang and tossed back onto the ground. Fang Lang was just being ostentatious. However, it was an utter humiliation to Li Yuanzhen. The crowd was still entranced by Fang Lang¡¯s fancy attack with the flight sword. Who knew the flight sword could be utilized in such a way? He totally flipped their worldview. The gamblers were pulling their hair in desperation as they watched the powerful eunuch revive Li Yuanzhen. They gripped the betting slip tightly with bloodshot eyes. Guttural cries sounded from their throat. The crowd¡¯s wailing attracted the attention of the officials. Before the Taiji Pce, the atmosphere was rather unusual. The eldest prince had an ambiguous smile on his face while the other officers were rendered speechless. Li Puyi seemed to have aged a lot in a split second. He stared nkly at his son whoid in a pool of blood¡ªthe son who carried all his hopes. His son¡ªwho had the greatest potential to be the grand champion¡ªhad lost miserably in the first battle! Like a wilted flower. Lu Taixuan did not mock Li Puyi, he let out a sigh instead. ¡°He was truly gifted, a shame...¡± Even though Lu Taixuan said it very softly, his words could be heard clearly in the pin-drop silence that enveloped the Taiji Pce. Li Puyi narrowed his eyes, his body shook violently. Looks were exchanged but everyone was speechless. ... The Jade Pavilion sect leader¡¯s eyes lit up! Her prettyshes fluttered as she stared at the battle ring. Her eyes fixated on the green-robed boy on the flight sword. ¡°Bravo! Well done, Fang Lang! Your moves were straightforward and clean. It was a genius idea to use the Meteor Flight Sword from the Jade Pavilion to boost your attack. The Jade Pavilion flight sword and you are truly a match made in heaven,¡± Su Yunyu eximed as she rubbed her palms together. Chao Xiaojian rolled his eyes beside her. She had exposed herself as an opportunistic woman by mentioning Jade Pavilion twice. The eyes of the sect leaders of the Sky Cloud Sect and the Four Rings Tower were glistening. ¡°The reason why Fang Lang was able to win despite the huge disparity in strength between him and Li Yuanzhen was not because of his flight sword. Other than his unconventional strategy, the crucialponent was the rune...¡± ¡°That rune was the key that enabled the flight sword to elerate from stationary to the impressive velocity!¡± ¡°This rune seems to be an upgraded version of the Flight Sword Turbo Charge... I haven¡¯t seen anything like this before!¡± The two sect leaders¡¯ eyes grew brighter as they continued to discuss. A great business opportunity loomed in the future. Su Yunyu¡¯s expression changed into distress. The two old foxes were probably eyeing Fang Lang¡¯s rune. She gained two morepetitors. Su Yunyu was not worried about the Sword Guild whocked financial resources. Nevertheless, she was threatened by the Sky Cloud Sect and Four Rings Tower who also sold flight swords. The flight sword business was extremely profitable and thus, the sects were filthy rich. ... In the preparation area, the atmosphere was tense. Other than the gaping crowd, there were two people experiencing emotional turmoil. ¡°F*ck! It¡¯s you, you¡¯re that genius!¡± Liu Bubai¡¯s lips were trembling. After seeing Fang Lang¡¯s zing meteor and his shy flying technique, Dragon Awakening, Liu Bubai clenched his thighs subconsciously as he recalled that day. The person who flew with him was... Fang Lang! On the other side, Luo Yang who was dressed in a silk robe widened his eyes. ¡°It¡¯s him! Meteor 007!¡± As a semi-professional flight sword rider, Luo Yang was schooled by the anonymous rider when he was helping his sister, Luo Qiuqiu, to tease the newbies. That day was something he would not easily forget. He witnessed the flight sword rider and the Meteor Flight Sword he had been dreaming of in the first Royal Battle! Amazing! Luo Yang¡¯s body trembled slightly. The rune was the same one that was used in the Flight Rally. Incredible! Both boys¡¯ weird emotions were drowned out by the astonishment that filled the entire preparation area. Jiang Linglong¡¯s pretty eyes fluttered. Fang Lang won! She was surprised by his overwhelming victory. All the candidates in the preparation area were in awe and worried at the same time. ... Li Yuanzhen was defeated in the first battle, losing his qualification topete for the grand champion title. In order to be a grand champion, the candidate¡¯s namete had to be wless, which meant they could not afford to lose a battle. Li Yuanzhen was no longer eligible because the moment he was defeated, Fang Lang¡¯s namete made a huge dent in his. The sound of Li Yuanzhen¡¯s namete cracking echoed through every corner of the square. Fang Lang kept his flight sword and shook off the blood on the Blooming Lotus Sword before keeping it into the sword box. No one knew if flight swords were permitted in battle but there was no rule banning the use of it. The court eunuch who set the rules of the battle did not mention anything about it. After all, no ordinary man would use a flight sword in a battle. The time required for a flight sword to be activated was enough for an opponent to kill them multiple times. Only a freak like Fang Lang would be able to incorporate his brilliant flying sword techniques with the special turbo-charged rune. A normal person would never be able to pull that off. In the ring, Fang Lang dusted his green robe as he watched Li Yuanzhen being carted away. Heughed and said, ¡°I forgot to inform you that fighting spell masters is what I do best.¡± Fang Lang was a huge threat towards spell masters since he was equipped with the Spirit Awl Spell that specifically targeted spiritual sense. The greatest pitfall in a battle against a spell master was to fall into their rhythm of attacking. One would be continuously assailed with highly destructive attack spells. The best way to defeat them is to bring them down before theyplete the rune formation. Li Yuanzhen might have stronger spells in reserve but Fang Lang never gave him the chance to cast them. Li Yuanzhen¡¯s countenance appeared even sicklier in his blood-stained robe. He closed his eyes slowly and ignored Fang Lang. To him, these words were just mocking words from a winner. ¡°Battle of the grand champion?¡± Fang Lang chuckled. From the beginning, he never thought he would bepeting with Li Yuanzhen for the grand champion title. He always thought the person who would bepeting against him for the grand champion title was Old Jiang! Fang Lang was looking forward to that battle. He had been preparing for it all along, gathering as many cards as he could. Fang Lang¡¯s sword hand trembled in excitement when he thought of meeting Old Jiang in the final battle. He wondered if there would be any unique passive abilities or great rewards awaiting him. The court eunuch entered the ring and nced at Fang Lan. ¡°The winner of the first battle, Fang Lang.¡± A warm smile spread across Fang Lang¡¯s face. He stepped down from the ring and reentered the preparation area. The nametes hovering in front of the Taiji Pce started spinning rapidly, with the exception of Fang Lang and Li Yuanzhen. After all of the nametes were paired for the first round of battle, the winners would be drawn for a second round. The subsequent pairings were either drawn by the Emperor or the court eunuch. Perhaps the first battle between Fang Lang and Li Yuanzhen left such an impact that the crowd was not too focused on the battles that followed. Even when Jiang Linglong entered the ring, there was only a faint cheer from the crowd. The fight between Fang Lang and Li Yuanzhen had stolen the spotlight. Liu Bubai also entered the ring and his opponent was none other than Lu Ze of Changan Academy. The oue was predictable. Liu Bubai, a first-grade sword master against Lu Ze, a ninth-grade sword master... there was no need to guess who lost. The only weird thing was the joy on Liu Bubai¡¯s face. ¡®I almost thought that I¡¯d win this too. I¡¯ll be worried if I did. It seems too good to be true, as though someone was plotting against me.¡¯ Liu Bubai kept his sword and exited the ring with his chin held high. Those who did not know better would think that he won the battle. Lu Ze lost the mood to celebrate after seeing how Liu Bubai acted. How could a loser be happier than the winner? The uing battles were rather dull. The burning sun slowly migrated to the west, lowering the mid-autumn day temperature. ¡°Next battle, Ximen Xianxian from Changan Academy against Ni Wen from Luojiang Academy.¡± The two nametes collided before Taiji Pce. The crowd in the square jumped in excitement! If Li Yuanzhen was known for having the most bets, Ximen Xianxian... was a name that was well-known by everybody. The way he recited his poem and spent free nights with the Queen of Flowers impressed many. Some viewed him as their idol since he achieved something that none have ever done. Therefore, the cheers from the crowd when they heard Ximen Xianxian¡¯s name was no less than the battle between Fang Lang and Li Yuanzhen. In front of the Taiji Pce, the eldest prince was watching Ximen Xianxian from his seat with hope in his eyes. Ximen Xianxian was chosen by the first prince personally. He found the boy amidst a bunch of beggars and taught him how to read and write. He was confident of Ximen Xianxian¡¯s talents. Ximen Xianxian did not join any of the three main disciplines. He was a cultivator of Ruism. Even though there were many people cultivating Ruism in the Tang Dynasty, only a handful of them were true practitioners of Ruism. Ximen Xianxian used his wandering encounters to gather righteous energy, hoping he could stand out in the Imperial Examination. The first prince had high expectations of him. The sunset was as red as blood. In the ring, Ximen Xianxian held a folded fan in his hand, exuding a wild and unrestrained aura exclusively found in schrs. He raised his head and nced at the first prince in the Taiji Pce with a brilliant smile. His end goal was to be the grand champion, thus he could not afford to lose. Ni Wen was wrapped in a green robe. Her eyes reflected the sunset as though there were burning mes in them. She wanted to prove herself and make the man who abandoned their family regret his decision! She too had a reason to win the battle! The two people withpelling reasons to win stood at opposite ends of the ring. They were like two zing clouds that were on a collision course on the evening horizon. Chapter 91 - Unbending and Determined

Chapter 91: Unbending and Determined

Trantor: EndlessFantasy Trantion Editor: EndlessFantasy Trantion Deep in the pce courts, only the sky was visible with high walls surrounding it. The third prince sat in the pavilion with a steaming teacup in his hand. The little eunuch dressed in blue scurried across the courtyard to reach the pavilion. The eunuch kneeled down onto the floor with a pale face and his forehead covered in sweat. He had received thetest news from the square but he did not know how to convey the message. The oue was just too shocking. As a eunuch who served these princes, he knew what the consequences would be after he revealed the news. ¡°Your highness, the oue of the battle between Fang Lang and Li Yuanzhen... is out,¡± the eunuch said as he wiped away cold sweat. ¡°Go on.¡± Inside the pavilion, the third prince gently blew the steam rising from the tea. ¡°Young Master Li Yuanzhen... lost against... Fang Lang,¡± the eunuch announced. The atmosphere thickened instantly. The autumn leaves fell from the tree, covering the floor in gold. ¡°I don¡¯t condone withholding information. Tell me exactly what happened,¡± the third prince sipped on his tea and said calmly. The eunuch dropped onto his knees with a loud thump. ¡°Fang Lang used a flight sword technique and defeated Young Master Li Yuanzhen.¡± The eunuch revealed everything. Crack! The little eunuch¡¯s entire body shook violently when he heard the shattering of the teacup. Apanying the Emperor was like apanying a tiger, these princes who might be the future emperor were equivalent to young cubs. ¡°Li Yuanzhen failed again... Useless garbage.¡± ... In the preparation area, the setting sun lit the horizon. Fang Lang, Liu Bubai and Jiang Linglong were standing together. Luo Yang came over as well. He decided to stick around since he saw Fang Lang¡¯s ingenious flight sword technique. He kept asking Fang Lang about the maneuvering techniques and runes. After answering a few questions, Fang Lang pointed at the battle that was about to begin in the ring. Only then did Luo Yang unwillingly stop. ¡°Will Ni Wen win the battle? Ximen Xianxian¡¯s ranking on the honor roll seems average,¡± Liu Bubai said with a frown. Liu Bubai really hoped Ni Wen would win the battle as they were both students from Luojiang Academy. ¡°Win? It¡¯s impossible. Even though Ximen Xianxian didn¡¯t have a good rank, his truebat skills and strength are no less than geniuses like Li Yuanzhen. Ximen Xianxian cultivates Ruism. It¡¯s different from the sword, martial arts and spell mastery, but he¡¯s definitely not weak. In addition, with the background and support he¡¯s got, it¡¯s impossible for this girl to beat him,¡± Luo Yang said. Fang Lang was quiet. The odds of Ni Wen winning were rather small, but... He was probably the only one in Changan who knew about the transformation in Ni Wen. Core mutations, bloodline awakening... Ni Wen might surprise them all with her performance. ... Inside the ring, the paper fan in Ximen Xianxian¡¯s hand remained folded. When the bell rang, Ximen Xianxian bowed at Ni Wen with a smile. ¡°Girl, why don¡¯t you consider surrendering for this battle. I don¡¯t want to see you hurt, nor do I want to hurt you.¡± Ni Wen¡¯s green robe hung loose on her thin frame¡ªthe color had faded after so many washes, but it was still neat and proper. She looked at him with a focused and serious expression. She retrieved a cheap staff made out of dried wood from her sleeve. A powerful spell master like Li Yuanzhen did not need a staff when he cast a spell or rune. Ni Wen still relied on the staff. Ximen Xianxian toned down his arrogance after seeing Ni Wen¡¯s sincerity. In fact, both of them were not that different¡ªthey were normal civilians who were naturally gifted. However, Ni Wen did not have a sponsor like Ximen Xianxian. Ximen Xianxian was able to achieve his status with the eldest prince¡¯s support. This battle was a match between geniuses from peasantry stock. Ximen Xianxian held the paper fan in his hand and tilted it toward the sky. Ni Wen started to make a move, exuding waves of spiritual sense. She motioned her staff and dipped it gently in front of her. The waves of spiritual sense started constructing walls made of spiritual energy. They were likeyers afteryers of pce walls defending her. The formation was extremely fast yet orderly. This was a prime example of how a spell master casts a spell. After that, Ni Wen used her spiritual sense and started drawing in the empty space with the tip of her staff. She moved fluidly in a perfect rhythm and constructed a rune. She cast the rune forward and it split into four brilliant runes. ¡°Wind, Rain, Thunder, Fire.¡± These are the four basic runes. The four runes were like dazzling flowers blossoming above the ring. Ximen Xianxian grinned. He stood out from the crowd in his white billowing robe. He walked toward her slowly. ¡°Let me recite you a poem as I send you down the ring. Who cares if I stand alone in the autumn winds, with withered leaves struggling in the bleak autumn¡¯s day...¡± Ximen Xianxian recited as he walked. Suddenly, white spiritual energy formed around him like a white python wrapping around his body. Ni Wen clenched her jaws and aimed the runes at him. Wind des, rain needles, thunder arc, ming rocks... These were basic runes but together, their effects and power were not to be underestimated. It was a technique that could inflict damage without consuming too much energy. However, Ni Wen¡¯s cultivation was still far from powerful. A first-ss spell master could only cause average damage with these runes. Ximen Xianxian continued walking, his sleeves swaying in the air. The white python around him kept destroying the runes cast by Ni Wen. He was still reciting the poem enthusiastically. The colorful clouds started moving in the sky¡ª his righteous energy seemed to have inspired an auspiciousndscape. ¡°What a wild girl she is.¡± Suddenly, Ximen Xianxian closed in on Ni Wen. He raised his paper fan and knocked gently. Ni wen¡¯s spirit energy walls vanished in an instant. Ximen Xianxian¡¯s fan slithered like a snake. ¡°Smack!¡± He gently tapped on Ni Wen¡¯s staff and the staff exploded instantly. Ni Wen¡¯s face went pale from the pain of the spiritual sense bacsh. ¡°Lady, surrender,¡± Ximen Xianxian said after he finished reciting the poem. Ni Wen endured the stabbing pain in her head and tried to cast another rune, but Ximen Xianxian tapped her between the eyebrows with his fan and sent her flying across the ring. Ni Wen stood up and gathered her spiritual sense. Ximen Xianxian flew toward her and attacked with his fan. Ni Wen¡¯s spiritual sense dispersed immediately, escaping from her mouth and nose. Her pale face turned even more sickly. ¡°Give up. It¡¯s not my preference to hit a woman.,¡± Ximen Xianxian shook his head and sighed in regret as he gently hurled his paper fan once more. The righteous energy shot up into the sky. Ni Wen¡¯s body was tossed upwards, the rune that she tried so hard to cast shattered again. The surrounding was silent. It was an unbnced match. The difference between the two candidates was just toorge. Ximen Xianxin was obviously much more powerful than Ni Wen, why did she refuse to surrender? No one understood why a civilian student like her was so determined to go on even though she was at her limits. Her achievements had already brought so much glory to her family. ... In the preparation area, Liu Bubai clenched his fists as he watched Ni Wen being attacked again and again. He seethed. ¡°I really want to hit him but I know that I can¡¯t beat him.¡± ¡°Lang¡¯zi!¡± Fang Lang just nodded without saying anything. Fang Lang let out a sigh when he saw blood flowing down Ni Wen¡¯s mouth and nose. The scene of the mother-daughter pair under the sunset shed in his mind. Perhaps Ni Wen wanted to prove something. ... Boom! Ximen Xianxian flung the paper fan in his hand and Ni Wen was sent flying in the air once more. The power of a spell master would be significantly weakened if their enemy got too close. Ximen Xianxian stopped reciting the poem and frowned. ¡°May I ask you why won¡¯t you surrender?¡± ¡°I don¡¯t want to lose.¡± ¡°Sometimes it¡¯s not up to us. Persistence... can be meaningless sometimes.¡± ¡°I don¡¯t want to lose.¡± ¡°You need an opportunity to change your fate. Unfortunately, you don¡¯t have it.¡± ¡°I don¡¯t want to lose.¡± Ni Wen answered stubbornly whenever Ximen Xianxian asked a question. Ximen Xianxian was baffled by the girl¡¯s determination. He was lost in his memories for a moment¡ªthe sight reminded him of his past as a beggar. He desperately wanted to end the battle. He shook the paper fan in his hand and created a tornado in the battle ring. Ni Wen was swept into the air by the tornado, then mmed onto the floor. Her blood sttered onto the floor. Blood sloshed everywhere, yet the girl remained unbending but tragic. The girl kept getting back on her feet, trying to form a rune with her trembling hands. Although she was afraid, she would never surrender. She had her reason¡ªshe wanted to give her mother hope. Every attempt she made ended with her being flung around by Ximen Xianxian. ¡°Surrender!¡± Ximen Xianxian gripped his paper fan with aplicated expression. He called out to the girl who was barely able to stand. However, Ni Wen did not utter a word. She gathered her spiritual sense and continued to draw the rune despite nearing exhaustion. Was she going down this time? No! A glint of gold shed beneath Ni Wen¡¯s eyes. Then, it grew into a stream of gold that fused with her drained spiritual sense. Buzz... A faint glow shone along Ni Wen¡¯s body and she started casting runes at an extreme speed. Four runes of wind, rain, thunder and fire were thrown at Ximen Xianxian at once. Everybody gasped in shock at this sudden twist! Although the golden aura was faint, it exuded a familiar royal pressure. When the runes were almost approaching Ximen Xianxian, he tried to dispel them with his paper fan. The fan exploded into pieces the moment it touched the rune. Ximen Xianxian spat out a breath of stale air as he stared at the stubborn girl with respect. The righteous energy he had been suppressing for all these years burst out from him like a broken dam. He gave his all as a sign of respect for his opponent. He raised his hand, stepped forward with his right foot and bent his left knee. Then, he extended both his arms outwards, one palm pushing forward and the other in reverse. Moving Kunlun Hands! All of a sudden, the clouds turned into a brightly colored tornado that came crashing to the ground. Blood stters could be seen. The sky darkened instantly. An earth-shattering sound started to build up but it was soon suppressed by a wisp of willpower from the Taiji Pce. The storm loomed above the ring for a long time before it dispersed. Ximen Xianxian was breathing heavily, slightly astounded by what he had just witnessed. This girl... had bloodline abilities? It was pin-drop silence around them. The atmosphere before the Taiji Pce was tense. The first prince stood up from his seat. He tried to remain calm but his eyes sparkled. ¡°Royal bloodline? It¡¯s faint... could it be a lost child from a vassal?¡± The first prince turned back to look to the deep end of Taiji Pce. Abandoning royal blood among themoners was against the Tang Code! Suddenly, a solemn voice erupted from the pce. ¡°Investigate!¡± The first prince lowered his head and bowed. ¡°Yes, Your Majesty.¡± Then, the Taiji Pce quieted down again. The sand and dust slowly faded from the ring. Ximen Xianxian looked at the figure standing in front of him with a confused and lost expression. ¡®Why... How are you still standing?¡¯ He had spent all the righteous energy collected over the years. ¡°Aren¡¯t you surrendering?¡± Ximen Xianxian asked hoarsely. This time, there was no reply from the girl. Ximen Xianxian was stunned, his robe swayed in the wind as he watched the blurry figure in the dust storm. ¡°The winner of this round, Ximen Xianxian,¡± the court eunuch drifted into the ring and announced calmly. Below the ring, Liu Bubai, Fang Lang and Jiang Linglong rushed to Ni Wen¡¯s side. The girl¡¯s worn-out green robe was covered in dirt and blood. There was not a single drop of blood on her face and the sh of gold was gone. She stayed in the position of maintaining the rune, motionless as if she had lost her consciousness. The only thing keeping her from copsing to the ground was her unbending willpower. Fang Lang, Lui Bubai and Jiang Linglong were speechless. Chapter 92 - The Grand Championship Battle

Chapter 92: The Grand Championship Battle

Trantor: EndlessFantasy Trantion Editor: EndlessFantasy Trantion Ni Wen was carried out of the ring under the setting sun. Ximen Xianxian regained his senses. In hisplicated expression, there was a hint of admiration. Perseverance was easier said than done. What did the girl experience to have such determination? He had no clue but she definitely earned his respect. Although Ni Wen triggered her bloodline abilities near the end of the battle, she was still far from his level. Despite that, Ximen Xianxian chose to release his entire righteous energy reserve to fight her as a sign of respect. Ximen Xianxian had initially expected to tap into his reserve when he was up against Wei Sheng, Fang Lang or Jiang Linglong. He dusted his crumpled robe and lifted his head to look at the setting sun. He was inspired by the beautiful view and wanted to recite a poem but the mood was lost when he noticed Fang Lang staring at him. The imperial physician who was on standby for the final section of the Imperial Examination rushed over. He gave Ni Wen a pill before ordering the others to carry her down the ring. ¡°The pill will heal her wounds, but she has exhausted her spiritual sense. She might not be able to join the uing battles,¡± Jiang Linglong said softly. Fang Lang nodded. Ni Wen had given her best. It was impressive that she was able to reach this stage. She gave it her best shot. Fang Lang, Liu Bubai and Jiang Linglong left the battle ring. The first round of the Royal Battle wasplete. After the first round, half of the candidates¡¯ nametes were covered in cracks, the other half were pristine. Those with pristine nametes would enter the second round. After a short break, the nametes were redrawn. The chance of having two strong opponents fight each other was significantly increased in the second round. Excitement buzzed through the crowd. Everyone was eager to witness more amazing battles. Two perfect nametes collided¡ªJiang Linglong and Lu Ze. Lu Ze¡¯s expression turned dark. However, he did not panic. After all, he was mentally prepared to face Jiang Linglong and the others in the Royal Battle. The battle was over very soon. Although Lu Ze practiced the Drunken Sword Style from Lu Taixuan, he was no match for Jiang Linglong¡¯s de. Lu Ze epted his fate readily. He walked down the ring with a smile as he drank the wine from the gourd canteen. At least this match was much more satisfying than the one he had with Liu Bubai. The next few battles were equally as interesting. Wei Sheng was paired up with Luo Yang. As the top student in Nanyuan Academy, Luo Yang still had a tough time battling Wei Sheng. In the end, he almost lost the lower half of his body to Wei Sheng¡¯s de and understandably lost the match. Fortunately, there were imperial physicians on standby right outside the ring. Otherwise, Luo Yang would need a couple of days¡¯ worth of cultivation to heal his wounds even with the help of pills. Fang Lang was due next. His opponent for this round was an average candidate, ranked forty-seventh on the honor roll. He was one of the not-so-favored candidates in the second round. He was an eighth-grade spell master who won the first round by sheer luck and willpower after a tenacious battle. The opponent was extremely disappointed to learn that he matched with Fang Lang. The oue of the battle was as expected. Before Fang Lang took out his flight sword, the opponent immediately surrendered. How could he fight Fang Lang? Did he wish to experience the same thing Li Yuanzhen went through? Being tossed around in the air? It was best he took a step back and retained his dignity. He was already content with his achievement¡ªentering the second round as an eighth-grade spell master. After all, he was not aiming for the grand champion title. Fang Lang bowed with a smile before stepping down from the battle ring. The crowd was quite disappointed when Fang Lang¡¯s second battle failed to live up to their expectations. Ximen Xianxian entered the ring after Fang Lang. He quickly ended his opponent as if he waspletely unaffected by the previous battle. When all the students with the pristine nametes were done with their battles, the candidates who lost the first round were up next. Some of the nametes shattered into pieces and the candidate¡¯s ranking was recorded in the final section of the Imperial Examination. The first to have their namete shattered would be ranked as the 80th and so on. Li Yuanzhen performed exceptionally well in his second battle. He ended the match with urate and precise moves. With a neutral expression, he eliminated every opponent he faced. However, it was pointless as he had lost the qualification topete for the grand champion title. Liu Bubai also entered the ring. He was very lucky to have an opponent who sustained severe injuries from the previous battle. The opponent was so wounded he was barely able to use a third of his power. The boy lost to Liu Bubai. Liu Bubai was 50th on the ranking. Due to the severity of Ni Wen¡¯s injuries, she was ranked at 79th ce. The duo was quite pleased with the final oue. Wen Ting was grinning from ear to ear. Headmaster Cui was also smiling gleefully in the crowd. Luojiang Academy would rise in fame. For the next intake, students from the neighboring cities would be fighting for a slot to study in Luojiang Academy. Furthermore, Fang Lang¡¯s final rank would call attention from the entire Tang Dynasty. Students from all over the world would wish to study at Luojiang Academy! In conclusion, Luojiang Academy would be receiving a significant boost in cultivation resources. ... The final section of the Imperial Examination carried on. The moon rose to the middle of the sky and hid behind the rain clouds. The radiant moonlight seeped through the clouds and lighted the za beyond the Vermillion Bird Gate. The autumn winds bellowed angrily. The jade white beacon towers along the imperial pathway were lit for the night. Two rows of mes burned brightly and the za was lit up. The stubborn moon tore through the clouds and showered silver rays onto the green-tiled ring. Jiang Linglong stood elegantly with the White Frost de in her hand. The atmosphere was quiet as the crowd kept their voice to a minimum. The spectators were tired after a whole day of matches but they were eager for the uing battle. Standing across from Jiang Linglong was Wei Sheng with his crew-cut hair. He carried a ck sword. He scratched the back of his head with a sheepish smile. ¡°Who knew we¡¯d meet so early. I thought I¡¯ll be fighting Fang Lang first,¡± Wei Sheng said. Jiang Linglong remained silent as she stared at Wei Sheng calmly with her sparkling eyes. Her veil hid the remaining features of her face. ¡°Since I¡¯ve already fought Fang Lang before, I guess it¡¯s apt that I was matched with you. Let¡¯s do this.¡± Wei Sheng¡¯s honest grin was rather contagious. Jiang Linglong nodded slightly. Her cold demeanor reminded others of an iceberg that had been frozen for thousands of years. She said calmly, ¡°After you.¡± Bang! Wei Sheng¡¯s vital energy exploded instantly, his hair standing on its ends. He unleashed all his power without any reservation against Jiang Linglong. His bloodline abilities were activated, conjuring a shadow in the ring. He pulled out the ck sword with such force it was as if he was slicing through giant ocean waves. Everyone gasped at the ongoing battle in the ring. This match was as interesting as the one between Fang Lang and Li Yuanzhen! It could also be coined as the battle of the grand champion. In the preparation area, Fang Lang paid full attention to the battle. Both Wei Sheng and Old Jiang were very strong. The probability of either one winning was 50-50. The shing des reflected in his eyes. The green tiles of the battle ring cracked due to the de energy and vital energy. Their battle spirits were strong enough to generate a whirlwind of rain clouds above. Finally, the match came to an end. The clothes on Wei Sheng¡¯s upper body were torn apart. His ck sword stood in the middle of the ring riddled with holes and puddles. He sat cross-legged and gasped for air. His body was covered in de wounds. ¡°I¡¯ve lost,¡± Wei Sheng said as he scratched the back of his head. Jiang Linglong still had her veil on but a corner of the fabric had been sliced off. The diaphanous material floated onto the ground. She nodded lightly. ¡°Thank you.¡± nk! Their nametes collide¡ªJiang Linglong¡¯s namete made cracks in Wei Sheng¡¯s. When they exited the ring, the workers immediately went to repair and rece the green tiles. The candidates for the uing matches dwindled. Everyone knew which pair was next without waiting for the draw. The only ones with perfect nametes left were Fang Lang and Ximen Xianxian. When the remaining two nametes collided in mid-air, the court eunuch announced their names as usual. ¡°Next battle, Ximen Xianxian from Changan Academy against Fang Lang from Luojiang Academy.¡± The winner of this battle would proceed topete with Jiang Linglong for the grand champion title, the loser would battle with Wei Sheng for third ce. The attention this battle gained was no less than the battle between Wei Sheng and Jiang Linglong. Even Lu Taixuan¡ªwho had been dozing off¡ªsobered up and nced at the ring. ... The autumn moon was hidden behind the moving clouds. The sky above the ring was a few shades darker. A cold wind stirred up the dust from the ground. Fang Lang and Ximen Xianxian bowed to each other from opposite ends of the ring. Ximen Xianxian looked very serious. Even though he invited Fang Lang to the entertainment house for a good time, he still treated him as a respectable opponent in the battle ring. He wanted to win conclusively so as to not disappoint the first prince. He had never underestimated Fang Lang. Although Fang Lang only had a sixth-grade sword master¡¯s skill level, he had achieved second ss in martial arts and spell mastery. It was very rare for cultivators to major in all three disciplines. The cultivation of a spell master and martial arts master could help Fang Lang offset his shorings as a sword master. Ximen Xianxian should be treating Fang Lang as a ninth-grade sword master. The boy might be even more difficult to deal with¡ªa sword master would only know how to use sword techniques, but Fang Lang... had more than just swords. Fang Lang was also known for his extraordinary moves in battles! Dang! The sound of the gong indicated the battle had begun. Fang Lang narrowed his eyes. He did not move immediately as he was still checking the System¡¯s information. ¡®Ding! Updatepleted for binding partner, Ni Wen.¡¯ ... Binding Partner: Ni Wen Age: 15 Cultivation: Second-Grade Spell Master (Second-ss Spell Mastery) Core: 80 (Gold) Cultivation Speed: 15 low-grade spirit crystals/every 2 hours Bloodline Ability: Spirit Eyes ... Fang Lang took a deep breath when he saw the updated details of Ni Wen. After Ni Wen underwent a bloodline awakening, her core had transformed from yellow to gold! However, Wen Ting mentioned before that a core mutation originating from a bloodline awakening was a normal process. What shocked Fang Lang the most was the category of bloodline ability. He mentally searched for the information for Spirit Eyes. ¡®Spirit Eyes: Special bloodline ability of the Tang Dynasty royals. Due to the lowposition of royal blood, only two passive abilities of the Spirit Eyes can be activated. Firstly, Spirit Stacking can be used to increase the power of spells; Secondly, Spirit Burst can amplify the total amount of spiritual sense by ten-folds within 15 minutes. ¡®Ding! Friendly reminder: Activating bloodline abilities will drain arge amount of energy. Use in moderation.¡¯ Fang Lang gasped. Incredible! Little Wen had royal blood in her? Who was the guy that abandoned Ni Wen and her mother? Fang Lang frowned slightly. If the man was a royal descendent, it wouldplicate the situation. How would Ni Wen react if the man showed up to reconcile with her? Fang Lang shook his head to stop the thoughts. At least, he knew the bloodline awakening was beneficial to Ni Wen. ¡®Ding! Mission activated: A Dream Come True. ¡®Defeating Ximen Xianxian was Ni Wen¡¯s obsession before she lost her battle. Defeat Ximen Xianxian and make him surrender willingly to fulfill Ni Wen¡¯s wish. You will be rewarded with Ximen Xianxian¡¯s righteous energy (Note: the amount of righteous energy depends on Ximen Xianxian¡¯s willingness).¡¯ Hmm? Another side mission? Defeat Ximen Xianxian to obtain his righteous energy? Fang Lang smacked his lips and thought, ¡®I¡¯m liking this System.¡¯ Ximen Xianxian was just a vessel to store righteous energy over the years¡ªthe fruit was ripe for Fang Lang¡¯s picking. Mission epted! ... Suddenly, Fang Lang widened his eyes. His eyes were sparkling. In the distance, Ximen Xianxian shuddered as if he was being eyed by a hungry wolf. His expression darkened. He pushed a palm forward and the other palm backward to form the Moving Kunlun Hands. A surge of energy rose and transformed into a white dragon that surrounded him, lighting up the night sky. Ximen Xianxian treated Fang Lang as a formidable opponent and used his entire reserve of righteous energy on his first move. ¡°After you, Brother Lang.¡± There was a thunderstorm looming above them. An immense pressure filled the atmosphere, crushing everyone¡¯s chest. Fang Lang did not draw his sword. Instead, he took a step forward¡ªhis body shot out instantly like an arrow, his green sleeves billowing in the air. Then, he jumped and the air currents followed his movements. Suddenly, the red space ring on his finger shed and the Meteor Flight Sword appeared. Fang Lang drove it high up into the clouds. Ximen Xianxian¡¯s eyes flickered. What was Fang Lang doing? Fang Lang switched into the Quadruple Binding Mode. He raised his hand. Shing. A frost bow appeared. Spell: Frost Bow (Spell Mastery Specialty). The energy around Fang Lang was amplified after switching to Quadruple Binding Mode. His body was drawing the spiritual energy in the atmosphere. Fang Lang then charged at Ximen Xianxian on his Meteor Flight Sword. Ximen Xianxian frowned and raised his hand upwards. The white stream of energy roared at Fang Lang and halted his movements. The closest distance Fang Lang could get to Ximen Xianxian was 30 meters away. ¡°Spirit Eyes!¡± Fang Lang said softly. The next moment, a golden ray shed across his pupils. Spirit Stacking! Spirit Burst! Instantly, Fang Lang felt the spiritual sense of his third-grade spell mastery was magnified by ten-folds! A crystal arrow was forming above the frost bow as Fang Lang infused it with streams of spiritual energy. Whoosh! Fang Lang released his hand and the frost bow shot out a silver ray that ripped through the dark sky, aimed directly at Ximen Xianxian. What a peculiar feeling! Ximen Xianxian narrowed his eyes. Even the first prince who sat before the Taiji Pce was stunned by the weird sensation... The eldest prince turned to look toward the Taiji Pce as if he was seeking instructions. There was no reaction from deep within the courts of the Taiji Pce. The first prince let out a long sigh and wondered if he was mistaken. Inside the ring, Ximen Xianxian lifted his hand and pushed downwards. A tornado rose from the ground and struck the crystal arrow, shattering it into pieces. At the same time, Ximen Xianxian started reciting a poem out of habit. ¡°Fallen leaves twirled into blue-green waters, ripples grew into raging waters...¡± However, before he could finish the first sentence, Fang Lang focused his eyes and interrupted him. ¡°Monkeys wailed sadly in the howling winds, birds circled above the white river banks. Falling leaves rustled in the wind as endless tides course through the river!¡± ... Fang Lang recited the entire poem in one breath. Ximen Xianxian was interrupted halfway through the poem. He was struck by the literacy conception of Fang Lang¡¯s poem. His head was filled with the imagery in Fang Lang¡¯s poem. Fang Lang used this narrow window of opportunity to close in by six meters with his flight sword. He raised the frost bow again while standing on the flight sword. He shot arrow after arrow to cripple the swirling energy around Ximen Xianxian. Ximen Xianxian regained his senses and quickly lifted his hands to form another hurricane. He clenched his jaws and started reciting once more, ¡°Life brings more suffering than joy...¡± A poem about life? Fang Lang raised his eyebrow and interjected. ¡°Live life to the fullest, never leave an empty wine ss under the moon! We¡¯re born with a purpose, not made in vain. A thousand gold coins spent, more will turn up again.¡± Ximen Xianxian was left speechless. He thought about it and almost vomited blood. Finish it, for goodness sake! F*ck! This poem was iplete! Bang! The righteous energy around him shook violently. Fang Lang closed in by another 10 meters. He shot another arrow with Spirit Stacking and destroyed the tornado. Ximen Xianxian quickly formed another whirl of energy to stop the arrow! Ximen Xianxian¡¯s face turned pale. He refused to give up and recited another poem with his jaws clenched tightly, ¡°I thrive in the boundless Heaven and Earth...¡± A poem about Heaven and Earth? Bring it on! Fang Lang stood on the flight sword and aimed his bow at Ximen Xianxian as he recited loudly, ¡°The righteous spirit that pervades Heaven and Earth manifests in various forms. Rivers and mountains onnd, sun and stars in the sky!¡± Ximen Xianxian felt as though he was struck by lightning when he heard Fang Lang¡¯s words! This... this poem! His righteous energy went wild as the turbulent sea! Fang Lang swerved on his flight sword and darted forward by another 10 meters. He was only 3 meters away from Ximen Xianxian. The entire za was eerily silent. In the ring, the white dragon charged towards the sky, stirring up a storm with a hurricane of righteous energy. Thebat battle had turned into a battle of poems! Whenever Ximen Xianxian opened his mouth to recite a poem, Fang Lang immediately interrupted him. Fang Lang used three poems to stun the great schr of Changan and left him speechless! Fang Lang leaped down from his flight sword andnded just inches away from Ximen Xianxian. With a wave of his sleeve, he posed with his middle finger on his thumb like the smiling Buddha who picked a flower. He held his hand against the forehead of Ximen Xianxian. ¡°Do not fret about being alone, your name has reached every corner of this world.¡± Fang Lang finished the poem with a warm smile. Ximen Xianxian looked utterly lost, trying to digest Fang Lang¡¯s poetry. Then, his gaze fell on Fang Lang. ¡®Is he... is he a monster?¡¯ Boom! The Finger flick Energy Wave exploded. Ximen Xianxian¡¯s head snapped backward, blood sprayed into the air. His entire body was sent flying through the ring like a shot arrow. Ximen Xianxian had lost. The storm clouds dispersed, allowing the moonlight to shine through. Fang Lang stood upright in the ring and looked at Jiang Linglong in the preparation area. He was smiling warmly under the moonlight. He looked just like the boy whom she first saw in the Jade Pavilion. ¡®Old Jiang, you¡¯re up next.¡¯ Chapter 93 - The Grand Champion!

Chapter 93: The Grand Champion!

Trantor: EndlessFantasy Trantion Editor: EndlessFantasy Trantion The pce roof was lined with colorful ceramic tiles. Auspicious beast statues perched atop the four ck cornices, head raised at the vast gxy. The weather was colder as the empire was swept into autumn. Voluminous dark clouds gathered in the night sky as if the first snow ofte autumn was brewing within. The clouds looked so heavy that they threatened to weigh down on Earth, suffocating the people. In the green-tiled ring at the center of the White Jade Square, there was a tiny figure in a green robe. The figure was minuscule inparison to the enormous pce. Fang Lang held the Obsidian Sword, a warm smile on his face. His green robes fluttered, eliciting the sounds of a g in the high winds. The entire White Jade Square was silent. The same silence extended to the crowd on both sides of the imperial pathway beyond the Vermillion Bird Gate. The crowd stood gaping, stunned by what they had just witnessed. The gamblers tightened their grip on the betting slip in their hand which was soaked in cold sweat. The dread was obvious on their faces. The moat surrounding Changan City would wee many new bodies by dawn. Ximen Xianxian who was one of the potential candidates to be the grand champion was defeated by Fang Lang¡ªthe dark horse who slipped past everybody¡¯s radar. Fang Lang was thebat and theory champion but no one thought he would stand a chance with his weak cultivation. It would hinder his performance during the final battle. Most people initially thought Fang Lang would be eliminated in the first round. Instead, he managed to defeat his opponents in the most ostentatious and unpredictable manner. He earned a spot in the final round¡ªthe deciding battle for the grand champion title! With Ximen Xianxian defeated, the battle for the grand champion title would be between Fang Lang and Jiang Linglong. Some spectators were mentally prepared for Ximen Xianxian to lose against Fang Lang. After all, Fang Lang had destroyed the most popr candidate, Li Yuanzhen. However, they were still astounded by the lengths he went to in the battle with Ximen Xianxian. Flight sword, frost bow and poetry! The art of poetry was Ximen Xianxian¡¯s strongest suit. He was well-known in Changan for his reputation in the entertainment house. There was even a saying that went, ¡®A poem a day keeps the courtesans at bay.¡¯ Yet, he had lost to Fang Lang in a battle of poems! This was why the people were shocked. In front of the Taiji Pce, the first prince frowned with disappointment in his eyes. On the other end, Lu Taixuanughed as he rubbed his palms together. ¡°This battle is worth losing sleep for. A duel between two geniuses with great poetry skills in Changan, what a feast! ¡®Live life to the fullest, never leave an empty wine ss under the moon.¡¯ Amazing! This, in particr, perfectly describes our passion for wine!¡± Grand Chancellor Lu Taixuan burst out inughter. Usually, he would control himself within the pce grounds and not indulge in drinking. However... This beautiful passage would be meaningless without alcohol. He uncorked his canteen with a pop and started gulping! While he was drinking, heughed and recited, ¡°Ceaseless mellow autumns passed, I¡¯m a rolling stone; ailing, at my life¡¯s end, I climb this tower alone... ¡°Interesting, very interesting. ¡®Do not fret about being alone, your name has reached every corner of this world...¡¯ After tonight, who wouldn¡¯t know about Fang Lang!¡± Li Puyi nced briefly toward Lu Taixuan, emotionless. ¡®This old rag, he¡¯s using hispliments as an excuse to drink.¡¯ ¡°Ximen Xianxian shouldn¡¯t be defeated so easily with the amount of righteous energy he gathered over the years, but Fang Lang¡¯s poems are truly out of this world... ¡®The righteous spirit that pervades Heaven and Earth manifests in various forms¡¯ had the strongest impact on Ximen Xianxian. It seemed like an absurd battle, but it was a mental exchange of Ruism. Ximen Xianxian didn¡¯t lose because his cultivation was weaker, he lost in the art of poetry,¡± Li Puyi said calmly. The other officials nodded their heads. Most of them were still immersed in the poems Fang Lang recited which rendered Ximen Xianxian speechless. The first prince chuckled. His eyes glistened. ¡°Xianxian still lost, looks like he wasn¡¯t ready to be a champion. The battle for the grand champion title will be the highlight of this Imperial Examination,¡± the first prince stated. The officials quietened down and nodded. ... Ximen Xianxianid on the cold hard floor of the White Jade Square, staring nkly at theyers of dark clouds looming above him. Fang Lang¡¯s powerful words kept ringing in his head like thunder. The imperial physicians rushed to his side to assess his wounds. He did not have any serious injuries, it was his heart that hurt badly. Fang Lang had defeated him in his own area of expertise¡ªthis left a great impact on him. Ximen Xianxian stood up shakily and wiped the blood off his forehead. ¡®The righteous spirit that pervades Heaven and Earth manifests in various forms.¡¯ He was astounded by these words. His eyes sparkled and grew brighter. He put his hands together and gestured at Fang Lang who was still in the ring. Even though Fang Lang did not see him, Ximen Xianxian started to feel enlightened. Fang Lang¡¯s three poems broke through his righteous energy and his state of mind. He was enlightened by the three poems. ¡°Brother Lang, I¡¯m aware of my shorings. Let¡¯s have a long conversation after the final battle. I hope you¡¯ll grant my wish and finish the poems you started,¡± Ximen Xianxian said with a smile. Then, he turned around without hesitation and strode off. His figure was entuated by his billowing robe in the wind. Ximen Xianxian epted his defeat willingly. The only regret was that he could not fulfill the orders of the eldest prince to win the grand championship. He had been harboring the righteous energy for years but he still lost. It was disappointing. ... Jiang Linglong watched Fang Lang quietly from afar. He stood erect under the moonlight as his green robe billowed in the air. Her gorgeous eyes sparkled faintly. Manager Yu was in the crowd beside the imperial pathway. She stared at the ring. She was still overwhelmed after seeing Fang Lang¡¯s disy of power. His first visit to the Jade Pavilion felt like yesterday¡ªthe young boy had asked for the name of the mysteriousdy. Now, he was standing here as her equal. The universe worked in mysterious ways. Who would ever think that the boy could grow at such an astonishing rate! The court eunuch stood before thest two nametes. He waved his hand and the nametes in the air collided against each other. ¡°The final Royal Battle, the battle for the grand champion title.¡± Immediately after the announcement, cheers and screams filled the White Jade Square. Themotion from the crowd tore through the dark clouds! Jiang Linglong stood up from the preparation area. Her white dress made her stand out from the crowd. She was holding the White Frost de. Her face remained veiled while loose locks fell smoothly around her shoulders. She slowly walked up to the ring, starry-eyed. She had been looking forward to this battle. ¡°Let me see how strong you¡¯ve be.¡± The cherry lips under her veil curved slightly. Fang Lang and Jiang Linglong stood on opposite sides of the green-tiled battle ring. It was as though the entire world fell into utter silence. The moonlight shone through the thick clouds. The beam acted as a natural spotlight for the battle ring. In the corner of the White Jade Square, Princess Pei Shi pointed excitedly at the ring and told Pei Liao, ¡°They¡¯re about to fight! Ling¡¯er and Little Fang are fighting! Little Fang¡¯s poems were amazing. Do you think Ling¡¯er will identally stab Little Fang to death? Ling¡¯er takes after her father, they never hold back in a fight.¡± Pei Liao remained expressionless, refusing to entertain his talkative sister. However, his nonchnt demeanor held for less than three seconds. His face twisted in annoyance when Princess Pei Shi began pinching his ear. ¡°Why aren¡¯t you speaking!¡± Pei Liao wanted to cry inside. If possible, he would not want her as his sister. ... Thete autumn weather was chilling to the bone. The cold winds howled through the ancient city of Changan. After a few showers of autumn rain, the temperature that night dropped to an extreme low. The crowd on the White Jade Square were rubbing their hands together even though they had on thick coats. The weather made their breaths visible. The crisp sound of the gong resonated loudly. The highly anticipated battle for the grand champion title was unfolding. Countless tip-toed and craned their necks to get a clearer look. Hundreds of officials before the Taiji Pce had their eyes glued to the match. In the ring, Fang Lang wore the sword box on his back. He was smiling warmly and his smile grew wider when he crossed eyes with Old Jiang. Tonight would be the night he milked Old Jiang dry. Their battle would be a meaningful exchange. Fang Lang was very pleased. ¡°If you¡¯re going to use those tricks as you did with Li Yuanzhen and Ximen Xianxian, you should just surrender. I¡¯ll destroy you.¡± Jiang Linglong had a brilliant smile as she spoke. Her eyes sparkled like gxies. Fang Lang grinned and raised his hand to reach for the hilt of the Obsidian Sword. He slowly pulled it out and pointed the ink-ck tip at the green tiles. ¡°Fang Lang of Luojiang Academy.¡± Jiang Linglong shivered. ¡°Jiang Linglong of the Imperial Academy.¡± ¡°Please begin.¡± ... Bzzzt! The vibrations of the de exploded above the ring, stirring up tiny energy waves that were not visible to the naked eye. Fang Lang stepped forward with the Obsidian Sword, Spirit Step! His spiritual energy and de energy started rising the moment he took the first step. There was no need to y tricks with Old Jiang. He would not waste the hard-earned opportunity to fight Jiang Linglong. It would be a battle of swords! Suddenly, there were dozens of green shadows appearing in the ring. Fang Lang had the cultivation of a sixth-grade sword master. With the de energy in his body, his movements were so swift it made him look like a specter. He reached Jiang Linglong¡¯s side in one breath. However, Fang Lang lowered his body and stabbed the Obsidian Sword onto the floor. The sword pierced through the green tiles as if it was slicing bean curd. Then, all of a sudden, he withdrew the sword! A surge of de energy erupted from the tiles! Sword Draw Technique! The energy was like ck thunder tearing through the earth in a deafening roar! He swung the sword and sliced through the storm! Jiang Linglong focused her eyes, her senses heightened. She exhibited her ninth-grade sword master skills as her snowy white fingers pointed on the White Frost de sheath and a sudden surge of de energy burst out. It was like a spring breeze! The boy¡¯s sword hit against her mellow spring breeze. Ding! A crisp metallic sound was heard, sparks flew everywhere! Two strong forces collided. The Quadruple Binding Modebined with the strength of a third-grade martial arts master had put Fang Lang on par with Jiang Linglong¡¯s ninth-grade sword master¡¯s cultivation. Jing Linglong¡¯s body started to sway. de energy churned inside her energy center! Then, with a flick of her sword, she triggered the Four Seasons Form¡ªSpring Rain! Countless sword rays turned into showers of spring rain and covered Fang Lang¡¯s Obsidian Sword. Fang Lang could not shake them off his sword no matter how hard he tried. This was a powerful deflecting sword style! Fang Lang was able to grasp part of Old Jiang¡¯s Four Seasons Form back when he activated the Power Loan card. However, Fang Lang would never retain any trace of it in his sword style when he fought Old Jiang. He would be digging his own grave if he did. The Sword Draw Technique was very destructive and the Spring Rain was the best form to resolve it. Fang Lang remained calm and collected. He knew that it would be very difficult to beat Old Jiang, but he would not give up so easily. He was well-prepared. He lifted his left hand and gestured like a Buddha plucking a flower. Then, he pushed forward and let loose a Finger Flick Energy Wave. Boom! An explosion ripped through the quiet atmosphere. Jiang Linglong frowned slightly. Suddenly, the Obsidian Sword that had been pushing against the White Frost de retreated. Something reached for the space between Jiang Linglong¡¯s eyes! The White Frost de sliced through the energy wave, splitting it into halves. The energy wave was directed to the ground, damaging the green tiles to her sides. Fang Lang used this window of opportunity to release the Obsidian Sword. With the tip of the de embedded in the ground, he bent the sword into a wicked angle. Then, he released the stored potential and charged towards Jiang Linglong as the sword cried. This was Liu Bubai¡¯s signature move but Fang Lang had taken it to a whole new level! Jiang Linglong seemed to notice something and frowned. ¡°Show-off,¡± Jiang Linglong chided. Nheless, she hurled her sword forward and shot out a whirl of de energy. Instantly, the de beams charged forward like a rainstorm! Fang Lang was in a daze as if he was facing a torrential downpour. He had nowhere to hide! This was different from the Four Seasons Form she used in the Gathering of Swords. She had significantly improved the technique! If Li Yuanzhen was the top spell master in this cohort, Jiang Linglong would be the top sword master! Fang Lang narrowed his eyes. His body started spinning rapidly in the air. As he was spinning, the Blooming Lotus Sword darted out of the sword box and collided with Jiang Linglong¡¯s Summer Rain Style and ricocheted. Fang Lang wielded both swords and moved fluidly. His swift movements were imprable, surrounding him were streams of currents formed by de energy. Jiang Linglong kept pressuring him with her ninth-grade sword master¡¯s cultivation! The immense pressure was purely from her cultivation! Fang Lang swung both swords rapidly and knitted a dense web of des to shield himself. Ding! Ding! Ding! Fang Lang tried to use the Dual Sword technique but Jiang Linglong kept pushing him backward! Everyone was entranced by the brilliant exchange of swords between two geniuses! The two candidates flew from one end of the battle ring to the other as if they were dancing. One demonstrated power and strength while the other was graceful and elegant. The reflection of the des shone at every corner of the ring. The de energy resonated everywhere, the crisp tone of metal shing formed a melodious symphony. ... The crowd around them was exhrated. There were no murderous or vengeful intentions. The match was like listening to the rain on a serene day in a peaceful mood. ¡°What an ideal match,¡± Wen Ting muttered among the crowd as he hugged his sword. Suddenly, his eyes glistened as he recalled the days when he practiced sword fights with a woman under the peach blossom tree. Headmaster Cui stroked his beard and smiled warmly. These two kids... His cloudy eyes zed over as he went down memoryne. ¡®Time waits for no man, half of your life¡¯s gone before you even notice it.¡¯ Among the ten great sect leaders, Chao Xiaojian scoffed, ¡°Show-off.¡± Su Yunyu beside him chuckled. ¡°It¡¯s a visual feast.¡± ... ¡°Fang Lang, if this is what you¡¯ve got, you¡¯ll definitely lose,¡± Jiang Linglong said. There was a hint of mockery and satisfaction in her tone. She was slightly pleased to see Fang Lang struggle to perform his tricks. ¡°I¡¯ll go in full force then!¡± Fang Lang¡¯s double swords were like two intertwining snakes, stirring up a de of wind in the cold night. Then, he backed away and ripped through Jiang Linglong¡¯s Summer Rain Style! He stomped his foot on the ground and his body was instantly covered in blood armor that burned in the dark sky. Third-grade martial arts master! Fang Lang bellowed like a roaring thunder in the storm, his green robe pping fiercely in the winds. Fang Lang wielded both the Blooming Lotus Sword and the Obsidian Sword. With immense strength, he charged at Jiang Linglong, swords raised like two ferocious dragons. Jiang Linglong¡¯s expression turned serious. Her face behind the veil remained calm as the autumn waters. She thrust the White Frost de forward and twirled her body, her white dress bloomed in the dark night like a white rose. Ripples coursed through the autumn waters. Her de energy was like the neverending autumn rain. The Blooming Sword and Obsidian Sword hovered in mid-air as if they were stuck in a swamp. Fang Lang stopped andnded on his feet. His eyes turned blood red! Binding partner, Wei Sheng bloodline ability: Rampage! The shadows of Fang Lang¡¯s silhouette converged into one. His fists were charged with rampant vital energy as he punched the hilts of the hovering Blooming Lotus Sword and Obsidian Sword! With the enhancement of Rampage, the power of his attack was equivalent to a sixth-grade martial arts master! As his firsts struck the swords, they ripped apart Jiang Linglong¡¯s autumn waters! Panic shed across her eyes! What was that? It was simr to Wei Sheng¡¯s bloodline ability. As expected, Fang Lang still had tricks up his sleeve. Ding! Ding! Jiang Linglong twisted her body and instantly, the Blooming Lotus Sword and the Obsidian Sword were sent flying across the ring. Theynded on the ground, drilling two holes onto the tiles as the hilts continued vibrating. Fang Lang was inches away from where Jiang Linglongnded. Martial arts mastery, Splitting Punch! Being too close to a powerful martial arts master would always end terribly, even for a sword master. Jiang Linglong found herself in that exact situation. Although Fang Lang was just a third-grade martial arts master, she felt threatened by the power he wielded with Rampage. She harnessed an enormous surge of de energy from within her core and shed at him with her sword. Fang Lang used the Splitting Punch to defend against Jiang Linglong¡¯s sword with much difficulty. This was due to the difference in their cultivation grades. However, Fang Lang still had a smile on his face. It was far from over! A golden ray shed beneath his eyes, Spirit Eyes! Instant Casting Spell: Spirit Awl! Jiang Linglong felt a stabbing pain that caused her to lose focus for a split second. The timing of her attack was off! Fang Lang kept casting Spirit Awl. This was a spiritual sense attack at a near distance. However, Fang Lang was shocked to find it caused no damage to Jiang Linglong! A white beam shed in her eyes. ¡°Gaudy!¡± Jiang Linglong chided. She whirled her sword once more but this time it brought forth a snowstorm! A snowstorm that threatened to freeze the Earth. Four Seasons Form¡ªWinter Snow! Fang Lang was speechless. He failed to defeat her with both bloodline abilities! Nevertheless, he still had onest move. He raised both hands and crossed them together as if he was drawing a circle. Immense righteous energy started to exude from his body! Then, he pushed upwards and created a tornado from the ground right beside their legs! Jiang Linglong¡¯s expression changed. ¡®What are you?¡¯ Swords, martial arts, spells, Ruism... ¡®How does he know every discipline?¡¯ Boom! The Winter Snow form was obliterated. Everyone watched in astonishment as Jiang Linglong was pulled into the tornado and spun upwards into the sky. Ximen Xianxian gaped in shock. This triggered Jiang Linglong and she started changing forms in anger¡ªa terrifying sword intent spread from within her body! She had mastered the sword intent of the Four Seasons Form! Incredible! ¡°Four Seasons In One!¡± Jiang Linglong shouted anxiously with her jaws clenched. However, when her sword intent was just materializing, Fang Lang activated the sword intent seed inside his energy center. Jiang Linglong¡¯s sword intent immediately retreated. Fang Lang attacked with the Splitting Punch. With one hand, he immobilized Jiang Linglong¡¯s sword hand and used his other hand to flick her face. The energy wave exploded like a gust of strong wind! Jiang Linglong¡¯s veil was torn into pieces. A gorgeous face was revealed under the night sky. The heavy clouds above them could no longer hold their weights¡ªspecks of white snow gently fell onto the ground. Jiang Linglong, who was suppressed by Fang Lang¡¯s Splitting Punch, crashed through theyers of clouds. White dress and green robe in the falling snow. The righteous energy transformed into a white python that cushioned Jiang Linglong¡¯s fall. Fang Lang¡¯s eyes shimmered as he tore his gaze away from Jiang Linglong¡¯s exposed face. She was incredibly beautiful. He raised his hand and gently flicked the fair skin between her eyes. Jiang Linglong stared at him in a daze. Their clothes tangled together as they fell like petals covering the ground. Fang Lang stood up and brushed off the dust from his green robe. Then, he looked up and chuckled. ¡°Old Jiang, you¡¯ve lost.¡± Chapter 94 - Enter the Palace, Meet the Emperor!

Chapter 94: Enter the Pce, Meet the Emperor!

Trantor: EndlessFantasy Trantion Editor: EndlessFantasy Trantion The first snow in thete autumn arrived unexpectedly in the quiet night. Fluffy snow fell on the earth,nding on the cherry blossom buds that sat on the tips of the bare branches. The colored tiles on the pce roof were dusted with snow. Changan gave off a different poetic vibe. The White Jade Square thatid before the majestic Taiji Pce was silent. The night sky had a dark to light gradient, simr to the fading ck ink on rice paper as the brush continued its stroke. The boy in green raised his head to enjoy the first snowfall, a bright grin on his face. He had the entire world¡¯s eyes on him at that moment. Everyone was speechless. The final battle had ended without bloodshed. Instead, people feltforted and refreshed after watching the match. It was more like a dance than a fight. Especially when Fang Lang tore apart Jiang Linglong¡¯s veil, her extraordinary beauty dulled the stars. In front of the Taiji Pce, the first prince sat quietly. Li Puyi remained expressionless while Lu Taixuan chugged alcohol in audible gulps. The hundreds of officials around them were in awe, some rubbed their palms together as they yed back the great battle they just witnessed. Among the ten great sect leaders, some frowned, some were smiling with shining eyes. This year¡¯s battle for the grand champion title was slightly different from the past. The opponents were not at each other¡¯s throats, fighting for their lives. Instead, they danced a beautiful duet. It was uniquely interesting. Nheless, the grand champion of the Imperial Examination of the Tang Dynasty was determined after this match. Chao Xiaojian hugged his sword as he stood in the scattered snow. He stared at the dazed boy in the battle ring. Then, the man¡¯s features twisted. How did this kid... be the grand champion? Chao Xiaojian was expecting Fang Lang to fail in the Imperial Examination and crawl back to the Sword Guild. He had to fight for the boy! Chao Xiaojian was dejected when he thought about having to fight others for Fang Lang. He nced at Su Yunyu whose eyes were shining brilliantly. Then, he turned and saw other sect leaders who were eager topete. Chao Xiaojian fell into deep thought. Fang Lang was born to wield a sword. He would never let the boy fall to the other sects and let his sword talents go to waste. This kid was fated for the Sword Guild! The snowfall had lowered the temperature. Fang Lang reached out to help Jiang Linglong up. The delicate skin between her eyes was red from Fang Lang¡¯s gentle flick and looked like the sunset in the evening sky. He should stick with fighting! Why did he flick my forehead! Jiang Linglong was not too bothered by the loss. However, she felt the flick at the end was just too much. It seemed so out of ce, ruining the poetic setting they were in. Jiang Linglong was slightly annoyed but after a while, her anger was reced with amusement. Fang Lang was as mischievous as her mother at times. ¡°Congrattions,¡± Jiang Linglong reverted to her usual aloof demeanor and said calmly. Fang Lang won. The boy who looked up at her back in the Jade Pavilion had made a spectacr entrance before her and the whole world, slicing through the snowstorm with his sword. He was a nobody throughout the three academy years. With the grand champion title, he would be known by the world. Jiang Linglong did not hold back and was impressed by Fang Lang¡¯s entric moves. Swords mastery, martial arts mastery, spell mastery and Ruism... Fang Lang had incorporated all four disciplines. He seemed to possess the ability to replicate others¡¯ skills and techniques, acquire the gist of each discipline and integrate them. Jiang Linglong lost to him because of this. Perhaps it was due to the unique qualities of Fang Lang¡¯s rare purple core? The main reason Fang Lang won was that he managed to suppress her sword intent for the Four Seasons In One at the veryst moment. If he did not block this sword intent, Jiang Linglong couldplete the Four Seasons In One and she would have been indestructible. There must be a secret Fang Lang was hiding. He had demonstrated his outstanding abilities from the moment he withdrew the Blooming Lotus Sword. Therefore, Jiang Linglong epted her defeat after hisst move. However, she was slightly irritated that Fang Lang fought against her in the form of a martial arts master. It was just too crass. ¡°Likewise,¡± Fang Lang answered with augh. This match was just a battle for the grand champion title. Although Jiang Linglong had lost in this battle, her name would still be on the honor roll. Jiang Linglong¡¯s cherry lips curved slightly and her eyes turned into crescents. Fang Lang smiled warmly. After that, Fang Lang stowed away the Blooming Lotus Sword and the Obsidian Sword into the sword box and descended from the battle ring together with Jiang Linglong. ... Across the White Jade Square, a red-cloaked Princess Pei Shi rubbed her hands together, her lips pouting. Her eyes were slightly widened, bewildered by the battle between Fang Lang and Jiang Linglong. Thest tornado that grew from the ground swept them both up in the air. They fell back to the earth under a snowing sky. ¡°What a breath-taking scene,¡± Princess Pei Shi mumbled. A battle like this was so immersive. ¡°Little Fang won? Little Fang¡¯s the grand champion?¡± Beside her, Pei Liao had a swollen ear. He held his leather sheath and said nonchntly, ¡°You can say that Linglong lost but one could argue otherwise. She had a trump card. She might¡¯ve won if she used it but there was no need to. Linglong¡¯s pride wouldn¡¯t allow her to anyways.¡± Princess Pei Shi did not hear his exnation. Soon after, she turned around in shock and pinched Pei Liao¡¯s ear. ¡°My goodness! Ling¡¯er lost!¡± Pei Liao was speechless. ¡®I do not wish to speak with you, my silly second sister.¡¯ ... Although the battle for the grand champion title hade to an end, the final section of the Imperial Examination was still ongoing. Next was the battle for third ce. Wei Sheng was up against Ximen Xianxian. This battle was not for the title of the grand champion but the match-up was worth a view. Wei Sheng activated his bloodline ability and his body started expanding. His ck falchion sliced through the air and ripped through the snow, covering the ring with bits of snow. ¡°The righteous spirit that pervades Heaven and Earth manifests in various forms.¡± Ximen Xianxian chanted sincerely. He raised his hand and pushed downward. Three tornados stemmed from the ground and merged with the dark clouds looming over the city. Speckles of snow were swept into the tornado, increasing its strength. The tornados transformed into three white dragons andunched towards Wei Sheng. His body was pumped with vital energy. A thunderous noise erupted when the two candidates collided. Wei Sheng stepped on the snow and leaped, swinging his sword at the three dragons. Their battle was intense. Without Fang Lang¡¯s poetic hindrance, Ximen Xianxian¡¯s poetry chanting enabled him to cast spells coherently, releasing his true capabilities. Wei Sheng had none of that. Hence, he just waved his falchion and roared like a normal martial arts master. However, the final oue was beyond anyone¡¯s expectations. Wei Shend was covered in wounds. He left a trail of blood on the floor but managed to get close to Ximen Xianxian. Ximen Xianxian looked pale, his robes billowed in the air as he surrendered willingly. In contrast to Wei Sheng¡¯s bleeding body, Ximen Xianxian¡¯s pallor was characteristic of someone who had overindulged in his desires. This left Wei Sheng deeply unsatisfied with his victory. ¡®It¡¯s much better to fight against a martial arts master. I hate schrs!¡¯ The first three winners of the Imperial Examination were decided. Fang Lang was the grand champion, Jiang Linglong took second ce and Wei Sheng was the third. The other candidates¡¯ names were announced ording to their ranking but the public did not pay much attention to them. By the time all battles had ended, the sun was rising again. The white snow covered Changan City with a silver veil. Dang! The bell from deep within the pce rang. It marked the end of the triennial Imperial Examination. ... The high pce walls and thepiszuli roof tiles were covered in a thinyer of snow. Most of the golden leaves fell off the branches due to the added weight of the snow. In the pavilion under the falling snow, the third prince was seated upright as he listened to the trembling eunuch in blue speak about the oues of the final battle in the White Jade Square. ¡°Fang Lang defeated Ximen Xianxian and proceeded to beat Jiang Linglong... making him the winner of the final battle, the grand champion?¡± ¡°He¡¯s... the grand champion?¡± The third prince was not as furious as he expected himself to be when he received the news. He watched the surface of the snow-coveredke serenely. No one expected Fang Lang to win the grand championship. The third prince was baffled by the oue. However, he knew if Fang Lang had be the grand champion, there would be a storm approaching Changan. He turned around to look in the direction of the Martial Arts King Manor. His gaze surpassed the cornices, beyond thepiszuli tiles and reached the snowing sky. He saw a giant disheveled figure sitting cross-legged in a lonely courtyard. ¡°Will the Jiang family rise up again because of him?¡± His party had been oppressing Martial Arts King Jiang for such a long time. Would the Jiang family change their fate because of Fang Lang? The third prince forbade it! His gaze sharpened. ¡°Bring me a pen and paper, as well as the space messaging flight sword,¡± the third prince stood up and said. ¡°Yes, Your Highness.¡± The little eunuch under the pavilion let out a sigh of relief. He was d the third prince did not lose his temper upon hearing Fang Lang had won the grand champion title. He was relieved and proceeded to prepare the things the third prince ordered. The little eunuch left while the third prince walked toward the study. The writing paper was left open in the study. The third prince picked up the brush and started writing with a serious expression on his face. Then, he stopped. Swish! sh! Swoosh! The space energy formed a riff, the strong rune started spinning and warped the space, forming another rune several hundred miles away. In an explosion, a swarm of flight swords flew out from the rune at great speed and flew through several hundred miles to enter the space rune on the other end. They flew past mountains and rivers toward the boundaries of the Tang Dynasty. ... The light snow silenced the atmosphere. Below the White Jade Court, the candidates of the Imperial Examination stood in line as they waited patiently for the next arrangement. Snowkes fell on the candidates¡¯ shoulders. Snow melted on the tip of their noses and the ends of their hair. However, everybody stood quietly without moving. Fang Lang stood at the very front, he was slightly lost in a trance. He was checking the rewards from this mission. ¡®Ding! Congrattions, the battle with your binding partner, Jiang Linglong has triggered the passive ability. You have acquired Minor Forbidden Spell: Sword Thunder. ¡®Ding! Congrattions, you have ranked in the top three with your binding partner, Jiang Linglong. As a reward for the meaningful exchange in cultivation, you¡¯re awarded three Meditation Cards. ¡®Ding! Congrattions, you have ranked in the top three with your binding partner, Wei Sheng. As a reward for the meaningful exchange in cultivation, you¡¯ve acquired Alchemy (Alchemist Specialty). ¡®Ding! Congrattions on winning the grand champion title. Mission aplished, Ten Thousand de Scripture (Part One) acquired.¡¯ ... The notification chime of the System kept ringing in his head. The sound of rewards! Fang Lang felt rejuvenated. Out of all the notifications, two of them were from Jiang LInglong. He knew she would be the most beneficial. He was surprised to find Wei Sheng who won third ce also managed to trigger a handout. His other binding partners, Liu Bubai and Ni Wen, did not trigger any rewards as their ranks were lower. This round of rewards was incredible. Fang Lang briefly nced through them, his heart racing. He finally acquired a practice method from his rewards after aplishing the mission. Practice methods were very important in the Tang Dynasty. They were controlled by sects and the Imperial Court. An ordinary person did not have the right to practice the cultivation method. Without passing the Imperial Examination or entering a sect, they would never get their hands on any practice methods. Fang Lang continued to check the rewards. The atmosphere surrounding them was bing merrier. Officials and the sect leaders stood up and looked towards the Taiji Pce. The court eunuch wrote down the list of candidates by rank on the yellow paper before bringing it into the court. Shortly after, the court eunuch emerged. The old court eunuch nced at the candidates below the White Jade Court. He waved the horsetail whip and announced, ¡°Behold! The top three winners are to enter the court!¡± He announced in a thunderous voice that shook the snow. His voice rippled through every corner of the pce grounds, along the imperial pathway, past the Vermillion Bird Gate and all the way down the Vermillion Street. His voice echoed in all the houses of Changan, waking the city in the dawn of winter with the news of the top three candidates awaiting to meet the Emperor! The eldest prince stared from the White Jade Court. Hundreds of officials had their hands sped as they bowed before the court. The court eunuch gazed at Fang Lang, Jiang Linglong and Wei Sheng, a smile was on his wrinkled face. ¡°Please go ahead,¡± he said smilingly. The White Jade Court reflected the rays of the first snow. The entire world was quiet. Fang Lang looked at Jiang Linglong, where she nodded in return. Then, Fang Lang flicked his green robe and took a step forward with the scabbard on his back. They walked on the snow-covered White Jade Court, showered by fine snowkes in the wind. The breeze almost blew away the snow on the ivory staircase. Fang Lang took one step after another, his eyes filled with determination. Jiang Linglong and Wei Sheng followed behind him. The top three candidates of the Tang Dynasty¡¯s Imperial Examination were the greatest cultivators of this cohort! Finally, they stepped foot on the grand pce court that overlooked the entire Tang Dynasty. Chapter 95 - Gains for the Moment, Sins for Millennia

Chapter 95: Gains for the Moment, Sins for Millennia

Trantor: EndlessFantasy Trantion Editor: EndlessFantasy Trantion Entering the pce and meeting the Emperor! This was the honor of being the top three candidates in the Imperial Examination. Only those who fought against one genius after another in the final section and braved through fierce currents could have the right to ascend the royal stairway to meet the Emperor! This was the ultimate glory one could ever achieve! In the Tang Dynasty, one would be incredibly honored to meet the mysterious, almighty Emperor of the Tang Dynasty! Even though Fang Lang was still holding a grudge against the third prince, he was overwhelmed by the magnificent royal aura the moment he set foot on the White Jade Court. The presence of someone who built the Tang Dynasty, thend of prosperity and splendor, the hub of the world¡¯s cultivation left Fang Lang in awe! Even his presence alone filled Fang Lang with deep respect. Fang Lang was exuberant on the inside. He had been cultivating quietly for three whole years since his rebirth. He had dreamt of bing the grand champion, but he never once thought he would be able to realize his dream and meet the greatest person in the Tang Dynasty. Only a handful of people had seen the true appearance of the Emperor. Even during court discussions, the officials could only see a great shadow. Even if they tried to look up, they could only see an enormous silhouette with a blurry face¡ªan endless mysterious abyss. Thud! Thud! Immense energy erupted when they stepped onto the White Jade Court like the brilliance of auspicious clouds prating the dark sky. It was warm and refreshing. The wounds on their body and the fatigue and emptiness after activating their bloodline abilities disappeared at once. It even washed away all the negative emotions! ¡°The White Jade Court has an enhancement rune. Only the Emperor¡¯s allowed to walk on it, the others will take the stairs beside it,¡± the old eunuch said smilingly. There was no need to be stone-faced in front of the top three winners of the Imperial Examination. After all, they might be the next great leaders of the empire. ¡°Take your time, this is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Perhaps, you may receive unexpected opportunities,¡± the old eunuch said in a profound manner. ¡°Thank you, Gao Gongong.¡± Jiang Linglong bowed. Old Man Gao? The most valued person around the Emperor, the infamous head eunuch! Fang Lang thought for a moment before bowing slightly. ¡°Thank you, Old Man Gao.¡± The whole world was quiet as snow fell from the gray sky. However, golden rays seemed to shine through the slits between the clouds, showering them with auspicious brilliance as they traversed the White Jade Court. It illuminated the trio who were walking up the stairs toward the magnificent pce that oversaw the entire world. The dragon sculptures on the White Jade Court looked like they woulde to live and charge into the sky. Suddenly, droplets of water fell from the sky¡ªSpirit Rain! The Spirit Rain was the product of the condensation of spiritual energy. Every drop was more precious than spirit crystals. The rainfall put a veil over the Taiji Pce. Fang Lang focused and immediately switched into binding partner mode. He started absorbing the Spirit Rain like a ferocious dragon. Jiang Linglong and Wei Sheng beside him were relishing themselves with spiritual energy. This was the reward for the top three winners! Fang Lang would definitely not let this bonus go to waste. Why throw away the benevolence of His Majesty? ¡®Activate 5X Amplification Card!¡¯ Fang Lang thought. ¡®Ding! 5X Amplification Card activated. Cultivation inspiration and cultivation rate increased to 300% of binding partner, Ni Wen¡¯s equivalent. All the best in cultivating!¡¯ Fang Lang stomped his feed and used Ni Wen as his main binding partner. The absorption rate of the spiritual energy amplified significantly. In the Quadruple Binding Mode, he gained four times Little Wen¡¯s absorption rate! Instantly, Fang Lang transformed into a ck hole and sucked in half of the Spirit Rain! Jiang Linglong and Wei Sheng gaped at Fang Lang. They were much slower than Fang Lang despite their gold cores! ¡°The purple core is so... terrifying!¡± Jiang Linglong muttered under her breath. The core mutation that happened once in a thousand years was truly splendid. She could neverpare with it. Core mutation would only be triggered during bloodline awakening, but it was not her time yet. Below the White Jade Court, Ximen Xianxian, Luo Yang and the others watched in envy. This reward was a great gift, the main highlight of the Imperial Examination. The imperial court of the Tang Dynasty was much more generous than Luojiang Academy! Li Yuanzhen was fixated on the three figures on the White Jade Court, especially Fang Lang in his green robes. He clenched his fists. He should be the one standing there! Even though he managed to be in the top ten, his defeat in the first battle had cost him the chance topete for the grand champion title. ... Myriads of spiritual energy moved along Fang Lang¡¯s skin and entered his energy center! After activating the 5X Amplification Card, Fang Lang felt as if he was no longer climbing the stairs, he was flying in the air! He was ted! Jiang Linglong and Wei Sheng ignored Fang Lang¡¯s abnormality and focused entirely on absorbing the Spirit Rain. Gao Gongong beside them stood smilingly¡ªhe wore his silver locks loose. ¡®This is just the beginning.¡¯ ¡°The Spirit Rain is not the only reward for the top three candidates of this exam.¡± Old Man Gao waved his horsetail whisk andughed mysteriously. He enjoyed watching these proud geniuses gaped in astonishment. Their expressions whenever they set foot on the White Jade Court seemed so... adorable. Fang Lang continued walking. A rune appeared in the middle of the White Jade Court, radiating auspicious rays. Fang Lang felt an inspiration rising from the bottom of his heart! His head was swarmed by images of cultivation. Sword fighting in the heavy snow, Spirit Steps on running waters, Dual Sword Technique in the bamboo forests, holding the frost bow in a chilly storm, practicing Splitting Punch on a wooden stake... The images shed past his mind. Fang Lang was instantly actualizing these sword techniques, spells and martial art forms. Fang Lang¡¯s eyes lit up. He used up the remaining Physical Buff Cards to train at that moment! The immense pain in his body made each step extra difficult but the effect was superb. The spiritual energy absorption was just the beginning. With the help of the rune, Fang Lang could feel the spiritual energy inside him transforming into de energy, mana and vital energy. With the influence of three energy transformations, Fang Lang¡¯s cultivation improved immensely! Boom! Boom! Boom! By the time they reached the end of the White Jade Court, Fang Lang¡¯s energy was at its peak. He advanced three grades in sword mastery and attained ninth-grade sword master. He also skipped two grades in martial arts mastery and became a fifth-grade martial arts master. His spell mastery also advanced by two grades into a fifth-grade spell master. Fang Lang opened his eyes and a brilliant light shone from his eyes and lit up the night sky. He let out a breath that had been stuck in his chest. Fang Lang¡¯s respect deepened. He stared at the majestic Taiji Pce in awe. Behind Fang Lang, Jiang Linglong¡¯s dress was billowing in the air. A sharp wave appeared and shredded the air. The de energy had turned into a wave! Third-ss sword mastery, sword wave realm! Old Jiang had achieved realization before the Taiji Pce and advanced into the third ss! On the other side, Wei Sheng¡¯s vital energy roared thunderously as if all the blood in his body was bent into a roaring tidal current. Third-ss martial arts master, blood-bending realm! This was the true reward for the top three winners, leveling up the geniuses. Before the Taiji Pce, countless pairs of eyes were on the trio, some with admiration and respect, some with scrutiny... Nevertheless, no one said a word for fear they would disrupt the process of realization and advancement. These were their hard-earned rewards, gifted by the Emperor. No one had the right to take it away from them. After a long while, the atmosphere in front of the Taiji Pce calmed down gradually. Old Man Gao stood in front of the open wooden carved doors. As he studied them, the smile faded and he put on a serious expression. ¡°His Majesty, the Emperor has announced the top three winners who were selected from three thousand students from each of the three thousand academies in the Tang Dynasty. They have outshone everyone after three years of hard work. Congrattions!¡± Old Man Gao shouted. His voice echoed throughout the White Jade Square. ... The overbearing energy from the Taiji Pce seemed to freeze the atmosphere. Fang Lang entered the pce and walked in at an excruciatingly slow pace. There was a pair of eyes that transcended time and space. He could feel the weight of the gaze like mountains on his back, making him lower his head. Fang Lang experienced a deja vu, this was the same gaze that overlooked him in the Spirit Pagoda. Fang Lang sensed a human figure seated on the magnificent throne, overlooking the world, including him. He took a step forward, two steps, three steps... He stopped at his hundredth step. The royal members and hundreds of officials entered the court with their heads lowered. Auspicious rays were shining on the red carpet of the Taiji Pce. The reflection made the floor seem as though they were brilliant clouds. Fang Lang felt like he was walking on clouds. ¡°Your Majesty!¡± Hundreds of officials in the Taiji Pce greeted the Emperor collectively, the thunderous voice almost blew the roof away. Then, every one of them kneeled down. Fang Lang, Jiang Linglong and Wei Sheng stood helplessly in the middle of the court, panicking internally. High above the throne, the pressure from the great figure slowly receded. Old Man Gao walked past the nine four-legged cauldrons that separated the hundreds of officials and the throne and reached the side of the Emperor. He bowed before the Emperor and turned around to face the officials. He waved his horsetail whisk and opened the royal decree and announced loudly, ¡°The top three candidates of the Imperial Examination do not need to kneel.¡± This was the given privilege to all winners, as well as a token of appreciation from the Emperor. The officials were not surprised by the announcement. Fang Lang and the other two stood silently in the center of the court. Old Man Gao continued with the public announcement. ¡°Third ce, Wei Sheng, martial arts major, rewarded with three drops of Bone Lubricant, a ck Dragon Armor, and a Demon ying Sword. Hopefully, you will not forget your original intentions and attain the peak of martial arts mastery.¡± Wei Sheng bowed with his hands cupped. ¡°Thank you, Your Majesty.¡± Old Man Gao continued. ¡°Second ce, Jiang Linglong from the house of warriors. Stayed true to yourself after years of sword cultivation, rewarded with three de Energy umtion Herb, a Silver Dragon Armor, a Phoenix Feather Sword. Keep up with your good work and bring honor to the Jiang Family.¡± Jiang Linglong bent slightly. ¡°Thank you, Your Majesty.¡± Finally, Old Man Gao¡¯s gaze fell on Fang Lang. However, he did not speak a word. Instead, he kept the decree and stood aside quietly. Fang Lang was stunned. What happened? He was ready to receive his rewards. Why did the eunuch stop? Soon, there was a thunderous voice resonating through each corner of the Taiji Pce, filling the room with immense pressure. ¡°Grand champion Fang Lang, the third prince, Li Liancheng, has insulted you at the Quiling Demon Portal. Are you still holding a grudge?¡± The calm voice traveled from the throne high above. Goosebumps raised when they heard this question. The first prince narrowed his eyes. Lu Taixuan sobered up and folded his hands with a beguiling expression. Li Puyi squeezed his palm tightly without showing any expressions. The Taiji Pce was dead silent, even the breathing sounds were kept to a minimum. Fang Lang shuddered. He was not expecting this question from the Emperor. He thought for a moment, unable to decipher the Emperor¡¯s thoughts. At this moment, Fang Lang had a deeper understanding of the saying, ¡®To be the Emperor¡¯spanion was tantamount to apanying a tiger¡¯ as the mind of a ruler was unpredictable. What was the Emperor¡¯s intention behind this question? Silence prolonged. Jiang Linglong who stood behind Fang Lang frowned slightly and nced at him worriedly. After a while, Fang Lang let out a breath and made a deep bow. ¡°A prince should receive the same punishment as amoner who vited thew. Therefore, I do.¡± There was no need to hide his ill feelings¡ªthey were a normal reaction. The noble third prince came to bully a candidate, why? A policy essay? He would be a hypocrite if he said otherwise. Why should he hide his emotions? Furthermore, Fang Lang knew he would not be able to hide anything from the Emperor of the Tang Dynasty. If the Emperor med him for it, he would rather leave this empire. The crowd around them gasped in shock, all the officials had their eyes on Fang Lang. A prince should receive the same punishment as amoner who vited thew... What a daring answer! Fang Lang¡¯s words impacted the stubborn principles of the imperial officials. Inside the Taiji Pce, there was an underlying current caused by the drumming of heartbeats. After a long pause, the Emperor changed into a gentler and unpredictable tone. ¡°You¡¯re against the individual border regiment policy that I¡¯m about to implement, to employ foreign generals.¡± He did not continue asking about the third prince. Instead, the Emperor asked the individual border regiment policy that the third prince¡¯s party had been advocating. Li Puyi widened his eyes instantly, showing rare emotions on his usual nonchnt face. Lu Taixuan smacked his mouth and thought a cup of wine would be perfect for the situation. The first prince¡¯s expression remained ambiguous. The Emperor¡¯s question still echoed throughout the court. After some thought, Fang Lang made a deep bow and answered, ¡°Yes.¡± ¡°Reason.¡± Fang Lang shuddered and broke into a cold sweat. The Emperor was demanding an exnation from him! The Emperor had waited for Fang Lang to receive the grand champion title before inquiring further on the issue. It was intentional. He began by bringing up the grudge between the third prince and Fang Lang. If Fang Lang showed any resentment towards the third prince, the Emperor would deem his opinions as bias. The Emperor wanted him to discuss the issue in public even though Fang Lang had already exined it in the theory exam. However, answering the questions before the imperial court was still very stressful for Fang Lang. Fang Lang was not well-versed in politics, but he had his own analysis. His essay in the theory exam had nothing to do with the third prince¡¯s influence. Therefore, Fang Lang raised his head and chest. He endured the daunting royal gaze from the majestic presence on the throne whose features remained unreadable. Fang Lang slowly reasoned without fear. In fact, his actions stemmed from ignorance of the unknown. He stated the pros and cons of the individual border regiment policy in an orderly manner. There would always be two sides to a coin. The Tang Dynasty was the greatest empire in the world, ruled by the most powerful man in the dynasty who conquered all the foreignnds around the nation. However, appointing foreign generals to guard the borders against the demon portals was a problem. Combined with the individual border regiment policy, the problem would grow over time like a tumbling snowball. The foreigners would willingly serve the Tang Dynasty when the nation was still at its peak. However, when the empire begins to show any signs of weakness, they would rebel. The foreigners would rush to grab a piece ofnd and plunge the empire into chaos. Fang Lang slowly dictated the events that unfolded in the Tang Dynasty of his previous lifetime. No one uttered a word in the Taiji Pce as he spoke¡ªhis words reverberated in the air. Finally, Fang Lang let out a breath and bowed. ¡°The individual border regiment policy should be strict on the foreigners. Using foreign generals to guard the borders may achieve peace temporarily, but Your Majesty, gains for the moment, sins for millennia.¡± Fang Lang risked his all and delivered those words. The three words, ¡®sins for millennia¡¯, echoed in the imperial court like a p of thunder that struck the officials! Li Puyi was furious, every inch of his body was shaking! Absurd! Absolutely ridiculous! The Tang Dynasty was in its prime. It was impossible to have what Fang Lang described happen in the presence of the Emperor! ¡°This man is spewing nonsense! Nonsense!¡± ... As Fang Lang was in the middle of the discussion, the snowing sky outside Changan City was ripped to pieces. One space rune after another appeared in the sky like blooming flowers. These were special portals used to teleport flight swords carrying memorials to the throne. The flight swords ferried memorials bound in blood. A blurry image started to form! There was a phantom forming on top of the flight sword, wearing a blood armor and a knife around its waist. There was a blonde-haired phantom with a red-tasseled spear on another flight sword. One had eyes like lightning, roaring waves of vital energy with a double ax on its back. The guards of Changan¡¯s gate shuddered in fear. The foreign generals from the borders used their Blood Essence to send memorials to Changan? The expression of the guards darkened. Did the third prince¡¯s flight sword trigger this? The grand champion¡¯s essay in the theory assessment had rustled many feathers. There was a storm brewing in Changan. The flight swords entered Changan. The show of power was evident as the phantoms flew along Vermillion Street and congregated outside the Vermillion Bird Gate. Dong! Dong! Dong! The phantoms of the foreign generals kneeled before the Vermillion Bird Gate. They raised the memorials in their hand. A thunderous voice erupted, ¡°We seek audience with the Emperor!¡± Chapter 96 - A Menacing Being Has Descended Upon This World

Chapter 96: A Menacing Being Has Descended Upon This World

Trantor: EndlessFantasy Trantion Editor: EndlessFantasy Trantion Light snow encapsted thend. Branches covered in snow hung quietly on the ck roof tiles of the pce walls. A small building stood within the courtyard, between the curved promenade and the winding river. As snow hovered in the air, the courtyard became a picturesque scene filled with poetic inspiration. The third prince, Li Liancheng, strolled quietly along the long promenade of the courtyard, enjoying the view of the year¡¯s first snow. He was azy man. He ambled bare-footed in nothing but the white robe that he had worn to sleep. Even as the end of autumn approached, his pajamas remained untied at the waist, exposing a major portion of his body to the cold weather. ¡°My unrestrained manner is from my father¡¯s behavior when he was younger. I watched my unbridled father rule over this empire since I was a child. Everything on thesends was in the palms of his hands.¡± Li Liancheng stood by the pond and gazed at the fish. He looked as if he was reminiscing about the past. He could not remember when hest saw his father. The once-unrivaled Emperor who garnered everyone¡¯s admiration had one day hidden behind the curtains and never shown his face since. It was as if he had vanished from this world, leaving only an empty husk for the people to worship. The man was unrivaled in strength and bravery. He spilled the royal blood of his sons and daughters to create the irondws that governed the entire Tang Dynasty¡ªthe Tang Code evoked the fear and respect of countless cultivators. Li Liancheng stood up. His exquisite silk pajamas fluttered in the breeze. The once dazzling and mighty man had chosen to hide away yet hisws continued to grind against the empire... Li Liancheng had made countless assumptions to exin the Emperor¡¯s actions, but in the end, he settled with two possibilities. First, the mighty man could have reached a level of power no ordinary man could fathom. Nothing in this world could shake him anymore. No matter what kind of threat loomed over the empire, he could annihte them in the blink of an eye. The second possibility was... perhaps the mighty man... ...was not so mighty anymore. ... In front of the Vermilion Bird Gate. Flight swords floated in the sky above with memorials attached to them. Wrapped within the memorials were Blood Essences which projected lifelike phantoms as if the people were there in person. They hade from the borders of the empire. The snow seemed to have grown thicker. The looming dark clouds above, which were heavy with snow, descended upon thends, threatening to crush the entire city! Citizens at White Jade Square felt their blood run cold, while the talented fighters quivered in fear. What was going on? ¡°We demand an audience with the Emperor!¡± A booming voice reverberated throughout the White Jade Square and seemingly lingered in the air. Perplexed, the sect leaders of many prominent sects turned. Suddenly, their gaze intensified. Chao Xiaojian held his de in his arms and furrowed his brows. His tone was serious. ¡°Asi Luoshan, Geshu Taixing, Song Xianzhi... ¡°They are all foreign generals from the frontiers at the borders and the demon portals. Why are they here?¡± They were all cultivators of the Tang Dynasty who were notable for their incredible power¡ªthe kind that even Chao Xiaojian had to take seriously. Su Yunyu, the sect leader of the Jade Pavilion, crossed her arms, her long and slender finger tapping against her elbow. ¡°They arrived with memorials and Blood Essence¡ªall those indicate an impeachment.¡± ¡°Who are they impeaching?¡± Chao Xiaojian¡¯s lips twitched. He turned to the hidden yet lofty Taiji Pce. ¡®It can¡¯t be, right? ¡®That brat... He just became the grand champion and he¡¯s already stirring up trouble?¡¯ Headmaster Cui and Wen Ting stood side by side. Wen Ting held his sword in his arms. His tone was stern yet full of confusion. ¡°Are they trying to dethrone the Emperor?¡± Headmaster Cui stroked his beard and shook his head. ¡°No. This is a test.¡± In a corner of White Jade Square. Princess Pei Shi, who had a red cloak draped over her shoulders, stared bewilderedly at the phantoms of the foreign generals kneeling in front of the Vermilion Bird Gate. ¡°What... What¡¯s happening?¡± Pei Liao held his leather longsword in his arms and replied coolly. ¡°Something big. ¡°But it¡¯s not a big problem.¡± Princess Pei Shi was annoyed. ¡®You might as well not say a word!¡¯ ... ¡°Your Majesty, your humble subject, Asi Luoshan, has stayed at Beijiang for twenty years, suppressing the foreigners of impure blood. I have massacred hundreds of thousands of demons in the demon portal to maintain peace in Beijiang for the sake of the empire. I have made significant contributions to the Tang Dynasty with sincere loyalty. The essay written by the grand champion, Fang Lang, has humiliated me by nder. Your Majesty, I beg you to take a stand on my behalf!¡± ¡°Your Majesty, your humble subject, Song Xianzhi, has protected the western regions for many bitter years. I have always seen myself as a citizen of this empire. I have worked hard but taken no credit. Hearing the grand champion¡¯s judgment fills me with rage and sorrow. Your Majesty, please serve justice for your humble subject!¡± ¡°Your Majesty, your humble subject, Geshu Taixing...¡± Their grandiose speeches¡ªpowerful and full of emotions¡ªsounded before the Vermilion Bird Gate. Everyone at the White Jade Square was dumbfounded. Their faces turned pale and they could not utter a word. Who could have thought the foreign generals would send memorials all the way there just to impeach the new champion, Fang Lang! It was all because of the policy essay Fang Lang wrote in the Imperial Examination. Within the Taiji Pce, there was pin-drop silence. Even Li Puyi, who had just been screaming, felt a lump in his throat. He was at a loss for words. His eyes widened and he panted heavily. The moment he heard the voicesing from the Vermilion Bird Gate, his eyes instinctively narrowed. ¡®It¡¯s rash... ¡®It¡¯s way too rash!¡¯ Suddenly, Li Puyi regained hisposure. He had initially wanted to criticize Fang Lang¡¯s argument, yet the moment his words reached his lips, he swallowed them back down again. In the end, he only spat out the word ¡®nonsense¡¯ before returning to his spot. He stood with his hands by his side, not uttering another word. Li Puyi understood well what the third prince was trying to achieve, but he was way too hasty. Fang Lang might have written a policy essay that shook the entire empire, but Li Puyi was confident he could repress it¡ªall he needed was time. Perhaps the third prince had started to lose his cool and be impulsive due to the many failures he had faced at the hands of Fang Lang. Perhaps the past few years had been too breezy for him and he decided to turn to unscrupulous methods when faced with consecutive failure. The third prince wanted to probe the Emperor that sat high up on his throne¡ªhe wanted to know if the Emperor was still a mighty man. From the corner of his eyes, Li Puyi subtly nced at the mighty figure sitting high up within the pce. That face... It was too blurry. To a point where Li Puyi seemed to have forgotten the Emperor¡¯s face. He sighed. The third prince was arrogant, overbearing yet easy to control. Nheless, he was prone to causing unnecessary drama like this. Li Puyi took a quick nce at the silent first prince who was standing with his hands by his side. The first prince had an indecipherable smile on his face. Fang Lang raised his brows slightly. ims of impeachment sounded from outside the pce just as he was done expounding his argument. That was not all. The Tang Dynasty ruled over a significant portion of thends. Thus, many nations of pure blood had surrendered to the empire and became subject nations. As a result, in thest 200 years, some foreigners had been enlisted as civil and military officials in the court; though their numbers were not many. At that moment, the foreign courtiers all left their post. They kneeled down and started wailingints one after the other. In addition to that, some of the imperial censors of native descent also yelled out their usations toward Fang Lang. A profound look appeared in Li Puyi¡¯s eyes. Those imperial censors... They were not the third prince¡¯s men. That was when Li Puyi knew, the third prince was not the only one trying to probe the Emperor. Fang Lang stood upright, surrounded by countless kneeling courtiers and some imperial censors yelling usations at him. Fang Lang was at a loss for words. Nheless, he remained unfazed. He did not lose any of his courage. The situation convinced Fang Lang the empire would, someday, be thrown into a state of disarray if they proceeded with the individual border regiment policy. Thus, with that in mind, Fang Lang faced all those kneeling foreign courtiers and imperial censors using him of impeachment. Fang Lang shed a cold smile. He stood with his back as straight as a pencil, like a stubborn tree, firmly rooted to the ground. Jiang Linglong¡¯s expression was as cold as an iceberg, yet she could not hide the concern in her eyes. The situation was extremely unfavorable for Fang Lang. Wei Sheng maintained a respectful stance. He never anticipated his audience with the Emperor as one of the top three winners of the Imperial Examination would turn into a political scene. When Wei Sheng thought about his teacher¡¯s reminder, he could not help but frown bitterly. ¡®Teacher... ¡®No matter how much Fang Lang gives, in this situation... I can¡¯t help him either.¡± In the court, Old Man Gao stood beside the mighty figure with an expressionless face. His white hair hung loose. A scornful look shed in his eyes when he heard the foreign generals¡¯ screams of impeachment at the Vermilion Bird Gate. In his heart, Old Man Gao knew what the foreign generals were trying to test from a long time ago. Perhaps Fang Lang was right to say the foreign generals had held power in the army for too long. They had inevitably developed a different mindset. The pce had kept mum for far too long. The ufortable silence made beads of perspiration form on many of their foreheads. Some imperial censors, who were kneeling on the floor, did not dare to move a muscle. Finally, the mighty figure that sat high above opened his mouth to speak. His voice was terrifyingly intimidating. His gaze seemed to have traveled through space and time to fall on Fang Lang. ¡°Fang Lang, is there fear in your heart? ¡°I can deny these ims of impeachment and grant you a chance to take back the argument you¡¯ve made.¡± He ignored the screams of usations outside the Vermilion Bird Gate. He ignored the courtiers kneeling in the court. The Emperor¡¯s tone was as calm as a stream. He unexpectedly continued to query the new champion, Fang Lang, about whether he would like to retract his statement. Innumerable foreign generals voiced out their usations and countless courtiers imed impeachment. Under such circumstances, what would be Fang Lang¡¯s reply? Everyone¡¯s gaze fell onto Fang Lang. Fang Lang knew he had identally fallen into a whirlwind ofplications. In truth, from the moment he wrote his policy essay during the Imperial Examination¡¯s theory exam, he knew he would be involuntarily thrown into such a mess. He was a helpless boat caught in a storm, forever living in fear of capsizing at any moment. At that moment, what choice did he have? Fang Lang stood in the middle of the court. He lifted his head up, staring straight at the Emperor. To everyone¡¯s surprise, he smiled and uttered in a casual tone, ¡°Between broken rocks, I strike my root deep. I bite into the mountain greens refusing to let go. From whichever direction the winds leap, I remain strong, despite being hit by many a blow1.¡± His voice echoed throughout the court, onto the White Jade Square and lingered around the Vermilion Bird Gate. ¡°Your Majesty, that is my answer.¡± In the court, everyone¡¯s eyes were fixed on the teen in a green robe. The words he spoke were elegant and powerful. Many staggered. Lu Taixuan stroked his beard and smiled. He took a step forward, cupped his hands in obeisance and bowed. ¡°Your Majesty, I think the grand champion¡¯s argument carries logic. Perhaps the individual border regiment policy and the decision to put generals in major positions should be... reviewed.¡± An uproar broke out in the court again. Many foreign courtiers could not resist speaking up. At the same time... The phantoms of the foreign generals kneeling outside the Vermilion Bird Gate all stood up with their fists cupped within their palms and condemned Fang Lang. ¡°The child, Fang Lang, has insulted our loyalty and painted us in a facious light! ¡°Your Majesty!¡± Asi Luoshan¡¯s booming voice sounded. Suddenly! A thunderous voice sounded from within the court. ¡°Enough!¡± For an instant, it was as if the entire world had gone silent. The eyes of Asi Luoshan¡¯s blood phantom glimmered. He stood upright, staring at the Taiji Pce where the skies seemed to be changing color. ... Deep within the Royal City. On the promenade leading to the concubines¡¯ chambers. The third prince held his head high and stared in the direction of the Taiji Pce. His eyes twinkled with anticipation! However, just momentster, his pupils constricted. He turned to the direction of the Martial Arts King¡¯s manor in Changan City. His eyes widened in anger¡ªthey looked like they were about to pop out. ¡°Jiang Wushen!¡± ... Just as everyone was waiting for the Emperor¡¯s reaction... All of a sudden! Changan City, the Martial Arts King¡¯s manor. ¡°Presumptuous!¡± A voice as deep as valleys sted out from the Martial Arts King¡¯s manor. Invisible waves of undting spiritual energy swept through Changan City, shaking the earth and mountains. The gate of the Martial Arts King¡¯s manor opened. A figure with disheveled hair stepped out of the manor. As he set foot on the limestone path of Changan City, the city streets quacked. It felt as if a menacing being had descended upon this world, as if they could see an ocean of blood and a mountain of corpses. The man took one long stride forward... ...and appeared on Vermilion Street. He took another stride forward and reached the Vermilion Bird Gate. Asi Luoshan widened his eyes. His blood phantom stared intensely at Martial Arts King Jiang, who had abruptly appeared out of nowhere. ¡°Jiang Wushen! ¡°What are you trying to hide... Are you trying to bury...¡± Asi Luoshan¡¯s blood phantom was bing incredibly unstable. The figure with disheveled hair that covered his face reached out his arm and squeezed his open palm into a fist. Smash! Asi Luoshan¡¯s blood phantom that stemmed from his Blood Essence was not weak, yet it waspletely crushed. The Blood Essence strapped onto the flight sword above was instantly turned into dark energy. The spiritual senses infused in it were instantly quashed. ¡°How dare you foreigners make a racket outside the Taiji Pce, right below the Emperor¡¯s feet. ¡°His Majesty may be able to tolerate this behavior, but I will not.¡± The Martial Arts King with disheveled hair dered calmly. Having said that, he headed toward the imperial court in the Taiji Pce. As he left, the Blood Essence of Song Xianzhi, Geshu Taixing and the other foreign generals shattered soundlessly. Right before their phantoms exploded, they all stared at Martial Arts King Jiang with profound yet cold eyes. Silence engulfed the White Jade Square. In a corner, Princess Pei Shi covered her mouth and continuously stomped her little feet. Her face hadpletely reddened with excitement. ¡°My husband! ¡°It¡¯s my husband! ¡°So cool!¡± She was almost leaping with excitement. On the other hand, Pei Liao remained expressionless. He rubbed his ear nonchntly. ¡®Tch, women.¡¯ ... The Martial Arts King arrived at the court with his disheveled hair. The moment he stepped over the elevated threshold of the doorway, everyone¡¯s baffled gaze fell onto him. The foreign courtiers quivered in fear. He proceeded to the center of the court. There was nothing but pin-drop silence in the court. Martial Arts King Jiang cupped his hands in obeisance toward the mighty figure that sat above. From the corner of his eyes, he nced at the boy in green andmented, ¡°Nice poem.¡± Then, he turned his head toward the Emperor and dered, ¡°Your Majesty, I support the grand champion¡¯s argument.¡± Jiang Linglong¡¯s eyes widened. Fang Lang nced at the burly figure beside him. At that moment, the only thing on his mind was how cool and straightforward the man beside him was. Chapter 97 - In One Day, I’ve Seen All of Changan’s Flowers That Make My Heart Sing

Chapter 97: In One Day, I¡¯ve Seen All of Changan¡¯s Flowers That Make My Heart Sing

1 Trantor: EndlessFantasy Trantion Editor: EndlessFantasy Trantion Everyone figured no one would back Fang Lang up. They thought even the Jiang family could not relieve him of the pressure he was under at that moment. It seemed everyone overlooked Martial Arts King Jiang who had been cooped up in his manor for the past ten years. The people had forgotten about Jiang Wushen, the King of Martial Arts who single-handedly ughtered five million foreigners of impure blood ten years ago. No one could have anticipated a mighty person like him would leave his manor for Fang Lang. It was as if a god had torn through the clouds and descended onto the human realm. Even after so many years, Jiang Wushen remained as fierce and untamed as before. He crushed the foreign general¡¯s blood phantom with one hand and strode from his manor to the imperial court in five steps. His appearance gave the courtiers such freight they struggled to utter a word. The foreign courtiers kneeling in the middle of the court were trembling in fear. As foreigners, they had seen first-hand the terrors of Martial Arts King Jiang. In the court of the Taiji Pce, everyone had different expressions on their faces. Lu Taixuan was grinning while Li Puyi had a dark expression on his face. Meanwhile, a regretful expression shed across the first prince¡¯s face but soon turned into a calm expression. He did not utter a word from beginning till the end, as if it was none of his business. It seemed like this probing would go up in smokes again. With Jiang Wushen in the mix, the foreigners¡¯ probe would be to no avail. The eldest prince wondered if the purpose of Jiang Wushen¡¯s appearance was merely a cover-up. There was also the possibility Jiang Wushen was sent by the Emperor to disrupt his ns. Within the Taiji Pce. Silence reigned. ¡°I think the grand champion¡¯s argument makes sense.¡± Jiang Wushen turned to the Emperor and said. Those were the only words he said, yet it sent the entire pce into shock. It was as if the howling imperial censors and wailing foreign courtiers were being choked; not a word could be heard from them. Everyone assumed the Emperor held some suspicions toward Martial Arts King Jiang. However, at that moment, it seemed like the rumor had no truth in it. There were also those who imed Martial Arts King Jiang was cooped up in his manor for many years due to the Lon Demon Portal incident. They theorized the Emperor secretly forbade him from leaving his manor. It seemed like that, too, was just a false rumor. Many of the kneeling courtiers were stealing nces of Fang Lang, who stood beside the disheveled Martial Arts King Jiang. It seemed from that day onwards, the grand champion would officially be regarded as a part of the Jiang family. The grand chancellor, Lu Taixaun, and Martial Arts King Jiang, both supported Fang Lang, and thus bestowed an unprecedented honor upon the champion. The pce was silent for a long while. Finally, the mighty figure who sat above and beyond the nine cauldrons began to speak. ¡°If that¡¯s the case, the individual border regiment policy and the decision to put foreigners in major positions... will be discussed at a further date. ¡°Whether opposing or supporting, write down your opinions in a folded booklet and hand it up.¡± The Emperor¡¯smand echoed throughout the pce. All the officials bowed down in response. ¡°First-tier grand champion, Fang Lang, has suffered through three years of bitter cultivating. Through the faith he upheld and his unrivaled talent in poetry, he sessfully became the grand champion of the Imperial Examination and will now be rewarded with: three stalks of de Energy umtion Herb, three drops of Bone Lubricant, three Underworld Spirit Pills, one Golden Dragon Armor and a Champion¡¯s de. I pray that you will not grow arrogant and impatient as you carry forth on the path of cultivation.¡± The Emperor¡¯s grand and dignified voice reverberated in the pce. His rewards were not presented to him by Old Man Gao but were personally bestowed upon him by the Emperor himself. Fang Lang was gifted with an extremely generous amount of rewards! He cupped his fist with his palm and bowed. ¡°Thank you, Your Majesty.¡± ¡°Jiang Wushen, stay,¡± the Emperormanded. Then, he dismissed the rest of the court. Thus, the eventful reward-bestowing ceremony came to an end. Only Martial Arts Master Jiang wasmanded to stay, letting the people¡¯s imagination run wild. ¡®What is Martial Arts Master Jiang and the Emperor going to talk about?¡± they wondered. They were sure that wherever they were discussing was something that would shake the entire empire. Nheless, no one could predict the details. Hundreds of courtiers stood and exited the pce. That day¡¯s event was not settled yet. The foreign generals took off into the city. The magnitude of the day¡¯s incident would be determined by how the Emperor decided to treat it. The first prince, Li Tianlin, came out from the Taiji Pce. He sped up in his steps to catch up to the right administrator, Li Puyi. He walked side-by-side with the right administrator, who appeared to have aged a lot. The two looked as if they were discussing something important. Li Taixuan took out his gourd canteen and gobbled down some wine. He had been resisting the urge for the whole morning. Fang Lang, Jiang Linglong and Wei Sheng also exited the Taiji Pce. The moment they left the pce and saw the light snow fluttering down gently from the sky¡ªthey felt as if thest time it snowed was a lifetime ago. The pressure within the pce was intense¡ªsuffocating even. The Emperor¡¯s gaze from high above seemed to have prated through space and time, filling the three with fear and respect. Even so, Jiang Linglong exited the pce in a joyous mood. Perhaps Jiang Wushen¡¯s appearance had cheered her up quite a bit. Courtiers passed by around them, heading down the stairs like a river flowing between rocks. Those who still remained in the White Jade Square were promptly urged down the white jade stairs by the pce guards. The crowd headed out the Vermilion Bird Gate and dispersed onto Vermilion Street after a satisfying day of spectating the final section of the Imperial Examination. They had witnessed the strength and power of the top students from the Tang Dynasty¡¯s 3,000 academies. Everyone went off to do their own thing¡ªthose who needed to catch up with sleep went home to rest and those who were supposed to be at the moat went to the moat. Members of the Ministry of Rites contacted the students who had just finished the final section of the Imperial Examination. The exam might be over but the moment of glory for the high-achievers was just about to begin. ... The sky above Changan was enveloped by clouds. A strong wind blew as if a storm was approaching. Even so, members of the Ministry of Rites still busied themselves with preparations for the examinees¡¯ sect-picking event. Only the top 200 students in the final section had the right to pick their sects. The remaining students would be picked by the sects depending on their ranking and scores. Of course, before the sect-picking event, there was another important matter to attend to¡ªthe final results of the Imperial Examination was to be announced to the 3,000 cities. Moreover, the three toppers of the honor roll had a parade to attend in Changan. An official from the Ministry of Rites came out from the royal pce and invited Fang Lang and the others to the ministry¡¯s pce. Fang Lang, Jiang Linglong and Wei Sheng put on the robes that the official had prepared for them. The ministry had also prepared three magnificent steeds for them. Fang Lang donned the grand champion¡¯s silk robe with his sword box slung on his back. With a golden whip in hand, he hopped onto a mighty steed with a velvet coat. Light snow fell from the sky, adding touches of joy to thend below. Having finally escaped from the Taiji Pce¡¯s haze and impeachment of the generals from powerful foreign nations, Fang Lang let out a cheerful smile. Behind him, Jiang Linglong, too, had mounted her steed. The top trio of the Imperial Examination departed on their horses. Others in the top ten rank followed beside, and so did some officials from the ministry who held the Imperial Examination ranking list in their hands. Escorts cleared the path in front of them, holding goldennterns and banging a golden gong as they marched forward. They exited through the Vermilion Bird Gate and set foot onto Vermilion Street. In an instant, the slumbering city of Changan was awakened. The frigidity of the year¡¯s first snow was thawed by the citizens¡¯ warm enthusiasm. Citizens rushed out from the buildings on both sides of the street. They stood on their toes, widening their eyes to get a good look at that year¡¯s grand champion. The hotels and taverns along the streets had long been packed with customers. Beautiful teenage girls stuck their heads out the open window in anticipation of the glorious grand champion parading on the streets below. The once empty street of Changan was suddenly overflowing with traffic. On that day. Light snow encapsted Changan. On that day, the street of Changan flooded with people that had only one purpose¡ªgetting a look at the champion. Fang Lang rode on his steed with an amiable smile on his face. His eyes could not help but twinkle with joy. Even so, he was a little lost in his thoughts. He wondered how Old Fang would react when he found out about his achievement. Ximen Xianxian, Li Yuanzhen and the others were not worthy of steeds. They could only follow along on foot. It was also a glorious moment for them, yet their exuberance was nothingpared to the boy riding at the very front. A sea of eyes was locked onto him. Li Yuanzhen had a dark expression on his face. He felt as if none of the cheers and apuse were meant for him. In his opinion, not getting into the top three made him an utter failure. There was nothing for him to be happy about. On the other hand, Ximen Xianxian was grinning without a care in the world. From time to time, he turned to the youngdies in the crowd and waved, making them squeal until they were out of breath. ¡°Brother Lang, would you like topose a poem for this asion?¡± Ximen Xianxian smiled and walked up to Fang Lang, who sat high above the ground on his steed with his sword box slung on his back. ¡°Brother Lang, you¡¯ll embarrass me if you don¡¯t do it.¡± Hearing that, Fang Lang held the reins in one hand and raised the other. A lone snowke fell onto his palm and melted away from the heat of his hand. Fang Lang stared into the horizon, gazing at the crowd that had gathered on both sides of the street. He did not recite it aloud. Instead, he whispered in a tone only he could hear. ¡°My high horse proudly gallops in the gentle breeze of spring... ¡°In one day, I¡¯ve seen all of Changan¡¯s flowers that make my heart sing.¡±1 Cheers and shouts sounded from the crowd. The citizens¡¯ enthusiasm was enough to set the air on fire. Many talented fighters red with envy. Meanwhile, freshmen who were entering the academy that year raised their fists with determination, hoping one day, they could see all of Changan¡¯s flowers too. ... Luojiang City. It did not snow in Luojiang. Instead, autumn rain continued to fall. The rain was not heavy, yet it stretched across the vast skies and shrouded the entire Luojiang City in thick mist. In the Fang family¡¯s inn. Fang Beihe sat next to the window on the third floor in the same position at the same spot. He gazed out the window, ncing through the rain and mist at the direction of Changan. He had not received news about the Imperial Examination¡¯s final results due to the vast distance between the cities. The final section of the Imperial Examination was an event followed closely by everyone in the empire. Countless academies were established throughout the empire, making cultivation a practice that could be essed by all. Although it was true the Imperial Examination was merely the first step in one¡¯s cultivation journey, it did not change the fact that standing out among all the students from the 3,000 academies was an astounding feat deserving of glory. Their true cultivation journey was about to begin in the great sects. The Fang family¡¯s inn was packed that day. Every table was upied to its maximum capacity. The patrons drank and chattered away merrily. They were all there because they knew that the innkeeper¡¯s son had taken part in the final section of Imperial Examination and that his results would be released in the pce court a thousand miles away on that very day. They were all curious about his son¡¯s ranking. ording to Boss Fang, his son was quite skillful. Perhaps the third tier? Maybe top ten in the second tier? Or maybe even... third ce in the first tier? Nheless, no one dared to predict Fang Lang would be the grand champion. Everyone waited in anticipation. The honor roll for the final section would soon be published in all the academies. The names of the geniuses in the top three rank would spread across the 3,000 academies throughout the entire empire. Its purpose was to motivate all the cultivators in the empire to work hard for the Imperial Examination and perhaps one day, they could obtain the same honor. On the table in front of Fang Beihe was a pile of peanuts and a bottle of wine. Yang Zhengyi and his father sat across Old Fang, drinking wine. Yang Zhengyi flipped the fringe that hung in front of his forehead anxiously. In fact, he was even more nervous than Old Fang. He feared his childhood friend, who was clearly weaker than him, would suddenly rise to be the grand champion of the Imperial Examination. One cup after another, Yang Zhengyi drank his wine. Suddenly... Old Fang froze in the middle of pouring wine. Almost everyone in the inn turned their heads and looked out the window. Far out in the horizon, they could see a golden beam of light tearing through the sky. A cultivator arrived on a flight sword with the honor roll in hand. Dressed in golden armor, the man looked as if he just came out of a fantasy world. The noise in the inn instantly died down. The appearance of the man in golden armor indicated that someone from Luojiang Academy had made it! Everyone held their breaths. In Luojiang Academy, students in green robes looked up in anticipation for the final section¡¯s results. Mentors came out of the Mentors¡¯ Office and stood in a respectful stand. The cultivator in golden armor stood upright on his flight sword. He sent out waves of spiritual energy that slowly unrolled the honor roll. The names on it were no longer blurry. The honor roll was revealed for all to see. ¡°Here lies the honor roll of the Imperial Examination¡¯s final section! ¡°Congrattions to Fang Lang of Luojiang Academy on achieving first-tier grand champion! ¡°Congrattions to the grand champion!¡± As the honor roll unrolled, Fang Lang¡¯s name shone vividly at the very top of the scroll. In an instant... Luojiang City fell into pin-drop silence. A short while passed. The entire city erupted into cheers and shouts that overpowered even the sound of pouring rain. Their joy and enthusiasm triumphed over that of the citizens in Changan during the champion¡¯s parade! On the streets of Luojiang City. Drums yed and firecrackers went off. An official from Luojiang City¡¯s court followed an officer to visit Fang Beihe¡¯s inn personally. At the Fang family¡¯s inn. The peanut that Old Fang held between his chopsticks fell abruptly onto the table. Liu Zhengyu tugged on his fringe. A dumbstricken expression appeared on his face. ¡®Lang¡¯zi... he made it! ¡®On top of that, he made it as the grand champion! ¡®He... He seeded!¡¯ At the moment, the first person to snap out of his daze was Yang Zhengyi¡¯s father. He said a sincere word of congrattion to Old Fang then nced at Yang Zhengyi disgruntledly. ¡®You little brat, you went to the entertainment house every day! Now, look what kind of results you¡¯ve gotten! ¡®I¡¯ll break your leg if you go to the entertainment house again!¡¯ On the other hand, Old Fang¡¯s grin could not grow any wider. Gasps and cheers filled the floor beneath. The sound of impatient footsteps echoed in the stairway. Patrons swarmed around the man, shouting words of congrattions. Old Fang had no idea how to express his joy. Heughed out loud and waved his hands wildly. ¡°Eat and drink to your heart¡¯s content! ¡°There is no greater joy! My son is the grand champion! ¡°Today, everything is on the house!¡± Chapter 98 - The Ten Great Sects’ Fight for the Champion

Chapter 98: The Ten Great Sects¡¯ Fight for the Champion

Trantor: EndlessFantasy Trantion Editor: EndlessFantasy Trantion The triennial Imperial Examination came to an end as light snow encapsted Changan. The excitement and celebration in the city slowly died down after the grand champion uttered the bittersweet line: ¡®In one day, I¡¯ve seen all of Changan¡¯s flowers that make my heart sing.¡¯ One would have to wait three more years to experience the same excitement permeating through the city again. Young and fresh students were about to enter the academies and begin their three years of strenuous cultivation. The title of the grand champion was a great source of motivation. Meanwhile, the candidates who had already shown their talents and skills in the Imperial Examination walked out the gates of their academies, graduating into a much broader world of cultivation. ... Snow continued to fall as the night set in. The rowdy city of Changan had finally quieted down. Lanterns outside the Ministry of Rites pce swayed in the snowy breeze, illuminating the entrance. The atmosphere within the pce was loud and lively. Dozens of silhouettes could be seen within the brightly lit hall. The figures inside were dressed in unique clothes. They exuded terrifyingly fearsome auras that could seemingly dissipate the nimbostratus clouds above the pce. Among them included monks, swordsmen, martial arts masters and many more. They were powerful people who came from the great sects of the Tang Dynasty¡ªthose who had the right to recruit disciples into their sects. The Imperial Examination was apetition among the students. Likewise, the night after the results were released, it was apetition among the sect representatives. This was an interesting scene that urred at the end of every Imperial Examination. The Minister of Rites would personally hold a party that would be attended by sect leaders of the top ten sects in the empire. Sect leaders from other prominent sects were also present. Students who made it into the top 200 in the Imperial Examination would have the honor of attending the party. Big shots like the grand chancellor, Lu Taixuan, and the right administrator, Li Puyi, attended the party as well, demonstrating their concern toward the futures of the geniuses who emerged from the Imperial Examination. The party was held in the spacious pce. Wine and other refreshments were served on multiple long banquet tables. Fang Lang had taken off his champion¡¯s silk robe and changed into a brand new green robe. With his Obsidian Sword and Blooming Lotus de slung behind his back in a sword box, Fang Lang set foot into the party while chatting gleefully with Old Jiang. The end of the Imperial Examination brought Fang Lang immeasurable relief. He felt free as a fish swimming in the vast ocean. Jiang Linglong donned her veil again, hiding away her gorgeous face. Her star-bright eyes regained the coldness of an iceberg. Dressed in a ck robe, Wei Sheng had an innocent smile on his face. As the top three winners of the Imperial Examination, they were invited to the party right after parading the streets of Changan. Naturally, they were seated at the very front of the hall, ahead of the other students who made it into the top 200 ranks. Fang Lang, Jiang Linglong and Wei Sheng sat down ording to their ranks. Candles were lit along the left and right walls of the hall. Illuminating crystals shone brilliantly from the ceiling beams they were ced on. The entire pce was as bright as day. As time passed, students within the top 200 ranks arrived at the party one after another and sat down ording to their rank. Liu Bubai held his chin high as he stepped into the pce with Ni Wen who hung her head low, shoulders scrunching. They waved at Fang Lang when they saw him. Unfortunately, the party was strict about the student¡¯s sitting order. Hence, they had no choice but to sit ording to their ranks. Liu Bubai had no problem with that. He immediately started chatting merrily with the student sitting beside him. He talked about swords, flight swords and flight maneuvers. The student shed Liu Bubai an awkward but polite smile, then turned to the student beside him to chat about the Queen of Flowers in the entertainment house. Liu Bubai had no interest in that conversation. He poured a cup of wine and drank it by himself. Meanwhile, Ni Wen was trapped among a crowd of students. She hung her head low, not saying a word as she continuously poured wine. Whenever someone came to have a toast with her, she instinctively down the entire cup. The wine they served at the party was made from spirit fruits. It had a sweet taste and low alcohol content. Nheless, it was still alcohol. After drinking too much, Ni Wen¡¯s face glowed bright red as if she had a veil across her face. Ximen Xianxian thrived at parties. He poured himself a cup of wine and raised his ss at Fang Lang from a distance. Fang Lang raised his cup as a gesture of goodwill. After a few cups of wine, the atmosphere turned lively. Nevertheless, the party turned silent just a momentter. An overbearing aura filled the air as the powerful sect leaders. Changan¡¯s high-ranking officials, noblemen and other big shots set foot into the ministry¡¯s pce. The main purpose of the party was to provide the top 200 students with an opportunity to pick their preferred sects. At the same time, it was a good chance for the elders who had been working in the courts for many years to establish connections. The students who had made it onto the honor roll naturally had a greater advantage on their path of cultivation. Naturally, their achievements in the future were expected to be above average. Thus, it would be beneficial for them to establish good rtions with each other The leaders of the top ten sects, the Minister of Rites, the Minister of Revenue and all the other important guests had arrived at the party. To everyone¡¯s surprise, the first prince was present in his dragon robe. He sat down at the seat of honor. The rowdy hall instantly turned silent. No one anticipated the first prince¡¯s attendance. A look of anxiousness appeared on the face of many students. Nheless, that year¡¯s Imperial Examination was rumored to have the most saboteurspared to past years¡¯ exams. Thus, it was reasonable for the first prince to want to keep an eye out. In the eyes of most students, the first prince was an elegant man who always maintained a faint smile on his face. However, when Fang Lang looked at him, all he could think of was how different the first prince was from the insufferably arrogant third prince. It was as if they were not even brothers. After a speech from the Minister of Rites, the party officially began. It was a jolly night of drinking. Halfway through the party. The sect leaders finally began to give out invites to the students. This made many of the semi-intoxicated students sober up instantly. Of course, the sect leaders who were giving out invites were those of first-ss sects. First-ss sects were sects around the level of Donglu¡¯s Sword League¡ªprominent sects that were not included in the top ten. Nheless, its entrance exam was stillpetitive. Only those who made it into the top 2000 ranks in the Imperial Examination had a right to take their entrance exam. Liu Bubai and Ni Wen both received invitations for those first-ss sects. Ni Wen received personal invitations from countless sects. Ni Wen came from a peasant background which meant she had no ess to cultivation resources, yet she could achieve the 79th rank in the Imperial Examination with sheer talent and determination. Many first-ss sects saw her as a treasure. In fact, even some of the top ten sects had their eyes on Ni Wen. An ordinary-lookingdy was sitting on the second seat in the sect representatives¡¯ area. She scanned the room and her gaze instantly fell on Ni Wen, whose face was flushing red from the fruit wine. She smiled and introduced herself. ¡°I am the vice leader of the Meridian Guild, Yan Keqing. I¡¯m wondering if you¡¯d like to join the Meridian Guild, Ni Wen? ¡°The Meridian Guild is ranked second among the top ten sects of the Tang Dynasty. We are quite well-established. Ni Wen, your ranking in the Imperial Examination may becking a little, but judging from your performance in the final section, the Meridian Guild wees you with open arms.¡± Hearing that, whispered discussions broke out at the party. Who could have thought the Meridian Guild, which ranked second among the top ten sects, would make their move so quickly? Ni Wen was at a loss. She turned to Fang Lang who was sitting at the very front, begging for help through her gaze. Fang Lang frowned and thought, ¡®That vice leader sure has a sharp eye. She must¡¯ve noticed Ni Wen¡¯s bloodline ability. That¡¯s why she didn¡¯t hesitate to stoop below her level and extend the invitation.¡¯ Just then, the white-haired man sitting on the tenth spot of the sect representatives¡¯ area opened his mouth and said in azy manner, ¡°Little girl, are you interested in joining my Sword Guild? Although our sect focuses mainly on sword mastery, we still have a division dedicated to spell mastery. We conduct research on how to fuse spell mastery with sword mastery.¡± Discussions broke out among the crowd again. No one could have anticipated that Chao Xiaojian would try to recruit Ni Wen. Yan Keqing raised her brows. ¡°Chao Xiaojian, why are you trying to stick your nose where it doesn¡¯t belong? That fusion research your sect is working on is utter nonsense. Are you trying to ruin Ni Wen¡¯s future in cultivation?¡± The atmosphere suddenly became tense. Even so, no one tried to defuse the situation. After all, it was normal for the great sects to fight for the outstanding candidates. ¡°You think I don¡¯t know about the Meridian Guild¡¯sck of virtue? You want Ni Wen because of her bloodline, don¡¯t you? If it weren¡¯t for that, will the Meridian Guild still want her? ¡°I, Chao Xiaojian, have no such ideas! I am only interested in the littledy¡¯s talent in spell mastery. ¡°Quit it with your false usations!¡± ¡°What are you gonna do about it?¡± ... Before they knew it, the two were already fighting. Luckily, it did not erupt into a physical fight. Eventually, the two calmed down. After all, it would hurt their image to brawl in front of the many candidates. Chao Xiaojian downed a cup of fruit wine and smiled at Ni Wen. ¡°Little girl, do consider joining the Sword Guild. That little brat, Fang Lang, will surely be in my Sword Guild. If you join my sect, I¡¯ll make Fang Lang your errand boy. Having the champion as your little assistant should be enough motivation, right?¡± After hearing that, many sect leaders gazed at the flustered girl with eyes that glistened as brightly as stars. Yan Keqing¡¯s chest tightened. She was infuriated! The spectating candidates cheered. How amusing it was to watch the ten great sects fight for a disciple! The fight for Ni Wen came to a temporary pause. The sects could only make their offers in an effort to attract the geniuses to their sects but the final decision would still depend on the candidate¡¯s own choice. The atmosphere at the party turned more and more fervent¡ªperhaps it was because someone had taken the first step. One after another, the geniuses received invites from various sects. Some candidates made their decision on the spot. An example would be Ximen Xianxian, who, after receiving an invitation from the Karma Society, immediately joined the sect. The strongest yet most tragic spell practitioner in the Imperial Examination, Li Yuanzhen, was invited to the top sect in the Empire¡ªthe Main Path Guild. Despite falling short in his performance that year, the sect leader knew the boy¡¯s talent was worthy of acknowledgment. After many days, Li Yuanzhen could finally wipe that miserable look on his face in exchange for a smile. He drank a cup of wine and epted the Main Path Guild¡¯s invite. Wei Sheng joined the Xianwu Association that ranked fifth among the ten great sects. The basis on which the top ten students chose their sects was not just dependent on the sect¡¯s ranking; they had to take the their specialized discipline into consideration as well. The first prince, the Minister of Rites, Lu Taixuan and the others watched in silence. They did not interfere. ... ¡°Grand champion, the Jade Pavilion wees you with full sincerity. If you¡¯re willing to join us, we will provide you with one high-grade spirit crystal, ten mid-grade spirit crystals and a thousand low-grade spirit crystals every month. Moreover, we will provide you with one stalk of de Energy umtion Herb and other resources every year. On top of that, we will provide you with ten million gold coins every year for three consecutive years. ¡°This is the best offer the Jade Pavilion has offered to any champion throughout the many years of Imperial Examination. Sects are different from academies. Academies distribute their resources evenly to students, but in sects, you will have topete for those resources. ¡°With that in mind, Champion, do consider the Jade Pavilion.¡± Su Yunyu smiled and said. She had understood Fang Lang¡¯s value ever since Manager Yu, who was from the Jade Pavilion¡¯s Luojiang division, came to her. That boy was born for the Jade Pavilion! Su Yunyu¡¯s words struck like thunder. The entire pce fell into pin-drop silence. Many exhrated students suddenly lost their spirit. ¡®The resources that the Jade Pavilion promises... isn¡¯t it a little over the top!¡¯ As expected of the rich and pompous Jade Pavilion! The other sect representatives who were about to invite Fang Lang were at a loss for words. Even the equally wealthy and pompous sect leader of the Sky Cloud Sect was rendered speechless. He could afford to spend all those cultivation resources... but was Fang Lang worth it? Even so, the sect leader of the Sky Cloud Sect ground his teeth and dered, ¡°Champion, the Sky Cloud Sect will offer you whatever the Jade Pavilion offers. On top of that, we will provide you with a seventh-ss cultivator who will serve as your bodyguard and lead you into demon portals to undergo demon-ying training once every month for three consecutive years!¡± An old monk dressed in loose red robe put his palms together and said. The words spoken in a gentle tone sent the entire room into an uproar. ¡°Champion, you possess the proper foundation to be a giant in martial arts mastery. The Immortal Martial Association is willing to let you ess our secret training realm three times a month for three consecutive years,¡± said a burly man as he downed a cup of fruit wine. The hall went silent again. Astonishment filled the room as the top ten sects revealed the cultivation resources they were willing to provide Fang Lang with. The Medicine Valley, the Four Rings Tower, the Meridian Guild and many other sects were making their offers. Finally, the Main Path Guild, which ranked first among all sects, made their offer. An ordinary-looking middle-aged man began speaking, ¡°The Main Path Guild has always been the top choice for champions. Champion, if you join our sect, we are willing to provide you with a chance to visit Main Path Mausoleum.¡± There was pin-drop silence. The Main Path Mausoleum was the holy grounds of the Main Path Guild. All fallen cultivators of the ninth ss were buried on thosends, waiting for the chosen ones to inherit their strength and enlightenment. Every year, only one person was allowed to enter the mausoleum¡ªthe winner of thepetition among its inner sect disciples. Gaining the strength and enlightenment of any ninth-ss cultivator would bring immeasurable power! It seemed like the Main Path Guild was also prepared to make great sacrifices to reel in Fang Lang. The pce remained silent. At that moment, Fang Lang had be the center of all attention. After all, he was the champion. The other students stared at him with envy and admiration. Li Yuanzhen felt as if he had been pped across the face. Compared to the offer the Main Path Guild made to Fang Lang, the offer he received was crap! ¡®Does that mean... I¡¯m an utter failure?¡¯ Some were envious while others were jealous. Meanwhile, some were panicking¡ªChao Xiaojian was one of them. Chao Xiaojian was no longer lying casually on his side. He sat upright, his heart filled with bitterness. ¡®I should have snatched the brat into the Sword Guild earlier!¡¯ Fang Lang smiled. He turned away and let his gazend on Chao Xiaojian. ¡°Vice Leader Chao, can I hear the Sword Guild¡¯s offer?¡± Fang Lang smiled and asked. In an instant, everyone¡¯s gaze fell on the white-haired man. Of course, Chao Xiaojian pretended to bepletely unfazed. Su Yunyu, who was drinking wine at the side, pouted her red lips and scoffed. The Sword Guild was an attractive choice for candidates when Xuanyuan Taihua was still around. However, ever since Xuanyuan Taihua¡¯s disappearance, it became difficult for the Sword Guild topete with the other sects. In fact, the Sword Guild might even lose its ce among thel ten great sects that year. After all, top-tier first-ss sects like Donglu¡¯s Sword League and Nanhai Sword Association were scrambling to challenge the Sword Guild for its ce among the ten great sects. Su Yunyu tapped her slender fingers against the table, waiting for Chao Xiaojian to make his offer. Chao Xiaojian had a calm expression on his face. His lips curled upward as he scanned the hall. ¡°Fang Lang, you little brat. I won¡¯t use the Blooming Lotus Sword to pressure you into joining my sect. The Sword Guild cannot provide you with resources, but I promise you this... If you enter the Sword Guild, I, Chao Xiaojian, will personally escort you into Donglu¡¯s Demon Portal when you breakthrough into the fourth-grade realm. I swear I will lead you into the depths of the demon world and we shall establish a foundation within! Then, you can bathe in the Devil¡¯s pond every single day!¡± Having said that, Chao Xiaojian pped his hand on the table snobbishly and scanned the hall with his bloodshot eyes. ¡®Come at me! ¡®Fight me! ¡®I¡¯m not afraid of you! ¡®Can any of you do this for Fang Lang?¡¯ The expressions on the sect leaders¡¯ faces changed abruptly. Chao Xiaojian must have lost his mind. Even so, that was an exceedingly attractive offer. No amount of spirit crystals could trump his offer. All eyes were on the boy sitting on the first seat again. The offers from the great sect leaders were incredibly attractive. Out of all the champions produced in recent years, Fang Lang must have been the most glorious. Everyone was curious about Fang Lang¡¯s final decision. Even the first prince nced his way out of interest. Lu Taixuan stroked his beard merrily. Li Puyi, too, had turned to Fang Lang with a cold expression. Fang Lang stood up and made a toast. He smiled amiably and downed the cup of wine. ¡°Thank you, respected sect leaders for thinking so highly of me. ¡°Your kind offers are much appreciated.¡± Having said that, Fang Lang ced two fingers on his Blooming Lotus de and unsheathed it. The de glimmered in the light. ¡°Obtaining the Blooming Lotus Sword was a turning point in my life. Xuanyuan Taihua was not my master, yet in a way, she was my guide. I am forever grateful.¡± Fang Lang reached out and flicked his Blooming Lotus Sword. Its ring instantly filled the pce. ¡°Besides, I¡¯d love to know what it¡¯s like to bathe on the demons¡¯ holy grounds.¡± Chapter 99 - Do Visit Home Often

Chapter 99: Do Visit Home Often

Trantor: EndlessFantasy Trantion Editor: EndlessFantasy Trantion Fang Lang¡¯s words lingered within the ministry¡¯s pce. Drowning out the sound of wind and snow outside the pce. The mes of the candles flickered. Many were perplexed by Fang Lang¡¯s choice. Looks of astonishment appeared on everyone¡¯s faces. Fang Lang¡¯s choice could be clearly interpreted from his words¡ªhe had chosen the Sword Guild. The Blooming Lotus Sword he obtained had apparently altered his fate and he chose the Sword Guild as a sign of gratitude. He gave up on all the enticing resources that would make any student drool and chose the rtively unalluring Sword Guild. As for Chao Xiaojian¡¯s promise to bring Fang Lang into the demon world to bathe in the Devil¡¯s Pond, everyone saw it as nothing but a joke. Chao Xiaojian was a powerful man, yet it was not an easy task to bring Fang Lang into the demon world and escape in one piece. Thus, no one believed his promise. ¡°What a shame. You are a master of all three disciplines and possess incredible talent. Moreover, you have a core that appears only once in a thousand years. You have now attained the glory of ranking first in the Imperial Examination. It¡¯s quite regretful that I am unable to recruit you into the All-Seeing Buddha Sect. ¡°The next time we meet, Champion, we shall be rivals. Amitabha.¡± The old monk from the All-Seeing Buddha Sect sighed and broke the silence in the hall. The other sect leaders of the ten great sects also let outmentable sighs. Since Fang Lang had already made his choice clear, the sect leaders did not insist on recruiting him anymore. After all, they had already made their offers¡ªthe fact that Fang Lang did not choose them meant they were not fated to have him. Besides, the top ten sects had pride. They were in no shortage of such geniuses. Moreover, the Imperial Examination was just the first step in a person¡¯s cultivation. Fang Lang might be the champion, but in two or three years... the champion might lose his edge; of course, there was also a chance he would soar to impressive heights. Nheless, the Sword Guild did not possess abundant resources, so who knew what would be of the champion? The party continued. After Fang Lang had chosen the Sword Guild, Jiang Linglong became the next target of the sect leaders. Jiang Linglong was the daughter of the great Martial Arts King Jiang and possessed otherworldly talents. Naturally, the great sects had a keen interest in her. However, before hearing any offers from the top ten sects, Jiang Lianglong stood up and smiled under her fluttering veil. ¡°The Sword Guild has been my target from the very beginning. I aspire to be a woman standing at the peak of sword mastery, just like Sect Leader Taihua...¡± Jiang Linglong¡¯s message was clear¡ªshe was not joining any sect but the Sword Guild. Chao Xiaojian grinned from ear to ear. The first- and second-ranked students had chosen the Sword Guild! What a fruitful night for the Sword Guild! ¡°V-v-vice Leader Chao... I¡¯d like to join the Sword Guild too.¡± Ni Wen, who drank too much fruit wine, said. Her eyes were blurry yet her voice harbored determination. Chao Xiaojian was stunned. He grinned even wider. ¡°No problem. Wee to the Sword Guild.¡± A look of disappointment instantly appeared on Yan Keqing¡¯s face. ¡°You shouldn¡¯t! The Sword Guild¡¯s research on fusing spell mastery with sword mastery is nothing but a hoax! The chance of sess is too low. You¡¯re being reckless, girl!¡± However, when she saw the spark in the littledy¡¯s hazy eyes, she backed down. ¡°Chao Xiaojian, if the spell mastery division in your sect doesn¡¯t seed, don¡¯t ruin Ni Wen¡¯s future. Take her to the Meridian Guild!¡± Yan Keqing turned to Chao Xiaojian and said in a serious tone. Chao Xiaojian did not talk back. He stood up and cupped his fist with his palm respectfully. ¡°Naturally.¡± In truth, Chao Xiaojian did not trick Ni Wen. The Sword Guild was indeed working on a way to fuse spell mastery with sword mastery to create highly-destructive sword mastery techniques. Geniuses enrolled in their chosen sects one after another. Most geniuses present had sects casting out bait for them. Meanwhile, Liu Bubai sat on his seat with a semi-dark expression. He felt as if he was being ignored. ¡®I rank fiftieth in the final section! ¡®Why aren¡¯t any sect representatives approaching me? ¡®Do they think I, Liu Bubai, am not worthy?¡¯ In truth, most of the great sects had never thought about recruiting Liu Bubai¡ªmainly because they thought Liu Bubai and Fang Lang would always choose the same path as they seemed to be good friends. Since Fang Lang had chosen to enter the Sword Guild and Liu Bubai was coincidentally a sword mastery practitioner, the sect leaders all assumed Liu Bubai would naturally join the Sword Guild. Thus, they did not waste their time trying to win him over. As a result, Liu Bubai was in this predicament. Chao Xiaojian noticed Liu Bubai¡¯s situation. He smiled and said, ¡°Come on, you should join the Sword Guild too.¡± Liu Bubai was speechless. He felt as if he had once again been carried to victory¡ªthis time, he was carried into the top ten sects. ... Soon, the party came to an end. Geniuses chose their sects and sects recruited their geniuses¡ªoverall, it was a joyous event indeed. Soon, the people at the party began to disperse. They exited the ministry¡¯s pce and handed out tokens to their new recruits. The students had to show up at their respective sects with their tokens in hand within five days. Fang Lang received a token for the Sword Guild from Chao Xiaojian. It was a bronze token carved into the shape of a lotus. ¡°There¡¯s no need to hurry. When I¡¯m done with the stuff in Changan, I¡¯ll apany you guys back to Luojiang City. After that, we can head to the Sword Guild together,¡± Chao Xiaojian said. Fang Lang kept the token aside and nodded. Having said that, Chao Xiaojian reported back to the Ministry of Rites. He had to register the names, academies and other information of the candidates he recruited with the ministry. All sects, whether the top ten sects, first-ss sects or second-ss sects, had to register their recruited inner sect disciples¡¯ names with the Ministry of Rites. The ministry had to govern all the big and small matters pertaining to the academies and the sects. On the other hand, the sects had much more freedom when it came to recruiting outer sect disciples. They could recruit outer sect disciples whenever they wanted and did not have to register their names. That was because outer sect disciples had less ess to resources provided by the imperial court. Chao Xiaojian left. Fang Lang, Liu Bubai, Ni Wen and Jiang Linglong were about to return to the Martial Arts King¡¯s manor. Just then, the first prince called out to them. He approached from afar in the light snow. Snow continued to fall on the promenade within the ministry¡¯s pce. Fang Lang walked side by side with the first prince. The first prince was dressed in a dragon robe, full of vigor. His lips were curled into an elegant yet profound smile. ¡°Are you interested in joining my faction? I know you¡¯re already a disciple of the Sword Guild, but many disciples within the ten great guilds will join factions early on. ¡°After all, the purpose of cultivating within a sect is to one day be an official in the imperial court. Thus, holding a part-time position in the court will be beneficial for your future.¡± The first prince exined with a warm smile. ¡°You don¡¯t see eye to eye with my little brother, the third prince. His situation is a littleplex. He was raised by a foreign concubine, making him biased toward foreigners. He has the support of many foreign generals and thus, things have always been smooth sailing for him. That¡¯s what made him so arrogant and impulsive. ¡°Nheless, I have influence in the court. If you join my faction, I¡¯ll help you put out my brother¡¯s mes of fury. That way, you can have a smooth journey whether in the Sword Guild or when you join the court in the future.¡± The first prince proposed his offer. Since Fang Lang was the grand champion, the first prince¡¯s decision was ideal. When Fang Lang was just the champion of the theory andbat assessments, the first prince did not bat an eye at him. After all, it was not umon for theory andbat champions to fall short during the final section. However, Fang Lang had established himself as the grand champion. The eldest prince had to quickly make peace with him. He believed Fang Lang¡¯s entry into his faction was inevitable. After all, Fang Lang did not see eye to eye with the third prince and the enemy of an enemy was a friend. ¡°I know you have good rtions with the Jiang family, but at the end of the day, it¡¯s best to have multiple backup ns. ¡°Besides, I¡¯m not on bad terms with the Jiang family.¡± Both of them stopped in their steps. Snow fell on the first prince¡¯s head and his dragon robe. He had on a warm smile. Fang Lang nced at the first prince and smiled. ¡°Thank you for your concern, Your Highness, but... joining the court is still something far off in the future. My purpose in joining the Sword Guild is simply to improve my cultivation. I don¡¯t want to think about the court yet. ¡°As for the third prince... I¡¯ll take appropriate action when needed.¡± Fang Lang replied. ¡°Are you rejecting my offer?¡± The first prince shed him with a smirk as snow fell. Fang Lang gazed at the first princeposedly. After a while, the first prince chuckled and patted Fang Lang¡¯s shoulders. ¡°Work hard cultivating. The Tang Dynasty needs talented cultivators like you to conquer the demon world.¡± Fang Lang cupped his fist with his palm respectfully. As his green robe fluttered in the snowy wind, Fang Lang turned to leave. The first prince stood in the light snow and smiled as Fang Lang walked away. Soon, his smile disappeared. Aplex expression appeared on his face. No one could tell what he was hiding behind thatplicated face. ... Fang Lang returned to the Martial Arts King Manor. The incident with the first prince disturbed him. Perhaps the first prince was genuinely looking out for him. Nheless, Fang Lang had no intention of being dragged into theplicated battle between the princes. At that moment, he was too weak for that. When he arrived at the manor, Fang Lang was met with Zhao Wuji and a graceful woman with a red cloak over her shoulders. ¡°Mother.¡± Jiang Linglong greeted Princess Pei Shi. Fang Lang, Ni Wen and Liu Bubai quickly bowed. ¡°Greetings, Princess.¡± In the eyes of ordinary men, Princess Pei Shi was a noble and unattainable woman. She smiled warmly and said, ¡°No need to be so polite. You¡¯re all Ling¡¯er¡¯s friends after all. ¡°I heard that all of you entered the same sect as Ling¡¯er? How wonderful! You¡¯ll be able to look out for each other in the Sword Guild.¡± The princess smiled and said. Fang Lang and the others were relieved to find out the princess was not a haughty woman on a high horse. It was their first time entering the Martial Arts King¡¯s private manor and meeting his wife. After a while, they started to notice something strange about the atmosphere. The princess sat close to Fang Lang and shifted the topic of conversation to his poetry. She started interviewing him about the thoughts that ran through his head when heposed those poems, the emotions he felt and the reason behind his choice of words and phrases... She did not possess a hint of pretentiousness or grandeur befitting a princess. ¡°Ahem.¡± Jiang Linglong coughed softly. The princess ignored her and asked Fang Lang topose a poem for her. ¡°Mother!¡± Jiang Linglong increased her volume. It was the first time the aloof girl had lost herposure. How could a girl as cold and distant as Jiang Linglong have a mother of such personality? Suddenly, the wind and snow outside came to a halt. A dark silhouette appeared behind the princess. ¡°Shi¡¯er, it¡¯s cold outside. You should rest early.¡± The voice was calm yet authoritative. Princess Pei Shi froze. ¡°Little Fang, doe to visit Ling¡¯er more often.¡± The princess said. Having said that, she hastily scurried away and vanished from their sight. Martial Arts King Jiang¡¯s hair was loose. He stood tall, exuding a reserved and enigmatic aura. His gaze alone filled the entire room with tension. He did not turn to Fang Lang. Instead, he nced at Ni Wen. ¡°Are you Ni Wen?¡± Ni Wen nodded. ¡°Old Man Gao, I¡¯ve brought you the girl. Make sure you bring her back soon.¡± Martial Arts King Jiang turned to his side, revealing the white-haired old man. Old Man Gao smiled and said to Ni Wen, ¡°After you.¡± Fang Lang realized what was going on. On the other hand, Jiang Linglong had confusion written all over her face. After Ni Wen and Old Man Gao disappeared into the snowy night, Martial Arts King Jiang shifted his gaze to Fang Lang. ¡°You retrieved Taihua¡¯s Blooming Lotus Sword?¡± Martial Arts King Jiang questioned. Fang Lang nodded. ¡°Can I have a look?¡± Martial Arts King Jiang asked in a humble tone. Fang Lang nced at Jiang Linglong. He had made a promise to her¡ªit was time to fulfill that promise. Without hesitation, Fang Lang took out the Blooming Lotus Sword from his sword box and presented it to Martial Arts King Jiang. He calmly took the sword. Immediately, a strong wave of spiritual sense poured out from his body. Fang Lang and Jiang Linglong felt as if they had just seen an ocean of blood and a mountain of corpses. A crimsonnd descended upon them. ¡°Alright.¡± A look of disappointment appeared in Martial Arts King Jiang¡¯s eyes as he returned the de to Fang Lang. ¡°Thank you, boy. I owe you one,¡± Martial Arts King Jiang said. Having said that, he disappeared into the wind and snow. Fang Lang returned the Blooming Lotus Sword back into its box and turned to Old Jiang with perplexed eyes, as if asking, ¡®That¡¯s it?¡¯ Fang Lang wondered what the Martial Arts King saw in the de. ... The night grew darker. Light snow fell silently outside the window. The world was silent. The cheers and apuse for the famous and the powerful faded out into the night. In the guest wing of the Martial Art King Manor. Fang Lang sat cross-legged on his bed with spirit crystals in his hand, resuming his daily cultivation. He checked his stats in the System on a whim. ... Host: Fang Lang Cultivation Discipline: Ninth-Grade Sword Master (Second ss) Level: LV6 Experience: 30000/200000 Core: 36 (White) Altered Core: 66 (Purple) Cultivation Resources: 50,000 gold coins, 400 low-grade spirit crystals, 8 mid-grade spirit crystals (usage limited to cultivation) Items: Grade-Rush Card Fragment (1), 5X Physical Buff Card (1), Enlightenment Card (1), Meditation Card (3) Equipment: Instant Casting Staff Binding Partner: Ni Wen (60%), Jiang Linglong (60%), Liu Bubai (60%), Wei Sheng (60%), Empty slot (60%) Sole Passive Ability: Additional rewards may be granted when the host bonds with the binding partner over cultivation. ... Fang Lang still had an empty slot for a new binding partner. He had not used his cultivation resources. The next day, he would obtain his grand champion rewards and gain another pile of cultivation resources... Fang Lang¡¯s head ached. Time was required to use up those cultivation resources. The abundance of cultivation resources was a source of headache. He stared at the cultivation resources that sat quietly in his inventory. Fang Lang shook his head. The Imperial Examination had ended¡ªit was time for him to work hard on cultivating. He needed to level up the System as soon as possible to obtain another binding partner slot. In the Sword Guild, he would have many chances to meet geniuses who might be suitable binding partners. As for geniuses like Li Yuanzhen and Ximen Xianxian, Fang Lang did not bother binding them, mainly because he would have no chance to interact with them. It would be an unproductive binding. Luckily, Little Wen, Old Jiang and Old Liu had all joined the Sword Guild. Only Wei Sheng had gone on a separate path to join the Immortal Martial Association, leaving Fang Lang with little chance to milk him for rewards. Fang Lang cleared his mind of those thoughts and regained his focus. He was thrilled when he remembered the practice method reward he obtained afterpleting the champion mission. Finally, he could test the practice method and hopefully increase his cultivation speed! ¡°Read Ten Thousand de Scripture (Part One)!¡± Whoosh... The contents of the scripture burst open in Fang Lang¡¯s mind, filling his head with countless words and immense delight. Fang Lang hurriedly activated Quadruple Binding Mode and organized the contents of the scripture. ¡®Ten Thousand de Scripture (Part One). Earth-level high-grade practice method. One will obtain the sword intent of a thousand des and can control the de energy of a million after thoroughly understanding this scripture. Fill the skies with ten thousand swords just by uttering a singlemand. Be a master of des and a god of sword mastery! ¡®Ten Thousand de Scripture grade of sword intent: body sword, heart sword and human sword whenbined would grant ten thousand des. Part one only contains the practice method of body sword and heart sword.¡¯ A copious amount of information filled Fang Lang¡¯s mind. Fang Lang calmed down and took out his spirit crystals. He absorbed and channeled the spiritual energy within ording to the meridian pathways depicted in the Ten Thousand de Scripture. The rate at which the spiritual energy was converted into de energy increased significantly! Nheless, it was a taxing process even in Quadruple Binding Mode. Fang Lang still needed lots of training before he could master the practice method. Fang Lang cleared his head and started cultivating, turning a deaf ear to the outside world. The night was cold and silent. Not a word was spoken. ... The next day. Fang Lang ended a long night of cultivation. Approximately ten percent of the ninth-grade sword master spiritual energy in his body was converted into de energy. He ate the breakfast the princess had prepared for them. After that, an official from the Ministry of Rites personally came to deliver Fang Lang¡¯s rewards. The Champion¡¯s de was a sword of superb quality¡ªone even greater than his Obsidian Sword. As for the de Energy umtion Herb and Bone Lubricant, Fang Lang did some rough research on their price and value. The Golden Dragon Armor was built for defense. Fang Lang put it on immediately. He did not stay in Changan for long. When everything in Changan was dealt with, Fang Lang was in a hurry to go home. After all, it was only appropriate for him to return to his hometown in glory after bing the grand champion. The princess came to bid them farewell. Jiang Linglong did not follow them back to Luojiang City¡ªshe decided to head to the Sword Guild by herself. Ni Wen returned to the manorte at night a day before their departure. She was silent ever since her return, but a determination shone in her eyes. Chao Xiaojian waited for them at the edge of Changan City. They did not depart on a flight sword. Instead, Chao Xiaojian carried them and departed from Changan by the way of his sword. ... A beam of light tore through the autumn rain that encapsted Luojiang City. Old Fang had long been waiting in the Fang Manor. He had heard news that Fang Lang was returning that day. The beam of light that enveloped the quartetnded in front of the Fang Manor. Old Fang could finally set eyes on his boy in his green academy robe. Old Fang could tell Fang Lang had be stronger and more spirited. Even the aura he emitted was more potent. Liu Bubai and Ni Wen returned to their own homes. Meanwhile, Chao Xiaojian was dragged into the Fang Manor by Old Fang. Old Fang had hosted a banquet at his manor and invited the neighbors over to enjoy a wonderful feast. Old Fang had gotten drunk at the banquet and thus, forgotten about the difference in status between him and Chao Xiaojian. He clung onto Chao Xiaojian and showered him withpliments. He told Chao Xiaojian to take good care of Fang Lang in the Sword Guild and even tried to give him cash. Of course, Chao Xiaojian rejected the money. Late at night, Fang Lang arranged for the drunk old man to be brought to bed. After that, he came to the guest wing of the Fang Manor. Chao Xiaojian was lying on the roof with his head resting on one hand. He gazed into the night sky where the rain had finally cleared away. ¡°I envy you for having such a good father,¡± Chao Xiaojian said. Fang Lang smiled. He could not agree more. That was why he had worked so hard in cultivating¡ªto protect his family and make sure they could live a peaceful life. Old Fang wished for Fang Lang to have a safe and quiet life, and Fang Lang wished the same for him. The next day. Old Fang had finally sobered up. He woke up early to help Fang Lang pack his bags. Old Fang could not stop nagging as he helped Fang Lang pack up his clothes. ¡°You must establish good rtions with fellow disciples in the sect. ¡°Don¡¯t only have victory in your head; staying alive is what matters the most. If you can¡¯t take it there, juste home. I have enough to support you. ¡°Don¡¯t wrong anyone in the sect. Don¡¯t be frugal. If you run out of money, just tell me. I¡¯ll send you more.¡± Then, Old Fang paused for a long while. ¡°Remember to visit home often.¡± ... At the edge of Luojiang City. Old Fang was there, and so were Liu Bubai¡¯s parents. Ni Wen¡¯s mother, who had been through many hardships, was also present. They waved and waved and never stopped waving. They bid farewell to their daughter and sons. Chapter 100 - The Difference Between Sects and Academies

Chapter 100: The Difference Between Sects and Academies

Trantor: EndlessFantasy Trantion Editor: EndlessFantasy Trantion Tang Dynasty, Year 276. Winter. The Imperial Examination had concluded. The Ministry of Rites published the minimum score requirement of every great sect in the empire. The ten great sects, first-ss sects and second-ss sects all had the right to recruit students from all academies. Students who made it into the top 10,000 in the Imperial Examination all had a chance to be recruited into sects to practice cultivation. On the same day. The 3,000 academies in the empire were open for enrollment. Wealthy nobles and poverty-stricken peasants from bustling cities or tranquil viges alike all brought their children to the academies for a core evaluation to secure a ce in the academies. Thanks to Fang Lang¡¯s achievement in the Imperial Examination, Luojiang Academy had be the world¡¯s center of attention. Many wealthy nobles had traveled overnd and sea to arrive at Luojiang Academy. There were even some who came from Changan and bought properties in Luojiang while sending their child to Luojiang Academy, all in hopes that three yearster, their child could get into the honor roll and achieve feats simr to Fang Lang. On the practice grounds of Luojiang Academy, Headmaster Cui¡¯s smile blossomed like a flower. The senior mentor responsible for the weapons shelf still smoked cigarettes as he told the children stories of the grand champion. Rays of light finally prated the thick clouds that congregated in the skies. Light snow began to fall. It made the academy appear sacred and mysterious. ... Just as the peaceful winter began, the ancient bell of Changan City rang, shattering the tranquility and bringing turbulence to thends. After the court meeting of the new day, the Emperor¡¯s orders were delivered throughout the empire. The Emperor had decided to proceed with the individual border regiment policy but revoke the decision to put foreign generals in important positions. Instead, the Emperor had assigned supervisors to aid the foreign generals in suppressing opposition at the borders and fighting the demon portals. The foreign generals would be responsible for the soldiers while the supervisors would be responsible for the rationing of provisions and funds. Any decision the foreign generals made in regards to promoting a soldier had to be discussed with the supervisors beforehand. The moment the order was announced, uproars broke out throughout the empire. Many foreign generals sent their memorials to Changan on flight swords. Blood phantoms were lined up in front of the Vermilion Bird Gate again. Some foreign generals were weeping as they spoke about their loyalty while some were screaming out the sorrow in their hearts. After that, the Emperor issued another edict. Any pure-blooded foreigner of the younger generation would be granted the right to join any sect in the empire and train andpete with the locals for cultivation resources. It served as a concession and also an ultimatum from the Emperor. Once the order was announced, all the foreign generals in front of the Vermilion Bird Gate understood the Emperor¡¯s message. They knew if they continued this ruckus, they would truly trigger the Emperor¡¯s fury. Thus, the foreign generals dispersed. Meanwhile, the sect leaders of many prominent sects in the empire were infuriated. Nheless, the Emperor had issued his edict¡ªthey could only do as they were told. ... Sand filled the air in the western region. Torches in the camps appeared like a field of blooming lotuses on the yellow dessert. Asi Luoshan sat within the military camp. A powerful aura surrounded him and a me could be seen in his eyes. On the desk in front of him was an edict sent in from Changan. With a profound look in his eyes, Asi Luoshan walked out of the camp and raised his head, gazing as if he could see the snowy city of Changan through the vile of yellow sand. He was not surprised by the edict; after all, they would eventually have to suffer the consequences of that day¡¯s probing. Nheless, he still regretted not being able to test the Emperor¡¯s might. Martial Arts King Jiang¡¯s appearance was unfortunate¡ªthe man was the cause of their failure in testing the Emperor¡¯s powers. s, they could not determine if the Emperor had indeed be feeble. ¡°The irondws of the Tang Dynasty... Thews that govern every cultivator on thesends... ¡°It seems like thews are gaining more power by the day...¡± Asi Luoshan exhaled slowly. Then, he called for his lieutenants. One after another, young and talented foreign soldiers appeared with their swords. They kneeled down. ¡°His Majesty has issued an edict which grants the children of our tribe ess into the great sects of the empire. You shallpete among yourselves, then shed your armors and head to the great sects. ¡°Cultivating within sectses with its own benefits¡ªyou¡¯ll have ess to much more resources than in the army. ¡°So go ahead.¡± ... At the same time, in the military camps across the borders of the empire, generals like Song Xianzhi and Geshu Taixing were also calling out their young soldiers and picking the most outstanding geniuses among them. Those were the ones selected to join the sects of the Tang Dynasty under the Emperor¡¯s edict. Countless flight swords carrying fresh blood took off from the military camps and tore through the sandy deserts of the borders, making their way across the great rivers and mountains of the vast empire to reach the great sects. ... The route to Mount Shu was more daunting than climbing the sky.1 Even on flight swords, no ordinary man could cross the vast Mount Shu and reach its impossibly high peak. Gradually, their families disappeared from their view. The familiar mountains and cities passed below. The sorrow of leaving their homes could only be held in their hearts. They channeled their emotions into motivation. They would cultivate in the sect and return home with glorious achievements. Chao Xiaojian transported Fang Lang and the others to the Sword Guild on his sword. Their speed of travel was no slower than traveling on a flight sword. Chao Xiaojian had greatly reduced their travel speed in consideration of the immense pressure Fang Lang and the others would have to endure. As a ninth-ss cultivator, Chao Xiaojian¡¯s travel speed was naturally lightning fast. It was as if they sliced through the clouds, creating a trail in the shape of a slithering snake. As they disappeared into the horizon, they left behind a rip in the clouds that looked like a neverending river in the sky. Mount Shu, the Sword Guild. Peaks that grazed the sky formed the mountain ranges. Off the steep and sheer precipices hung withered pines.[1] Thendscape on Mount Shu was extraordinary. Jagged rocks stood on the peaks, prating the clouds like de tips. A waterfall cascaded down from halfway up the mountain, making deafening noises like thunder striking thends below. A beam of lightnded, encapsted in thinyers of cloud. The great za of Mount Shu was unusually rowdy. Disciples of the Sword Guild, dressed in white robes, had long awaited their arrival at the za. From above, it looked as if countless white flowers were blooming on the lofty peak of Mount Shu. ¡°Vice Leader Chao.¡± The disciples cupped their fists with their palms and greeted in thunderous voices. The white-haired white-browed man sheathed his sword and raised his hand to quiet down the disciples. ¡°The Imperial Examination hase to an end. We have new disciples joining the Sword Guild, including this year¡¯s grand champion, Fang Lang. Make sure you get along well.¡± Chao Xiaojian said nonchntly. ¡°Understood.¡± The disciples replied at the same time. Their booming voice burst through into the skies above. The disciples whispered among themselves, disying inspirited expressions on their faces. They could not believe that the champion of the Imperial Examination had joined the Sword Guild! After Sect Leader Xuanyuan Taihua¡¯s disappearance, the Sword Guild had been falling behind in the fight for geniuses. In fact, they were very close to losing their spot among the top ten sects. As a result, not many geniuses were willing to join the Sword Guild. After all, the resources they received had greatly reduced due to the sect¡¯s decreasing strength. The Sword Guild had a high chance of falling out of the top ten sect rankings after the year¡¯s Battle of Sects. In thest Imperial Examination, the Sword Guild only managed to recruit one disciple of the ninth rank. Chao Xiaojian was satisfied with the Sword Guild disciples¡¯ excitement toward the champion¡¯s recruitment. He turned to Fang Lang, Ni Wen and Liu Bubai. His gaze turned solemn. ¡°You have just left your academy and had justpleted the Imperial Examination, but I must warn you, a sect is different from an academy. In your academy, you could study and cultivate without a care in the world, but in a sect, you¡¯ll have no chance to rx. In a sect, you¡¯ll have topete for your own cultivation resources! ¡°Disciples willpete among themselves for resources within the sect, while the sect has topete with other sects for resources... ¡°After all, the world of cultivation is apetitive one! ¡°You must fight! ¡°Perhaps even put your life on the line to for an opportunity!¡± Chao Xiaojian warned. His dour words sounded as loud as thunder in their ears. Even Fang Lang had turned serious. ¡°Of course, as new members of the Sword Guild, we will provide you with some material benefits. The sect will provide you with a steady source of resources for three months. Of course... that is if you can hold on to them.¡± A yful smirk appeared on Chao Xiaojian¡¯s face. However, Fang Lang¡¯s mind was elsewhere. ¡°Vice Leader Chao, as cultivators of the Sword Guild, does that mean we¡¯ll have to, one day, fight in the demon world too?¡± The moment Fang Lang uttered those words, many disciples at the za shifted their gaze onto him. Chao Xiaojian¡¯s white robe and hair fluttered in the wind. He nced at Fang Lang. ¡°You don¡¯t have to worry about the demon world for now. Disciples of the fourth-ss or lower are not qualified to enter the demon world. We won¡¯t send you there on a suicide mission. ¡°In fact, disciples of fourth-ss or lower can¡¯t even survive in the gap between the two worlds, so don¡¯t even talk about killing demons. ¡°Alright, that¡¯s enough talk about the demon world. Let¡¯s talk about your next step in cultivation. ¡°Xiao Lingjian,e and introduce the Sword Guild¡¯s inner sect to these three younglings.¡± Chao Xiaojian beckoned. ¡°Once you¡¯re done with the introduction, bring them into the inner sect and make sure you give them a proper wee. ¡°Our grand champion here has got impressive skills.¡± Chao Xiaojian nced at Fang Lang with an ambiguous look in his eyes. Then, he morphed into a cloud of de energy and vanished into thin air. Chao Xiaojian had other matters to attend to. He needed to figure out how to deal with the foreign geniuses who were about to enter the sect. After Chao Xiaojian vanished, a handsome young man emerged from the crowd of disciples. There was not much of a smile on his face. ¡°I am an inner sect disciple of the Sword Guild, Xiao Lingjian.¡± The man smiled and introduced himself. Having said that, he led Fang Lang and the others across the za where the other disciples resumed their cultivation practice. The magnificence of their des and their youthful energy permeated the za. They ascended the steep peak of the mountain along the ancient bluestone stairs. Xiao Lingjian exined as he walked, ¡°As one of the top ten sects in the empire, the inner sect is split up into four ranks¡ªHeaven, Earth, Dark, Light... ¡°Light is the lowest rank while Heaven is the highest. The quota for the Light rank is eight hundred disciples, three hundred for Dark, one hundred for Earth and thirty for Heaven. Although everyone in the ranks is considered a inner sect disciple, there is a significant difference in the resources allocated. ¡°Of course, there are also those who are not part of any ranks. Usually, those are inner sect disciples who have been practicing cultivation in the Sword Guild for less than a year. ¡°Among which includes disciples recruited from the previous Imperial Examination and outer sect disciples who have passed the inner sect entrance exam. They are all your rivals. After all, there are limited slots in each rank. ¡°After this, you¡¯ll be assigned to mentors who will guide you in cultivation. They will teach you various practice methods and brief you about some rules of the inner sect.¡± Xiao Lingjian expounded. The four of them felt as if they were standing at the top of the stairs to heaven. The unique scenery was constantly changing before their eyes as they gazed at the cloudy sunrise. During the Gathering of Swords, Fang Lang had set foot upon the Sword Guild before. However, he was at the za of Mount Shu most of the time. Moreover, the ce he stayed at was only part of the outer sect. He had never seen the inner sect before. Xiao Lingjian was about to lead them into the inner sect. Just then, the System¡¯s notification sounded in Fang Lang¡¯s head. ¡®Ding! A new environment brings new prospects! Challenge mission unlocked! ¡®Congrattions on making it into the inner sect of the Sword Guild. There¡¯s no need to be humble in the sect! Put an astonished expression on your senior disciples¡¯ faces during the wee party. Fill the Level of Astonishment gauge to one hundred and you shall unlock the ¡®Stats Scanner¡¯ ability. Level of Astonishment (0/100).¡¯ Fang Lang received a new mission. Fang Lang was staggered by the mission¡¯s introduction. A perplexed expression appeared on his face. Level of Astonishment? The System was getting more and more mboyant in its ways. Nheless, Fang Lang¡¯s eyes sparkled with enthusiasm the moment he saw the ¡®Stats Scanner¡¯ reward. ¡®What a useful ability!¡¯ As Fang Lang wasprehending the mission¡¯s requirement, Xiao Lingjian had led the three of them into the inner sect area of the Sword Guild. Pointed tips of jagged rocks prated the clouds, like tips of des rising from below. Strong winds blew at the peak and Fang Lang¡¯s green robe pped noisily. Fang Lang gazed at the horizon and saw there were five peaks in total. The peaks were like five divine swords plunging into the skies. The summit that Fang Lang and the others stood on was the first of the five. Xiao Lingjian smiled and exined, ¡°The Heaven Pavilion stands on the furthest peak, followed by Earth, then Dark. The Light Pavilion is located on the peak closest to us. The summit we are standing on is the Grooming Peak. Inner sect disciples who have not made it into any of the ranks will stay on this summit until they sessfully ovee the challenges and qualify into the ranks. ¡°Getting into the Light Pavilion is not an easy task. You¡¯re wee to take on the challenge, but you might end up in a dreadful state.¡± Xiao Lingjian smiled mischievously. He stood at his spot and pped his hands together. ¡°Everyone,e out and wee the neers.¡± Fang Lang felt his spiritual senses fluctuating wildly. Suddenly, he could hear rustling sounds surrounding them. From afar, disciples dressed in white robes charged toward them with their des in hand. Many were only there to spectate, while others were gearing up to give the neers a warm wee. Their method of ¡®weing¡¯ gave the neers a clear picture of just howpetitive the inner sect disciples were. ¡°I heard the grand champion of the Imperial Examination has decided to join our sect. Rumor has it that the sect will reward additional resources especially for him.¡± ¡°Ha, that¡¯s great! If the champion wants to get those rewards, he¡¯ll have to defeat us first! If he loses, we¡¯ll take half of his resource rewards! Wouldn¡¯t that be amazing!¡± ¡°But if we lose, we¡¯ll have to give him our whole month¡¯s worth of cultivation resources...¡± ¡°Sounds pretty risky.¡± ¡°What are you afraid of? It¡¯s a rare urrence to have a grand champion joining us. Let¡¯s show him a proper wee!¡± ... The disciples¡¯ chatter could be heard from all around. Some of them had their sword box slung across their backs, some were approaching with unsheathed des while others were simply hugging their swords in their arms waiting to spectate. Nheless, all of them had mischievous looks on their faces. Xiao Lingjian turned to Fang Lang and the others and smirked. ¡°ording to the rules of the inner sect, these senior disciples can challenge the neers to a wee battle. If you lose, you¡¯ll have to give them half of the rewards the sect is providing you with. ¡°The purpose of the wee battle is to teach you a lesson of howpetitive the world of cultivation is. Rivalry begins from the moment you set foot into the sect. ¡°The battle is meant to demolish your inherent views. ¡°It¡¯s meant to show you the difference between sects and academies.¡± Xian Lingjian exined. Hearing his words made Liu Bubai and Ni Wen¡¯s expressions change abruptly. They turned serious, feeling pressured and somewhat fearful. Meanwhile, Fang Lang¡¯s whole body quivered. ¡®It¡¯s here! ¡®I can feel it!¡¯ Fang Lang¡¯s eyes twinkled. He was exploding with energy and excitement! Chapter 101 - The New Grand Champion Is a Madman

Chapter 101: The New Grand Champion Is a Madman

Trantor: EndlessFantasy Trantion Editor: EndlessFantasy Trantion Mount Shu, the Sword Guild. Chao Xiaojian sat in the conference hall of the Sword Guild He read through the document ced in front of him. The document had the Emperor¡¯s seal on it. ¡°It appears that the Emperor has decided to use the sects to condition the foreigners. By allowing them to cultivate in our sect, we are supposed to educate them as well. In other words, the Emperor wants the sects to change the mindsets of these foreign geniuses and strengthen their sense of belonging to the Tang Dynasty.¡± Chao Xiaojian said as he put down the document and tapped his finger. The hall was silent. The elders stared at Chao Xiaojian without voicing their opinions. After all, the Emperor¡¯smand had been passed down¡ªeven if they were against it, their words would have no effect on the matter. Besides, the other sects had already agreed to bring in foreign geniuses. How could the Sword Guild be the only one to refuse? ¡°It¡¯s not a big problem to let foreign geniuses join the Sword Guild. In fact, it can add some pressure to those indolent kids in the sect.¡± Chao Xiaojianmented. ¡°One more thing. ¡°Now that the Imperial Examination has ended, this year¡¯s grand champion has decided to join our Sword Guild. You all have heard of him¡ªhe¡¯s the brat who won the Gathering of Swords.¡± Hearing that, the elders of the Sword Guild instantly gasped. ¡°Elder Ji, you shall be the champion¡¯s mentor. He possesses unworldly talents and a mutated core. Your goal is to get him into the fourth ss as soon as possible.¡± Chao Xiaojian turned to the old scarred man in the conference hall. Fang Lang might have recognized the old scarred man if he were there¡ªit was the same man who invigted the tunnel test during the Gathering of Swords. ¡°Alright.¡± The old scarred man remembered Fang Lang. Thus, he did not refuse but cupped his fist with his palm and replied. ¡°In addition to that, I¡¯ve arranged for a man to help you with your task. You all know of this man as well.¡± Chao Xiaojian said smilingly. He raised his hands and pped them together. A soft chuckle instantly sounded from outside the conference hall. A beam of light appeared and morphed into the slender and elegant figure of Wen Ting. Wen Ting arrived with his sword in hand and his palm cupped over his fist. ¡°Greetings, respected elders.¡± ... It had always been a tradition in the Sword Guild for the senior disciples to wee the new disciples. In fact, it was not only the Sword Guild¡ªalmost every sect in the empire had the same practice. After all, disciples who had just left their academies would inevitably retain an academic view of cultivation. Thus, many sects would organize weing events like these to help their disciples grasp the difference between sects and academies. ¡°The senior disciples have rewards to earn in joining activities like this. However, it is not without risk. If a senior loses to a neer, it would prove that their skills are still poor and will likely give their month¡¯s worth of cultivation resources to the winning neer.¡± Grooming Peak, on the battle ring of Mount Shu¡¯s za. Xiao Lingjian turned to Fang Lang and said. ¡°You guys should get used to this. In the sect, you¡¯re not allowed to have private matches or deathmatches. However, if you have beef with someone, you can always challenge them in the battle ring and wager your resources. ¡°You can see this wee battle as a small gamble. If you¡¯re not happy with the results, you can always challenge the seniors who bullied you today to a rematch when you¡¯ve grown stronger. When the timees, they¡¯ll have no right to turn you down.¡± Xiao Lingjian could not help butugh. Many senior disciples surrounding them were also bursting intoughter, indicating that many of them had been in a simr situation as Xiao Lingjian described. That was howpetitive the inner sect was. After all, only throughpetition could they get stronger faster. ¡°Senior, how does thepetition go? ¡°Is it one-on-one?¡± In truth, Fang Lang did not care about that. After bing the grand champion, he had received an abundance of rewards at the White Jade Court. His cultivation abilities had increased at tremendous speed. By then, he was already a ninth-grade sword master, a fifth-grade martial arts master and a fifth-grade spell master. Even Fang Lang himself did not know how strong he was in his current state. Coincidentally, it was a good chance to get used to his new powers by fighting those enthusiastic senior disciples. As for the resources... Fang Lang was not in need of the spirit crystals the Sword Guild provided anyway. ¡°Not one-on-one. Since there are three of you, it¡¯ll be a three-on-three battle.¡± Xian Lingjian said after shaking his head. ¡°Do you guys know about the Qianlong Resource Battle that¡¯sing up in six months? There¡¯ll be a team event during the battle. Since the three of you entered the Sword Guild at the same time, it¡¯ll be very likely that you three will be grouped together for the Qianlong Battle. ¡°This wee battle will also teach you about teamwork and coordination.¡± Xiao Lingjian imed. Fang Lang staggered when he heard that. Liu Bubai and Ni Wen were also confused. ¡°Isn¡¯t everyone in the Sword Guild a sword mastery practitioner? What kind of coordination are you talking about?¡± Fang Lang inquired. Fang Lang had heard about coordination between cultivators before. When he was still in the academy, Mentor Wen had pointed it out in their textbooks. However, most coordinatedbats urred between cultivators of different masteries as it made the team more well-rounded. Xiao Lingjianughed. The senior disciples around them were also grinning. ¡°Who said the Sword Guild only had sword mastery practitioners?¡± ¡°There are many types of sword mastery practitioners¡ªsome focus on speed, some prioritize damage while others specialize in light blows. Additionally, we also have disciples who focus on both sword and spell...¡± ¡°These three are all geniuses of this year¡¯s Imperial Examination. We¡¯ll not be able to take them on in a one-on-one battle, but when ites to coordination, I¡¯m afraid they¡¯ll have no chance of winning even with the grand champion on their side.¡± ... The senior disciples snickered. ¡°The grand champion looks kind of cute, right?¡± said one of the senior female disciples with her hand covering her mouth. Fang Lang fell into silent contemtion after hearing the senior disciple¡¯s words. Xiao Lingjian rified, ¡°In truth, the purpose of coordination within groups is to prepare for future battles in the demon world. The situation in the demon world isplicated, but with coordination techniques, we can increase our chances of survival.¡± Fang Lang, Liu Bubai and Ni Wen all understood his words. ¡°Let¡¯s do this then.¡± Fang Lang announced. Liu Bubai and Ni Wen did not oppose. They had no issue fighting as a team. The three of them hade from Luojiang Academy together¡ªthey believed there must be some tacit understanding between them. In fact, Liu Bubai was relieved to hear that it was a team battle. On the contrary, he was not too confident when it came to a one-on-one duel. Team battle? ¡®Ha! Victory will be ours for sure!¡¯ The disciples moved away from the practice grounds and stood around to spectate. Among them, three senior disciples emerged from the crowd. It was a team of one man and two women. The man had a huge heavy de on his back. One could see every contraction of his muscles, yet on his face was a warm and tender smile. The two women looked pretty ordinary. One of them looked serious and stern while the other appeared like a humbledy with a sword box on her back. ¡°Zhao Dagang, second-year inner sect disciple, first-grade sword wave realm.¡± ¡°Liu Longlong, first-year inner sect disciple, first-grade sword wave realm.¡± ¡°Xue Ying, first-year inner sect disciple, ninth-grade sword master.¡± The three senior disciples nced at Fang Lang and the others then cupped their fists and introduced themselves. Two of them had reached the third-ss sword wave realm while the other was a ninth-grade sword master! As expected of disciples of the ten great sects! Even the disciples who could not get into the four ranks seemed pretty strong. Fang Lang turned serious. He pondered upon the situation for a while then took off his Golden Dragon Armor and handed it to Liu Bubai. ¡°Put it on. Your job is only to protect Little Wen. ¡°She¡¯s a spell master. The casting process will definitely be targeted.¡± Liu Bubai put on the armor with a perplexed expression. ¡®In that case, shouldn¡¯t Ni Wen be wearing this? What¡¯s the use of me wearing it?¡¯ Fang Lang patted Liu Bubai¡¯s shoulder with a profound expression on his face. The three of them moved to the center of the practice grounds and cupped their fists with their palms in respect to their seniors. ¡°Fang Lang, grand champion of the Imperial Examination, fifth-grade martial arts master.¡± ¡°Liu Bubai, ranked fiftieth in the Imperial Examination, second-grade sword master.¡± ¡°Ni Wen, ranked seventy-ninth in the Imperial Examination, second-grade spell master.¡± The three of them reported their true strengths. Their surroundings turned silent. The disciples of the Sword Guild had not been paying attention to that year¡¯s Imperial Examination. They were stunned to hear that the standards of the Imperial Examination had fallen to such a low level. How did a fifth-grade martial arts master be the grand champion? Was the grand champion of the Imperial Examination really... so weak? Even Xiao Lingjian was staggered. He furrowed his brows. ¡®Impossible! There¡¯s no way a mere fifth-grade martial arts master can win the title of champion! ¡®His martial arts mastery must be a facade! ¡®Cheeky bastard! ¡®Being able to reach the fiftieth and seventy-ninth rank might have been luck, but there¡¯s no such thing as bing the grand champion by luck!¡¯ ... On the tallest summit of the Sword Guild, the doors to the conference hall opened. Figures exited the hall one by one. Chao Xiaojian stood on the summit with the elders standing on his left and right. They gazed in the direction of the rowdy practice grounds on the Grooming Peak. ¡°Wee battle?¡± ¡°After another three years, we¡¯ve gotten new disciples again.¡± ¡°The grand champion is among our new recruits, right? It¡¯s been a long time since the Sword Guild got a champion disciple. Hah! I wonder if the neers can win this battle.¡± ¡°The main purpose of the wee battle is to teach them about fighting as a team. If there¡¯s not enough tacit understanding between its members, it¡¯ll be hard for them to win, even with the champion holding the line.¡± The elders were all expressing their thoughts. Chao Xiaojian smiled. A look of anticipation could be seen in his eyes. The Sword Guild had been held down for ten years. Whether the sect could rise up andpete for resources all depended on the brat¡¯s performance. Nevertheless, he was very confident in Fang Lang. The headstrong little brat had surprised him too many times. On the side, Wen Ting was holding his de in his arms while sipping wolfberry tea from his gourd canteen. ¡°That¡¯s a poor choice of disciples for the wee battle. If Fang Lang, that brat, decides to be a little harsh on them, the three will be quashed.¡± Wen Ting said after drinking a gulp of wolfberry tea. The elders around him all turned to him. ¡°You don¡¯t believe me?¡± Wen Ting swallowed the wolfberry on his tongue. ¡°Just wait and see.¡± ... ¡°Start! Start!¡± Fang Lang roared as he shed his fists together. Blood and energy surged through his body. His actions screamed, ¡®I am a strong martial arts master!¡¯ Across them, the three senior disciples were getting into formation. Zhao Dagang stood at the front with his heavy de held sideways like a shield. de energy oozed out from his de, filling the air with tension. It seemed as if even the whistling wind was scared away by the aura he emitted. Liu Longlong held a de in her hand and positioned her slender body in front of Xue Ying. Xue Ying opened her sword box to reveal countless miniature daggers the size of fingers. ¡°Careful. Martial arts is definitely not his main mastery. I saw calluses on his palms. Be wary of his sword.¡± Xue Ying¡¯s voice was soft and gentle. ¡°Dagang, you take on the champion. I¡¯ll assist you. Longlong, find a way to disable their spell master, thene to help Dagang.¡± ¡°Understood.¡± Zhao Dagang and Xue Ying replied solemnly. They did not let their guard down despite their opponents being neers. It was an essential lesson to learn in the sect¡ªnever underestimate any opponent. One should always be vignt, otherwise, there was no way they could in the demon world! Boom! Even the clouds above them were starting to morph the moment the three senior disciples made their moves. It felt as if thick, looming clouds were gathering above them, creating intense pressure on the practice grounds. The crowd went silent. The senior disciples, who wereughing just a second ago, watched the battle on the practice grounds quietly. They watched with seriousness and sobriety, showing the fighters ample respect. They were all once neers to the sect. Thus, they understood the need for this battle. It was a battle that would help them assimte into the sect. Across them... Fang Lang¡¯s expression changed. For the first time, he had a stern look in his eyes. Winning this wee battle might not be as easy as he had imagined. The looming tension in the air made every cell in his body tremble¡ªtrembled in excitement, that is. Beside him, Liu Bubai and Ni Wen were both ashen-faced. They felt as if a giant stone was weighing down their chests. ¡°Little Wen, amass your runes as quickly as you can! Prepare to cast the one with the greatest destructive power!¡± Fang Langmanded in a serious tone. He had automatically assumed themanding role. ¡®It¡¯s such a shame that Old Jiang isn¡¯t here... If she was, we¡¯ll have nothing to worry about in the match. ¡®Old Liu is still... sigh...¡¯ ¡°Let¡¯s not embarrass ourselves in our first battle in the sect,¡± Fang Lang said. ¡°Will you fight with me?¡± Fang Lang stomped his foot and raised his fists, assuming a fighting stance. The aura he exuded cut through Zhao Dagang and the others¡¯ aura like knife cutting through water! ¡°Yes!¡± Ni Wen and Liu Bubai were both riled up. Their eyes were stern. The spectating senior disciples were staggered. They could not believe the boy could so effortlessly break through the pressure that Zhao Dagang and his team created! ¡®That champion... really is something!¡¯ ¡°I apologize in advance, my juniors.¡± Zhao Dagnag roared in his low and hoarse voice. He charged his burly body forward without retaining his cultivation. Fang Lang was his first target. He swung his crushing heavy de abruptly. It was as if he had hurled an entire mountain at Fang Lang! A huge gush of howling wind tore through the practice grounds! While Zhao Dagang was making the first move, Xue Ying activated her spiritual sense and mumbled some words with a faint smile on her face. Then, she ced her hands in front of her body and started making spell-casting gestures. Liu Longlong sprinted forward with her long legs. She leaned her graceful body forward and charged toward Ni Wen at lightning speed! At that moment, she only had Ni Wen in her eyes! Everyone knew the opponents¡¯ spell master should be taken down first! The battle broke out instantly! Faced with Zhao Dagang¡¯s heavy de, Fang Lang did not hesitate to use his Splitting Punch! The moment his fist collided with the de, the look in Fang Lang¡¯s eyes changed abruptly. His other hand clutched tightly onto the hilt of the Obsidian Sword tucked away in his sword box! Sword Draw Technique! He drew his sword from its box with the intimidation of thunder! The de energy in his energy center surged. In that instant, a pitch-ck slit seemed to have opened up in the air! ng! A crisp ringing sound was made. Zhao Dagang felt his hands going numb. His heavy de felt like it was about to be knocked out of his hands! ¡°Ninth-grade sword master and fifth-grade martial arts master?!¡± ¡®Impressive... ¡®Dual mastery!¡¯ Zhao Dagang stared at the boy who overpowered his heavy de. ¡®As expected of the grand champion! ¡®He¡¯s got the vibe!¡¯ ¡°Dagang, use your full force.¡± Xue Ying¡¯s tender voice sounded from behind him. In an instant, Zhao Dagang¡¯s eyes turned bloodshot and his muscles bulged up. He darted toward Fang Lang with his heavy de clutched in both hands, leaving him wide open. He swung his de and it crashed down like a colossal wave! Zhao Dagang charged at Fang Lang as if he was prepared to sacrifice his own life to take out Fang Lang. Fang Lang only needed to thrust his de to puncture the senior¡¯s chest! Suddenly, Fang Lang felt his chest tightened. A tiny dagger encapsted in spiritual sense was flying toward him from the side! Xue Ying stood with one leg on the ground and crossed the other, making her seem as if she was sitting on air. Her sword box sat in herp. As if strumming an instrument, Xue Ying sent out her daggers one after another. The daggers made ringing sounds as they flew out of the box. ¡°Sword Guild¡¯s sword and spell technique!¡± Xue Ying¡¯s tender voice sounded. Unexpectedly, her daggers exploded just an inch away from Fang Lang¡¯s body! The de energy incorporated in the daggers¡¯ spell bombarded Fang Lang. Fang Lang hurriedly drew his Blooming Lotus Sword and sliced the air to dispel the waves of de energy. While Fang Lang was busy with the explosions, Zhao Dagang took the chance to strike from above with his heavy de! The coordination between those two was impable! Fang Lang raised both swords to block his heavy de. However, he was pushed back by the force of the impact, leaving two deep rifts on the floor of the practice grounds! Meanwhile, Liu Longlong was getting closer to Ni Wen. Liu Bubai tried to stop her with his sword, yet one of Xue Ying¡¯s magic daggers came straight at him! Xue Ying was like the mastermind who was controlling the entire battle. She was assisting Zhao Dagang in subduing Fang Lang while holding Ni Wen and Liu Bubai down at the same time. Bang! The spell on the dagger exploded. It tore Liu Bubai¡¯s green robe, revealing the Golden Dragon Armor underneath. Liu Longlong thrusted her sword. With bloodshot eyes, Liu Bubai blocked the attack with his body! Her sword sent Liu Bubai flying! Even so, he mbered up quickly. The Golden Dragon Armor remained unscathed. Liu Bubai was overjoyed. He could endure more! ¡°Come at me! Come! Hit me!¡± Liu Longlong¡¯s expression darkened. The Golden Dragon Armor was a champion¡¯s armor. The defense it provided was incredible, making it difficult for her to harm Liu Bubai. Xue Ying frowned from afar. She slowly picked up another dagger from her box. Her spiritual sense was being drained. Her face was starting to turn pale. Nheless, her dagger tore through the air in a curved path and headed straight for Ni Wen. Seeing this, Liu Bubai stabbed his sword to the ground, bent it and used it to propel his body forward. ¡°I¡¯ll block it!¡± ng! Liu Bubai took the dagger with his body. This time, he was not sent flying, yet the force he felt through the armor made him clench his teeth in pain. Ultimately, he was able to block it. Meanwhile, Fang Lang unleashed his Spirit Step and leaped off the ground at an angle as if he was long jumping. Zhao Dagang swung his de toward him. Fang Lang¡¯s spiritual sense tingled. Immediately, he sent out his Spirit Awl. While Zhao Dagang was stunned, Fang Lang swung the de in his hand. A lotus blossom of de energy exploded instantly! It encapsted Zhao Dagang! The de energy waves in Zhao Dagang¡¯s body spiralled. He stabbed his heavy de into the ground in an effort to shield himself from the fatal Lotus de technique. He was bleeding from all orifices, yet he remained unmoving like a rock. Fang Lang retracted his de and sheathed both his Blooming Lotus Sword and his Obsidian Sword. He ignored Zhao Dagang, who was resisting his de energy. He raised his arms and activated his Frost Bow technique. He shot arrows after arrows. His target was Xue Ying! ¡®The grand champion is also a spell master! ¡®Triple mastery! ¡®A monster! ¡®He truly is a monster!¡¯ ¡°Longlong!¡± Xue Ying¡¯s expression changed. Her spiritual sense was exhausted after sending out multiple sword and spell attacks. She yelled for her teammates to switch to defense. ¡°Little Wen, get her!¡± Fang Lang shouted as he fired the ice arrows and advanced. Under the protection of Liu Bubai¡¯s body shield, Ni Wen had finally amassed her runes! ¡°Thunder Strike!¡± A significant portion of Ni Wen¡¯s spiritual sense was exhausted in an instant. In the sky above the practice grounds, gray clouds collected. A magic circle appeared in the sky. Countless bolts of thunder rained down and struck Liu Longlong. Liu Longlong could do nothing but block with her sword. In an instant, she was struck by innumerable bolts of thunder. Thunder Strike was the most destructive spell a second-ss spell master could master! It consumed a great amount of time and spiritual sense, so it was not suited for individualbat. Nheless, Liu Bubai bought enough time for Ni Wen to cast the spell! Stter! Both of Xue Ying¡¯s shoulders were pierced by Fangng¡¯s arrows. Blood spewed out. Huff! Just then, Xiao Lingjian¡¯s blurry figure appeared on the practice grounds. He raised his arm and caught the Ice Bow arrow that Fang Lang shot out. In a helpless tone, he dered, ¡°Junior Fang, you guys win.¡± A loudmotion broke out around them. The senior disciples were put in their ce by the juniors! Nevertheless, Fang Lang did not bat an eye at them. He summoned the System in his mind. Fang Lang gazed at the System notification that appeared before his eyes. ¡®Challenge mission. Level of Astonishment (60/100)¡¯ ¡®It¡¯s not enough!¡¯ Fang Lang eximed in his mind. ¡®These seniors sure have a high standard for entertainment.¡¯ Fang Lang scrunched his brows together. ¡®I have already crushed the team of senior disciples, yet they still aren¡¯t surprised enough? ¡®Fine, I¡¯ll put on another show then!¡¯ Fang Lang¡¯s green robe pped loudly in the wind. He raised his arms and aimed his Ice Bow at the peak of the Light Pavilion. He drew his bowstring to the furthest point and released! A beam of ice blue light shot straight toward the Light Pavilion that stood in the distance! ¡°I, Fang Lang, grand champion of the Imperial Examination and new disciple of the inner sect, wish to ascend the Light Pavilion¡¯s peak and gaze at the scenery above. ¡°Seniors of the Light Pavilion... ¡°Do you dare fight me?¡± The moment he said that... All the senior disciples on the Grooming Peak turned silent. ¡®The new grand champion is a madman!¡¯ Chapter 102 - Entering the Light Pavilion with Blade Thunder

Chapter 102: Entering the Light Pavilion with de Thunder

Trantor: EndlessFantasy Trantion Editor: EndlessFantasy Trantion ¡°Dare to fight me?¡± The voice echoed through the mist-shrouded mountain peaks. Between the precipitous mountains, the moving sea of clouds seemed to freeze after hearing Fang Lang¡¯s bellow. The disciples of the Sword Guild who were still shocked by Zhao Dagang¡¯s loss in the wee battle were stunned by Fang Lang¡¯s question. Everybody turned their gaze to the boy in green. The arrow to the Light Pavilion sent chills down their spine. Wild! The grand champion was such an inspiration! This was his first day in the inner sect of the Sword Guild and he immediately challenged the Light Pavilion. He intended to challenge the top disciple of the guild. The disciples in the pavilion were extremely strong and talented as all of them had to win battles in order to earn a seat in the Light Pavilion. There were 800 spots in the Light Pavilion, open to disciples whose cultivation was below the fourth ss. Therefore, most disciples there were of the third ss sword wave realm. The next rank, Dark Pavilion, would only be eligible for those within the lower fourth ss realm. The Earth Pavilion and Heaven Pavilion housed disciples within the upper fourth ss realm. Therefore, when Fang Lang defeated Zhao Dagang¡¯s team on Mount Shu and challenged the Light Pavilion, they were astounded. He was like a newborn calf who was unafraid of the tiger! Swoosh! The sea of clouds split open when the blue ice arrow was released from the frost bow! The blue sky appeared as an overflowingke that overtook the clouds between the mountain peaks. The Light Pavilion stood calmly on the peak of a steep mountain. Suddenly, the reflected light of the de exploded from the pavilion like fireworks as the light-rank disciples flew out of the pavilion. They were not traveling on a flight sword. Instead, they were using their energy to fly their own sword. This was the flying sword technique in sword mastery! The Sword Guild forbade the use of flight swords within Mount Shu. Therefore, they had to use de energy to fly themselves. The light-rank disciples emerged from the pavilion like de deities, flying through the air with a brilliant sword circling them. Boom! A cascade of sword waves descended like a steep waterfall, drowning the ice arrow Fang Lang released. ¡°The new grand champion chose the Sword Guild and challenged the pavilion. How interesting.¡± ¡°He has the aura of a champion, impressive.¡± ¡°The champion several years ago, Deng Yuangang who entered the Sword Guild didn¡¯t challenge the pavilion on his first day in the inner sect. What a brave man!¡± ... There were 300 disciples who emerged from the pavilion. They stared with amusement at the green-robed boy who was standing across the sea of clouds. The boy still had his bow pointed to the sky atop the Grooming Peak. These light-rank disciples had more admiration than anger. A sword master should be brave and fearless. Fang Lang put down his frost bow and bowed at his light-rank seniors. ¡°Dear brothers and sisters, can I challenge the Light Pavilion today?¡± Xiao Lingjian regained his senses and asked in an odd expression, ¡°You¡¯re serious about it?¡± ¡°Of course.¡± Fang Lang nodded seriously. ¡°In your first challenge, you need to defeat ten disciples of the lowest rank among the eight hundred light-rank disciples. When you sessfully enter the light rank, you can then challenge for a higher ranking,¡± Xiao Lingjian exined immediately, his eyes sparkling in astonishment. Was he a newborn calf? No... he was just extremely confident in himself. Xiao Lingjian was aware of Fang Lang¡¯s skills when he witnessed how he destroyed Xue Ying and Zhao Dagang. Evidently, Fang Lang had more to show. Before Xiao Lingjian could exin further, a handsome, charming guy from the Light Pavilion smiled warmly and said, ¡°Brother Fang, if you insist, you¡¯ll be fighting against me. Thest nine disciples went to the demon portal tunnel to cultivate their wave energy. Let¡¯s see how strong this cohort¡¯s champion is!¡± The man chuckled as a surge of wave energy rippled in his chest. He was surrounded by de energy when his sword flew out. He followed the moving weapon. He was the epitome of finesse in a sword master. ¡°This is the 799th disciple of the Light Pavilion, Zhao Yu. He has hidden wave energy in thirty-six orifices, second-grade sword wave realm. He¡¯s extremely gifted and entered the inner sect one and a half years ago.¡± Xiao Lingjian introduced the disciple to Fang Lang. Fang Lang heightened his senses. If Fang Lang lost this match, not only would he fail the mission, he would make a fool of himself. The shame would linger around him the whole time he stayed in the Sword Guild to cultivate. ... On the peak of Mount Shu, Chao Xiaojian burst out inughter when he heard Fang Lang challenged a Light Pavilion disciple. ¡°This is so typical of him. He was bold enough to leave his name on the honor roll when he was just a sixth-grade sword disciple. Now, he just joined the Sword Guild and already shot an arrow to the pavilion. I admire his nerves of steel.¡± Most of the elders stared at each other for a long while before theyughed bitterly and shook their heads. ¡°What a valorous champion.¡± ¡°The 799th Light Pavilion disciple, Zhao Yu has incredible skills. He has hidden wave energy in thirty-six orifices. His sword techniques and single bursts are beyondparison to what Zhao Dagang has.¡± ¡°The champion is only a ninth-grade sword master. He will be destroyed.¡± ¡°Even though the grand champion is a genius, Zhao Yu is no ordinary man. This is a battle between different ranks, it¡¯s going to be difficult for him.¡± The elders did not have an optimistic outlook. Elder Ji¡¯s scar moved as he said, ¡°I bet the kid¡¯s going to win. It¡¯s a no-brainer to choose the one who pulled out Sect Leader Taihua¡¯s Blooming Lotus Sword.¡± The other elders grew even more conflicted. ... The venue of the challenge was on a floating ind between the Light Pavilion and Grooming Peak. The floating ind took the form of an inverted cone. The circr base emerged from the sea of clouds, with a radius of more than 1,000 meters. The entire ind was covered in lush green. Duels among the disciples of the pavilion often took ce here. Those who wanted to challenge the pavilion disciple would first need to reach the floating ind. With the ban on flight swords by the Sword Guild, one would need to fill their chest with de energy and fly with their swords. Fang Lang would never break the rule set by the Sword Guild. Even though he did not know any flying sword techniques, he did not conjure the Meteor Flight Sword. He had something else in mind. He started running... Then, the frost bow appeared in his hand once more, he retrieved eight ice arrows and shot them out like an arrow rain. Fang Lang coiled his body like a spring and leaped from the edge of the Grooming Peak. His body sprung in the air and he stepped onto the first arrow that was free falling. His body was instantly charged with vital energy and he flew forward as the ice arrow exploded from his strength, shattering into countless crystals in the air. Fang Lang rode the st and flew forward by several meters. When the second arrow started to fall, Fang Lang repeated the same movements. The eight arrows fell consecutively like eight hailstones in a cold spell in spring. Fang Lang stepped through the air like he was walking on a t in. His green robe fluttered in the air like deities flying through the sea of clouds. Among the uproar of the surrounding crowds, he finallynded on the floating ind! On the Grooming Peak, most of the old disciples gasped. Fang Lang¡¯s actions had left them speechless. The only sounds that came out of their mouths were gasps of amazement and some vulgarities. Liu Bubai¡¯s lips curved slightly when he saw what happened. ¡®Lang¡¯zi¡¯s showing off again.¡± He then raised his chin as if he was basking in secondhand glory. Ni Wen pressed her lips as she gazed happily. Fang Lang¡¯s flight on the eight arrows was a brilliant spectacle. Contrary to everyone¡¯s belief, the acrobatic stunt was not intentional. This was the only way he could fly over the sea of clouds. On the floating ind, Zhao Yu was dressed in white. Hended with his sword. He spat a mouthful of de energy that sliced through three feet of air. He looked at Fang Lang smilingly. ¡°Champion, your bravery is admirable. I¡¯ll let you lose with dignity.¡± Zhao Yu held the hovering sword and pointed the tip of the de on the ground, the de energy that spurted out decimated a patch of grass. ¡°Zhao Yu, Light Pavilion, second-grade sword wave,¡± the boy announced casually. Even though he was impressed by Fang Lang¡¯s challenge, he had no intention to lose. After all, it was not easy for him to enter the inner sect from the outer sect and gain a ce in the Light Pavilion. He would not give all that up without a fight. Fang Lang held the handle of the Obsidian Sword and lowered his eyes slightly. ¡°Fang Lang, ninth-grade sword master.¡± ¡°Let¡¯s begin.¡± Boom! Right after they exchanged greetings, Fang Lang made a move. He had to quickly secure an upper hand since his cultivation level was weaker than Zhao Yu. Fang Lang had met a third-ss cultivator twice, one was a foreign general in the Imperial Examination, but he was just an ordinary third-ss martial arts master, blood-bending realm. The other was Zhao Dagang. However, they were both in the first-grade. Zhao Yu was in the second-grade with hidden wave energy in thirty-six orifices. Zhao Dagang was iparable to him! Fang Lang took a few steps forward gently¡ªhe chose to close the distance between them. Several sharp gusts of de energy charged at Zhao Yu as Fang Lang used his Spirit Step. Zhao Yu flicked his sword gently and casually sliced through the de energy. Fang Lang leaped forward and the Obsidian Sword darted out the sword box with an audible crack. Single-handed Sword Draw Technique! Fang Lang¡¯s brooding eyes gradually brightened when he switched to binding partner mode. His vital energy erupted and his fifth-grade martial arts master enhanced the Sword Draw Technique! ¡°Rampage!¡± ¡°Spirit Eyes!¡± Fang Lang yelled and activated both bloodline abilities. Instantly, a gold shimmer shed across Fang Lang and Spirit Awl was cast! Under Rampage, Fang Lang¡¯s vital energy amplified and so did his strength! The power of the Sword Draw Technique was taken to the next level. Rip! It was as if the atmosphere was ripped apart like old rags by Fang Lang¡¯s sword. The Sword Draw Technique from the Obsidian Sword shot out like a stupendous ck waterfall. Zhao Yu¡¯s spiritual sense dispersed after he was hit by the Spirit Awl. When he regained his senses, he immediately whirled his sword to block Fang Lang¡¯s attack! Zhao Yu instantly tightened his guard against Fang Lang. Even though the champion looked rather young, he seemed to be very seasoned in battles andpetent in sword mastery. Both swords collided, sparks exploded when the de energy and wave energy shed! Fang Lang felt as if he was mmed into a thick wall¡ªhis de could not move further! Zhao Yu¡¯s loose locks fluttered. Blood seeped through the front of his white robe that was ripped by Fang Lang¡¯s de energy. ¡°Great move, champion!¡± Zhao Yu roared. An orifice appeared on his hand and in it was the hidden wave energy! Bang! Bang! Bang! A surge of energy rushed out of Zhao Yu like a fierce current. Fang Lang felt as if he was going to be swept away! Fang Lang made a flower-picking buddha gesture with his hands and casted Finger Flick Energy Wave! Dong! Fang Lang flew backward, digging two trenches beneath his legs. Blood dripped from his fingertips after he blocked the de wave that nearly damaged his arm. Zhao Yu gasped for air, a sh of fear emerged in his eyes. He almost went down! All thirty-six orifices were filled with his de wave, as if lightning rose from the ground and rippled through the air. A shadow split from Zhao Yu¡¯s stationary body and charged towards Fang Lang with his de! Zhao Yu was aware he was not aspetent as Fang Lang in sword techniques but his de wave was more powerful. This was the difference of realms! His power could make up for ten techniques. He decided to use his energy to overpower Fang Lang! Pang! Pang! Pang! Zhao Yu¡¯s attacks came bashing down like a heavy downpour. His de wave was intense and much more powerful than a sword master¡¯s de energy. Fresh mud sttered from the ground of the floating ind. Zhao Yu was shocked that they were both on equal footing. He found Fang Lang¡¯s de energy was more forceful and resilient than an ordinary sword master. ¡°Practice methods! You used the sword mastery practice methods to cultivate the de energy! That¡¯s why it¡¯s so strong!¡± After Zhao Yu¡¯s realization, he immediately used his ultimate attack, Thunder Strike. He drew a circle in front of his body with his long de and projected ake of shimmering de energy. ¡°I¡¯ll use my de wave to form a deke.¡± Zhao Yu stabbed his sword forward with a serious look. The energy exuded instantly filled theke. Zhao Yu was no doubt a genius. After all, he managed to gain a seat in the Light Pavilion. His deke was quite borated, countless de energy and de waves darted out like a hugeke of water! Incredible! Fang Lang eximed. As a ninth-grade sword master, It was rather difficult to challenge a genius in the sword wave realm. However... Fang Lang took a step back, the Obsidian Sword and Blooming Lotus Sword were returned to the sheath and the Champion¡¯s de emerged. This high quality sword was given by the Emperor¡ªit was extremely light and highly conductive for de energy and spiritual sense. Fang Lang thought of using this de for his final attack to end this battle. Fang Lang tip-toed and moved his hands like a Taichi practitioner before the de wave. Suddenly, righteous energy rose from the ground and gathered around his body like a white python. The white python hissed at the swordke and collided with it, shattering into pieces. The interference only made the deke halt for a moment. Fang Lang closed his eyes. Under the enhancement of Spirit Eyes, the spiritual sense of a fifth-grade spell master was drained again and again! Fang Lang¡¯s green robe started fluttering without the wind. ¡°Minor Forbidden Spell: Sword Thunder!¡± ... The city was on the brink of destruction. Thunder dragons moved within the dark clouds. The youth sat at the top of the tower cross-legged as he bathed in the storm and appreciated the rolling thunder. The Champion¡¯s deid on his thighs. He closed his eyes and gestured his hand into a flower-picking position. Then, he lowered his hand and in a swift movement, he plucked something off the ground like an angry buddha. A fierce thunder struck from the dark clouds. The Champion¡¯s de channeled the thunder and sent sparks flying to the surrounding area. Day after day, year after year. ... Boom! The sea of clouds started rolling as thunder struck the ground! On the floating ind, Zhao Yu was astonished when he saw bolts of thunder begin to appear around Fang Lang. The thunderbolts linked together and gathered on an azure blue sword which came charging towards him. The sword sliced through the deke. If the thunderbolt did not fade, the sword would impale Zhao Yu to the ground. He managed to block the attack by positioning his sword horizontally to his chest. The sword shattered in the process. He was sent flying for 30 meters, dragging up dirt from the floor. His chest was badly mangled and blood sprayed out from his mouth. The battle was over. There was only dead silence. All the disciples from the Light Pavilion and those standing on the Grooming Peak were stunned. The thunderbolt was imprinted in their eyes. After a long while, Xue Ying who had her shoulder pierced through by Fang Lang pointed ahead and covered her mouth with her trembling hand, ¡°Swordcraft! This is true swordcraft!¡± Chapter 103 - A Man Who’s Temporarily Out of Your League

Chapter 103: A Man Who¡¯s Temporarily Out of Your League

Trantor: EndlessFantasy Trantion Editor: EndlessFantasy Trantion Silence! Silence filled the sea of clouds, drowning the shocking gasps of others. The power of the thunderbolt sword blinded everyone¡¯s eyes for a moment¡ªit might have been able to cut through the sea of clouds and the earth. How did this fresh graduate from the Imperial Examination manage to get his hands on such powerful and lethal techniques? The 799th disciple of the Light Pavilion, Zhao Yu, had lost! He copsed on the ground, leaving puddles of blood on the floating ind. He stared at the ever-changing sky and fell into deep thought. Zhao Yu did not expect to lose the battle. After all, Fang Lang challenged the Light Pavilion right after he entered the Sword Guild. It would be a miracle to win a battle against a cultivator who was a ss ahead without improving one¡¯s cultivation experience. However, Zhao Yu lost. Zhao Yu was also a genius. He made it to the top 300 in the Imperial Examination. Although he started out from the outer sect of the Sword Guild, he slowly climbed his way into the inner sect and earned a ce in the pavilion, proving his talents. Nevertheless, he still lost. Zhao Yu struggled to get back on his feet. He took a pill and his wounds started to heal quickly. With aplicated expression, he watched the cross-legged Fang Lang in awe. That sword was just... magnificent. It was like thunder that struck through miles of rivers and mountains, upending the sky. He failed to block the blow. ¡°Unfortunately, your cultivation is still weak. If you were stronger, that attack would turn the world upside down,¡± Zhao Yumented after spitting out a stale breath. ¡°You really are the grand champion. You¡¯ve won.¡± Zhao Yu admitted willingly. He epted his fate. Victories and losses weremon in the Light Pavilion. Of course, since Zhao Yu was ced at 799, he would still remain in the Light Pavilion as the 800th disciple. To the 800th disciple, Zhao Yu could only say that it was not his intention to meet such a strong opponent. Fang Lang opened his eyes. His face was pale white. He had spent too much spiritual sense on the minor forbidden spell. He should not cast thest attack with his full strength. He had activated the Spirit Eyes ability and hurled strong currents of spiritual sense to go with the move. Nheless, Fang Lang was d this attack could be used as his ultimate killing technique. The power of the minor forbidden spell was slightly stronger than the Secret Technique: Lotus de. Fang Lang kept the Champion¡¯s de and folded his hands together to bow. ¡°Brother Zhao, forgive me if I have offended you,¡± Fang Lang said. Zhao Yu waved his hand and said with a strange look, ¡°Champion, there¡¯s no need to apologize. The seats in the pavilion goes to the one who¡¯s stronger. I won¡¯t be able to sit in peace if I were ranked higher than you. Cultivation is apetitive journey. We¡¯ll be relying on you for the Qianlong Resource Battle, champion. The Sword Guild¡¯s ranking keeps decreasing over the years after Sect Leader Taihua¡¯s disappearance and we¡¯ve lost many times in the resource battle. The Ministry of Rites deducted most of our cultivation resources. Perhaps, we¡¯ll stand a chance in this year¡¯s battle,¡± Zhao Yu said with a smile. Fang Lang nodded. ¡°I¡¯ll try my best.¡± Zhao Yu stopped talking. Even though he had lost the challenge, he did not take it negatively. He channeled a surge of de energy to his chest and retrieved a sword from his space ring to fly back to the pavilion. In the Light Pavilion, most of the brothers and sisters from the Sword Guild that were observing their challenge smiled kindly at Zhao Yu. Zhao Yu was unaffected as hended in front of the pavilion and let out a dry chuckle. ¡°What a shame, what a shame.¡± Fang Lang stood on the floating ind with his eyes closed, giving others the impression that he was resting. When in reality, he was checking his rewards. ¡®Ding! Challenge Mission aplished. New skill ¡®Stats Scanner¡¯ unlocked. ¡®Ding! The hostpleted a battle with binding partner, Ni Wen, triggering the passive ability. A meaningful exchange regarding cultivation was performed. Awarded with Grade-Rush Card. ¡®Ding! The hostpleted a battle with binding partner, Liu Bubai, triggering the passive ability. A meaningful exchange regarding cultivation was performed. Awarded with 3X Physical Buff Card.¡¯ The System¡¯s notification kept emerging. Fang Lang felt rejuvenated. He received two cards but Fang Lang was more interested in the Stats Scanner skill. Fang Lang did not hurry to the Light Pavilion. Instead, he used the same method to return to the Grooming Peak, attracting all the others¡¯ gaze on him. Xiao Lingjian had an impressed grin on his face. ¡°Who knew you¡¯d win a seat in the pavilion on your first day in the Sword Guild. No wonder you¡¯re the grand champion, Brother Fang. We¡¯ll be neighbors from now onwards. Light Pavilion, 261th ce.¡± Fang Lang was shocked to find out that Xiao Lingjian was also a Light Pavilion disciple. He stared at Xiao Lingjian and activated the Stats Scanner. ... Age: 18 Cultivation: Seventh-Grade Sword Wave (Third ss) Core: 89 (Yellow) Introduction: Socialite of the Sword Guild¡¯s inner sect ... Xiao Lingjian¡¯s information appeared in front of Fang Lang in the blink of an eye. However, there were only four categories. This skill was rather disappointing. However, Fang Lang¡¯s eyes lit up shortly after. Disappointing? Not at all! Fang Lang¡¯s greatest worry was he could not check the core of other geniuses. In order to bind to other geniuses, he had to rely on his own judgement as if he was trying to win a jackpot. With this skill, Fang Lang would not face this trouble ever again. Fang Lang looked around to find Xue Ying, an excited expression on his face. He checked her core and found that it was yellow with 8 points¡ªit was lower than Liu Bubai. The only disappointment was that the Stats Scanner did not show the name of the subject. Fang Lang would need their name in order to proceed with the binding. Nheless, this skill made Fang Lang¡¯s life much easier. He raised his head to look across the sea of clouds. The four pavilions sat on top of the four mountain peaks. Countless geniuses resided above those clouds. Fang Lang would definitely thrive in this ce. Swoosh! Swoosh! Swoosh! The sounds reverberated through the sky. Several figures flew from the other end of the sea of clouds. Their flying swords sliced through the clouds andnded on the Grooming Peak. The disciples gasped and bowed. ¡°Vice Leader.¡± Chao Xiaojian nodded lightly and looked towards Fang Lang. ¡°Not bad, kid. I hope you¡¯ll maintain this performance until the Qianlong Resource Battle,¡± Chao Xiaojian said with a smile. Fang Lang bowed and activated the Stats Scanner. ... Age: 68 Cultivation: ??? Core: 89 (Starry) Introduction: A man who¡¯s temporarily out of your league ... Fang Lang was stunned. Xiaojian was 68 years old! He was an old man! Fang Lang was not surprised the cultivation category came up unknown¡ªhis cultivation was simply too low. Chao Xiaojian¡¯s core blinded Fang Lang¡¯s eyes. Starry core! Fang Lang felt slightly offended after reading the introduction. Chao Xiaojian raised his eyebrow. He felt an odd sense that he was being spied on¡ªhis guard was up. He lifted his head and scanned the surroundings. ¡®Is someone spying on the Sword Guild?¡¯ The feeling faded quickly but it still bothered Chao Xiaojian. With the previous sect leader¡¯s disappearance, many old folks were eyeing the Sword Guild. He had been taking on the responsibility since then and the weight on his shoulders was considerably heavy. ¡°You three justpleted a group battle. How do you guys feel? The battles within the demon portal will most likely be in groups. You need to take care of each other as a group,¡± Chao Xiaojian said and turned to look at Fang Lang with an unusual expression. ¡°The form of yourst attack was simr to swordcraft, even though it was a prototype... The idea of merging the thunder spell into sword mastery was a stroke of genius! How did you manage to find the bncing point between the two?¡± Fang Lang chuckled. The Sword Thunder looked as if he had merged a Thunder Strike with sword mastery when actually he activated the minor forbidden spell. He was still not aspetent in spell mastery. If his cultivation level improved in the future, the lethality of this technique would be amplified much more with the use of the real forbidden spell. Chao Xiaojian made a few announcements and arranged for Ni Wen to cultivate in the Swordcraft Pavilion. The Swordcraft Pavilion was an individual pavilion in the Sword Guild, which was not included in the four ranks. It was a ce to research swordcraft. Chao Xiaojian told Fang Lang to visit the Swordcraft Pavilion whenever he can. ¡°Let me introduce your mentor.¡± Chao Xiaojian gave way to an old scarred man with a cold and fierce expression. ¡°This is Elder Ji Mo. He¡¯ll be in charge of your cultivation guidance.¡± Wen Ting also walked out with a warm smile. ¡°I don¡¯t need to introduce him, you guys have met him before,¡± Chao Xiaojian said. Fang Lang, Liu Bubai and Ni Wen called out in surprise, ¡°Master Wen!¡± Wen Ting was holding back his grin. He was experiencing all sorts of emotions after reuniting with these kids. ¡°Wen TIng will be assisting Elder Ji to guide you on cultivation. For some reason, they may be bringing forward the Qianlong Resource Battle. You guys should start preparing and work hard on cultivation. If you perform well, there will be abundant cultivation resources rewarded. Cultivation is an arduous journey. I¡¯ll be waiting for you guys on the top of the mountain.¡± Chao Xiaojianughed and flew off into the horizon on his sword. The disciples around them also left. The wee battle officially ended. More importantly, most of them were intimidated by the skill level of this year¡¯s new intake. The old disciples were stressed by the strength of the neers. Elder Ji and Wen Ting walked in the front while Fang Lang, Liu Bubai and Ni Wen followed behind. Fang Lang secretly checked for Wen Ting¡¯s information. ... Age: 28 Cultivation: Ninth-Grade Sword Intent (Fourth ss) Core: 89 (Gold) Introduction: Don¡¯t be fooled by his weak cultivation. He is an expert in swords. ... Fang Lang raised his eyebrow. Mentor Wen was only in the fourth-ss sword intent realm? Fang Lang was almost catching up to his mentor¡ªthe ninth-grade sword master was not too far off from the sword intent realm. However, Fang Lang had a feeling that Mentor Wen¡¯s skills were far beyond the fourth-ss sword intent realm. He then turned to look at Elder Ji. However, before he could investigate Elder Ji, he sensed a strong, icy aura from the old man. ¡°You think you¡¯re so great after winning against Zhao Yu?¡± Fang Lang, Liu Bubai and Ni Wen stopped in ce and stared at Elder Ji in shock. ¡°It¡¯s understandable for Ni Wen as she¡¯s cultivating sword craft. But you, Fang Lang, as the grand champion, there¡¯s nothing to gloat about for winning against Zhao Yu who¡¯s ranked at the bottom of the Light Pavilion. You should count your blessings that you¡¯ve won. If you¡¯d lost the challenge, you¡¯d be receiving punishment from me!¡± Elder Ji said with both hands at his back. Wen Ting stood aside and watched the exchange with a smile. Elder Ji¡¯s smile was gone, his expression was stern and fierce. This must be the good cop, bad cop teaching method. ¡°Ni Wen is going to the Swordcraft Pavilion. Fang Lang, prepare to head over to the Light Pavilion. Gather at the practice grounds after an hour. I¡¯ll bring you guys to the Hidden Sword Tower to select your cultivation methods,¡± Elder Ji said with a stern face. ¡°El-Elder, what about me?¡± Liu Bubai asked timidly. Elder Ji was shocked when he saw Liu Bubai. This... This guy earned the fiftieth ce in the Imperial Examination? His performance in the group battle... How did he manage to enter the inner sect of the Sword Guild? ¡°You¡¯ll be following Ni Wen to the Swordcraft Pavilion. The swordcraft practitioner must be protected in a group battle. You need to protect Ni Wen for her to be able toplete the swordcraft spell,¡± Wen Ting said as he chuckled. He was aware of Liu Bubai¡¯s condition. ¡°Okay, we¡¯re done here. You guys go and freshen up. Let¡¯s meet at the practice grounds after an hour. If you¡¯rete, you¡¯ll be doing tenps of flying around Mount Shu!¡± Elder Ji warned them before flying off. Wen Tingughed, ¡°Elder Ji seems hard on the outside but he has a kind heart. Don¡¯t mind him. He¡¯s actually reallypassionate. Go and pack up your things. Choosing the practice methods in the Hidden Sword Tower is an important event as it is the cornerstone of your cultivation direction.¡± After that, Wen Ting led Ni Wen and Liu Bubai to the Swordcraft Pavilion. Fang Lang used his previous arrow methods to get to the Light Pavilion. Luckily, Xiao Lingjian came over to lead the way. When they reached the Light Pavilion, Xiao Lingjian brought Fang Lang to the courtyard for the 799th disciple. It was an independent courtyard, not too big but wide enough. Zhao Yu had changed into a set of new robes and walked out with his things packed. ¡°Brother Fang, this courtyard belongs to you now. It¡¯s enhanced with an energy-gathering rune and a calming rune. The energy-gathering rune is activated at all times. It can harness about 10 low-grade spirit crystals every day. You¡¯ll need to use the spirit crystals to activate the calming rune.¡± Zhao Yu introduced the details of the courtyard to Fangng. ¡°Guard this ce well, little brother. I¡¯ll be taking it back when I reach the third-grade sword wave.¡± Zhao Yu burst intoughter and headed in the direction of the 800th courtyard. Fang Lang chuckled and bade farewell to Xiao Lingjian before entering the courtyard. The courtyard¡¯s interior was rather simple, without much decoration. After exploring for a while, Fang Lang sat down cross-legged in the middle of the courtyard. He retrieved a spirit crystal to activate the calming rune. The breeze and other background noises diminished. Fang Lang felt as if the world was cleansed and his heart was filled with peace. ¡®What a great rune,¡¯ Fang Lang thought. Then, he started cultivating the spirit crystals. ... On the peak of Mount Shu, the sea of clouds were roaring. A magnificent carriage flew across the sky, leaving a long trail of clouds. The horses of the carriage were on a flight sword, driven personally by Zhao Wuji. Then, the carriagended on the za of Mount Shu. Chao Xiaojian appeared and chuckled when he saw Jiang Linglong disembarking from the carriage. ¡°You¡¯re finally here. You¡¯ve missed a great show,¡± Chao Xiaojian said with a smile. Jiang Linglong¡¯s veiled face froze for a second. Then, Chao Xiaojian told her about how Fang Lang, Ni Wen and Liu Bubai destroyed the team of existing disciples, as well as Fang Lang¡¯s victorious challenge against Zhao Yu. He mentioned Fang Lang joining the Light Pavilion. Jiang Linglong¡¯s veil fluttered gently in the breeze and her crescent eyes sparkled like stars. She walked up Mount Shu with the White Frost de in hand. Several minutester, ¡°I¡¯m Jiang Linglong, the new inner sect disciple, runner-up of the Imperial Examination. I¡¯m here to challenge the Light Pavilion. Zhao Yu, do you ept the challenge?¡± Inside the Light Pavilion, the 800th disciple, Zhao Yu who had just finished unpacking froze. His heart dropped instantly. Chapter 104 - A Youth Surrounded By Three Thousand Methods

Chapter 104: A Youth Surrounded By Three Thousand Methods

Amotion began in the tranquil Sword Guild. The day where neers joined the sect was bound to have conflict. The new grand champion, Fang Lang, challenged the Light Pavilion disciple, Zhao Yu, on the first day of joining the sect. He defeated Zhao Yu with a thunderous strike, breaking past records by entering the Light Pavilion as a fresh disciple. The news spread throughout the entire Sword Guild like wildfire¡ªit was an amazing record after all. All the disciples from the inner sect and outer sect were astonished by this news. However, just shortly after, they heard that Zhao Yu was being challenged once more. Everybody was stunned. What did Zhao Yu do to deserve this? However, most of them were still excited to see what happened next. Many inner sect disciples flocked to the Grooming Peak to observe the battle. However, by the time they arrived at the Grooming Peak, the battle on the floating ind was over. Zhao Yu was lying on the ground¡ªhis eyes filled with despair and seemed a little lost. It was as if all the worldly emotions had left him. The look in his eyes was branded into the memory of thousands of Sword Guild disciples. After that, they realized the youngdy who defeated Zhao Yu was the runner-up of the Imperial Examination¡ªshe had the cultivation of a third-ss sword wave realm. Shepletely obliterated Zhao Yu. None of them took pleasure in his defeat. Instead, their stress level heightened significantly. With the neers¡¯ level of mastery, they would be left behind very soon if they did not put more effort in cultivation. No one wanted to be left out. Cultivation was apetitive journey and they all joined the Sword Guild with the dream of having a bright future ahead. ... Jiang Linglong arrived at the 800th courtyard. There was nothing much inside. However, the courtyard was not important, it was the status that mattered. Earning a spot in the pavilion allowed one to enter the demon portal tunnel and endure the pressure between the two worlds. Therefore, most of the disciples in the pavilion would practice in the demon portal tunnel instead of staying in their courtyards. It was rare to be challenged twice in a day like Zhao Yu. The fact that he lost both battles made others¡¯ eyebrows raise. When the previous 800th disciple returned, he was not too affected as he was not on the receiving end of the attacks. There was nothing much to talk about. If they won, they would retain their ce. Otherwise, they would just continue to cultivate and take it back in the future. This was themon rule in the inner sect of the Sword Guild. The door to Fang Lang¡¯s courtyard was sealed shut. He was in the middle of cultivation. Jiang Linglong nced at him from afar and went back to her own courtyard. In the 799th courtyard of the Light Pavilion, Fang Lang had no idea that Old Jiang had chosen the Sword Guild and defeated Zhao Yu too. He was totally immersed in his cultivation. He was practicing the Ten Thousand de Scripture to transform the spiritual energy in his energy center into de energy. The existing de energy would also be channeled into the direction specified by the scripture and change its malleability. The practice method was crucial for a cultivator as itid the foundation for their cultivation. If the foundation was not strong enough, the building would not be able to go any higher from the base. However, Fang Lang was still able to continue absorbing spiritual energy. As a ninth-grade sword master, his body should be transforming the spiritual energy into de energy. He was able to absorb and transform simultaneously because he was not solely a sword master, he was also a martial arts master, spell master and a casual practitioner of Ruism... Martial arts mastery and spell mastery required the absorption of spiritual energy. Not many attempted to cultivate all three disciplines because it demanded more effort and time than a single-disciplined cultivation. Four phantoms appeared around Fang Lang after he switched to binding partner mode. With the assistance of all four phantoms of Jiang Linglong, Ni Wen, Liu Bubai and Wei Sheng, Fang Lang¡¯s cultivation sped up immensely. Fang Lang opened his eyes¡ªa gentle current circled him, making his sleeve float in the air. He fell into deep thought as he stared at the four phantoms. He was inspired by the Double Cultivation Card. ¡®Sword master, spell master, martial arts master... Could I direct the phantoms individually to cultivate based on their discipline? Ni Wen¡¯s a spell master, I should let her help me with the absorption of spiritual energy for spell mastery. Wei Sheng¡¯s a martial arts master, he¡¯ll be assisting me in the cultivation of martial arts,¡¯ Fang Lang thought to himself. He decided on it and cultivated all three disciplines at the same time! This would definitely increase his rate of cultivation significantly! After all, without a small leap of faith, Fang Lang would not be able to progress much in spell mastery and martial arts mastery. As Fang Lang channeled his thoughts, the phantoms started moving. Ni Wen and Wei Sheng¡¯s phantoms started absorbing spiritual energy from the spirit crystals. Jiang Linglong and Liu Bubai¡¯s phantoms continued to practice the Ten Thousand de Scripture. Fang Lang¡¯s spiritual senses were operating at maximum capacity with all three cultivations going simultaneously. His burden increased greatly but it was extremely effective. Fang Lang was thrilled and continued his cultivation in this manner! The System¡¯s experience points surged as the spirit crystals were gradually used up. Spiritual energy was transforming into de energy and his cultivation speed elerated slowly. ... After 15 minutes, Fang Lang opened his eyes and breathed out. He exited the Quadruple Binding Mode and massaged his temples. Although he received help from all three disciplines, he was the main beneficiary. Hence, the training consumed his own spiritual sense. ¡°If only I had more Double Cultivation Cards,¡± Fang Lang muttered. The Double Cultivation Card would spare him from exhausting his spiritual sense. This was the first time he realized the benefits of the Double Cultivation Card. He did not continue cultivating as Elder Ji had informed them to gather at the practice grounds before heading to the Hidden Sword Tower. The neers would be choosing a practice method that suited them. The practice method was crucial in every sect¡ªthe fundamental core of a sect. All students from the academies worked so hard to enter a sect of their choice because of this reason. One¡¯s cultivation speed could only improve by grasping the practice methods. When he walked out of the courtyard, Fang Lang saw Jiang Linglong emerging from the adjacent courtyard. ¡°Old Jiang?¡± Fang Lang was surprised to see her. He was cut off from the surroundings when he activated the calming rune. Jiang Linglong nodded her head in an aloof manner. Fang Lang instantly understood what happened and sympathized with Zhao Yu¡¯s situation. Fang Lang did not discuss with Old Jiang about cultivation. Both left the pavilion and headed to the practice grounds. Liu Bubai and Ni Wen were already waiting at the practice grounds. They were not the only ones there. Fang Lang and Jiang Linglong saw several other figures, some were recruited by the Sword Guild. There were also outer sect disciples who passed the exam and entered the inner sect. Fang Lang had met some of them once but the impression was rather faded. Fang Lang started using the Stats Scanner excitedly but he was disappointed to find only ordinary cores in all of these neers. The highest quality was a yellow core, but a yellow core was not helpful in Fang Lang¡¯s current phase. Wen Ting was wearing a blue robe with a sword hanging around his waist. He stood at the practice ground as he sipped on the wolfberry tea in his gourd canteen. The scarred Elder Ji walked over fiercely and scanned through the crowd. Then, he nodded in satisfaction, ¡°Everyone¡¯s here? We¡¯ll head over to the Hidden Sword Tower now. ¡°Some of you may have cultivated using other practice methods before this, but these methods may not necessarily be suitable for you. Once you enter the Hidden Sword Tower, the practice method will choose you, not the other way round. If you are paired with a suitable practice method, just go on with it,¡± Elder Ji said. The next moment, Elder Ji raised his hand and pushed upwards gently. Fang Lang felt a gush of de energy appearing beneath his feet. The energy formed a moving cloud. What an incredible skill. They rode on the de energy and flew over several mountaintops, finallynding on a building situated on one of the peaks. It was an ancient building. There was an ancient bell on the roof. An old man was meditating beside the bell. His breath was undetectable. Elder Ji brought the disciples to the tower and put his hands together to pay respects to the old man. ¡°Senior, these are this year¡¯s new disciples. Ji Mo brought them here for the practice method selection, please open the tower.¡± On top of the tower, the old man opened his cloudy eyes. There seemed to be energy crackling in his eyes. He looked at Old Jiang, then Ni Wen. His eyes finallynded on Fang Lang. A purple gleam shed in his eyes. ¡®Hmm? Mutated core!¡¯ The old man was astonished. ¡°This cohort of neers is quite impressive,¡± the old man stated. Then, with a wave of his sleeve, countless de energy emerged from the ground and sky. The clouds were roaring above the tower, forming a mysterious rune between the thickyers of clouds. Creak... The wooden door of the tower creaked open. ¡°Remember, you don¡¯t need to snatch orpete with each other for a practice method. Let ite to you. If you weren¡¯t selected by a practice method, do not fret. You¡¯ll receive a basic practice method aspensation before you exit the tower.¡± The old man¡¯s hoarse voice sounded from the roof of the tower. Then, the old man raised his hand. He held the horizontal wooden pole and gently pushed it forward. The wooden pole struck the ancient bell. Dong! The deep chime of the ancient bell resonated to a far distance. ¡°Enter the tower!¡± The old man¡¯s voice traveled over the sea of clouds, apanied by the echoes of the bell. Elder Ji looked at each neer standing in front of the ancient tower situated on the peak of the mountain with a serious expression. ¡°You may enter now. Remember, no violence is needed to pick a practice method. Let it be,¡± Elder Ji said calmly. Then, the disciples climbed the ancient stairs that led into the Hidden Sword Tower in an orderly manner. Fang Lang followed the convoy and entered the tower. He was very calm the entire time. This was mainly because he already owned the Ten Thousand de Scripture. This practice method was awarded to him as the champion¡¯s reward. It was an earth-level high-grade practice method, which was one of the higher level methods. It was impossible for Fang Lang to change his practice method. Therefore, he regarded this trip into the tower as a mere formality. ... The surroundings of the tower quieted down. Elder Ji stood outside the tower and watched the group with brooding eyes. Thest disciple disappeared into the building. Wen Ting took a sip of the wolfberry tea and said with a chuckle, ¡°The Hidden Sword Tower has been the foundation of the Sword Guild for thousands of years. The tower holds ten thousand practice methods, ten of them are earth-level, eight hundred dark-level practice methods... Elder Ji, do you think that anyone will get an earth-level practice method?¡± Elder Ji nced at Wen Ting with a cold expression. ¡°How many practice methods approached you when you first stepped into the Hidden Sword Tower?¡± ¡°Three hundred,¡± Wen Tingughed and said. ¡°Of course, the amount of practice methods differs among individuals.¡± Elder Ji scoffed, ¡°You remembered so clearly huh. I¡¯m not sure about the others, but I think that Fang Lang will definitely get an earth-level practice method. I¡¯m betting on him!¡± Then, Elder Ji waved his hand and de energy rose from the ground and formed a mirror that reflected the happenings inside the Hidden Sword Tower. ... Fang Lang saw boundless darkness after he entered the Hidden Sword Tower. Beyond the dark abyss was a brilliant white light. An endless wooden hallway appeared in front of him. Both sides were covered with bookshelves that reached the ceiling. Fang Lang turned around and saw that the road behind him was blocked by more shelves. The bookshelves held individual boxes. Each box had one volume of practice method. A short de was beside the book. The book was glowing slightly, illuminating the dark interior of the Hidden Sword Tower. The view was spectacr. Fang Lang felt as if he had entered into a world of libraries. Other than the path forward, he was surrounded by bookshelves. Fang Lang took a step and the short des on the shelves trembled. ¡®This is the Hidden Sword Tower? It holds the swords, practice methods and the inheritance of the sect!¡¯ Fang Lang kept hisposure. The flickering light lit up the entire tower. The ancient staircase creaked as Fang Lang stepped on it. He moved forward without hurry, his green robe flowing gently in the air. After switching to Quadruple Binding Mode, Fang Lang felt the Sword Intent Seed in his energy center shudder. Buzz... Suddenly, the short des on the shelves started vibrating, giving out a crisp buzzing sound. Then, the vibrations transformed into thunderbolts and charged at Fang Lang! Fang Lang was stunned but after the burst of speed, they suddenly stopped and hovered around him quietly as if they were waiting for his choice. Fang Lang let out a breath. Then, multiple tiny explosions sounded around him. The short des flew out the bookshelves and flew towards him, stopping inches behind Fang Lang. They hovered silently. They floated quietly in the air after the explosions. Over time, Fang Lang was surrounded by more and more floating practice methods. The level of the practice methods could be determined by the emitted light. The brighter the practice methods glowed, the higher the level. Fang Lang saw a few practice methods that shone like high beams squeezed their way to him. Fang Lang was gaping at the sea of lights that surrounded him. He was totally surrounded by practice methods! What? ¡®I don¡¯t need any more practice methods but looking at the situation, can I walk out of the tower if I don¡¯t select one?¡¯ ... Outside the Hidden Sword Tower, Elder Ji, Wen Ting and the old man on the roof were observing the de mirror closely. The mirror was showing what was happening to the disciples in the tower. ¡°He attracted forty-two practice methods. Not bad, next.¡± Elder Ji nced briefly and waved his hand to change to another disciple. The de mirror dimmed instantly. ¡°Eighteen practice methods. He¡¯ll only get a light-level practice method at most.¡± Elder Ji continued toment. Then, the screen changed to Liu Bubai¡ªhis surroundings were extremely bright. ¡°Hmm? A hundred and nine practice methods? This kid only has an ordinary core, but he has an affinity for practice methods. He might be able to receive a dark-level practice method and probably reach to a third of Wen Ting¡¯s level.¡± Wen Ting was speechless. When did he be a measuring unit? Then Ni Wen appeared in the de mirror and it shone brightly. She managed to attract three hundred practice methods, most of them for spell mastery. It was impressive since spell mastery practice methods were scarce in the Hidden Sword Tower. Elder Ji nodded proudly. ¡°Good, at least one Wen Ting.¡± The de mirror switched to another scene and this time it was Jiang Linglong. Dazzling light shone through the mirror, blinding their eyes with its brilliance. Elder Ji and Wen Ting inhaled sharply. ¡°Six hundred practice methods!¡± Elder Ji was genuinely impressed, ¡°She¡¯s definitely the daughter of Martial Arts King Jiang. She would get an earth-level practice method and be equivalent to two Wen Tings.¡± Wen Ting was speechless. What about Fang Lang? Wen Ting and Elder Ji were curious about the grand champion who kept making miracles. How many practice methods would he get? When the de mirror switched to him, it was just pure blinding white light. The intense light shocked Elder Ji and Wen Ting. The expression of the old gentleman on the roof of the tower also changed. ¡°Impossible! Three thousand practice methods! There¡¯s something fishy about him!¡± The scar on Elder Ji¡¯s face was dancing as he rejoiced. ¡°No wonder he managed to draw Sect Leader Taihua¡¯s sword! There¡¯s nothing wrong with him! He was hand-picked by Sect Leader Taihua? This kid¡¯s going to beat ten Wen Tings!¡± Wen Ting was left speechless once more. Wen Ting was no longer surprised. Instead, the amazing feat was expected. He popped open the cork of the gourd canteen and gulped a mouthful of wolfberry tea. Chapter 105 - New Champion, I Challenge You!

Chapter 105: New Champion, I Challenge You!

Surrounded by three thousand practice methods! What kind of affinity was this? Ten times of Wen Ting! Outside the tower, Wen Ting continued to sip on his tasteless wolfberry tea. The scar on Elder Ji¡¯s face moved as he bellowed inughter. He was right¡ªFang Lang was indeed a top-tier monster as he managed to draw the Blooming Lotus Sword. However, to be able to attract 3,000 practice methods was just mind-blowing. Ten Wen Tings! Elder Ji calmed his excitement and let out a deep breath slowly. ¡°The other methods will retreat after he chooses one, but will he get an earth-level mid-grade practice method?¡± Elder Ji muttered. ... In the Hidden Sword Tower, Fang Lang was surprised by the overly enthusiastic practice methods. His eyes were strained just by looking through 3,000 practice methods. However, he already owned the Ten Thousand de Scripture, Part One, which was an earth-level high-grade sword mastery practice method. Fang Lang was looking forward to having the second part of the scripture. With both parts in hand, the Ten Thousand de Scripture might be a heaven-level practice method! His cultivation speed would definitely reach an insane level! Therefore, Fang Lang would not give up easily on the scripture. ¡®Hmm? Wait a minute...¡¯ Fang Lang¡¯s eyes brightened as he stared at the scrolls of practice methods. He had an epiphany. ¡®The Ten Thousand de Scripture is a practice method specialized for sword mastery. It doesn¡¯t help with spell mastery and martial arts mastery. That means... I still have a chance to choose another two practice methods for two other cultivation disciplines! No... Three of them! Even though I¡¯ve only dabbled a little in Ruism, it¡¯s an independent framework by itself!¡¯ At that moment, Fang Lang was enlightened and he looked at the practice methods excitedly. Fang Lang¡¯s cultivation in sword mastery had improved by leaps and bounds but his spell mastery and martial arts mastery stalled. With the help of practice methods, his spell mastery and martial arts mastery would reach the maximum capacity of the second ss very soon and he could attempt to advance into the third ss! Fang Lang kept scanning through the books in search of practice methods that focused on spells and martial arts. Even though the majority of practice methods stored in the Hidden Sword Tower were about sword mastery, the Sword Guild¡¯s history dated back to the millennia. They also owned a collection of practice methods on spell mastery and martial arts mastery. The collection might not be as extensive as those in renowned spell mastery sects such as the Karma Society and Main Path Guild or martial arts mastery sects like the Immortal Martial Association, but the practice methods that made it into the Hidden Sword Tower were not too shabby. Fang Lang sent waves of spiritual sense and activated his Spirit Eyes ability. His spiritual sense rippled through the practice methods. Shortly after, a practice method scroll glowed brightly and started charging toward Fang Lang like a meteor, dispersing the other scrolls with its residual force. Fang Lang reached out and grabbed it. ¡°Earth-level mid-grade spell mastery practice method¡ªTears of God.¡± The practice method transformed into a beam of light and faded into Fang Lang¡¯s mind. The channeling methods and forms instantly appeared in his mind. Before Fang Lang could explore further, his entire body shuddered violently as his vital energy filled him! ¡°One more!¡± His martial arts cultivation erupted. Fang Lang felt his blood boiling and could not help but let out a martial arts master¡¯s roar. He scanned through the other scrolls and saw a zing practice method charging toward him. Fang Lang raised his hand and punched the practice method, the light instantly dissipated. ¡°Earth-level mid-grade martial arts mastery practice method¡ªFerocious Dragon Scripture.¡± Another earth-level practice method! Fang Lang was exhrated. Was it because of his luck? No, it was most likely because of the Sword Intent Seed in his body and the affinity from the Quadruple Binding Mode... He epted the two practice methods but the other short des had yet to disperse. Fang Lang focused and released a burst of righteous energy... The des trembled for a while before leaving him like a falling tide. Fang Lang was slightly disappointed when he noticed the Hidden Sword Tower did not have any practice methods regarding Ruism. He felt bad that Ximen Xianxian¡¯s Ruism was belittled. 3,000 practice methods slowly retreated and the long hallway appeared once more. With the two earth-level practice methods in hand, Fang Lang walked along the hallway to exit the tower contentedly. ... Outside the Hidden Sword Tower, the neers emerged from the tower one after another. Some of them were ecstatic, some were disappointed as they moped. Jiang Linglong walked out without selecting any practice methods. She did not need one as the Martial Arts King Manor had prepared an earth-level practice method for her. She just joined this session as a formality and to test her affinity for the practice methods. One by one, the new disciples exited the tower. Ni Wen received a dark-level high-grade practice method. Her excitement was evident on her face. If she was not a spell master, she might have even obtained an earth-level practice method. Liu Bubai also walked out with a dark-level practice method. He was content with what he got, grinning from ear to ear. Finally, most of the neers had returned. However, the Hidden Sword Tower had yet to seal its entrance. Elder Ji and Wen Ting stared into the tower with hopeful eyes. About 15 minutester, Fang Lang finally appeared. The old man on the roof nced at Fang Lang, his cloudy eyes filled with astonishment. However, he quickly shook his head in regret. ¡°You chose two earth-level mid-grade practice methods but none of them are about sword mastery. What a waste.¡± The old man was saddened but Fang Lang was not bothered by it at all. Elder Ji reverted to his cold demeanor. He nced at the new disciples who were still immersed in the joy or dejection from their practice methods and said, ¡°After receiving the practice methods, you guys should head back and focus on your cultivation. With the help of the practice method, you will find that it¡¯s much easier to convert the de energy into de waves. You will be categorized into teams uponpletion of the basics of the practice methods.¡± After that, Elder Ji put his hands together and bowed at the old man above the tower. Then, the de energy started to rise from the ground and carried the disciples away. They flew away from the Hidden Sword Tower, marking the end of the practice method selection. Other than the old man, Elder Ji and Wen Ting who witnessed the proceedings in the tower, no one else knew what happened. Everyone returned to the practice grounds. The sun started to set in the west¡ªthe sea of clouds was aze with its bright orange hue. Elder Ji and Wen Ting understood the feeling of the new disciples. They could not wait to explore the newly acquired practice methods. Therefore, they quickly released the disciples without further ado. The new disciples returned to their quarters and dived straight into cultivation with their burgeoning enthusiasm. Fang Lang also went back to his own courtyard after bidding farewell to Old Jiang. The sky had turned dark by the time he returned. He raised his head and saw the starry night sky through the window. The peak of Mount Shu pierced through the sea of clouds and faced the night sky as if it was reaching for the stars. Fang Lang kept his emotions and switched into the Quadruple Binding Mode. Then, he started cultivating with the method he researched previously. Cultivation of all three disciplines at once. His mind settled down after the calming rune was activated. He ced spirit crystals around him. The crystals glimmered in the night sky. Fang Lang started with the spell mastery practice method, Tears of God. This method required him to form a crystal with his spiritual sense in his consciousness and used the channeling method in the scripture to enhance the spiritual sense crystal through meditation. The final crystal would take form in a teardrop shape, hence the name, Tears of God. Spell mastery cultivation would greatly improve Fang Lang¡¯s minor forbidden spell. Fang Lang was inspired to work harder! ¡°System! Activate the Meditation Card!¡± Fang Lang ordered. After the Meditation Card was activated, Fang Lang started channeling the practice method with Ni Wen¡¯s binding mode for cultivation. With the assistance of the Meditation Card, the operation of Tears of God increased significantly. His spiritual sense grew at an incredible speed! The spiritual energy of spell mastery was transforming into mana! The low-grade spirit crystals were used up one after another. On the other side, Fang Lang was controlling his binding partner, Wei Sheng, to cultivate the martial arts mastery practice method, Ferocious Dragon Scripture. It was also an earth-level practice method. The practitioner could cultivate the strength of a dragon and gain a special effect, Dragon Fury. This effect could stun the opponent¡¯s soul. Fang Lang activated the 3X Physical Buff Card for cultivation, exhausting the spirit crystals at an extreme rate. He finally managed to engage in a focused cultivation session after such a long time. Under the luscious moonlight, Fang Lang¡¯s elongated shadow fell on the courtyard. Even though he was the grand champion, he knew the cultivation journey ahead would not be a bed of roses. The third prince and perhaps, the first prince would be haunting him every step of the way. He had to work much harder! ¡°System, activate 5X Amplification Card!¡± ... Time slipped past him and ten days went by in the blink of an eye. The ruckus raised by the group of neers had died down over the days, restoring the peaceful atmosphere. They proceeded with their rightful tasks such as cultivation and carrying out missions. Their arrival was not a big deal for the Sword Guild, just an addition of several new faces. The infamous new disciple, Fang Lang, had gone under the radar. He was cultivating in the Light Pavilion without a break. As days and nights passed, other disciples who passed by his courtyard felt pity for Fang Lang. For the calming rune to operate the entire night, it would consume three low-grade spirit crystals. Fang Lang had it on for three days nonstop, which meant he had spent at least a dozen of spirit crystals. Only the champion could spend so extravagantly! Fang Lang¡¯s name faded from the spotlight but Jiang Linglong¡¯s was starting to gain fame. She began challenging other Light Pavilion disciples with higher rankings. Jiang Linglong, a first-grade sword wave realm cultivator, was challenging other disciples. She managed to climb from the 800th spot to the 600th spot when she defeated a disciple in the third-grade sword wave realm. She did not continue challenging others as she was at her limits. Inside the pavilion, all the disciples below 600th ce moved one spot lower. Fang Lang was the 800th disciple. However, since all of them were already disciples of the Light Pavilion, they did not need to switch courtyards. Jiang Linglong¡¯s brilliance spread throughout the entire Light Pavilion and even gained the attention of the top ten disciples. Besides that, there was another worrisome news spreading in the inner and outer sects of the Sword Guild. ¡°The pureblood elite foreigners from the borders are joining the Sword Guild!¡± ¡°This is the first time the Tang Dynasty has allowed foreigners to join a sect for cultivation.¡± ¡°These foreigners shouldn¡¯t be underestimated. Thepetition within the sect is getting more ruthless. I miss those carefree days in the academy!¡± Without any restrictions from the higher-level authority in the sect, the rumors and news spread like wildfire in the Sword Guild. All the disciples were feeling the growing tension. ... On the eleventh day after the weing of the new disciples, it started snowing at the Sword Guild. The mountain roads were covered with a thickyer of snow. The lush green grasnds were covered in white coats. On the peak of Mount Shu, Chao Xiaojian stood silently. His white hair and beard fluttered in the air. The elders of the Sword Guild were also standing beside him in silence as they overlooked the mountains. They were solemn. The sea of clouds split open and the falling snow seemed to have frozen in mid-air. At the horizon, several carriages were approaching in an orderly formation. The flying horses were covered in armor with a residual scent of blood. A thick nauseating stench of blood filled the air, thickening the atmosphere around them. ¡°They¡¯re here,¡± an elder beside Chao Xiaojian announced sternly. Chao Xiaojian narrowed his eyes¡ªhis loose white locks continued to sway in the air. What a fierce horse cavalry! Soon, the carriagesnded on the in on Mount Shu. Some of the disciples who were spectating felt as if the entire Mount Shu shuddered upon their arrival. There were three carriages in total. Three coachmen alighted, their bodies covered in bloodied armor. ¡°I am Commander Asi Yuan, serving under General Luoshan. Greetings, vice sect leader,¡± the leader of the other three held his fist together and greeted. A sword hung at the waist of his bloody armor. His overwhelming presence seemed to dye the mountaintops red¡ªthe lethal intent was directed to Chao Xiaojian. Chao Xiaojian smiled calmly and changed his aura to suppress the strong presence. ¡°Enough, there¡¯s no need for gimmicks. Since the Emperor has ordered each foreign tribe to send their elites to join the sects, I won¡¯t make life difficult for these disciples even if I don¡¯t agree with the decision,¡± Chao Xiaojian said with a huge grin. Asi Yuan¡¯s eyes under his blood-red armor narrowed and his hands shifted to the handle of his sword. ¡°Forget about that. Unless Asi Luoshan came here personally, none of you are my equal.¡± Chao Xiaojian scoffed after seeing Asi Yuan¡¯s actions. Then, he reached out to pick a snowke and nced at the other foreign elites who came down from the carriage. ¡°I, Chao Xiaojian, wee you all to the Sword Guild. After all, you guys will make good practice for my disciples, pressure is a great source of motivation. However, do remember that you have to obey the rules of the Sword Guild. Otherwise... even Asi Luoshan can¡¯t help you. This is my territory!¡± Chao Xiaojian said. The expressions of Asi Yuan and the other foreign elites changed slightly. After a long pause, they put their hands together and bowed. ¡°Yes, Vice Leader Chao. We will respect the Sword Guild¡¯s rules.¡± ... In the Sword Guild, they had emptied out several courtyards to amodate the foreign elites. A few guards who were responsible for the elites¡¯ safety looked towards Asi Yuan. ¡°Commander, Chao Xiaojian... is savage!¡± A foreigner eximed. Asi Yuan nced at him, ¡°Put those thoughts away. After Xuanyuan Taihua¡¯s disappearance, Chao Xiaojian carried the Sword Guild on his own and maintained it as one of the top ten great sects. He¡¯s definitely not weak. Chao Xiaojian is one of the top cultivators in the Tang Dynasty. ¡°We¡¯re here on a military order directly from General Luoshan to protect the elites. This is our mission, don¡¯t think of doing anything else! Not even a single thought!¡± The foreign guards nodded seriously. ¡°Understood.¡± ¡°However, our elites have been to the frontlines. They have bathed in the fresh blood of their enemies and fought in demon portals. They have taken down the impure blood rebels. They are so much more than the Sword Guild disciples who spent their entire existence cultivating in a safe and tranquil environment. ¡°The current grand champion of the Imperial Examination of the Tang Dynasty is also in the Sword Guild. This is the guy who wrote the policy that nted the seed of suspicion in the Emperor.¡± ¡°I heard that the champion entered the Light Pavilion in the Sword Guild?¡± ¡°Right, we¡¯ll send our elites to challenge the Tang Dynasty¡¯s grand champion tomorrow! We¡¯ll chase him out of the pavilion like a stray! What a despicable guy!¡± ... The disciples in the inner and outer sects of the Sword Guild were shocked by the foreign elites¡¯ arrival. The next day, on the Grooming Peak, the expressions on the inner sect disciples who were practicing sword fighting on the za darkened when they saw the group of foreign elites. The tension in the air thickened. One of the foreigners who wore a fur coat and a mink hat snickered as he yelled across the sea of clouds impatiently to challenge Fang Lang from the Light Pavilion. Fang Lang¡¯s name echoed through the sky. ¡°Grand champion, Fang Lang, have you warmed your seat in the pavilion? We¡¯re here now. It¡¯s time for a change. I challenge you!¡± Chapter 106 - Hidden Wave Energy, the Killer Shot!

Chapter 106: Hidden Wave Energy, the Killer Shot!

Fang Lang had no idea about the foreign elites¡¯ challenge. The calming rune in the courtyard blocked all the sounds from his surroundings. Unless Fang Lang disabled it, he would not know even if a war broke out. The Sword Guild had a rule that no one could disrupt a pavilion disciple who has a calming rune activated for cultivation. To the Light Pavilion disciples, the activation of the calming rune meant the disciple was deep in cultivation and not to be disturbed. The rule was set because it would be damaging If they were disrupted at a crucial point during cultivation. Therefore, Fang Lang who was in the 799th courtyard did not respond to the foreign elite¡¯s challenge from the Grooming Peak. Fang Lang had been cultivating for 11 days without break. With all three practice methods for spell mastery, martial arts mastery and sword mastery, Fang Lang was like a perpetual motion machine that did not know fatigue. The sensation he felt was interesting. When his spiritual sense was exhausted, he replenished it with meditation. When his physical body grew weak, he rejuvenated himself by channeling vital energy. After 11 days, Fang Lang was surrounded by empty husks of spirit crystals he had absorbed. Furthermore, the System also stated the spirit crystals consumed by the calming rune would be included in the System¡¯s experience points¡ªanother good news for Fang Lang. Even though the consumption rate of the spirit crystals was rather low¡ªonly three crystals in a night¡ªit was better than nothing. The Quadruple Binding Mode Fang Lang activated put arge burden on his spiritual sense. However, with the newly acquired practice methods, Fang Lang¡¯s spiritual sense became much stronger. He continued to gather de energy without any reservations. Finally, at the crack of dawn on the eleventh day, it was snowing outside. Fang Lang¡¯s energy center shuddered violently. Then, the de energy in him started flowing through his veins and merged into one, finally transforming into a substantial ray of light. Inside the courtyard, Fang Lang¡¯s energy center was shining brilliantly! His de energy had transformed into wave energy! Fang Lang¡¯s tightly shut eyes shot wide open! Like a meteor shooting through the night sky, he was enlightened. A stale breath was released into the air. Third-ss sword wave, achieved! The first-ss sword disciple would cultivate spirit energy, second-ss sword master required the de energy, whereas the third-ss sword wave would have hidden wave energy in their orifices. This was the summary of the first three sses of sword mastery. The third-grade sword wave was a crucial phase as the foundation in the sword wave realm was very distinct from the others. It mainly reflected on the practice methods. The light-level practice method had a limit of seventy-two orifices for hidden wave energy, the dark-level practice method would allow up to a hundred and eight orifices, while the earth-level practice method allowed two hundred and seventy orifices. For the highest and rarest heaven-level practice method, a cultivator in the sword wave realm could have hidden wave energy in three hundred and sixty orifices! The more wave energy was stored, the longer a sword master¡¯s attack could be sustained. When Fang Lang fought with Zhao Yu, Zhao Yu had hidden wave energy in thirty-six orifices. His de wave energy was neverending. If Fang Lang continued with the fight, his de energy would deplete first. Therefore, Fang Lang used the minor forbidden spell and finished the battle quickly. In a battle of endurance, Fang Lang could not beat Zhao Yu since he was just a sword master. Boom! Within Fang Lang¡¯s energy center, the de wavepleted its form. The three swords started vibrating and darted out from the sword box. They swirled around Fang Lang and absorbed the de wave exuding from him. Fang Lang started channeling the Ten Thousand de Scripture and activated all four binding partners for sword mastery cultivation. Four phantoms sat around Fang Lang. There was an underlying energy current stimting his senses. With the practice method operating at the maximum rate, a spot on Fang Lang¡¯s body began shining. Then, it slowly covered Fang Lang¡¯s entire body. If counted carefully, there were three hundred and sixty of them! The de wave was opening three hundred and sixty orifices! Soon, the light spots faded gradually. A wisp of de wave energy left Fang Lang¡¯s energy center and buried itself into one of the orifices and filled it. Fang Lang¡¯s breath deepened as the de wave stored itself in the orifice. The Sword Intent Seed in his core shuddered as a weird feeling spread across his body. It was as if the Sword Intent Seed was about to bloom but something stopped. Fang Lang felt his de wave energy had an unclear intent. As his enlightenment in sword mastery deepened, he felt as though every part of his body could transform into a sharp de. It was just a fleeting moment¡ªit felt so near yet so far at the same time. Fang Lang knew it would be beneficial to hold onto this feeling. He had to try to grab it! He must! ¡°System, activate Enlightenment Card!¡± Fang Lang clenched his jaws. ¡®Ding! Enlightenment Card activated, effective for two hours. Happy cultivating!¡¯ The System notified him. Suddenly, Fang Lang felt as if he had fallen into a sea of stars. That blurry intent suddenly became crystal clear, as if the mysterious veil was ripped away. Under the enhancement of the Enlightenment Card, Fang Lang realized this was the first phase of the ten thousand sword intent, the basics of the physical de. He had just reached the tip of the iceberg of the physical de. He was still far from attaining the sword intent of the physical de. When Fang Lang opened his eyes slowly, the energy around him calmed down. He finally achieved something after eleven days of cultivation. ... Snowfall was dense on the Grooming Peak. The entire za was covered in a thickyer of snow. After a roar, the echo shook off the snowkes that rested on the trees. The inner sect disciples in white robes stood on the Grooming Peak. They were staring at the snobbish, overbearing and viscous foreign elites with a deep frown. ¡°Hmm? Why isn¡¯t he responding? Is the grand champion afraid? Is he a coward?¡± The guy in a fur coat and a mink hat snickered. The other foreign elites around him also started sniggering¡ªtheirughter wasced with scorn and sarcasm. Every foreigner knew about Fang Lang. His policy shook the entire Tang Dynasty, both inside and outside of the imperial courts. The news even reached the borders and infuriated countless foreign generals. The fathers of the foreign elites were furious about the issue. Many wanted to fly miles and miles over to end the life of this ridiculous new champion. The rtions between the purebloods and the Tang people had always been tense. The purebloods only sumbed to the mighty Emperor of the Tang Dynasty. They would not bow down to the grand champion who only knew how to y with his words! That was the sole reason why the foreign elites chose to join the Sword Guild. They wanted to teach the new champion a lesson! They would at least make his cultivation journey in the Sword Guild a living hell! Asi Zhui, Song Zhongcheng, Geshu Yuehua... All the descendents of the infamous foreign generals in the Tang Dynasty chose the Sword Guild! Of course, they did not fight Fang Lang immediately. They only sent one person to test the waters. Scornfulughter filled the Grooming Peak. Zhao Dagang, Xue Ying and Liu Longlong stepped forward. ¡°You want to challenge Brother Fang? He has activated the calming rune in the courtyard and can¡¯t hear your challenge. Do you think you¡¯re worthy enough to challenge him?¡± Zhao Dagang said coldly with his heavy sword in hand. Zhao Dagang fully epted he had lost to Fang Lang. Xue Ying was holding her sheath while LIu Longlong watched from the side. ¡°You need to go through us. Otherwise, don¡¯t bother embarrassing yourself,¡± Liu Longlong said. They came forward even though they had lost to Fang Lang. As Sword Guild disciples, they could not stand the arrogance of the foreign elites. Even though they had yet to gain a seat in the pavilion, they were not cowards! ... Chao Xiaojian and many other elders were hovering above the Sword Guild. They were frowning as they watched the challenge that was about to happen on the Grooming Peak. They had predicted there would be a conflict between the foreign elites and their disciples but they did not expect it to happen so soon. ¡°Son of Asi Luoshan, son of Song Xianzhi, daughter of Geshu Taixing...¡± ¡°All of them are well-trained killers at the borders. ¡± ¡°When they were only in the second-ss realm, they were thrown into the demon portal to fight for survival. They endured the immense pressure from the rift. They aren¡¯t a problem for dark-level disciples, but the Light Pavilion disciples haven¡¯t been to the demon portal. They might be at a disadvantage.¡± The elders looked very worried. Chao Xiaojian crossed his arms and observed quietly. These foreign elites were all after Fang Lang. ¡°Pressure sometimes can be turned into motivation...¡± Chao Xiaojian muttered. Fang Lang was definitely not an ordinary boy¡ªhe managed to wield the sect leader¡¯s sword. He might inherit her sword intent, then the future of the Sword Guild would be in his hands. ... In the sky above the foreign elites¡¯ quarters hovered Asi Yuan and the foreign guards. They were waiting for the battle on the Grooming Peak. Their strong breath shattered the snow around them. ¡°Hit it! With all your strength! Show them our true power!¡± ¡°Even after joining the sect, we will still be the superior race!¡± ¡°Our children learn horseback archery when they¡¯re five, fight against beasts at the age of seven and join the army at ten... They¡¯re much stronger than the Sword Guild disciples who were raised under sheltered roofs!¡± ¡°Let those weaklings face their worst nightmares!¡± The foreign guards were cheering excitedly. They were proud to see their own kind fight those Tang Dynasty cultivators. They were natural warriors who lived to fight. Even themander, Asi Yuan, who had always been level-headed, was slightly thrilled. Fight, our little beasts! ... The calming rune in the courtyard was finally deactivated. Fang Lang walked out of the courtyard and stretched his back. There was a gentle knock on the door. Fang Lang opened the door and saw Old Jiang standing outside, her face remained veiled. ¡°You¡¯re finally done cultivating,¡± Jiang Linglong said. She pointed outside and said, ¡°The foreign elites joined the sect and specifically requested a duel with you. Are you confident?¡± In response, Fang Lang frowned and looked toward the Grooming Peak across the sea of clouds. He did not mention anything further and closed the doors. He nced at Old Jiang briefly. ¡°Confidence?¡± The Obsidian Sword charged out from the sword box as Fang Lang held a de wave energy in his chest. Then, he rode on the Obsidian Sword and flew off into the snowing sky. This was his confidence. Jiang Linglong¡¯s veil fluttered in the resulting wind. Her eyes lit up brightly. Her eyes turned into crescents as she watched Fang Lang fly with the de wave energy. That was... Third-ss sword mastery. ... The snow fell heavily on the Grooming Peak. The fallen snow on the ground was dyed red from the freshly spilled blood, melting the snow. Zhao Dagangid in a pool of blood¡ªa spear pierced through his shoulder and impaled him to the snowy ground. Liu Longlong was thrown to the ground. She stabbed her sword into the ground and tried very hard to get back up. Xue Ying¡¯s face was very pale¡ªblood flowed from her nose and mouth. The foreign guy in a fur coat was strangling her. Her box of small des scattered all over the ground. ¡°You guys are too weak. You would¡¯ve already died seven to eight times if you were in the military. Losers.¡± The guy shrugged his shoulders and sent Xue Ying flying across the ground, dragging a long trail through the snow-coverednd. His snicker echoed through the mountain peaks. The other disciples were looking at them with their jaws clenched, suppressing the urge to draw their swords even though they knew they were no match for them. The foreign elites fought seamlessly together. Their military discipline and fighting prowess were too much for Zhao Dagang, Xue Ying and Liu Longlong. The trio waspletely obliterated! Zhao Yu flew over with his sword in hand. He had an icy look on his charming face. Even though he was defeated by Fang Lang and Jiang Linglong, he was rather s¨¦ about it. He was even feeling a little fortunate. He was d he was once a Light Pavilion disciple. Zhao Yu knew he might be receiving another round of beating. However, he was not afraid! He was the only one who could stand up to them! Even Zhao Dagang and his team dared to fight the vicious foreign elites! ¡°Guys, you¡¯ve gone overboard,¡± Zhao Yu raised his chin and said calmly against the white backdrop. As he pointed his sword to the snowy ground, wave energy exuded from the tip of the de. The guy in the fur coat and mink hat curved his lips. ¡°Finally, someone decent.¡± The battle was on the verge of starting. The blizzard suddenly froze. A loud voice traveled from the Light Pavilion. ¡°Brother Zhao, this is my fight.¡± Fang Lang flew over the sea of clouds with the Obsidian Sword circling him. His green robe fluttered in the wind like a deity descending from heaven. ¡°They¡¯re looking for me. ¡°I¡¯m Fang Lang, 800th disciple of the Light Pavilion. Let¡¯s begin.¡± Fang Lang¡¯s thunderous voice shattered countless snowkes. His expression darkened when he saw Zhao Dagang impaled on the snowy ground in his peripheral vision. Liu Longlong and Xue Ying were severely injured. On the Grooming Peak, Zhao Yu and the other disciples turned around to look at Fang Lang with joy and worry. A gorgeous-looking man from the group of foreign elites raised his eyebrow. He was the son of Song Xianzhi, Song Zhongcheng. ¡°You¡¯ve just reached the third-ss sword wave. Your wave energy is still unstable. This is the new grand champion? Qu He, go.¡± The young man in a fur coat and mink hat grinned from ear to ear as he abandoned Zhao Yu. He ran across the Grooming Peak, stirring up the snow from the ground. Boom! A ferocious surge of vital energy exploded and melted the falling snow. The young man whipped out a saber from his leather sheath and formed a bloor-red dragon in the white snow. He leaped up and exuded sword wave energy with a lethal presence! ¡°The new champion? I get to fight the new champion!¡± His energy and murderous intent were rampant. The faces of the inner sect disciples on the Grooming Peak fell. In the Light Pavilion, the other disciples who were observing the battle on their swords had worrisome looks. This guy was fierce! Jiang Linglong had the White Frost de in hand as she watched calmly, her veil fluttering in the breeze. The sea of clouds was torn apart as Qu Hended on the floating ind, stepping on countless snowkes along the way. He raised the saber in his hand as he walked on the snow, mixing the mud and snow beneath his feet. He charged forward and the de wave energy rushed out of his saber. The de was blood-red! Fang Lang flew over the clouds andnded on the floating ind. He raised his hand against Qu He who seemed ready to die in this fight. Fang Lang¡¯s green robe and hair billowed in the breeze. The next moment, de wave energy was coursing through Fang Lang¡¯s body fiercely. Then, he pushed his palm forward suddenly. He attacked without holding back. There was an intent to kill! He switched to Quadruple Binding Mode! Spiritual sense rippled! Snowkes shattered from the impact of the force. The Champion¡¯s de in Fang Lang¡¯s sword box shuddered violently before it darted out with a crisp, ringing sound. The de shot up into the clouds. Qu He kept charging toward him with a wide grin on his face. He would be the first one to rip the new grand champion¡¯s lips apart! Swoosh! Slush, blood, killer¡¯s intent! All merged into one. Qu He was approaching Fang Lang, 20 meters, 15 meters, and finally, 10 meters! He lunged forward, kicking up snow as he propelled his body forward. He transformed into a blood-red dragon with a saber and charged at Fang Lang. Fang Lang kept a calm eye on Qu He. He pressed two fingers together, forming a finger de and gently drew a line. The gesture was effortless as if he was painting. In the next second, the expressions of the foreign elites on the Grooming Peak changed! They saw a thunderbolt strike from the snow-covered sky. It wasing down at lightning speed. Quadruple Binding Mode! Minor Forbidden Spell! Everything was happening too fast! Qu He did not have the time to react to the speed of the attack! Boom! When the foreign teen was just two inches from Fang Lang, he was suddenly impaled by the Sword Thunder. Qu He was nailed to the snowy ground by the Champion¡¯s de which was sparking with jolts of electricity. Bolts of thunder obliterated specks of snow in the air. At that moment, the Light Pavilion and the Grooming Peak were filled with deafening silence, leaving only the sounds of snowfall and the roaring sea clouds. Chapter 107 - A Way to Select the Next Binding Partner

Chapter 107: A Way to Select the Next Binding Partner

Snow was falling heavily from the sky. The oue of the match was self-evident when a mink hat hit the ground. There were no fancy moves, no rivalry, only a thunderbolt sword that came swooping down from the sky and putting an end to the battle. The entire mountain range was silent. The results of the battle were too surprising. Qu He was not that weak¡ªhe had the upper hand in the battle against Zhao Dagang. Furthermore, Qu He¡¯s attack was vicious and lethal. The disciples on the Grooming Peak were worried for Fang Lang¡¯s safety, no one expected him to win the battle effortlessly. Knockout! Simr to the battle against Zhao Yu, Fang Lang ended the battle with the Sword Thunder. However, the others noticed a difference in Fang Lang. On the Grooming Peak, Zhao Yu was astonished by the velocity, strength and power! This was not the de he fought! The grand champion had be stronger. If Zhao Yu was on the receiving end of this attack, he would not survive. He might share a simr fate as Qu He. After a long pause of silence on the Grooming Peak, the crowd started cheering. The uproar grew louder and louder until it shook the falling snow. The foreign elites¡¯ expressions were dark and heavy. Qu He was a strong fighter. Even though he was only in the first-grade sword wave realm, he was very experienced in battles. Nevertheless, he had lost the battlepletely. ¡°That de seems like a swordcraft method the Sword Guild has been secretly researching,¡± the handsome Song Zhongcheng said. He inherited Song Xianzhi¡¯s great qualities¡ªcharm and elegance. The gregarious girl looked at Song Zhongcheng. ¡°He¡¯s just a first-grade sword wave realm. Brother Zhongcheng, you should go next. You¡¯ll destroy him easily!¡± Song Zhongcheng turned to Geyue Shuhua and shook his head. ¡°The Sword Guild has a rule that prohibits disciples with a four-grade difference or more to battle each other. I¡¯m in the eighth-grade sword wave realm. We¡¯ll get in trouble if Chao Xiaojian picks on this. Asi Zhui and I are already eighteen years old. Our main goal of joining the Sword Guild is to get into the top hundred of the Light Pavilion.¡± On the other side, Asi Zhui who had been quiet said calmly, ¡°A first-grade sword world realm is not worth my time.¡± Geshu Yuehua smiled eagerly, exposing her canine teeth. ¡°What about... me?¡± Asi Zhui said casually, ¡°We got news back from the Imperial Examination that the new grand champion is a cultivator of all three disciplines. His strongest suit is sword mastery and he has a moderate understanding of martial arts and spells. Yuehua, if you can physically approach him, you could easily squash him with your innate power and General Geshu¡¯s infamous Dragon Lock. Foreigners are not allowed to participate in the Tang Dynasty¡¯s Imperial Examination, otherwise, these guys won¡¯t stand a chance against us.¡± Song Zhongcheng hesitated before saying, ¡°I still think you should be careful. Yuehua, don¡¯t underestimate him.¡± They witnessed Fang Lang¡¯s sword mastery. His martial arts mastery could not be better than his sword mastery, could it? ... Fang Lang nced at Qu He who was vomiting blood in the snow. He summoned the Champion¡¯s de back. Blood was still dripping from the de. Qu He could not move from the severe injuries he suffered¡ªblood kept flowing out of his wounds. Fang Lang¡¯s sword caught him by surprise. Although they were in the sword wave realm, Fang Lang¡¯s sword was just too fast, too strong! Fang Lang nced at Qu He. He did not even bother to use the Stats Scanner on him. Fang Lang was equally as shocked by the speed of the battle. Did he grow stronger... or was this guy weak? This was a question worth pondering. Fang Lang thought it must be due to his advancement into the third-ss sword wave realm which enhanced the power of his Sword Thunder. Fang Lang turned his gaze away from Qu He who was struggling to stand up. He raised his head to look at the scenic sky above Mount Shu. The veil of snow was ripped apart and a charming young man walked over. ¡°I¡¯m the third son of General Song Xianzhi from Beijiang, Song Zhongcheng. Nice to meet you.¡± The handsome man put his hands together and bowed slightly. He looked different from the foreigners. Instead, he had the resemnce of a Tang Dynasty schr. Fang Lang bowed in return and started scanning him. ... Age: 18 Cultivation: Eighth-Grade Sword Wave Core: 15 (Gold) Introduction: Some elegance, a little wild. ... ¡°I read the champion¡¯s policy essay. I understand your concerns. It makes sense from your perspective but unfortunately, we share opposing views...¡± Song Zhongcheng said with augh before helping Qu He up from the ground. He took out a pill and ced it in Qu He¡¯s mouth. ¡°I hope we¡¯ll be able to have a fair fight one day, champion.¡± Then, Song Zhongcheng carried Qu He and left the floating ind. As Fang Lang watched them leave, a girl with bronze-colored skin flew onto the floating ind. ¡°Geshu Yuehua, first-grade sword wave. I¡¯m here to challenge the new champion. Do you need to take a break?¡± The girl grinned widely. Fang Lang held onto the Champion¡¯s de and flicked away a drop of blood on his fingers. ¡°Fang Lang, first-grade sword wave.¡± Then, he activated the Stats Scanner to check the girl. ... Age: 16 Cultivation: First-Grade Sword Wave, Sixth-Grade Martial Arts Master Core: 11 (Gold) Introduction: She¡¯s wild, especially when she¡¯s mad. ... Her core was impressive but it was below the standard Fang Lang set for his next binding partner. Fang Lang was speechless after reading the background. Did it imply the girl was all brawn and no brain? Fang Lang ended the inspection. Geshu Yuehua started moving at a speed faster than Qu He. The way she slithered to Fang Lang left a snake-like trail on the snow. She wanted to ensure Fang Lang would not be able to use the Sword Thunder on her. As Asi Zhui mentioned, once she got closer to Fang Lang, she would definitely win the battle with her innate superhuman strength and the Dragon Lock technique. Fang Lang had a sword in each hand but he was not nning to cast the Sword Thunder. In actual fact, Fang Lang had been focusing his spiritual sense the moment he left the courtyard. That was why he could attack Qu He and end the battle in a single strike. However, at the speed the girl was approaching him, there was insufficient time to cast the killing shot. At the speed she was traveling, did she n to engage in close-quartersbat? This girl must take pride in her sixth-grade martial arts mastery. Fang Lang¡¯s eyes sparkled brightly. After eleven days of cultivation with unlimited consumption of spirit crystals, activation of Physical Buff Card, use of the practice methods and spiritual sense fatigue, Fang Lang managed to upgrade his martial arts cultivation to the eighth grade. Although it was still far from the third-ss martial arts master, blood-bending realm, Fang Lang was not afraid of closebat. Since this was what she wished for, he would y along! Fang Lang kicked off the ground with his toes. Slush sttered around him. He flew backward gracefully, trying to put some distance between him and Geshu Yuehua. He had a serious expression on his face. ¡°Don¡¯te any further!¡± Fang Lang¡¯s retreat led Geshu Yuehua to believe he was acting out of fear and that he was not adept at martial arts. Unlike her, who had the cultivation of a sixth-grade martial arts master, born with supernatural strength and equipped with her father¡¯s Dragon Lock! She locked her aim on the new champion! With one kick, Geshu Yuehua closed in on Fang Lang and drew a giant sword from her space ring. She wielded the giant sword and created a whirlwind of snow. Suddenly, she hurled the sword forward. Fang Lang¡¯s Obsidian Sword shot out and collided with the giant sword. Fang Lang staggered backward from the force of the impact. The girl burst outughing, her eyes shined brightly when she got closer to him! It was her time to shine! The heavy sword crashed onto the ground, sending slush flying in the air. The girl¡¯s flexible body circled the heavy sword and came just inches away from Fang Lang¡¯s body. Her vital energy was fully charged as she performed the Dragon Lock! Instantly, countless shadows of hands were about to hit Fang Lang. They restrained Fang Lang from moving, preventing him from attacking. Fang Lang watched the unsuspecting girl charge against him as he cast the Spirit Awl he prepared, along with the special effect of the earth-level martial arts mastery practice methods, Dragon Fury! At that moment, vital energy erupted from Fang Lang¡¯s body like a tremendous wave. Geshu Yuehua was stunned as her spiritual sense was perforated by the Spirit Awl and her soul was impacted by the Dragon Fury! She froze in ce with the double attack. By the time she regained her senses, Fang Lang¡¯s Splitting Punch came crashing into her shoulder des like a giant rock. Geshu Yuehua¡¯s body shook violently as though her corbone had shattered upon the collision. She yelped in pain and blood spewed from her mouth. Fang Lang took a step back and grabbed the girl¡¯s ankles. Then, he spun her around like a windmill. The girl was tossed into the sky. She stared at Fang Lang below her feet nkly. ¡®You... You have no respect for martial arts!¡¯ Bang! The girl flew 20 meters and crashed into the snow, stirring up a huge cloud of snow dust when shended. ¡°I told you not toe closer,¡± Fang Lang said helplessly as he shook his head and kept the sword back into his sword box. The girl stumbled a few times before falling onto the snow dejectedly. There were a few gasps around them. Fang Lang had defeated another foreigner. General Geshu Taixing¡¯s daughter, Geshu Yuehua, was naturally gifted and excelled in both sword mastery and martial arts mastery. Yet, she had lost in a ridiculous manner. ¡°All warfare is based on deception...¡± Song Zhongcheng flew over to take Geshu Yuehua away. The other foreign elites did not continue to challenge Fang Lang¡ªthey were wary after experiencing two defeats. They decided to stop challenging Fang Lang. They woulde back when they were fully confident they could defeat him. ... On the peak of Mount Shu, Chao Xiaojian roared inughter. ¡°That¡¯s my boy, ostentatious as usual.¡± He was d Fang Lang defeated the foreign challengers. At least he restored the dignity of the Sword Guild disciples and gave a warning to those foreigners who wanted to scare them. The other elders of the Sword Guild chuckled lightly, satisfied with the oue of the battles. ¡°The champion has attained third-ss sword wave realm just after eleven days since he joined the sect. Looks like the Sword Guild can get into the top ten in this year¡¯s Qianlong Resource Battle.¡± ¡°Right, he¡¯s the grand champion of the Imperial Examination after all.¡± ¡°Elder Ji should prepare the disciples for the resource battle. This will be the most hopeful year for the Sword Guild. Hopefully we can get some resources so the disciples won¡¯t need to risk their lives in the demon portal.¡± The elders discussed enthusiastically in the conference hall. ... When there is joy, there is also sorrow. Inside the courtyards of the foreign elites, Asi Yuan had a serious expression. The other foreign guards around him were unhappy as well. Qu He and Geshu Yuehua lost to Fang Lang. They had not expected things to turn out this way. Qu He and Geshu Yuehua were defeated by Fang Lang before they could showcase their battle experience after years on the frontlines. All of them sat in silence. The air was thick with tension. ... The foreign elites did not pursue further and left the Grooming Peak. On the floating ind, Fang Lang let out a breath of stale air. Wen Ting had warned him about the arrival of the foreign elites. Therefore, Fang Lang was expecting them. However, it seemed like these foreign elites were rather principled¡ªthey did note after him all at once. As an eighth-grade sword wave, Song Zhongcheng respected the rules and did not challenge him. If he did, Fang Lang was not confident he could defeat the handsome boy. Nevertheless, Fang Lang had no choice but to answer the challenge in order to intimidate them. Otherwise, the other foreign elites would continue to harass and challenge him. After this, Fang Lang would not need to worry any more. He was confident he would advance much faster than the foreign elites. By then, they would not be able to challenge him anymore. The issue with the foreign elites was temporarily solved. He stretched his back in the snow. Fang Lang turned around to look at the Light Pavilion disciples who were hovering in the air. Their swords spun around them. He should consider finding a new binding partner. Fang Lang ended his istion and left the courtyard not to fight with the foreign elites. His main goal was to select a new binding partner. Initially, Fang Lang wanted to bind to Mentor Wen but with so many geniuses in the Sword Guild, he thought he should weigh his options first. This was not a decision to be made lightly. Fang Lang grinned from ear to ear. The Light Pavilion disciples looked like fresh chives swaying in the wind, waiting to be harvest. He did not even get their names. Fang Lang nned to look for Xiao Lingjian, the socialite of the Sword Guild to help hime up with a name list. From afar, Jiang Linglong flew over to the Grooming Peak on her sword. Ni Wen and Liu Bubai also rushed over after hearing the news. They let out a sigh of relief when they saw Fang Lang in one piece. ... The snow kept gathering on the tiles. After it reached a certain thickness, it would fall off from the roof. In the outer sect of the Sword Guild. A two-story tavern stood in the vige. The decoration was not too borate but it had a warm ambiance. The fragrance of alcohol permeated the air as it boiled on the ming stove. The tavern was filled with the voices of busy servers greeting and serving the Sword Guild disciples. At the window seat of the second floor, Fang Lang drank from the warm cup. Xiao Lingjian entered the tavern, removed his winter coat and bamboo hat before walking toward Fang Lang. He took a gulp of the warm alcohol and frowned when he heard Fang Lang¡¯s favor. ¡°You want a name list of all the disciples in all four pavilions ording to their ranks?¡± Fang Lang¡¯s request baffled Xiao Lingjian. Fang Lang was also surprised the Sword Guild did not have aplete name list for the disciples of all four pavilions. ¡°This is slightly tricky because everyone is continuously improving. If the news got out, some of them might get offended...¡± Xiao Lingjian hesitated since it was not a small matter. Fang Lang sipped on his tea and focused his mind to retrieve a spirit crystal but he got cash instead. Did the System consider this as cultivation-rted expenditure? This was good news. Fang Lang generously took out a cash slip worth 10,000 gold coins and ced them on a table. Xiao Lingjian¡¯s frown loosened slightly when he saw the cash. Even though spirit crystals were vital to cultivators, money was rather important to improve their quality of life. They could be used to purchase pills and spirit crystals. 10,000 gold coins could buy a mid-grade spirit crystal. ¡°Brother Fang, I can get you the list of Light Pavilion and Dark Pavilion disciples, but the Earth and Heaven...¡± Xiao Lingjian said with reservations. Fang Lang took another sip of tea and took out another 10,000 gold coins worth of cash. Xiao Lingjian¡¯s eyes narrowed. ¡°Brother Fang, this is more than enough...¡± Fang Lang did not stop there and took our three cash slips consecutively. The total was 50,000 in cash. Xiao Lingjian let out a shaky breath and sipped on his alcohol with his trembling hand. Then, he put down the cup and took two slips. Although he would not say no to money, he had his principles. ¡°Twenty is enough. Anything beyond that is too much.¡± Xiao Lingjian said seriously, ¡°Brother Fang, give me three days. I¡¯ll guarantee that it would be at least eighty percent urate.¡± Fang Lang chuckled. The uracy of the ranking was the least of his concerns. All he needed was their names. ¡°Regarding the remaining thirty thousand gold coins, you must have a way to buy spirit crystals and pills, Brother Xiao,¡± Fang Lang said with augh. Then, he chugged the remaining alcohol and put on his bamboo hat before standing up to leave the tavern. Xiao Lingjian remained seated as he watched Fang Lang¡¯s shadow disappear into the snow. He was puzzled why Fang Lang wanted to buy the name list. He had a hard time reading this new guy. Chapter 108 - Bind to Chao Xiaojian?

Chapter 108: Bind to Chao Xiaojian?

After Fang Lang requested the name list from Xiao Lingjian, he did not return to the Light Pavilion. He had finally attained the third-ss sword wave realm after days of cultivation. He exhausted the System¡¯s cultivation resources and needed to wait for Xiao Jianling to deliver his end of the bargain. He heard Old Jiang had started to challenge the other Light Pavilion disciples again. Old Jiang¡¯s cultivation also increased by a grade to the second-grade sword world realm. Her ranking in the pavilion had been ascending. She experienced her first failure when she lost to a senior in the fourth-grade sword wave realm. Jiang Linglong retreated to cultivate for days. Fang Lang wore a bamboo hat to block the blizzard as he braved through the thick snow to reach the Swordcraft Pavilion. It was a pavilion independent from the other four. The setting was like a painting in the snow. When Fang Lang entered the pavilion, he saw Liu Bubai wielding a broadsword. He was wearing a thin robe as he waved the sword in the open space. He was sweating profusely even in the cold weather. Liu Bubai seemed to have found his path in cultivation. He abandoned the morous fine sword and chose this clunky broadsword. Liu Bubai excitedly dragged Fang Lang to practice with him. Fang Lang did not refuse his offer. He practiced briefly and activated a Physical Buff Card. He felt the change in Liu Bubai. The boy had gotten... tougher! In simple terms, Liu Bubai¡¯s endurance had improved. Did Liu Bubai unlock a mysterious ability after being beaten by Liu Longlong in thest group battle? Liu Bubai proceeded to practice his broadsword while Fang Lang went further into the pavilion. The inside of the pavilion had a warm and tranquil ambiance, filled with the smell of sandalwood. Ni Wen and Xue Ying were discussing the theoreticalbination of swordcraft and sword mastery. Both of them were debating fiercely. Even with Ni Wen¡¯s timid personality, she refused to back down from the argument and stood firm by her reasons. Fang Lang briefly looked through their research out of curiosity. ¡®The foundation of swordcraft is based on the rank of de energies. By merging spell mastery into sword mastery, the de energy would be used to draw spells to equip swordcraft with the effects of runes and the attack power of swords!¡¯ Fang Lang was inspired and switched into Quadruple Binding Mode¡ªthe thoughts in his mind became clearer. ¡°Brother Fang, what do you think about this? This girl here is too stubborn.¡± Xue Ying smiled gently when she saw Fang Lang. Ni Wen looked a little anxious. She hoped Fang Lang would support her point of view. Fang Lang gave it a thought before saying, ¡°For cultivation in the sword wave realm, the human body has three hundred and sixty orifices. The swordcraft uses spells and runes but the sword is an indispensableponent. Therefore, do you think we can enhance the power of the sword by mimicking the positions of the orifices as rune nodes and store the runes in them like how the body stores the wave energy?¡± Ni Wen and Xue Ying fell into deep thought. Fang Lang¡¯s words opened a new door to their research. ¡®Ding! Host and binding partner, Ni Wenpleted a modest interaction regarding cultivation. Passive ability triggered, you are awarded Grade-Rush Card Fragment.¡¯ The System notified him of the reward. Fang Lang had gotten used to benefiting from Ni Wen as his binding partner. He continued to discuss with Ni Wen and Xue Ying, sharing his knowledge on the minor forbidden spells. Xue Ying was very impressed by the grand champion¡ªhis thoughts were genius! Why did he choose the Light Pavilion? He should be here in the Swordcraft Pavilion doing research! The three of them had a vigorous discussion over swordcraft. Liu Bubai came in once to listen to their thoughts but quickly realized he could not understand what they were talking about. He left to practice the broadsword. The sword was a man¡¯s most loyalpanion. ... In the Imperial City, Changan. The snow was falling heavily, covering the streets of Changan with a thickyer of snow. The armored guards and the local court guards were shoveling snow to clear a path. The snow was a sign of a prosperous year. The streets of Changan were filled with celebration and joy. At the very end of Vermilion Street, beyond the Vermilion Bird Gate, the White Jade Square was nketed in pure white snow. A neatly dressed Tang Dynasty official alighted from the carriage at the Vermilion Bird Gate and crossed the White Jade Square, leaving footprints on the path like blooming ck lotuses in the snowy ins. He walked up to the White Jade Court and stepped over the doorsill of the Taiji Pce. The other officials continued to enter the pce as they chatted away happily. The routine morning assembly of the Tang Dynasty was in progress. Hundreds of officials stood on both sides. The assembly was led by the first prince and the third prince. After being grounded, the third prince had mellowed. His body was slightly stooped, unlike his usual arrogant posture. The Emperor emerged from the back of the court with Old Man Gao by his side. The court officials reported their business as usual whereas the imperial censors rebutted on trivial matters. After a while, the Minister of Revenue and Minister of Rites stepped forward and bowed. ¡°Your Majesty, the foreign elites has joined the sects as ordered. Although there were some hups and conflicts along the way reported from each sect, the general reception was rather harmonious.¡± The Emperor was sitting on the mighty throne¡ªhis face remained hidden. The Minister of Rites bowed again. ¡°Your Majesty, your birthday is in two weeks. I¡¯ve already ordered the preparation for the ceremony. All the officials from the Tang Dynasty would being to pay their respects and honor your royal presence.¡± The other officials around them bowed. ¡°All Hail His Majesty, the Emperor!¡± The Emperor raised his hand, then lowered it. His brooding eyes seemed to pierce through the dimensions. The Taiji Pce fell silent. After a long pause, the Emperor said with his majestic voice, ¡°It¡¯s been two weeks since the Imperial Examination. The academy students have chosen their sects. By now, they must¡¯ve received a practice method. They should be improving significantly. Therefore, I¡¯ve decided to move the Qianlong Resource Battle forward, on the day of the birthday celebration. That¡¯ll save the sect leaders and their disciples an extra trip.¡± The officials in the Taiji Pce were shocked by the Emperor¡¯s words. The first prince and the third prince widened their eyes in disbelief. Even the drowsy Lu Taixuan opened his eyes. What was the Emperor nning to do?! The birthday celebration and the Qianlong Resource Battle to happen concurrently? This year¡¯s Qianlong Resource Battle held much more significance than the previous ones. What was the Emperor hinting at? The Emperor was not bothered by the reactions from the officials. He continued to give orders regarding the preparation protocols. The Minister of Rites and Minister of Revenue bowed and answered. The morning assembly dissolved after the unexpected announcement. There was a storm brewing in Changan. ... In the Sword Guild on Mount Shu, the snowfall was heavier due to the higher altitude. In the 800th courtyard in the Light Pavilion, the calming rune was not activated. Fang Lang was practicing sword fighting in the courtyard with the Blooming Lotus Sword and the Obsidian Sword. As he wielded both swords, the de energy stirred up the snowkes and whirled around Fang Lang continuously. Three days passed in the blink of an eye. Fang Lang was stabilizing his cultivation in the sword wave realm. Since he had exhausted his cultivation resources, Fang Lang had to rely on the energy-gathering rune to cultivate. Fang Lang deeply understood the importance of cultivation resources. Without the spirit crystals, he could not absorb spiritual energy willy nilly. He could feel his cultivation progress slow down. He retrieved the rewards he received from being the champion. The de Energy umtion Herb was still untouched. He used the Bone Lubricant for a bath and the effects were simr to a Physical Buff Card. Fang Lang¡¯s martial arts cultivation reached a bottleneck with the help of the Bone Lubricant. He was on the verge of breaking into the third-ss martial arts master, blood-bending realm. Fang Lang let out a breath of stale air. He knew in order to speed up his cultivation, other than choosing the right binding partner, he had to find a way for the System to provide an endless supply of cultivation resources. If the resources were running low, it would slow down the cultivation progress. No wonder every cultivator was fighting for cultivation resources. He kept his sword. The snowkes that were swirling around him fell to the ground. Fang Lang enjoyed a rare moment of peace for three days. The foreign elites were intimidated by Fang Lang and stopped challenging him. Fang Lang stopped cultivating and cleaned his courtyard. He took out his bamboo hat and nned to pay a visit to the Swordcraft Pavilion to have a discussion with Ni Wen and Xue Ying. He was genuinely interested in swordcraft. After days of research, they were able to infuse the disciple-ss spells into the sword form. Even though it could only generate mediocre power, it was a big step. Fang Lang was also d he was able to trigger the passive ability with Ni Wen as he increased the depth of his knowledge. He put on the bamboo hat and his cloak. He flicked off the collecting snow. Fang Lang was about to exit the courtyard when he saw a figure in the snow. It was none other than Xiao Lingjian. He weed Xiao Lingjian into his courtyard. Xiao Lingjian was grinning, ¡°Brother Fang, as per your request.¡± He took out a book and gave it to Fang Lang. ¡°This book has the records of all the disciples from the four pavilions including their names and cultivation. There might be some minor discrepancies if they intentionally hid their cultivation. The information is generally urate.¡± Fang Lang received the book with glee in his sparkling eyes. With these names, he could scan them one by one to search for a suitable candidate to be his binding partner. Xiao Lingjian removed bottles of pills from his space ring. ¡°Brother, these include some basic pills, nourishing pills and healing pills. They summed up to a total of thirty thousand gold coins. You can check on their prices.¡± Fang Lang browsed through the bottles and kept everything. He noticed Xiao Lingjian did not purchase any spirit crystals with the cash. Obviously, the System¡¯s cultivation resources could not be used to purchase spirit crystals. Xiao Lingjian must be under the influence of some indescribable force. ¡®Ding! Friendly reminder, the System¡¯s experience points are full. Do you want an upgrade?¡¯ ¡°Upgrade.¡± ... Host: Fang Lang Cultivation Discipline: First-Grade Sword Wave (Third-ss Sword Mastery) Level: LV7 Experience: 0/500000 Core: 36 (White) Modified Core: 66 (Purple) Cultivation Resources: 100,000 gold coins, 2,000 low-grade spirit crystals, 20 mid-grade spirit crystals (limited to cultivation usage) Items: Grade-Rush Card (1), Grade-Rush Card Fragment (2), Physical Buff Card (2), Meditation Card (1) Equipment: Instant Casting Staff Binding Partner:- Spell: Ni Wen (70%) Sword: Jiang Linglong (70%), Liu Bubai (70%) Martial Arts: Wei Sheng (70%) Empty: 2X (70%) Sole Passive Ability: Additional rewards may be granted when the host bonds with the binding partner over cultivation. ... Fang Lang nced through the System¡¯s disy. There were no major changes other than the replenishment of his cultivation resources. He was thrilled to find a ten percent increase in the binding capacity for all binding partners. Fang Lang¡¯s cultivation speed would increase significantly. He was one step closer to finding another binding partner! The System categorized the binding partners for a change. There were two empty spaces under the binding partner category. He should not waste time choosing a binding partner. He should hurriedly conduct arge-scale screening of his brothers and sisters in the pavilion. ¡®Ding! Congrattions on participating in a cultivation-rted expenditure. One Green Reward Egg awarded.¡¯ The notification rang in Fang Lang¡¯s mind. ¡°Open the egg.¡± After a splendid radiance, ¡®Congrattions host for receiving the recipe for Enhanced Healing Pill.¡¯ Fang Lang was stunned when he received a recipe. He remembered he had an Alchemy (Alchemist Specialty), but he did not pay much attention to it since he was not interested in being an alchemist. While Fang Lang was having the secret transaction with Xiao Lingjian, the deep sound of the bell echoed through the Sword Guild. ¡°Bong...¡± The sound of the bell resonated through the clouds and mountaintops. Even the disciples who were training in the Sword Guild Demon Portal heard the bell. Other than the Heaven Pavilion disciples who stayed in the demon portal, the disciples from the Light Pavilion, Dark Pavilion and Earth Pavilion returned to their own courtyards. ¡°This bell... Is the Qianlong Resource Battle happening in advance?¡± Xiao LIngjian¡¯s expression changed slightly. ¡°Resource battle?¡± Fang Lang looked confused. Xiao Lingjian said in all seriousness, ¡°The sect¡¯s cultivation resource supply depends mainly from fighting in the demon portals and the allocation from the imperial court. The resource allocation and distribution depend on the disciples¡¯ performance in the resource battle. ¡°Since the new disciples won¡¯t benefit much from the cultivation resources, the distribution will depend on their performance, and hence, the name of Qianlong[1] Battle. It¡¯s also why the new disciples will try to ascend quickly after the Imperial Examination. Thepetition within the sect is the prequel to the resource battle. ¡°Brother Fang, we should pack up and gather at the za on Mount Shu. The Vice Leader should be making an announcement. You¡¯ll be joining this battle this year. I wish you all the best! You¡¯re the hope of the Sword Guild,¡± Xiao Lingjian said firmly. As a Sword Guild disciple, he did not want to see his sect fall. Fang Lang gave a positive response. Xiao Lingjian put on his hat and disappeared into the snow. Fang Lang stood in the courtyard. The snow was falling heavily. He frowned lightly. His n to scan through all the disciples in the four pavilions was rudely interrupted. He stared at the two empty binding partner slots and fell into deep thought. ¡®Why not bind to Mentor Wen first and leave the other name slot open for the time being?¡¯ Fang Lang pondered. Then, his eyes lit up and Chao Xiaojian¡¯s shadow appeared in his mind. He thought and said, ¡°System, bind to... Chao Xiaojian.¡± ¡®Ding, the System¡¯s checking... ¡®Binding partner detected as ninth-ss cultivation and above. Estimated binding period, thirty years. ¡®Confirm as a binding partner?¡¯ In your dreams. 30 years? No thank you. He could reach ninth-ss on his own after three decades. He would go insane even if he spent all the Grade-Rush Card Fragments. It seemed like he could only admire the starry core from afar. He would use one of the slots to bind to Mentor Wen. His 89 points gold core was one in a million. Fang Lang¡¯s only worry was that he would be a wolfberry tea addict. This was certainly a problem that warranted serious consideration. [1] DZÁú means hidden dragon. Chapter 109 - I Don’t Need a Mother Like You

Chapter 109: I Don¡¯t Need a Mother Like You

The snowfall grew denser at higher altitudes of the mountain ranges. On the peak of Mount Shu, a thunderous p tore through the clouds and snow above the four mountaintops that housed the pavilions. The disciples in robes fairer than snow flew out the pavilions on flying swords like deities, stirring up a windstorm. Fang Lang went back to his courtyard to change into the white disciple robe of the Sword Guild. He walked out of his courtyard and saw Jiang Linglong holding an oil paper umbre, shielding her from the snow. She was also dressed in all-white like a beautiful lotus. When both of them looked up, the sky above was filled with de rays from the disciples who were flying to Mount Shu on their swords. Fang Lang and Jiang Linglong smiled at each other before they held a breath of de energy and flew out of the Light Pavilion with their swords. They were like streams that merged into the tide of flying disciples. On the great za of Mount Shu, the pesky snow was cleared away. There was a tower on the za and there stood Chao Xiaojian in white with his torso exposed. He looked rather outstanding and unrestrained against the snowy backdrop. Elder Ji, Wen Ting and the other elders from the Sword Guild were standing beside him. They raised their heads and smiled at the disciples who were flying through the snow. All the pavilion disciples and non-pavilion disciples gathered there. The Heaven Pavilion disciples spent all year cultivating in the demon portals were absent. The gathering of thousands of white-robed disciples was quite a grand sight. Some disciples who had not met for some time greeted each other with a smile. Some of them were asking about their cultivation progress, some were making ns to team up to enter the demon portal. The warm atmosphere chased away the chill of the snowstorm. Elder Ji and Mentor Wen waved to signal Fang Lang and Jiang Linglong to head over when they arrived. Liu Bubai and Ni Wen were already there. ¡°Have you guys heard about the Qianlong Resource Battle?¡± Wen Ting asked the four of them smilingly. Before Fang Lang could answer, the man continued to borate on the details and importance of the battle to the Sword Guild. It was simr to what Xiao Lingjian had mentioned but with more details. ¡°Isn¡¯t the Qianlong Resource Battle six months away?¡± Jiang Linglong asked suddenly. Elder Ji answered, ¡°We received an edict from Changan that the Emperor has decided to have the Qianlong Resource Battle on his birthday celebration. Therefore, the battle will be in less than ten days¡¯ time.¡± Fang Lang raised his eyebrow. ¡°What¡¯s the hurry?¡± ¡°Originally, only the new disciples were allowed to participate in the Qianlong Resource Battle because they had the least to benefit from the resources. Half a year would be just right for preparation, but the Emperor has called for an earlier date. Regardless, there¡¯s nothing to worry about. ¡°The Emperor ordered each team to include at least one foreign elite and be led by a senior disciple. Since it¡¯s not a battle among new disciples only, the difficulty of this year¡¯s battle would be significantly increased due to the unpredictability and underlying threats,¡± Elder Ji said in a low voice. Fang Lang and the others fell into deep thought. Before they could enquire any further, Chao Xiaojian who was standing above the tower started speaking. His speech was exactly the same as Elder Ji. He mentioned about the advanced Qianlong Resource Battle and that they would be choosing a fourth-ss disciple to join the teams. No wonder they gathered all the disciples on the Mount Shu za. There was a murmuring of discussions about the candidates. After a while, the principal disciple of the Dark Pavilion was chosen. Since the disciples in the Earth Pavilion and Heaven Pavilion had surpassed the fourth ss, only the principal disciple of the Dark Pavilion was qualified to enter the battle. Fang Lang looked over. He found the name of the principal disciple from the name list given by Xiao Lingjian. Her name was Huang Ying, fourth-ss sword intent realm. ... Age: 25 Cultivation: Ninth-ss Sword Intent Realm Core: 22 (Gold) Introduction: She has a dream to travel around the world with her sword. ... Her information was presented to Fang Lang. She had a decent gold core but was weaker than Mentor Wen¡¯s level. She was his senior. Fang Lang had met her once in the Gathering of Swords¡ªshe was the one who helped them settle in. She was familiar with Mentor Wen. It clicked in his mind that she might be there to wee Mentor Wen. Tsk, something¡¯s fishy. Fang Lang peeped at Mentor Wen but the man was just casually sipping on his wolfberry tea from the gourd canteen. This gathering was not just to select the senior disciple for the Qianlong Resource Battle. With both hands on his back, Chao Xiaojian took a deep breath after ncing at the disciples below and said, ¡°After the Qianlong Resource Battle, thepetition for the ranking of sects would be next. This year, Donglu¡¯s Sword League, Nanhai Sword Association and other sects are putting up a strong fight. We shouldn¡¯t let our guard down. In the Tang Dynasty, the Sword Guild has always been the best in sword mastery! One day, we will take back our rightful ce as the greatest sect in the Tang Dynasty!¡± Chao Xiaojian¡¯s voice shattered the falling snow. The eyes of the Sword Guild disciples on the za were sparkling. ¡°Take a seat, everyone.¡± Chao Xiaojian waved his hand after and a sword intent bloomed from the ground. The disciples sat cross-legged on the za. Fang Lang, Jiang Linglong and the other new disciples were confused. Elder Ji quickly exined, ¡°Sit cross-legged, Vice Leader Chao¡¯s about to deliver a lecture. Pay attention, you¡¯ll benefit much from it. To listen to the teachings of a ninth-ss cultivator is a treat and blessing.¡± Elder Ji also sat cross-legged on the floor, followed by Fang Lang, Jiang Linglong, Ni Wen and Liu Bubai. The snowfall stopped suddenly as the whole world fell silent. Chao Xiaojian sat on the tower overlooking all the disciples and began his lecture. With the enhancement of his spiritual sense, his voice had a unique nuance and frequency, bringing the disciples into a magnificent sword realm. Chao Xiaojian shared his understanding of swords, which helped the disciples deepen their appreciation for sword mastery. Before Fang Lang paid close attention to the speech, he chose toplete the binding with Mentor Wen. ¡®System, confirm binding partner... Wen Ting.¡¯ ¡®Ding! System checking...¡¯ ¡®Ding! Binding partner detected to be ninth-grade sword intent realm. The binding period is estimated to be seven day. Do you want to proceed?¡¯ The System¡¯s notified him. Fang Lang raised his eyebrow and thought, ¡®Only seven days?¡¯ The binding time required was much lower than he expected. Previously when he was a fifth-grade sword disciple, it took him three days to bind to Old Jiang who was a ninth-grade sword master. Hence, he predicted it would take him longer to bind to Mentor We. Perhaps it was due to Mentor Wen¡¯s... weakness? ¡®Ding! Host detected with Grade-Rush Card (1) and Grade-Rush Card Fragments (2). Items can be used to ovee the binding time.¡¯ Fang Lang thought for a moment and decided to use the cards. ¡®Ding! Binding sessful. Happy cultivating!¡¯ ... Binding Partner: Wen Ting Age: 28 Cultivation Discipline: Ninth-Grade Sword Intent Core: 89 (Gold) Cultivation Speed: 18 low-grade crystals/2 hours ¡®Binding partner is currently feeding his sword with his body...¡¯ ... Fang Lang nced through Wen Ting¡¯s basic information and did not see any bloodline ability. However, there was enlightening piece of information. Fang Lang had always been curious. With Wen Ting¡¯s core, he should not be stuck in the sword intent realm at the age of 28. The System¡¯s disy told Fang Lang the stunted cultivation was due to Wen Ting¡¯s sword-feeding state. Of course, thanks to that, it made it easier for Fang Lang to bind to him. His core was already one in a million. It did not take him long to bind to Wen Ting. Fang Lang kept the other binding slot empty for the moment, hoping he would find a suitable binding partner in the Qianlong Resource Battle. Fang Lang felt his perception ability improve significantly after switching to Quintuple Binding Mode. It was as though the world had stopped moving when they listened to Chao Xiaojian. The teachings of sword mastery bloomed in every Sword Guild disciple¡¯s mind like spring blossoms. His teachings answered their doubts in sword mastery and enlightened them. ... The snow stopped the next day. The long-lost sunlight shone from the sky and the warmth encouragedziness. The white-robed disciples on the practice ground looked like blooming white lotuses in the sun. Fang Lang, Jiang Linglong, Ni Wen and Liu Bubai had packed their bags. They were standing at the practice ground on the Grooming Peak, waiting to start their journey to Changan. They would be joining the Qianlong Resource Battle and the Emperor¡¯s birthday celebration in Changan. Elder Ji, Wen Ting and Chao Xiaojian descended from the sky andnded on the practice ground. From afar, Huang Ying was approaching them with a sword box on her back. Her hair was tied up in a ponytail. Beside her was a wild-looking figure¡ªthe foreign elite who would be joining their team. Fang Lang was stunned when he realized it was Geshu Yuehua, the one who had her corbone ruthlessly shattered by him. She looked more restrained after changing into the white robe of the Sword Guild disciples. She had a wide grin that exposed her canine teeth. She was staring at Fang Lang with an unfriendly gaze. Her wounds hadpletely healed after taking a medicinal pill. However, the mental trauma she received would haunt her for days toe. ¡°You guys will be representing the Sword Guild in the resource battle. I need you to work as a team and help each other,¡± Chao Xiaojian said. Then, Chao Xiaojian waved his sleeve and gathered a sword intent that swept the disciples off their feet. They flew into the clouds and rode across the sea of clouds, leaving a rainbow trail of de energy. ... The resource battle is organized by the Ministry of Rites and the Imperial Court of Judicial Review. Most sects were allowed to participate¡ªincluding the ten great sects, first- and second-ss sects¡ªwith the total exceeding over three hundred sects. The ancient city, the great capital of the Tang Dynasty, gradually appeared in their vision. A familiar city, a familiar scent. Fang Lang returned to Changan two weeks after the Imperial Examination. Huang Ying who had participated in the resource battle before was exining the rules to the new disciples. She had a warm and gentle personality and treated everyone as her younger siblings. She would only show a cold face when she faced Wen Ting. ¡°Sister, will there be deaths in the resource battle?¡± Geshu Yuehua asked. Huang Ying nced at her. She did not treat her differently just because she was a foreigner. She was still smiling as she answered seriously, ¡°The resource battle is different from the Imperial Examination as it involves fighting for resources. It is a battle of profit and cultivation. No one will hold back during the battle, so it¡¯s definitely a life and death situation. However, there will be guards from the Imperial Court of Judicial Review who¡¯ll maintain order during the battle to reduce casualties.¡± Everyone fell silent after hearing that. The tension in the atmosphere thickened. ¡°We cultivate to attain immortality but death is still the final destination,¡± Chao Xiaojian said calmly as he nced at the team. ¡°Don¡¯t worry, I will give my all to protect you guys,¡± Huang Ying said with a warm smile and a determined expression. The sky above Changan was filled with rays of light. There were morous flight swords, handsome horses and carriages and a giant rune roulette in the sky. Changan¡¯s sky was like an estuary with trails of light converging on the city. The beamsnded right before Changan City. This was because the city¡¯sw banned anyone from flying into the city. Therefore, all the cultivators had to descend and enter through the gates. The area in front of the entrance was cleared¡ªsnow was removed to reveal a great expanse. More cultivators from various sects started gathering in front of the city gates. The gates were still sealed shut. Armed guards were patrolling above the tower. Fang Lang looked around and saw familiar faces. Ximen Xianxian who joined the Karma Society, Li Yuanzhen whom he defeated with tricky moves and the honest Wei Sheng. ¡°Brother Lang! Nice to see you again? Let¡¯s meet at the entertainment house tonight?¡± Ximen Xianxian invited him enthusiastically as he opened his paper fan. Fang Lang turned down his invite and Ximen Xianxian shook his head dejectedly. Wei Sheng also noticed Fang Lang among the crowd and smiled at him. He was surrounded by his peers who had muscr builds. They looked over curiously. Boom! A splendid de light dashed toward them, stirring up heaps of snow. ¡°Donglu¡¯s Sword League¡¯s team is here,¡± Huang Ying said. ¡°They are our biggest rival in this resource battle,¡± she said in all seriousness. Chao Xiaojian nced at them calmly. When the de energy dissipated, Donglu¡¯s God of des, Nan Yehuo, appeared with an icy demeanor and his signature unibrow. The smile on Fang Lang¡¯s face faltered as he nced at Nan Yehuo. His gazended on the arm that was chopped off. Nan Yehuo¡¯s expression darkened. Beside him was the representative team of Donglu¡¯s Sword League. Huang Ying was stunned when she saw the leader of their team. ¡°It¡¯s Lin Muzhe, the top disciple of Donglu¡¯s Sword League! I heard she inherited the skills from one of the Donglu¡¯s de lords who passed away!¡± Fang Lang was interested when he heard she was a genius. He immediately whipped out the Stats Scanner. ... Age: 23 Cultivation: Ninth-Grade Sword Intent Core: 79 (Gold) Introduction: Don¡¯t think about it, she hates your guts. ... Her core was decent but Fang Lang was shocked when he read her introduction. Wen Ting saidzily, ¡°Don¡¯t bother, her little brother is Lin Yun. Are you surprised?¡± Fang Lang was speechless. He understood why the System gave such an introduction. Lin Muzhe picked up on Fang Lang¡¯s gaze and red at him through the falling snow. Psst! The snowkes within her path of vision were shredded. Creak... The gates of Changan slowly opened as more and more teams from each sect arrived. A crowd walked out from the city to wee them. Princess Pei Shi hurried out excitedly in her red coat with Zhao Wuji and Pei Liao. They came to wee the Sword Guild team. Jiang Linglong smiled when she saw her mother. She stepped forward to greet her mother. ¡°Ya! Little Lang¡¯s here! Do you have any new poems these days?¡± Princess Pei Shi blew warm breaths onto her hands and asked excitedly. Princess Pei Shi walked past Jiang Linglong and headed straight for Fang Lang. Jiang Linglong was frozen in ce¡ªthe eyes above her veil turned icy cold. The snowfall thickened. Huff. ¡®I don¡¯t need a mother like you.¡¯ Chapter 110 - Resource Battle! Youzhou Demon Portal!

Chapter 110: Resource Battle! Youzhou Demon Portal!

The gates of Changan City opened slowly. Under the pure snow, the imperial city was bustling. The falling snow and the autumnal sense seemed to give the imperial city a different vibe. The disciples of the various sects flooded into Changan like a surging river. Their arrival in the bustling city of Changan caused the atmosphere to be busier and more festive than usual, reaching a fever pitch! People thronged the main street. Even though the streets were not as packed as when people came to watch the grand champion¡¯s parade, the crowd was still extremely excited and curious to see the disciples of the various sects. The inns and taverns on both sides of the main street were filled with people. Some storytellers were performing to a rapt audience, captivating them with exciting stories of the uing event where various sects would be engaged in the Resource Battle. They drew cheers from the entire crowd. The officials of the Ministry of Rites, the Ministry of Finance and the Imperial Court of Judicial Review were here to wee the various disciples and sect leaders from sects all across the Tang Dynasty. The various sect leaders of the Tang Dynasty all had conferred ranks and were of high statuses. The main reason they hade to Changan was for the Emperor¡¯s birthday celebration. Hence, the imperial court officers dare not offend any of the sect leaders. Fang Lang, Ni Wen, Liu Bubai and the others were personally escorted by Princess Pei Shi into the Martial Arts King Manor. They were not staying at the inn prepared by the Ministry of Rites. When they arrived at the Martial Arts King Manor, Fang Lang and the others got off the horse carriage. Jiang Lingling was a little furious from being ignored by her own mother¡ªshe gave off an extremely cold aura throughout the entire journey back. However, once she was home, her mood improved drastically. Before the Martial Arts King Manor stood an ordinary-looking carriage. A girl slowly walked out of the manor right at that moment. The girl¡¯splexion was extremely pale. Her figure looked frail and sickly. She would asionally cough a couple of times. When Princess Pei Shi and Jiang Linglong saw her, they slowed their pace and nodded in acknowledgment. The girl smiled in response and left the manor with the help of the servant girl beside her. ¡®Who was that girl?¡¯ Fang Lang was a little curious to know. She did not look too old yet she was able to freely enter and leave the Martial Arts King Manor. She must be of a venerable status. Hence, Fang Lang was extremely intrigued and ran a Stats Scanner. ... Age: 16 Cultivation: Nine-Grade Sword Intent Core: 15 (Starry) Bloodline ability: ??? Introduction: Careful, this is an extremely careless character. ... Fang Lang, ¡®??? Wow! Who is this person!?¡¯ This news made Fang Lang inhale sharply! A starry core! This was the first time Fang Lang had seen anyone with it, apart from Chao Xiaojian. Sixteen years old, fourth-ss sword intent realm. A real monster! ¡°Who is she?¡± Fang Lang could not help but ask. He had a sense! He sensed that he had confirmed a binding target! Princess Pei Shi nced at Fang Lang. She seemed to find it strange that Fang Lang would be so curious about the girl. ¡°It¡¯s understandable that you do not know her. She¡¯s rtively unknown in Changan City. However, her status is exceptionally noble. ¡°She is the poor fifth princess who suffers from the mysterious Dragon Lock Poison since she was young.¡± ¡®The fifth princess? ¡®The fifth princess of the Tang Dynasty!¡¯ Ripples of emotions stirred in Fang Lang¡¯s eyes. It was a shame that Princess Pei Shi did not mention her name. What was the name of the fifth princess? Fang Lang did not know. He asked Princess Pei Shi inquisitively but she was immersed in her feelings of pity for the fifth princess and could not stop herself from sighing. Hence, Fang Lang did not learn the name of the fifth princess. The fifth princess appeared to havee to visit Martial Arts King Jiang. Martial Arts King Jiang was sitting quietly in the courtyard. Unlike the previous encounter, the Martial Arts King was dressed neatly and appeared rather tame. Martial Arts King Jiang did not seem surprised by the arrival of the disciples. It seemed like nothing could shake his emotions. He maintained a nk face as he received everyone¡¯s salutation. He nodded his head slightly and left the courtyard. Everyone stayed in the manor. In response to the pressure of the Qianlong Resource Battle, everyone was got cultivating. They prepared themselves for the Resource Battle the next day. Fang Lang stayed in the same house within the manor as he did previously. He took out a spirit crystal and began to absorb it as he cultivated. He switched into Quintuple Binding Mode and with the 70% binding capacity, the speed of Fang Lang¡¯s cultivation drastically increased! He was deeply immersed in his cultivation. The entire night passed without a word. ... The next day, the skies of Changan were filled with falling snow. Fang Lang and the others finished eating the breakfast Princess Pei Shi had specially ordered the servants to prepare before leaving the manor together. They headed toward the pce of the Ministry of Rites. There was a crowd standing before the Ministry of Rites pce. The disciples of second-ss and above from 300 sects in the Tang Dynasty were gathered here. The Minister of Rites, Zhou Yiyuan, wore a neat and respectful official robe. He stood among the snow and observed the disciples from the 300 sects. He slowly began to speak and the noisy atmosphere before the pce instantly became quiet. ¡°The Emperor¡¯s birthday is approaching. The Emperor has given me special orders to bring forward this year¡¯s Qianlong Resource Battle. However, since it is extremely close to the Emperor¡¯s birthday celebrations, the resources awarded in this Resource Battle will be more bountiful thanst year¡¯s. It¡¯s a gift from the Emperor! ¡°Besides that, the Emperor will personally confer titles to the winning team during his birthday celebration! To celebrate with the Tang Dynasty!¡± The minister¡¯s voice was loud and resounding. The breathing of many disciples standing before the Ministry of Rites¡¯ pce began to turn shallow. The chance for glory and resources! This battle might be exceptionally exciting. It might even be... tragic! ¡°Since the Resource Battle has been brought forward by six months, there are some changes to the rules. Each team will include a senior disciple from the sect. This is because the difficulty of the Resource Battle has increased. ¡°Cultivation is a challenging process. Striving for spirit crystals, fighting for practice methods and battling for resources! Everything needs to be earned! ¡°The location of this year¡¯s Resource Battle is the Youzhou Demon Portal. ¡°The Youzhou Demon Portal has recently been pacified. The huge armies of the demons have retreated but the demon beasts remain. Danger and opportunity coexist. As the arena for this year¡¯spetition, it will be an early rehearsal for the new disciples to try their hands at killing demons in the demon portal. ¡°After this, all the team leaders from the various sects will bring the disciples towards therge-scale teleportation spell,¡± continued the Minister of Rites. A couple of Ministry of Rites officials stepped out, leading the teams towards therge-scale teleportation spell that was prepared by the imperial pce¡¯s high-grade spell masters under the orders of the Minister of Rites. As one of the ten great sects, the Sword Guild was the first team to be sent out. Numerous high-grade spell masters stood at the edges of the massive square. Many inconceivably huge spirit crystal ores were ced next to them. The spirit crystal ores were carved with runes. The spiritual energy within the ores was withdrawn and directed into countless small-scaled spell charms within the teleportation spell. Therge-scale runes were activated. After that, a powerful space ripple spread out. The disciples of the ten great guilds who stood within the rune felt their vision go dark as a powerful tugging sensation manifested. They disappeared within the teleportation spell. ... The Royal City of the Tang Dynasty. Taiji Pce. On the steps of the White Jade Court. The first prince, the third prince and the sickly fifth princess that Fang Lang took an interest in were seated. Next to the fifth princess sat a man dressed in dragon robes. Heughed absentmindedly as he leaned close to her. He was the second prince of the Tang Dynasty. The fifth princess would asionally cough and gently pat the shoulder of the second prince. On the other side, the first prince and the third prince looked over, wearing smiles. They would asionally make some snide remarks. The grand chancellor, Lu Taixuan, the right administrator, Li Puyi, and the other officials were all sitting on chairs. The sect leaders of the various sects were seated ording to the order of their sects. In the center of the White Jade Square, there were ten massive bronze mirrors. As the spirit crystals were drained, the ten bronze mirrors slowly floated in the air. Deep within the Taiji Pce, the unfathomable Tang Dynasty Emperor turned his gaze toward the square. This was different from the Imperial Examination of the Tang Dynasty. The various sect leaders paid great attention to the Qianlong Resource Battle because it determined the distribution of resources! Ding! The sound of the ancient bell rang out. The surface of the ten bronze mirrors began to ripple like flowing waters. After a while, it slowly transformed into an image. The image showed the situation of the disciples of the various sects in the Resource Battle. ... The Youzhou Demon Portal. The portal door closed. There was a huge pce floating in the sky. Strong winds and heavy snow howled from all directions. As the winds continued to blow unceasingly, the killing intent began to spread across the air. The area behind the magical-looking pce glowed red like an endless blood sky! This was a passage between heaven and earth! This was a floating passage in the sky that was drenched in the blood of countless cultivators, battered by the me of war! The Youzhou Demon Portal was a demon portal that had been subdued. Behind the demon portal, the two shing forces faded. The energy at the barrier calmed down. The glow from the teleportation spell disappeared. The disciples of the sects began to walk out of the huge teleportation square. A boundless oppressive force that made one¡¯s heart tremble invaded the space. Fang Lang took a deep breath and suddenly raised his head to look at the Youzhou Demon Portal. Within the demon portal, there were armies in garrison formation. The soldiers dressed in bloodstained armor wore cold and stern expressions. ¡°I didn¡¯t expect... this year¡¯s Qianlong Resource Battle to be the Youzhou Demon Portal!¡± Huang Ying wore an expression of utmost solemnity. ¡°It¡¯s no wonder they¡¯ve specified that each team will need a senior disciple as the leader. If the teams don¡¯t have a senior disciple with experience entering the demon portal, it would be extremely dangerous even if it¡¯s a demon portal that has been pacified.¡± Huang Ying took a deep breath after she spoke. Fang Lang could sense his senior was nervous. Wen Ting was iparably serious as he said, ¡°The Qianlong Resource Battle this year... will be extremely tragic.¡± This did not seem to surprise anyone. When all the disciples from the 300 sects arrived, the Minister of Rites, Zhou Yiyuan, put his hands behind his back and stepped into the sky with a spell. His eyes were cold and his body was filled with a surging force like the waves of the sea. Zhou Yiyuan had ascended to the role of Minister of Rites by killing ruthlessly. He did not get this position without effort. He had previously ughtered demons bravely in the demon portal! He swept an eye across the entire arena. The soldiers in bloodstained armor who guarded Youzhou Demon Portal gave each disciple a rusty token. ¡°This is a resource token. It¡¯s carved with a space rune. There are a total of ten spaces! The Resource Battle is split into three rounds. The first round is the Hunting War! ¡°Once you enter the Youzhou Demon Portal, you will face demon realm beasts that have been infected with demonic energy. Hunt these demon realm beasts. There will be a Resource Station every thousand miles for you to restock your resources. You can use the token in your hand to replenish your resources. ¡°I¡¯ll let you know beforehand... you¡¯ll need ten demon hearts as an entry pass. Otherwise, the guards will not allow you to collect any resources. ¡°There are a total of six thousand miles and six Resource Stations. When you reach the sixth Resource Station, you will qualify for the second round. We¡¯ll inform you of the rules of the second round once you¡¯ve reached there. ¡°I¡¯ll be waiting for you personally at the six-thousandth mile with your sect elders. Strive during the hunt! This is the main theme of the first round!¡± Zhou Yiyuan¡¯s voice suddenly sounded grand as it reverberated across the entire demon portal. After that, he turned around and waved his hand swiftly. Dozens of armored soldiers pushed open the demon portal doors that twenty feet tall! A frighteningpressive force emerged as the two worlds collided. ¡®Ding! The hunt mission is activated! ¡®The Hunt Mission: As you first enter the demon portal and face death head-on. Meet the uing hearty ughter. Flourish in the killing just like the flowers before dawn! Please kill a hundred consecutive demons to receive the prize ¡®Seven Star Sword (Forging Method). ¡®Current mission progress: (0/100)¡¯ This mission... Fang Lang stroked the rusty token in his hand and turned his head to look at his teammates. The demon portal... was a cultivator¡¯s battleground. It was the terror they would all have to face in the end. From the moment they entered an academy and began cultivating, the moment their mentors began to instruct them¡ªthe demon portal was the sword that hunger over the heads of each cultivator. Each cultivator would need to undergo a demon portal experience in order to be a qualified cultivator. The huge door leading to the demon portal was being opened. Before the demon portal, Zhou Yiyuan removed his splendid robes and donned a golden full-body armor. Under his helmet, his eyes were zing. ¡°In the demon portal, each team will have three chances to call for help. The signal talisman will be given to the leaders. Once the talisman is torn, the Imperial Court of Judicial Review and the soldiers stationed in Youzhou Demon Portal will arrive to help within ten breaths. ¡°Now, charge ahead, young ones!¡± Zhou Yiyuan spread his arm forcefully as his voice rang through the demon portal. ¡°The Qianlong Resource Battle has begun! I wish you all the best of luck!¡± Boom! Boom! The Youzhou Passage. The Youzhou Terrace. Upon the terrace, soldiers stood ying the war drums. The sound of the war drums boomed through the air like howling thunder. The explosive music echoed in the ears of every disciples! ... As soon as the war drums sounded, the blood of each disciple began to surge. The Main Path Guild, which was among the ten great sects, was under themand of a handsome and strong man. They sessively trodded on the steaming rune as it turned into a stream of light that shot towards the door of the Youzhou Demon Portal! ¡°Amitabha.¡± Among the All-Seeing Buddha Sect, there were disciples who were monks as well as disciples from secr families. They all dashed towards the demon portal as well. The Karma Society, the Immortal Martial Association, the Meridian Guild and all the other sects¡¯ disciples stirred into action. No one retreated and no one hesitated! ¡°Let¡¯s head off!¡± Huang Ying took a deep breath and forcefully exhaled. She took her sword out from her sword box and swung it around. Her de energy spread out to wrap around Ni Wen and Liu Bubai before spearing ahead into the portal. Fang Lang, Jiang Linglong and Geshu Yuehua exuded the de energy from their lungs and charge into the demon portal with their swords! The Youzhou Demon Portal had been subdued and the armies of demons and devils had been forced to retreat. However, for these young-blooded disciples who had just graduated from their academies and entered their sects, it was still extremely dangerous! There were close to 2,000 disciples who joined the Qianlong Resource Battle this year. They charged ahead fearlessly, not a single person retreated. The charging disciples looked like a surging river to the general who stood regally on top of the Youzhou Terrace. Chapter 111 - Shooting Arrows as He Pressed Ahead

Chapter 111: Shooting Arrows as He Pressed Ahead

The disciples of more than 300 sects in the Tang Dynasty charged at the door leading into the demon portal under Zhou Yiyuan¡¯s eyes. The reverberating sound of the war drums apanied their charge. They charged toward the edge of the two worlds where the barrier energies were shing. They were like helpless little boats floating towards the raging seas. Even though Youzhou Demon was a subdued demon portal, it was only recently abandoned for the time being. It was unlike Qiuling Demon Portal that was converted into a hunting ground. The oppressive force of this demon portal was more powerful and terrifying than Qiuling Demon Portal. However, it was still much weakerpared to demon portals that were active such as the Sword Guild Demon Portal. For all the new disciples who have just entered the various sects, this demon portal was suitable for them as they were in the stage of explosive power spurts. In fact, the longer they stayed in these types of demon portals, the stronger they would be as they endured the oppressive force for longer periods of time. As soon as they entered the demon portal, the space before them seemed to be more spacious and expansive. The rain began to fall ceaselessly! There was a storm going on within the Youzhou Demon Portal¡ªheavy raindrops fell from the sky, beating down over the entirend within the portal. The rain fell as if it was about to wash this realm of all the blood and ughter. As a portal was opened, thend inside the demon portal would rain without stopping. This was the natural rule of the demon portal as if to wash away the invading aura from the other world. Once they entered the Youzhou Demon Portal, everyone appeared in a prehistoric forest. Due to the shing forces of the two worlds, demonic energy had invaded the area. The trees here were terrifyingly tall, some reaching up into the skies. Some trees had the ability to move and would attack any living thing that approached them. There were close to 2,000 disciples¡ªneither arge nor a small number of people. As they charged into the demon portal, they began to spread out in the dense forest. The first round was a Hunting War and everyone¡¯s target was resources. The only requirement was to traverse 6,000 miles within the forest and strive to be first. The resources at the Resource Stations were limited. If one was too slow, there might not be any resources left. The rain beat down on the ground of the forest. There was mud everywhere. Huang Ying gripped the longsword of excellent quality in her hand. Her expression was serious. As the senior disciple of the team, she bore heavy responsibility as she needed to protect the young and fresh disciples behind her. Even though this Resource Battle was considered a practice run, as long as they were in the demon portal, there was a chance of death! Huang Ying could not afford to be careless. Hence, she needed to use her experience with the demon portal to good use. ¡®Seven in, seven out¡¯ was the mantra. She needed to circumvent any potential huge threat they might encounter such as demon swarms! Huang Ying cast a look at the five people behind her and began to organize the team formation. A good team formation matched with tacit understanding would help them work well as a unit. This way they would be able to attack powerfully and defend well. As a spell disciple, Ni Wen was extremely precious and therefore was ced in the middle. Geshu Yuehua and Liu Bubai protected her. Jiang Linglong was stationed close behind Huang Ying. The team moved ahead in a single-file formation with Fang Lang in the rear position. This was because Fang Lang¡¯s power was the most formidable. This was not merely based on his sword cultivation or his martial arts mastery. If he was attacked, his survival ability was also much higher than Ni Wen. The rain became heavier. The rainwater continued to fall unceasingly onto the ground of the dense forest. Everyone used the spiritual energy in their bodies to keep the rain at bay and away from their bodies. They slowly made their way. The whole way, they did not encounter any demon beasts infected by demonic energy. Despite this, Huang Ying did not rx¡ªshe continued to lead with her wealth of experience. Swish, swish, swish! Huang Ying, Fang Lang and the others raised their heads. They saw the officials from the Imperial Court of Judicial Review carrying a disciple who suffered severe injuries away. Blood fell along with the rain, staining the earth. The atmosphere became a degree colder. All that was heard was the sound of the rain falling. ¡°It looks like a team has asked for help...¡± said Huang Ying. ¡°They might have encountered some demon beasts as soon as they entered the demon portal. Some might be dead, others injured... This is a normal urrence in the demon portal. Let¡¯s move on.¡± Ni Wen, Liu Bubai and the others were extremely wary. This was not the Imperial Examination¡ªthis was not poetry writing in the academies or a duel between cultivators with rules. In the demon portal, even if they did not encounter powerful warriors of the demon world, the beasts that were infected with demonic energy were still extremely difficult to deal with. Even Jiang Linglong was serious and solemn. As they pressed ahead, their team finally drew the attention of a few demon beasts in the forest. A demon beast shaped like a wild wolf with red eyes bared its teeth at them¡ªit was surrounded by dark energy. It leaped out from the forest with knife-like ws held high! Alerted, Huang Ying gauged the situation and quickly rxed. It was merely one beast and not a huge problem. ¡°Who wants to take it?¡± Huang Ying did not kill it. She nned to let the others have a practice run. ¡°I¡¯ll do it!¡± Geshu Yuehua answered loudly. Her eyes lit up and her canines were partially revealed as she smiled. She trembled with excitement and enthusiasm. She wanted to fight! After that, she raced ahead. Fang Lang who swayed at the rear looked as though he had just seen a bun fresh out of the oven. His eyes were so bright, it was almost scary. Fang Lang stepped out with his Spirit Steps. He shot through the stormy rain like an illusion. He then stepped heavily and sent muddy water flying several feet into the sky. He unsheathed the Obsidian Sword and used the Sword Draw Technique. The wild wolf who recently entered the second ss was instantly sliced in half! Fang Lang¡¯s movements were fluid and the strike waspleted in one breath. ¡°I said I¡¯d do it!¡± Geshu Yuehuained through gritted teeth. Fang Lang swung his sword to get rid of the blood and said, ¡°You¡¯ll definitely get the next one.¡± Geshu Yuehua came to a halt. She seethed with hatred. Huang Ying took the heart of the wild wolf then led her team ahead quickly as the smell of blood attracted more demon beasts. Ni Wen¡¯s expression was extremely serious. She had condensed several spells that could be fired at an instant. Liu Bubai held his thick and heavy broadsword. He wore the Golden Dragon Armor given by Fang Lang. His expression was extremely stern. Jiang Linglong wore a veil and gripped her White Frost de, keeping up with the team. Throughout the journey under Huang Ying¡¯s lead, everyone pressed ahead at high speed like a troop of soldiers. They would asionally encounter two to three demons at a spaced-out interval. However, Huang Ying never attacked. It would always be either Fang Lang, who was always ready to go, or Geshu Yuehua, who would shout loudly and race up ahead. Geshu Yuehua seemed to bepeting with Fang Lang. She would ughter the demons in a rage until she finally dropped the demon to the ground with one punch. She was about to brag to Fang Lang when she saw Fang Lang cast a side nce over. With a sh and ring of his sword, he cut through the demon¡¯s head. The sh cleanly ended the demon¡¯s tragic existence. He stole her kill! Geshu Yuehua was shocked! How could he be so shameless!? This was clearly her kill! However, Fang Lang was feeling happy inside when he saw the progress of his mission. He was even happier because he had stolen this kill. Geshu Yuehua was about to blow her top from anger. However, there was nothing she could do about it. She swore to herself silently she must kill the demons first, giving Fang Lang no opportunity to steal from her! As they continued to move ahead, they found they did not encounter as many demons as they thought they would. Fang Lang was bored out of his mind. Huang Ying smiled and said, ¡°Demon beasts are not very intelligent and they act on instinct. Hence, as we move in the demon portal, attention to little details can help avoid unnecessary conflicts with the demon beasts. ¡°I¡¯ve entered the Sword Guild Demon Portal seven times. So I have some experience under my belt. My seniors have taught me some tricks. The sect elders will also give you pointers when the timees.¡± Everyone nodded their heads. Fang Lang was the only one who wore a dark expression. He had found the culprit! It was the leader who used her experience in the demon portal to avoid the demon beasts! Fang Lang looked at the mission that was far frompletion and felt a little anxious. He secretly nned to leave to hunt demons while everyone was resting when they reached the Resource Station. .... Round, fat droplets of rain fell rapidly from the sky above, falling into the mud on the ground and mixing with the puddles. The water rippled as a ssh of water as high as a foot shot into the air. Lin Muzhe wore a bamboo hat as her Donglu¡¯s Sword League robe clung tight to her slender body. She stood on a tall tree branch. She reached out a hand to a dead tree branch and a jolt of sword intent cut through it. The branch fell to the ground and did not stop moving. After Lin Muzhe had collected ten demon hearts, she left the Donglu¡¯s Sword League disciples. She did not need to stay with them because she was confident they would be able to reach the Resource Station. This was because they would not encounter any demon beast horde. Heavy rain continued to fall, beating down on her bamboo hat. Lin Muzhe looked out at the curtain of rain, her pretty eyes were a little despondent. After a long time, she took the sachet by her waist. There was half a jade pendant inside it. There was the word ¡®Yun¡¯ written on the pendant. There was another half to this jade pendant. The other half of the pendant had the word ¡®Zhe¡¯ on it. ¡®Zhe and Yun¡¯, Lin Muzhe and Lin Yun. Lin Muzhe suddenly recalled the sniffly boy who used to follow her around. They had made a promise to stand at the peak of sword mastery together. However, her brother¡¯s death came unexpectedly. She still felt extremely heartbroken and was filled with sorrow. She closed her eyes. She did not know whether it was tears or the rain that was flowing down her cheeks. When she opened her eyes, Lin Muzhe had a stern and cold expression. A jade box appeared in her hands. ¡°The Sword Guild is about to be destroyed... ¡°That person gave me a Beast Dispelling Pearl. This Resource Battle will be the beginning of the end of the Sword Guild. ¡°Fang Lang... I will have your life. A life for a life.¡± Lin Muzhe opened the jade box. A cloudy pearlid quietly inside the brightly colored jade box. As the jade box remained open, the pearl continuously emitted an extremely pungent smell. It was a smell that even the heavy rain was unable to mask. This was the Beast Dispelling Pearl. It was made of the energy center of a demon beast that was in a realm higher than the sixth ss and it had the ability to drive out and control demon beasts. ¡°Roar!¡± ¡°Awooo!¡± ¡°Swoosh, swoosh!¡± As the scent of the pearl spread out, the sounds of the demons could be heard from all corners of the forest in the rain. Within the dense forest, every single tree was shaking from the demon beasts¡¯ activity. Lin Muzhe¡¯s tall and slender figure was perched on top of a tree. She turned her head to look at the demonic figures that appeared within the forest. Lin Muzhe¡¯s expression was cool and indifferent. ¡°It¡¯s a shame that this is the outer boundary of the demon portal, the demons here aren¡¯t too powerful...¡± However, it should be enough to deal with those from the Sword Guild. A couple of tender shoots, how could they survive a demon swarm? Boom! An explosion of de energy manifested as Lin Muzhe transformed into a stream of light and shot out into the sky while holding the jade box. ... The rain continued to pour down relentlessly. Suppression, the sensation of feeling crushed and also an uneasiness permeated. Huang Ying frowned and made everyone stop in their tracks. She looked toward the depths of the forest. Something felt wrong... An unusual silence enveloped them! The demonic-energy-infected foliage that had been swaying slightly were tightly bunched up right now. It seemed as though something frightening was near! ¡°Something¡¯s not right.¡± Jiang Linglong had her veil on. A serious glint shed in her star-like eyes. ¡°That¡¯s right... It¡¯s too quiet. I... I smell something dangerous,¡± said Geshu Yuehua as she narrowed her eyes and bared her canines. ¡°Old Liu. Protect Little Wen.¡± Fang Lang took out the Blooming Lotus Sword and the Obsidian Sword. His features became stern. He stared intently at the ground. There were ripples in the puddles caused by the pouring rain. Growl! Suddenly, a loud roar rang out from the depths of the forest. A thick and extremely strong demonic energy began to surge. It was like numerous surging waves that kept beating down in quick session, too numerous to keep track. It was like the dam walls was breached and a world-ending tsunami was about to destroy everything! ¡°It¡¯s a demon swarm!!!¡± Huang Ying¡¯s pupils were constricted. Goosebumps erupted all over her skin. In an instant, her entire body seemed to go cold. D*mn! How could there be a demon swarm!? This was the outskirts of the demon portal. It was impossible there would be a demon swarm. Someone must have deliberately caused this! ¡°Sh*t!¡± cursed Huang Ying. She swung the sword in her hand fiercely and the signal talisman appeared in her hand. The situation was not right. She needed to immediately crush the talisman! More than 1,000 demon beasts stepped out from the depths of the forest. The rainwater continued to gush down, sshing muddy water everywhere. It was a shocking mess! Geshu Yuehua was no longer arrogant and wild. Her body trembled non-stop. There was fear and terror reflected in her eyes. ¡°What¡¯s going on!? Isn¡¯t the Resource Battle being watched in the pce? Even the Emperor could be watching this battle. How could anyone dare to incite a demon swarm!?¡± Huang Ying had no answers Jiang Linglong¡¯s eyes darkened. Her tone was extremely solemn. ¡°The pce is watching the match through a rune. It can be manipted to show previous scenes so that it doesn¡¯t show us. ¡°The person who lured the demon swarm must have used the Beast Dispelling Pearl. That item... is not something most people would be able to get their hands on. ¡°Someone is working undercover.¡± Jiang Linglong¡¯s words were cold. Huang Ying could not understand the motive behind this. ¡°This is the Resource Battle. Isn¡¯t the Minister of Rites supervising the entire round? How could he let such a thing happen? ¡°Besides that, there¡¯s no need to lure a demon swarm, if I crush the signal talisman, the warriors of the Imperial Court of Judicial Review will arrive to help. Is it possible they used the extremely precious Beast Dispelling Pearl just to force us to forfeit thepetition?¡± Fang Lang wielded the two swords. His expression was extremely stern as he spoke up suspiciously. ¡°What if... someone sabotaged our signal talismans?¡± As soon as she heard Fang Lang¡¯s words, Huang Ying¡¯s expression instantly paled. She looked at the signal talisman, gritted her teeth and viciously crushed it. After that, the color her face continued to drain because even with the power of her nh-grade sword intent realm, she was unable to crush the signal talisman. This talisman was so solid that it did not seem like a normal talisman! If she could not crush it, how would they call for help!? ¡°It seems... that there might be a problem with this Minister of Rites...¡± said Jiang Linglong coldly. This might all be happening because of her. She did not expect someone to be as reckless and bold as this. With a quiver of her longshes, Jiang Linglong flicked off a raindrop. She could see the approaching demon swarm when she looked into the depths of the forest! A mysterious figure wearing a bamboo hat was standing on top of a tree in the midst of the rain. After that, the figure took out a pearl from a jade box, gently throwing it up and hitting it towards them. That pearl tore through countless raindrops as it shot through the dense forest toward the air above Fang Lang and the others. Boom! In an instant, the pearl exploded. The essence instantly seeped into the raindrops and fell on the bodies of Fang Lang and the others. ¡°Lin Muzhe!¡± Huang Ying recognized the other party. A cold killing intent shed in her eyes. The Donglu¡¯s Sword League! It was the Donglu¡¯s Sword League once again! As the frenzied roars broke out, beast after beast materialized behind Lin Muzhe¡¯s body. Lin Muzhe gently raised her head¡ªher attractive face was revealed from under the bamboo hat. She wore a cold, ruthless expression. ¡°Die.¡± She did not retreat. In fact, she stepped out under the curtain of rain and transformed into a stream of light as de energy surged around her, shooting towards Huang Ying! As long as she could keep Huang Ying¡ªthe fourth-ss sword intent realm leader¡ªupied, that group of new Sword Guild disciples would definitely die! Fang Lang... would definitely be torn to shreds by the demon horde! Huang Ying was so furious that her lips were quivering. She let out a shrill scream. Even as her voice reverberated, none of the warriors from the Imperial Court of Judicial Review rushed over. Ding! Huang Ying brandished her sword and it shed with the sword in Lin Muzhe¡¯s hand. Sparks flew out in all directions! Lin Muzhe was pretty strong. Huang Ying would have to use all her might to face her. Mighty sword intent rolled out. The countless raindrops seemed to transform into sharp swords that shot towards Lin Muzhe. The two of them were instantly entagledin a vicious fight! ¡°Run!¡± Huang Ying turned around to shout at Fang Lang and the others with bloodshot eyes! She had failed them as their leader! In the demon swarm, there were demon beasts of the peak third-ss realm. Fang Lang and the others would not be able to defeat them! As for making an escape... there was no time for that! Fang Lang and the others were drenched in the scent of the Beast Dispelling Pearl. There was no way they could escape! Geshu Yuehua trembled. She was terrified. Were they going to die here!? Ni Wen and Liu Bubai could not stop shivering. This was the first time either of them had encountered a threat like this. Their hearts were filled with unimaginable terror! All of a sudden, an icy blue arrow pierced through the crystal-like raindrops, brushing past Geshu Yuehua¡¯s cheek and causing her to feel a chill inside. It struck a demon and sent it flying backward. ¡°If you want to live, then fight!¡± When they turned back, they saw a figure taking heavy steps that sent the puddles sshing. It was Fang Lang dressed in his white robes. He strode boldly ahead, shooting arrows as he went! Chapter 112 - I’m Here, Don’t Be in a Rush to Leave

Chapter 112: I¡¯m Here, Don¡¯t Be in a Rush to Leave

Changan, Royal City. The sky was filled with fluttering snowkes. White Jade Square was covered in a thickyer of snow. Mirrors could be seen floating around. Reflected within the mirrors were the images of whaty inside the Youzhou Demon Portal. Among the images, there were ones depicting the disciples of the Main Path Guild easily subduing demons. There were also images showing disciples of the All-Seeing Buddha Sect defeating demons mightily as though they were Arhat. Not to mention the barely visible Meridian Guild disciples. The officials viewed the scenes in high spirits. All the sect leaders merely watched with constantly changing expressions. Some of them were full of praise, others looked solemn. After all, the disciples were all opponents in thepetition. Chao Xiaojian, with his white robes and white hair, gently raised an eyebrow. His gazended upon each mirror but he did not discover any images that concerned the team from the Sword Guild. Was there a subtle message in that? ¡°Are the disciples of my Sword Guild not worthy of appearing in these Thousand-Mile Mirrors?¡± Chao Xiaojian¡¯s indifferent voice rang clearly across the entirepound of the White Jade Square. In a moment, many sect leaders were astonished. They all detected the contemtive tone within his words. However, no one spoke or made a sound. On the square, the spell master responsible for controlling the images swapped the images in the mirrors several times. However, none of the changes showed the Sword Guild disciples. This made Chao Xiaojian¡¯s expression appear even more cold and ferocious. Did these people think he, Chao Xiaojian, was an idiot? Did they think the Emperor was an idiot? The atmosphere in front of the Taiji Pce became more precarious. ... The heavy rain pounded the ground, causing unending water stters to burst forth. A violent, tyrannical aura circted in the air, apanied by the intense and oppressive demonic energy that continued to permeate through the atmosphere. Numerous demons wed against the tree trunks, shredding and tearing bark, scattering water droplets. Curtains of fog billowed among the rain shower as theyunched towards the group of people that they hoped to get a taste of! Whoosh! A single ice arrow shot across, spreading a cold intent. All the power of the spiritual sense within it instantly destroyed the will of a demon. ¡®Current mission progress (13/100).¡¯ The System notification shed before Fang Lang¡¯s eyes, indicating the progress in the demon-hunting mission. However, at this moment, Fang Lang was not paying attention to the System. He continued shooting arrows while taking steps forward. When he saw the demons rushing towards him in the midst of the darkness of rain and fog, he knew that for now... he would not have to worry that there would not be enough demons for him to kill. The number of demons here numbered over a hundred. There were too many, and they were too weing! Buzz! An ice arrow sped past at high speeds and buried itself in the thick, muscr head of a demon. The enormous force of the arrow lifted the demon, pinning it to the tree firmly as arge spurt of blood exploded. Despite that, none of the other demons were frightened. They continued to surge ahead, baring their fangs and waving their ws. Fang Lang continued to step ahead, overtaking Ni Wen, Liu Bubai and several others. Arrows continued to shoot out unceasingly from his hands. As Ni Wen watched Fang Lang¡¯s figure up ahead, her initial feelings of tense anxiety instantly eased. She had been so terrified and frightened that her heart trembled within her. Now she gritted her teeth, picked up her wooden staff and took off the sword box from her back. ¡°Bubai, cover me!¡± said Ni Wen seriously. Liu Bubai came back to his senses and said, ¡°It¡¯s alright. It¡¯s the perfect time for me to give thetest sword technique I¡¯ve mastered a spin! ¡°My sword is no longer the same sword as it was before!¡± Liu Bubai kept moving up, holding his heavy sword horizontally. He looked like a mountain as he stood before Ni Wen, shielding her. If any demon had intentions of harming Ni Wen, they would have to get past him! Geshu Yuehua finally came to his senses. She saw Fang Lang and the others did not n on making an escape, instead, they had decided to fight to the death¡ªshe instantly felt a little crazy. ¡°We can¡¯t beat them. Let¡¯s just escape!¡± shouted Geshu Yuehua as she faced the demon swarm. How could she beat the demons when she had just achieved the third-ss realm? Were they going to die in vain!? Could they not see how many demons were out there? Even if they managed to kill them all, they would be exhausted from the sheer effort! However, Geshu Yuehua gradually calmed down. When she saw Fang Lang shooting arrow after arrow, coolly and obstinately shooting down demon after demon, forcing the unstoppable advancement of the swarm of demons to falter slightly, a look of determination shed across her eyes. She took out her heavy sword and held it lengthwise in front of her. ¡°The two of you protect Ni Wen. Ni Wen, prepare a powerful killing rune that covers arge area!¡± said Fang Lang. Ni Wen nodded. With her wooden staff, she began to condense her spiritual sense and craft a rune. However, the time needed to craft a rune that would cover a wide area would take too long. Fang Lang put down his Frost Bow. A bow and arrow would not be enough to frighten these demons. He turned his head to look at Jiang Linglong and panted slowly, ¡°Old Jiang, you¡¯re in charge of taking care of the little ones that escape from the. ¡°I¡¯ll take care of offense!¡± As soon as she finished speaking, Fang Lang stomped down heavily, sending the puddle of water sshing three feet into the air as his white robes billowed. The Champion¡¯s de made a sound as it was unsheathed. Countless arcs of thunder rang out like the roaring of the thundering heavens. As it rolled along, it transformed into a Thunder Dragon that zoomed across all corners of the dense forest, hunting after the swarms of demons! Thunder Strike crashed down with powerful energy, instantly wiping out several demons. Blood flew across the air. Some demons were crushed into pulp while others were sliced in two. Blood gushed freely as the disgusting stench of blood permeated every corner of the forest. Fang Lang remained in a low position with both the Obsidian Sword and the Blooming Lotus Sword drawn and held at a slight angle. The tips of both swords were submerged in the mud and water puddles. As Fang Lang continued to charge, it looked as though two white snakes were spreading out. Bang! A red-eyed demon lunged. Two swords brazenly emerged from the water puddles. The water puddles seemed to transform into a long sheet of silk. It became like a drawn curtain of water as it swiftly cut across, sending several demons into the air. Fang Lang crossed the swords and made a cutting gesture. de energy gushed out in the shape of an ¡®X¡¯. Blood filled the air! ¡®Ding! Current mission progress (18/100)¡¯ The progress flitted before him but Fang Lang did not have the time to check it. Countless demons raced over. Fang Lang used the Spirit Step and dived into the horde of demons. His sword was extremely fast! The de energy within his core energy center surged unceasingly. The de energy that he had cultivated through the Ten Thousand de Scripture was extremely tough and frighteningly powerful. Most of the demons in the swarm were second-ss. However, they were all killed by Fang Lang without much difficulty. When Fang Lang moved, his speed was much faster than the demons! Several demons had sustained injuries from Fang Lang¡¯s de energy. However, they continued to stagger toward him. With a sh, Jiang Linglong¡¯s sword pierced through the demon¡¯s body. She withdrew her sword emotionlessly and flicked the blood off the White Frost de. She continued to maintain the lofty arrogance and reserve that was expected from an ice princess. She was in charge of killing the ones that survived Fang Lang¡¯s attack. Since that was what Fang Lang had instructed, she would do as he said. ¡®Ding! You and your binding partner, Jiang Linglong, have defeated a foe together. Passive ability triggered. You have obtained one Meditation Card.¡¯ The System prompt rang out in Fang Lang¡¯s consciousness. Fang Lang smiled. Even this could activate the passive ability? It seemed like this time... he was about to receive a huge bounty! He raised the sword in his hand. de rays filled the sky as Fang Lang continuously used the Dual Sword Technique. His Dual Sword Technique had reached the mastery of a sword master. In fact, there might be even more inspiration to further elevate his sword mastery! After being poised to attack for some time, a powerful third-ss demon flew over, spewing a strong, fishy stench. Fang Lang wore a cold, stern expression as he manifested the Spirit Awl. After that, he activated the Sword Thunder, killing the enemy instantly! When he switched to the Quintuple Binding Mode, Fang Lang could feel the blood boiling within him! He did not know whose scheme this belonged to but he knew he wanted to kill and fight to his heart¡¯s content! Sword mastery cultivation had exhausted his de energy. Fang Lang could feel his vital energy surging within him. His martial arts cultivation surged explosively. Whenbined with his Dual Sword Technique, his offensive ability remained constant. Within the one-meter radius around Fang Lang, no demons could approach him. This was the safe zone Fang Lang maintained. As he switched to martial arts cultivation, whether he swung, stabbed, sliced or pierced, every swing of his sword would im the life of a demon! As time ticked slowly by, the rain became heavier. Ni Wen¡¯s rune was approachingpletion. Her spiritual sense rippled and instantly shot into the skies. The uncountable raindrops transformed under the support of the rune to be de rain. Pfff pfff pfff... The killing power of this attack reached truly terrifying levels. Nearly every demon suffered wounds. Fang Lang shouted his heart out and continued killing breezily. ¡®Ding! You and your binding partner, Ni Wen, have defeated a foe together. Passive ability triggered. You have obtained one Grade-Rush Card Fragment.¡¯ The System notification kept popping up non-stop. Fang Lang smiled brightly. His white robes flew as he used the charged Sword Thunder, carving out a huge chunk of demon flesh. His collection of Mediation Cards and Grade-Rush Card Fragments continued to expand unceasingly! Fang Lang used a Meditation Card without hesitation. His depleted spiritual sense began to rapidly replenish! With a swing of his de, a demon was ughtered. With a swing of his de, another demon was ughtered! Demon carcasses began to pile up in the area around Fang Lang like a wall. Behind him, Jiang Linglong and her White Frost de helped Fang Lang catch the stragglers. A little further back, Ni Wen continuously activated rune after rune with a paleplexion, killing non-stop. The tacit understanding between the three of them grew as they worked together. It was like a rock in the stream had blocked the surging of the waves. Geshu Yuehua watched in a daze as Fang Lang, whose white robes had be blood-red, swung his sword like a tireless machine among the pile of carcasses. She watched Fang Lang as he imed the lives of the numerous demons. He actually managed to achieve this! To one side, Liu Bubai held his heavy sword, looking bored out of his mind. At that moment, he wished that he had his tobo pipe on him. It seemed as though he would not need to use his sword. He nced at Geshu Yuehua who had her mouth agape and looked full of wonderment then said in a deep, experienced tone, ¡°There¡¯s no need to be this surprised. You¡¯ll get used to it over time. The first time I experienced this, I was pretty calm.¡± Geshu Yuehua was speechless. ¡®How could you be so calm and collected? However, this was certainly...forting.¡¯ ... Ding! Ding! Ding! In the downpour of rain, a couple of sparks appeared everywhere. The flying des appeared like streams of brilliant light, colliding in the air. The singing of the des rang out in the air. The rain droplets dispersed to form a mist that made the surroundings appear hazy. Huang Ying gritted her teeth. Her eyes were filled with killing intent. All she wanted to do was kill Lin Muzhe who was in front of her right now then go off to help Fang Lang and the others. This was the first time they had encountered a swarm of demons. They must be absolutely terrified and panicking! Huang Ying was aware they would not be able to hold out for too long. She could sense the aura of the tide of demons growing more and more frightening. There were even peak third-ss demons rushing over from the depths of the demon portal! Huang Ying was trembling inside. She had previously told those youngsters she would bring them back safely. Yet, what could she do now!? ¡°You d*mn thing!¡± Huang Ying raged in the midst of the heavy downpour. Lin Muzhe was cool and indifferent. As Huang Ying waved her sword and stabbed it towards her, she merely waved her sword and shed des with Huang Ying over and over again! de energy surge in the air around them. As they exchanged des in an attempt to kill, it was a sh of de energy and sword mirage! The raindrops were sliced to form mist while the soil on the ground had numerous winding ditches carved into them. ¡°How can you guys do such a thing on the Qianlong Resource battlefield? The Emperor¡¯s birthday celebration is fast approaching. How dare you guys do such a thing! Have you all gone mad!?¡± growled Huang Ying in a frenzy. Her brain was filled with thoughts of killing this woman before her. Lin Muzhe deflected Huang Ying¡¯s sword attack and said coolly, ¡°I don¡¯t know. Even if something big is about to happen in Changan, it has nothing to do with me. Hence, I¡¯m not bothered at all.¡± She wore a cold smile under the bamboo hat. ¡°That¡¯s because all I want is Fang Lang¡¯s death.¡± ... The rainwater gushed, forming wave after wave. The water mixed with blood on the ground flowed tortuously. The strong stench of blood assaulted their noses. The puddles were filled with bloody water, looking extremely frightful. Fang Lang was still swinging his de around. The physical constitution of a martial arts disciple had strengthened his body. When his vital energy weakened, Fang Lang would return to using his sword mastery cultivation to kill his enemies. Of course, Fang Lang knew if he continued on in this manner, he would eventually bepletely exhausted. He was still human and would eventually tire. In fact, he felt that his sword swinging actions had be stiff. However, Fang Lang did not want to die here. He still had a father waiting for him at Luojiang City, anticipating his return. He wanted to return to his hometown after achieving glory in his cultivation and seeing the proud smile on Old Fang¡¯s face. ¡°Fang Lang! Change positions.¡± Jiang Linglong seemed to sense Fang Lang¡¯s fatigue. Her dark eyebrows furrowed slightly as she waved her White Frost de, dealing out thousands of cuts. She was in a simr position as Fang Lang, faced against an iing onught of demons. Geshu Yuehua rushed across, killing the demons that escaped the attack. Liu Bubai was thinking about brandishing his great sword to kill demons. However, his mission was to protect Ni Wen, hence he continued to hold back the urge. He felt conflicted for a brief moment but decided in the end that he would not be able to face the swarm on his own. Fang Lang did not have a retreat n. He switched into the Quintuple Binding Mode and used a Meditation Card to help him think clearly. ¡®Current missionpletion progress (346/100)¡¯ ¡®Ding! Hunting Missionplete!¡¯ ¡®Congrattions, you have obtained the prize, Qixing Sword (Forging Method). You have surpassed the mission target and obtained the additional reward, Silver Reward Egg.¡¯ The System notification popped out. Fang Lang¡¯s eyes spun slightly. He had received an additional reward because he had exceeded the mission target? He had won this Silver Reward Egg at the near cost of his own life. ¡®System, smash the egg.¡¯ The Silver Reward Egg appeared and with a smash of the hammer, a smorgasbord of colors filled the air. ¡®Ding! Congrattions. You have obtained two 5X Amplification Cards, two Power Loan Cards and two Double Cultivation Cards¡¯ He had gotten the Double Cultivation Cards. Fang Lang did not really appreciate that. He was more excited about receiving the Power Loan Cards because at that moment, that was the thing he needed the most. ¡°Activate the Power Loan Card.¡± ¡°Power Loan target, Wen Ting.¡± ... Whoosh! An oppressive aura surged toward Fang Lang as the stormy skies appeared toe to a standstill. It was a peaked third-ss demon. Jiang Linglong looked iparably imposing as the blood within her surged. However, her body froze soon after. She saw Fang Lang beside her, who was thoroughly exhausted to the extent his aura was hollow, grip the Blooming Lotus Sword. It was as if countless raindrops condensed in an instant to form a blooming lotus. A gentle swish of the de. In a sh, the peak third-ss demon was sliced in half and its blood sttered all over the ground! Jiang Linglong¡¯s eyes moved. In the next moment, she rejoiced! The Blooming Lotus Sword... Sect Leader Taihua¡¯s sword truly contained an extraordinarily powerful force! Fang Lang held the Blooming Lotus Sword and narrowed his eyes. He tilted his head and experienced the raindrops falling at an angle. The raindrops moved as if they were under his will. The Innate Sword Intent Seed inside his core seemed to be cheering joyfully. In the next moment, Fang Lang opened his eyes. The Blooming Lotus Sword abruptly shot out. A single move seemed to slice through the raining night sky! ... Swish! A single swing managed to deflect Huang Ying¡¯s sword intent. The raindrops had begun to quell, bing sparse as Lin Muzhe¡¯s features bunched up slightly under the bamboo hat. She stood still on the tree watching the rapid swarm of demons. Her expression changed. The demon swarm... was retreating!? How could this happen so quickly!? Lin Muzhe exhaled a breath of de energy from within her lungs and left with a turn of her body. Out of the blue, she froze. This was because leaning against a tree branch in the distance stood a teenager dressed in blood-stained white robes, the Blooming Lotus Sword was in his hand. A sh of lightning cut across the night sky, illuminating the slight smile on the teen¡¯s face. ¡°Of course, I had toe since you¡¯ve gifted me such a huge present.¡± ¡°Don¡¯t be in such a rush to leave.¡± Chapter 113 - I May Look Weak But I’m Pretty Strong

Chapter 113: I May Look Weak But I¡¯m Pretty Strong

The heavy rain continued to fall, drenching each corner of the dense forest unceasingly. Flora infected by demonic energy could gently wiggle their tree vines. At that moment, it seemed like they had suffered a huge fright as they were all curled up tightly, looking as though they did not dare to rx. In the dense forest, there were threerge trees, each with a human figure on top. Huang Ying brandished her sword. Her entire body was drenched by the rain but her killing intent was zing. She was undeniably the leader of the Dark Pavilion in the Sword Guild. Lin Muzhe did not intend to kill Huang Ying. Her n was to dy Huang Ying and allow the demon swarm to kill Fang Lang and the others. In this manner, her aim would be achieved. However, Lin Muzhe was frowning deeply at that moment. She saw Fang Lang, dressed in blood-stained robes, standing in the distance. The demon swarm had retreated, yet Fang Lang was not dead. Not only was he still alive but he had also somehow managed to appear before her. He told her to be not in such a rush to leave! This was extremelyughable. Even if the demon swarm had not killed Fang Lang this round, how could a small fry who had just entered the third ss sword wave realm speak to her in such an arrogant manner!? As soon as Huang Ying saw Fang Lang, a look of joy shed across her eyes but it was quickly reced by worry. Lin Muzhe was a nine-grade sword master in the sword intent realm! She had almost surpassed the fourth-ss realm and had a power that was no match for Fang Lang. Besides that, Huang Ying knew Lin Muzhe still had an ace up her sleeve. Rumors had it Lin Muzhe had inherited the skills of a deceased de lord of the Donglu¡¯s Sword League. This meant her sword skills were not ordinary. Huang Ying was fairly certain she was able to withstand an attack from Lin Muzhe. However, Fang Lang definitely would not survive it. He might even die from a single blow! Lin Muzhe smiled. Under the bamboo hat, her gorgeous face had a menacing smile. However, she remained wary. Since Fang Lang hade to stop her, he might have some reason to be this bold. Whoosh! Lin Muzhe crouched down, coiling her body like a prawn and with a spring, sheunched herself high into the sky. Instantly, the aura on her body began to increase gradually. Countless raindrops spun along with the movements of her body. The demon swarm had retreated. Hence, she should not continue to waste time here¡ªshe needed to leave. It seemed she had failed the mission given by that nobleman and regret filled her. ¡°The sect leader has allowed me to enter the Youzhou Demon Portal in order to kill you, Fang Lang. I guess you¡¯ve served yourself up on a tter,¡± said Lin Muzhe coolly. Within her core, her sword intent grew rapidly. Instantly, countless raindrops appeared to be sliced in half by a surge of sword intent. ¡°You¡¯re merely a third-ss, your efforts are as pitiful as a praying mantis against a carriage. You must have a death wish.¡± Lin Muzhe looked at Fang Lang as she descended. In the next moment, the sword intent deep inside her rushed out. She appeared as though she had transformed into a brilliant de herself, spinning among the countless rain des. She charged at Fang Lang like a Burmese python. A wave seemed to ripple through the forest instantly. The tree trunks were covered in multiple gashes, sliced by the de energy. Scenes of devastation appeared as far as the eye could see. Huang Ying paled. Despite all this, she had not made a single attack. She saw Fang Lang smile brightly in his blood-drenched clothes. He lifted the sword in his hand¡ªthe Blooming Lotus Sword flickered. When she saw Fang Lang calmly brandishing his sword, all of a sudden, a flurry of raindrops exploded as the Burmese python zoomed toward him. At the same time, a lotus flower made of rainwater manifested. The Burmese python and the sword lotus shed, sending an immense de energy rippling in all directions, agitating all corners of the forest. Huang Ying casually wielded her de energy and shattered several bolts of the energy ripples that rushed toward her. Her eyes sparkled and there was even a fervor in her eyes as she stared at the Blooming Lotus Sword in Fang Lang¡¯s hand. ¡°That¡¯s Sect Leader Taihua¡¯s Blooming Lotus Sword... Fang Lang must have relied on the power of the Blooming Lotus Sword to defeat the demon swarm!¡± Huang Ying¡¯s brain instantly pieced everything together. Xuanyuan Taihua was like a god to every Sword Guild disciple¡ªshe was the ultimate goal of every disciple. The disciples worked hard in their cultivation in pursuit of that goal. The gigantic python shattered. Lin Muzhe stepped on the scattered pieces of raindrops as she returned to the tree. She stared at Fang Lang with vignt eyes. ¡°Sect Leader Taihua¡¯s Blooming Lotus Sword!¡± Lin Muzhe¡¯s voice was extremely solemn. ¡°That¡¯s right. Are you scared now?¡± Fang Lang held the Blooming Lotus Sword and smiled affably. However, his expression contrasted by his bloody clothes and made for an extremely hair-raising sight. ¡°The legendary Sect Leader Tai Hua has four legendary swords. The Blooming Lotus, the Withering Lotus, the Circling Lotus, and the Reincarnating Lotus... Each sword contains remarkably immense power. ¡°The Blooming Lotus Sword ended up with the Sword Guild for thousands of years. The Withering Lotus Sword stayed with the Meridian Guild. The Meridian Guild have spent a decade studying it but I have no idea if they¡¯ve made any discoveries. The Circling Lotus Sword stayed with the All-Seeing Buddha, demonstrating the tyranny of the de lords. The unreasonable Reincarnating Lotus is embedded in the Main Path Mausoleum of the Main Path Guild.¡± Lin Muzhe red at the Blooming Lotus Sword in Fang Lang¡¯s hand with fear in her heart. ¡°However, you wield the Blooming Lotus Sword. That¡¯s a sign that Xuanyuan Taihua is missing. Her power and prestige have terrorized thends for a dozen years, but now, many can no longer hold back their thirst.¡± Lin Muzhe exhaled the stale air from her lungs as she gripped the sword in her hand once more. ¡°It is an honor to cross swords with the Blooming Lotus Sword.¡± Lin Muzhe¡¯s words stunned Fang Lang. So the Blooming Lotus Sword had three otherpanions? The Blooming Lotus, Withering Lotus, Circling Lotus and Reincarnating Lotus... Whenbined, the overall meaning was, ¡®The rebirth cycle of the lotus flower.¡¯ Was this Sect Leader Tai Hua¡¯s sword mastery? Fang Lang shook his head. At his current state, the sword mastery was too advanced for him toprehend. ¡°Who sent you here? Was it the third prince, Li Liancheng?¡± asked Fang Lang as straightened up and ran his finger across the de. He brushed his finger gently across the de of the Blooming Lotus, emitting a clear ring. He swiped away the water on the sword body. It was most likely to be the third prince. The tyrannical person who possessed royal blood. Was this revenge for stabbing His Royal Highness three times previously? Lin Muzhe remained silent. There were some things she could not speak about. ¡°So you¡¯re not going to tell me... In that case, let me give you a big present.¡± Fang Lang smiled warmly. ¡°I was the one who killed Lin Yun. Let me send you to meet Lin Yun and you can have a family reunion. That should be a good enough present, right?¡± said Fang Lang. As soon as he finished speaking, the power within him exploded as he moved. In an instant, Fang Lang disappeared from where he stood. With the Power Loan Card, he was currently borrowing the strength and power of Wen Ting and his unparalleled ninth-grade sword intent realm. Wen Ting was the first person who remained in the fourth-ss realm when he could clearly advance beyond the fourth-ss realm with his core and innate talent. He remained at the peak of the fourth-ss sword intent realm because of some unknown reason. To Fang Lang, this was not a big deal as long as he was able to borrow the man¡¯s power. His finger lightly brushed against the Blooming Lotus Sword. Fang Lang could feel the Innate Sword Intent Seed rejoicing happily inside his body. He could vaguely feel an illusion of Wen Ting appear behind him. The illusion gripped the sword and it appeared as though that sword hade to life. The sword seemed to devour the sword intent whole as though it had a mouth. Lin Muzhe looked cold and solemn. ording to the descriptions of Sect Leader Nan, among the four swords left behind by Taihua First Sword, the Blooming Lotus Sword was the least rebellious. This was because the Blooming Lotus Sword did not suppress the Sword Guild. The other three swords suppressed the powerful existence of the various sects. However, it was not necessarily so. If Fang Lang could rely on the power of the Blooming Lotus Sword to unleash such a powerful force, the Blooming Lotus Sword must hold a deeper power! Of course, this was to be expected of the great Xuanyuan Taihua! The Tang Dynasty¡¯s First Sword! The Blooming Lotus was undeniably the weapon of the Tang Dynasty¡¯s First Sword! Thankfully Fang Lang had only managed to obtain the Blooming Lotus. If he had the other three swords, that would mean he... might be the second Xuanyuan Taihua! Lin Muzhe slowly let out a breath. An ancient de energy had awakened inside her energy center. It was the inheritance she received from the deceased de lord of the Donglu¡¯s Sword League. Today, she would lean on his sword and take down the grand champion! Lin Muzhe¡¯s gaze went cold as countless de energy shot out of her body, sending the falling rain back up into the sky. It seemed as though the raindrops were frozen in ce. Huang Ying waved the sword in her hand. Her expression was serious. She suddenly looked in Fang Lang¡¯s direction in a trance because at that moment, Fang Lang¡¯s body seemed to be gradually ovepping with the body of that man all those years ago. Did Wen Ting teach this sword skill to Fang Lang!? Hang Ying felt inexplicably sad. Lin Muzhe sensed a constantly surging force and she borrowed this thousand-year de energy to instantly allow her power to surpass the shackles of the fourth ss,unching an explosive attack with the power of the upper fourth-ss realm. Lin Muzhe seemed toe to the realization that after this, with the experience of the upper fourth-ss realm, she might easily transcend it. This was possibly the greatest advantage she would get from this skill. ¡°Die!¡± The world instantly became silent. The raindrops were sliced. At that point in time, Lin Muzhe¡¯s robes were billowing freely while her expression under the bamboo hat remained unchanged. It was like she had transformed into a peerless immortal. The sword in her hand was encircled by a stream of de energy. That stream of de energy rippled powerfully between the skies and the earth, spreading a brilliant, oppressive force! The de energy of the de lord. Lin Muzhe floated as her body glowed with extremely radiant light. The de energy was like a light illuminating the dark, quiet world. On the other side, as Fang Lang stood in his bloody clothes, the powerful auraing from his body began to dissipate. It kept weakening until itpletely disappeared and he became an ordinary person. An ordinary person who was holding a legendary sword. This match looked like it would be one that offered no surprises. ... Youzhou Demon Portal. At the Six Thousand Mile Resource Station, the heavy downpour continued. However, it was nearly impossible to wash away the heavy scent. Over here, gs fluttered in the rain while soldiers stood in strict formation. One after another, the warriors in armor stood in position. The Minister of Rites, Zhou Yiyuan, was d in golden armor. He wore an indifferent expression. Standing beside him were the team leaders of the warriors from the various sects. All of them were cultivators of beyond the fourth-ss realm. Wen Ting who was of the fourth-ss sword intent realm appeared slightly out of ce. He stood out among them. Wen Ting drank some wolfberry tea from a gourd canteen then gazed off into the deep end of the dense forest. He seemed to sense a wisp of resonance. That sense of resonance made him feel as though his soul was stirring. Who was it? Also, what was happening in the forest!? On the other side, Minister of Rites, Zhou Yiyuan, cast a look at Wen Ting. A light shed across his eyes. ¡°Wen Ting, you were the famous Schrly Sword Master in Changan all those years ago. It was a shame you missed the highest distinction in that year¡¯s Imperial Examination. You have a great reputation in Changan even now. Do you have any regrets now that thirteen years have passed and your cultivation has stagnated? ¡°You turned down the first prince when he tried to recruit you back then. You even brandished your sword against the first prince and crushed your sword drive. If it weren¡¯t for that, you might have advanced to the seventh-ss realm.¡± Zhou Yiyuan said, ¡°Don¡¯t you regret anything?¡± Wen Ting did not expect Zhou Yiyuan to chat with him. He put down the gourd canteen in his hand and shook his head, ¡°No, I have no regrets.¡± ¡°Something good came out of the bad. After that happened, I caught Sect Leader Taihua¡¯s attention and was given a special sword tactic. ¡°The trauma the first prince gave me is still present but I¡¯m not fearful. In fact, I¡¯m always anticipating the next opportunity to wield my sword.¡± Wen Ting smiled goodnaturedly, ¡°I may look weak but I¡¯m pretty strong.¡± Wen Ting¡¯s deration made the others burst intoughter. How strong would a fourth-ss realm cultivator be? Zhou Yiyuan looked at Wen Ting and seemed to notice the deep, meaningful look within his smile. If Wen Ting¡¯s sword attack was very strong, how strong was it? ... ¡®He nurtures the sword with his body,¡¯ that was the System¡¯s remark regarding Wen Ting. Fang Lang did not know what situation entailed using one¡¯s body to cultivate the sword. However, he knew Mentor Wen was a man who had been through a traumatic period. Fang Lang had used the Power Loan Card to borrow Wen Ting¡¯s power and could experience a little of the force from ¡®nurturing the sword using the body¡¯. Fang Lang felt his de energy in his energy center flow unceasingly into the Blooming Lotus Sword. His blood, sweat and tears spent cultivating to achieve the sword wave realm was being used up rapidly¡ªhis cultivation dropped back to the ninth-grade sword master level. Even then, it continued to drop further and further. In the end, once he had descended to the ninth-grade sword disciple, only did the downward spiral stop. However, the Blooming Lotus Sword in his hand remained absolutely ordinary. Fang Lang instantly felt a little weak. He suddenly understood something about Mentor Wen. Even though Fang Lang had dropped grades, he could sense that he had be stronger. He had used his realms to nurture the sword. This was Wen Ting¡¯s sword skill! The Sword Nurturing Spell! Using one¡¯s cultivation to nurture one¡¯s sword! The further down the grades one fell, the stronger the sword would be! The weaker you became, the stronger the sword! Lin Muzhe glittered splendidly with her sword. As she wielded the thousand-year de energy of the de lord, she sliced and chopped up countless trees. The muddy ground in the forest exploded. Lin Muzhe aimed a swing at Fang Lang. Fang Lang¡¯splexion was pale and pasty. As he faced off Lin Muzhe¡¯s strong attack, he only managed to raise his sword to hip level. It was as though the gesture exhausted all the strength in his body. In the distance, Huang Ying watched the sh of the swords. It was like watching the vast ocean crash onto a single rock! Bang! Lin Muzhe¡¯s expression changed! She saw the ordinary-looking sword in Fang Lang¡¯s hand transform. It was filled with a sense of rebelliousness and the want to right the wrongs of the world. It was unstoppable! In fact, she did not dare to stop it! Whoosh! The de energy of the de lord seemed to be a wisp of a shadow. The shadowy figure raised its hand and took a strand of de energy as if he wanted to challenge Fang Lang¡¯s sword! Fang Lang looked undaunted! He possessed a sword that was nurtured with ten years worth of cultivation, why would he be scared of a de lord? Of course, this was not Fang Lang¡ªit was Wen Ting. Fang Lang was merely borrowing the man¡¯s mindset. The two of them were at a stalemate. The de lord¡¯s de energy turned out to be just that in the end! With a moan, it was destroyed! The magnificent versus the ordinary. In the end, the ordinarypletely annihted the magnificent. After that, Lin Muzhe narrowed her eyes and watched the Blooming Lotus Sword grow before her eyes. The bamboo hat on her head was abruptly sliced in half by the de energy. The hat fell onto both sides of her head. This exposed Lin Muzhe¡¯s beautiful yet cold face. Her delicate, silky hair stuck to her fair cheeks. Everyone who saw her would inexplicably find themselves pitying her. Her expression was tinged with surprise as she watched the ridiculously ordinary and unadorned sword sink into her chest. It was an ordinary sword but it possessed immense power. In an instant, she felt the spiritual energy and de energy that had been passed on to her splinter into multiple pieces. Fang Lang wore an affable smile and looked at Lin Muzhe calmly. The falling raindrops that had been forced to retreat into the sky were released from the power that was holding them in ce. They fell to the ground in a thunderous roar. The world was in an uproar as the gushing downpour swept through the remaining leaves of the uncountable trees in the forest. Lin Muzhe slowly lowered her head to look at the sword that was stabbed one inch into her chest. Snow drifted over the sword and the bloodstain looked just like a blood lotus. Fang Lang raised his arms, looking extremely weak as he did so. All of a sudden, he thrust the sword lengthwise, pressing it against Lin Muzhe¡¯s neck. He forced her down from therge tree! As they fell from therge tree, Fang Lang pulled out the Blooming Lotus Sword in his hand and twisted the sword and plunged it over and over, stab after stab. He continued thrusting his sword into her body. Chapter 114 - Who Gave You This Unfounded Confidence?

Chapter 114: Who Gave You This Unfounded Confidence?

The violent downpour of the storm beat down constantly on Lin Muzhe¡¯s beautiful, yet pale face. Apart from the expression that flitted from her face when Fang Lang¡¯s first stab plunged into her chest, Lin Muzhe¡¯s face was calm and indifferent throughout theter assaults. She looked coolly at this youth who hadpletely surpassed her expectations. Shepletely lost the game despite having full confidence that victory was at hand. However, there was nothing she could do about it. This was because Fang Lang¡¯s de energy hadpletely destroyed arge portion of the meridian around her heart. This resulted in the severing of the connection between her spiritual sense and the energy center. She hade to avenger her brother with confidence. She was a senior disciple of the Donglu¡¯s Sword League. She was their most gifted disciple and also the disciple who inherited the teachings of a de lord. Boom! The two of them crashed into the muddy ground. It was like a huge stone falling into a pond, sending countless waves of mud-colored water shooting into the sky. Fang Lang¡¯s arms were pressed against Lin Muzhe¡¯s neck. Blood began to spread across the water in a twisted pattern. It was as though a trench had been cut into the earth. The world was plunged into a dead silence¡ªeverything was calm and quiet. ¡°I killed Lin Yun with my sword on a rainy day, poetic. This is neat and tidy. What do you think about my present?¡± said Fang Lang with a warm smile. Fang Lang looked at Lin Muzhe under the rain¡ªshe was deathly pale as he spoke. His smile was eternally kind and warm. Blood spilled out of the corner of Lin Muzhe¡¯s mouth. Her eyes were as calm as always as she stared at Fang Lang. After a long time, Lin Muzhe smiled. ¡°Y-your sword... How did ite to be?¡± She did not understand Fang Lang¡¯s sword. How could it destroy the ancient de lord energy that she had manifested from her energy center? Did it falter so easily to the Blooming Lotus Sword? That force did not resemble the de energy of Taihua First Sword. The sound of the pouring rain went on incessantly. It was followed by ps of thunder, startling the entire forest and sending numerous demons scurrying within the forest. Fang Lang looked at Lin Muzhe. If Fang Lang did not have the means, if he was not able to hold out against the demon swarm, he would have died. When he died, the hope of the Sword Guild would be thoroughly crushed. Even if this woman merely wanted to avenge Lin Yun, Fang Lang did not have any regrets when it came to Lin Yun. If Lin Yun did not die, Fang Lang would not have survived. Lin Muzhe was asking about the sword that was not easily obtained. Fang Lang had to fight a demon swarm single-handedly, killing more than 300 demons until he waspletely exhausted and all he could do was swing his sword around stiffly. He then unlocked the prize and obtained a Reward Egg, from which he gained a Power Loan Card. By activating the Power Card, he borrowed the strength of Mentor Wen and used his power to unleash the killing strike. He used his ten years¡¯ worth of cultivation to nurture the sword. Of course, he would not fear the attack of a de lord. It sounded arrogant as Fang Lang¡¯s current cultivation was as weak as a ninth-grade sword disciple. Of course, his strength was recovering slowly. This was not a huge problem as the drain was only temporary. His attack merely borrowed Wen Ting¡¯s strength and was not a true representation of the skill. Hence, Fang Lang struggled to imagine how powerful Mentor Wen would be if he unleashed the full extent of his true power! In all honesty, there was some luck involved in his attack. Fang Lang did not like to depend on luck because luck could not be controlled. However, all that could be said was that the luck of this woman before him was pretty bad. When she saw that Fang Lang had no intention of answering her question, Lin Muzhe continued to smile. ¡°Are you going to kill me? I¡¯m sure you won¡¯t have the guts to k-kill me, right?¡± said Lin Muzhe in a teasing, jovial tone. However, she had barely started to speak when the cheerful expression on her beautiful face froze. Her pupils constricted, apanied by the shock and disbelief that came in the face of death. Fang Lang did not remove the Blooming Lotus Sword in her chest and was continuously destroying her meridians, severing the connection between her and her energy center. On the other hand, he gripped the hilt of the Obsidian Sword with his other hand. With a swing that looked like a sh of ck lightning, he aimed for Lin Muzhe¡¯s bloodstained neck. The storm continued to rage. All that was reflected in Lin Muzhe¡¯s eyes was a young champion in bloodied robes. Whoosh! The swordnded and blood spilled into the waters. Lin Muzhe¡¯s beautiful face was still. Her face was filled with shock at her impending death. It appeared as though she was not really that cheerful after all. ¡°Who gave you this unfounded confidence? Who is the noble backing you in this?¡± Fang Langughed as he rose beside Lin Muzhe¡¯s body, lifting her head. Thanks to the Power Loan Card, Fang Lang still felt a sense of hollow emptiness. It was a unique sensation of emptiness as though his body had been drained from that attack. At that moment, it would be so wonderful if he could have a sip of warm wolfberry tea... The corner of Fang Lang¡¯s mouth twitched. He rushed to chase this terrifying thought out of his head. He was only 15! He was still young! Wolfberry tea... This thing should not appear in his life yet! The rain continued to pour and gradually made the blood flowing out of Lin Muzhe¡¯s corpse pool into the shape of a blood lotus at Fang Lang¡¯s feet. Huang Ying stood in a daze on top of therge tree. She watched as Fang Lang cut off Lin Muzhe¡¯s head and was a little shocked. Lin Muzhe, the most outstanding disciple of the Donglu¡¯s Sword League¡ªtheir pride and joy. She was recognized by Nan Yehuo as the disciple who was most likely to enter the de lord realm. Her head was chopped off by Fang Lang and her corpseid in the storm. A third-ss had killed a fourth-ss. With one swing, he felled the beautifuldy. Huang Ying¡¯s mind was a mess. With a sh, shended next to Lin Muzhe¡¯s corpse. She took out a medicinal pill and handed it to Fang Lang. This was a recovery pill that would help restore his vital energy. Huang Ying was a little dazed. It was as if she could see the shadow of Xuanyuan Taihua on Fang Lang. Perhaps it was the hope of the Sword Guild ced upon the shoulders of the grand champion. Fang Lang took the pill and felt the weakness in his body dissipate slightly. He lifted Lin Muzhe¡¯s head and retrieved her space ring. He flooded it with his spiritual sense and used Spirit Awl, instantly destroying Lin Muzhe¡¯s space ring. A loud bang sounded. The space contorted and arge pile of spirit crystals along with other personal belongings of Lin Muzhe was vomited into their dimension. He swept an eye over the pile. There was one mid-grade spirit crystal, 57 low-grade spirit crystals and various bottles and containers of medicinal pills. Huang Ying inhaled sharply. ¡®How wealthy!¡¯ she thought Fang Lang pursed his lips and said, ¡°How poor.¡± Huang Ying was speechless. ¡®Poor? If this was poor then what were the disciples of the Sword Guild?¡¯ With a sweeping gesture, Fang Lang collected all the items greedily. After that, he took out a signal talisman and tossed it onto Lin Muzhe¡¯s corpse. After that, Fang Lang directed a wisp of de energy and the signal talisman instantly exploded, sending out a mysterious ripple. ¡°Go.¡± Fang Lang did not linger and left the area with Huang Ying. A short while after they left, a loud noise pierced through the rainy sky as two warriors from the Imperial Court of Judicial Review rushed over. Theynded beside Lin Muzhe¡¯s corpse. The rain pounded against their bamboo hats. The edges of their bamboo hats seemed to be one with the mist. ¡°This signal talisman must have been set off by the killer after she died,¡± said one of the warriors of the Imperial Court of Judicial Review in a raspy voice. ¡°This is a provocation directed at us.¡± ¡°A provocation my *ss. There was a demon swarm surging in the forest. This must have been caused by Lin Muzhe... This is her getting what she deserved,¡± said the other Imperial Court of Judicial Review warrior coldly. After that, they did not continue to argue as they picked up Lin Muzhe¡¯s headless corpse and left the area. ... Changan City, the Grand Pce. It was terrifyingly cold and quiet. All the officials of various ranks were silent, not daring to say a word due to fear. Lu Taixuan narrowed his eyes causing Li Puyi to frown deeply. The first prince looked just as he always did. The third prince looked doubtful. The ancient mirrors floating in the square continued to swap images. Cold sweat dripped in a constant stream from the forehead of the spell master responsible for changing the images. ¡°How dare you! Hurry up and swap to the Sword Guild¡¯s team!¡± Old Man Gao¡¯s expression was cold and stern. His pale temples were filled with sword intent as he fiercely gave the order. The third prince frowned. The first prince said icily, ¡°Aren¡¯t you going to hurry up and change the image!?¡± In the end, the spell master changed the image on the Thousand-Mile Mirror. The image shed before showing and scattered with corpses. The storm continued to rage on as bloodied water flowed tortuous paths. Demon corpse after demon corpse piled on the ground! The heavy rains, the bloody waters and the ground covered in demon corpses. Among the demon corpses, Jiang Linglong, Ni Wen, Liu Bubai and Geshu Yuehua could be seen. A hugemotion blew up instantly in the White Jade Square! ¡°H-how can there be so many demons... Did they encounter a demon swarm?¡¯ ¡°How could they have encountered a demon swarm in the Youzhou Demon Portal? In the outer boundaries as well? That¡¯s ridiculous!¡± ¡°How interesting... Looking at all the demon corpses strewn all over the ground. Did this group of kids really kill so many demons!?¡± Among the hundred officials, some people began toin angrily. Lu Taixuan frowned deeply, looking deep in thought. Chao Xiaojian suddenly stood up and started pping. He said with a smile, ¡°Very well. These disciples of my Sword Guild have extraordinary luck to have encountered a demon swarm in the outer boundaries of Youzhou Demon Portal!¡± ¡°Your Highness! Please witness the Sword Guild¡¯s hardship and achievement!¡± The atmosphere was extremely tense, it was like there was a pair of cold, ruthless eyes observing the ongoings in the White Jade Square. Chao Xiaojian¡¯s white robes fluttered along with his white hair. ¡°In the previous Resource Battle, the Sword Guild has been unfairly targeted. However, it was within the eptable limits and no rules were broken. ¡°Even though it is unfair to my Sword Guild disciples and I was outraged, I still endured it. However, this time I can no longer tolerate it. If I let this slide, I will have dishonored the name of the White-Haired Sword Demon!¡± Chao Xiaojian¡¯s voice rang out louder and louder, sounding clearer and clearer, in the White Jade Square. ¡°Zhou Yiyuan is the organizer of this Resource Battle. With his ability, it is impossible he was unable to sense the presence of a demon swarm. So what on earth is Zhou Yiyuan doing?¡± Chao Xiaojian¡¯s voice rang explosively in the air. The Minister of Rites, Zhou Yiyuan... At that moment, everyone was thinking about Zhou Yiyuan. Chao Xiaojian¡¯s words were true. With Zhou Yiyuan¡¯s ability, it was impossible for a demon swarm to go unnoticed. There was a problem with Zhou Yiyuan. Unexpectedly, the first prince, Li Tianlin, stepped out before the Taiji Pce. He knelt down on one knee, cupped his hands in a gesture of respect and said in a serious tone, ¡°Father! For such a thing to happen so close to your birthday! This is unforgivable! I¡¯m in charge of the Imperial Court of Judicial Review. Allow me to head out with the Imperial Court of Judicial Review members to investigate this case and seek justice for the Sword Guild!¡± Li Tianlin¡¯s expression was extremely serious, his features were grim and his voice reverberated in the long corridor of the Taiji Pce. Li Liancheng¡¯s expression faltered slightly. Li Tianlin knelt on the ground as snow gently drifted around him. It was as though everything had be iparably peaceful at that moment. A moment passed but it felt like an eternity. Inside the Taiji Pce, an indifferent voice spoke out. ¡°You may.¡± As soon as Li Tianlin heard those words, his expression became more stern. He stood up and his dragon robe fluttered. He walked in the direction of the White Jade Square. ¡°Pei Liao, prepare the troops! We¡¯re heading to the Youzhou Demon Portal!¡± Chapter 115 - A Rain of Demon Hearts

Chapter 115: A Rain of Demon Hearts

Changan, Royal City. White Jade Square. Snow was falling from the sky. The atmosphere before the Taiji Pce was deadly silent and oppressive like it had frozen over. The first prince had left along with Pei Liao and the many warriors of the Imperial Court of Judicial Review. He left with a belly full of anger as he rushed to the Youzhou Demon Portal in order to uncover the truth of this matter. However, the atmosphere in the square had not calmed down. On the contrary, it had be even tenser. The fifth princess gently patted the second prince who was smiling like an idiot next to her. She would asionally cough and use a silk handkerchief to cover her mouth. Herplexion was pale and when she released her hand, a hint of red tinged her silk handkerchief. Her gaze looked a little dazed. It was as though she could not fully understand what was happening before her eyes. The third prince¡¯s expression looked indiscernible. Among the hundred officials, some were clenching their fists while others were stroking their beards. ¡°Youzhou Demon Portal is recently pacified. There should not be demon swarms in the outer boundary. This should have never happened.¡± ¡°Unless... Unless a spell master of the seventh-ss and above had used their spiritual sense to startle the beasts, chasing them until they formed a demon swarm. However, the likelihood of being able to control a demon swarm is low. This action can¡¯t have been done in order to target the disciples of the Sword Guild. Of course, the other possibility is that someone had used the extremely precious Beast Dispelling Pearl to expel the demons and attract the less intelligent demons to form a demon swarm.¡± ¡°The Beast Dispelling Pearl is hard toe by. There are a couple in the Secret Treasures Pavilion. However, the Secret Treasure Pavilion cannot be entered without the Emperor¡¯s permission. Only a few influential officials in the entire Changan City could get their hands on the Beast Dispelling Pearl. The third prince enjoys hunting in the demon portals... Perhaps the third prince¡¯s pce might have a Beast Dispelling Pearl gifted by General Asi Luoshan!¡± ... Whispers reached the ears of the third prince, Li Liancheng. The third prince, Li Liancheng, viciously clenched his fist. His fingernails dug into his palm. ¡®It wasn¡¯t me!¡¯ roared Li Liancheng in his heart. He abruptly raised his head. The grim look in his eyes was terrifying. However, he did not make a sound or try to exin himself. Perhaps, at that moment, the Beast Dispelling Pearl in his pce was already missing. Li Liancheng looked at the sect leaders from the various sects and saw Nan Yehuo. Nan Yehuo was looking straight at him. However, the focus of his eyes moved away. He did not meet the eyes of the third prince. Li Liancheng continued looking calmly. There was enmity between him and the Sword Guild. He did not get along with Martial Arts King Jiang. He had previously acted out against the grand champion Fang Lang... The Beast Dispelling Pearl in his pce might have disappeared. As soon as the third prince thought about it, his heart sank like a rock. It seemed as though he was being set up. Who was behind this? Was it his older brother, the first prince, who had left? Or was it this harmless royal sister of his? An uproar rang out from the White Jade Square. The image within the Thousand-Mile Mirror changed once again. Every gaze was fixed on the Thousand-Mile Mirror, Chao Xiaojian was included among them. Coincidentally, an unbelievably shocking image appeared in the Thousand-Mile Mirror. At the same time, everyone¡¯s gaze turned tond upon the third prince, Li Liancheng. ... Youzhou Demon Portal. The storm continued to rage. The gloomy, dark clouds enveloped the entire sky within the demon portal. The atmosphere was suffocating and oppressive as it hung over the hearts of each of the warriors within the demon portal. The raindrops sshed into the muddy puddles, forming multiple ripples. From the entrance of the demon portal, there would be a Resource Station at every 1,000 miles. There, the disciples of the various sects could replenish their resources with the resource tokens in their possession. As the rain poured down, a figure walked up to the Resource Station. Multiple figures were dressed in pale blue robes. They were prim and proper and walked swiftly. The curtain of rain seemed to fall at an angle over them, as though some formless energy was parting it. Li Yuanzhen¡¯s figure could be seen among the crowd. This was the team of disciples from the Main Path Guild, the top sect in the Tang Dynasty. They traveled at a breakneck pace, rushing across the thousand-mile distance to be the first team to arrive at the first Resource Station. As the first person to set foot in the Resource Station, Li Yuanzhen wore a slight smile on his lips. He had not seen a hint of Fang Lang at this Resource Station. Neither did he see the team from the Sword Guild. It seemed like he had won¡ªthe Main Path Guild had won. Ever since he had lost to Fang Lang in the Imperial Examination, Li Yuanzhen had been battling internal demons. He was used to receiving glory. However, Fang Lang had given him a huge shock during the battle in the final section in the most spectacr fashion. The once highly-regarded spell disciple had ended up bing the butt of the joke. Apart from his identity as the son of Administrator Li Puyi, his cultivator reputation had taken a beating. Hence, his loss in the Imperial Examination was a recurring nightmare to Li Yuanzhen. Regardless of the hopes and expectations of the third prince and his father, Li Yuanzhen could not reconcile with his failure. He was a genius spell master, yet he had been defeated by Fang Lang with a flight sword tactic! How could this... even be possible!? Hence, this Resource Battle was a continuation of his battle with Fang Lang after the Imperial Examination. Li Yuanzhen was secretlypeting with Fang Lang in his heart. He silently swore to himself, this time, he must win! When he saw the Sword Guild team had not appeared at the first Resource Station, Li Yuanzhen instantly rxed. Arge handnded on Li Yuanzhen¡¯s shoulder. The leader of the Main Path Guild team¡ªa senior who was a ninth-ss phantasm realm cultivator¡ªgently patted Li Yuanzhen. ¡°Junior Li, you should rx. I heard the grand champion of the Imperial Examination had many tricks up his sleeves and snatched a victory from you. I know you still suffer from the trauma and n to achieve a win over him. No worries, with us by your side, all you need to do is keep clear.¡± An Fan, the leader of the Main Path Guild teamughed as he spoke, ¡°Junior Li, you need a win to dispel your internal demons. That is the only way you¡¯ll be able to cultivate freely without restrictions. You¡¯re a disciple who the sect leader looks highly upon. Hence, don¡¯t let a small loss affect your state of mind.¡± An Fan was handsome and elegant. His hair was tied up at the ends with a velvet ribbon. His blue Main Path Guild robes billowed loosely, making him look especially cool. Li Yuanzhen nodded his head. He felt a measure of respect as he said, ¡°Thank you, Senior An, for your advice.¡± An Fan smiled warmly. ¡°My spell mastery is different from sword mastery. The might of my spell mastery can destroy the world. This is the true road of cultivation. No matter how powerful one¡¯s sword mastery and de energy are, a single forbidden spell can cause total destruction! ¡°However, in the beginning, sword mastery is superior to spell mastery. As long as a sword disciple is able to get close, we will undoubtedly lose. That¡¯s why you shouldn¡¯t take your previous loss to heart.¡± Li Yuanzhen nodded his head sincerely. His eyes seemed to reveal his feelings of yearning. Forbidden spell... that was a tactic only senior spell disciples of the eight-ss realm can master! In the face of a forbidden spell, all fancy moves or tactics would be rendered useless, the opponents would be like sitting ducks. As time continued to pass, more and more figures made their way to the Resource Station. The teams from the Immortal Martial Association, the Meridian Guild and other great sects gradually appeared. There were even a couple of teams from the first- and second-ss sects that arrived. The team from the Sword Guild still did not appear. Li Yuanzhen, Ximen Xianxian, Wei Sheng and the others all frowned¡ªthey felt something was up. With the ability of the Sword Guild team, it was impossible that they were behind the first and second-ss sects... The sound of thunder continued to boom as de energy tore through the curtain of rain. The Donglu¡¯s Sword League disciples scurried in. They were saddled with swords and looked a little embarrassed. The disciples of the Donglu¡¯s Sword League all looked ill at ease. They had waited for a long time but their leader, Lin Muzhe, had still not returned. In the end, they decided they could wait no longer and rushed to the Resource Station. Without their fourth-ss sword intent realm leader, the Donglu¡¯s Sword League disciples found it extremely challenging as they faced the powerful demons in the forest. None of them were unscathed from the encounter. The disciples of the Donglu¡¯s Sword League circled the area once and when they realized the disciples of the Sword Guild were absent, they all let out a sigh of relief. Some of the disciples¡¯ eyes sparkled. Lin Muzhe definitely went to stir up some trouble for the Sword Guild. From what they witnessed, the oue was evidently to their favor. If the Sword Guild was not able to gain resources to match that of the ten great guilds, the sect would weaken and the Donglu¡¯s Sword League would be able to catch up to them. The Sword Guild would be removed from the pedestal of the ten great guilds! ¡°The Sword Guild has not arrived. They¡¯re not even a match for these second-ss sects. The Sword Guild has really been a disappointment this year.¡± In the distance, the leader of the Nanhai Sword Association team frowned as he remarked somewhat disdainfully. This year might be the Nanhai Sword Association¡¯s year! After all, the Sword Guild had not arrived and the Donglu¡¯s Sword League was pretty ordinary. It looked like this year, the Nanhai Sword Association might be able to crush the Sword Guild and force its way into the ten great guilds! Numerous disciples of the various sects were excited. The Sword Guild was one of the ten great guilds so naturally, their performance would draw everyone¡¯s attention. However, the Sword Guild¡¯s performance this year was extremely disappointing. Where were they? This standard was ridiculously low! Rumor had it the grand champion of thetest Imperial Examination was among the disciples of the Sword Guild team. What was this result then? Within the station, numerous disciples sat down to rest, watching the unending storm outside the station. The thoughts of many of the disciples were running wild. The minds of the Nanhai Sword Association disciples were filled with certain optimistic ideas. All of a sudden! A couple of disciples with keen senses noticed the rustling sound of footstepsing from the forest. In the next moment, the sitting disciples got to their feet. Their eyes were filled with shock and disbelief! ¡°This...¡± Li Yuanzhen squeezed his eyes tightly. The Nanhai Sword Association disciples were astonished as they fixed their eyes intently at something in the rain. The rain continued to pour down apanied by booming thunder. Six figures slowly made their way over. Huang Ying, Ni Wen, Geshu Yuehua and Li Bubai were all dressed in white. Even though they were drenched from the rain, their robes were still pure white. Looking further down, Jiang Linglong could be seen covered in arge amount of blood. Lastly, there was a youth saddled with three swords in his sword box. A youth dressed in bloodied robes. A champion dressed in bloodied robes. An uproar broke out in the station. What on earth had happened!? A couple of the team leaders¡¯ eyes flickered with realization. It appeared they had figured it out. They had sensed a faint hint of a demon swarm with their abilities. After all, the rippling of demonic energy formed from numerous demons congregating did not go unnoticed by them. Even if they wanted to challenge the demon swarm, they would not have the ability to do so. Hence, all the leaders had led their teams further away from the demon swarm. After they had killed individual demons, they quickly continued their journey. It looked like the demon swarm was rted to the Sword Guild! The disciples of the Donglu¡¯s Sword League were utterly shocked. A couple of them rushed out into the rain. ¡°There¡¯s no way!¡± ¡°What about Senior Lin!?¡± ¡°The disciples of the Sword Guild are here? What happened to Senior Lin?¡± Among the Donglu¡¯s Sword League disciples, there were a couple who had an idea about Lin Muzhe¡¯s n. They all looked extremely pale as they cried out. ¡°You mean that b*tch, Lin?¡± Geshu Yuehua who arrived at the first Resource Station bared her teeth, looking extremely fierce and intimidating. Her body was bent like a bow. In the next moment, she sprang out, running frenziedly in the rain. As her footstepsnded on the ground, it was like geysers erupting! In an instant, she appeared right in front of a disciple of the Donglu¡¯s Sword League! She threw a savage kick! ¡°How dare she schemed against us!¡± Geshu Yuehua vented in a crazed manner. All the fear she experienced because of the demon swarm was being released at this moment! The Donglu¡¯s Sword League disciple let out an angry roar and took his sword out of its scabbard. He swung at Geshu Yuehua¡¯s long legs. However, Geshu Yuehua did a flip in the air and a broadsword appeared in her hand. She swung hers in retaliation. Despite her natural talents, she had been tricked by Fang Lang. However, when pitted against ordinary disciples, it was practically abuse! With a single swing, the disciple¡¯s sword shattered into pieces and his body was covered in blood. Half of his body was nearly sliced off. Blood spilled everywhere as that disciple was sent flying 100 feet back. His blood stained the rainwater and the surrounding mud. Fang Lang in his bloodied robes did not do anything to stop Geshu Yuehua from venting her feelings. He considered this foreign girl who did not run away when they faced the demon swarm a teammate. All around, numerous eyes were focused on them. Fang Lang continued to trudge ahead in his bloodstained robes. He waved his hand. Instantly, a ripple spread through the air. In the space before Fang Lang, multiple fresh demon hearts appeared. As they hovered in the air, they looked like frozen raindrops. In the station, every disciple blinked their eyes in disbelief. Whoosh! The hearts dropped like rain and ttered all over the ground! The Nanhai Sword Association team leader, who had previously thought his guild had a chance of winning this year, watched as Fang Lang made it rain demon hearts. He subconsciously raised his hand and fanned himself. ¡®Disappointing performance!? So you really thought the Nanhai Sword Association had a chance this year!? This group of ruthless teens from the Sword Guild ughtered the... demon swarm!?¡¯ Li Yuanzhen¡¯s pupils contracted. He had felt a little smug as the Main Path Guild was the first team to arrive at the Resource Station. However, the pride was gone when he saw Fang Lang shower the entire area with demon hearts. It was like that moment at the Imperial Examination battle ring when Fang Lang¡¯s flight sword trick skill destroyed his confidence and obliterated his faith. The demon heart rain made Li Yuanzhen¡¯s newly regained confidence go up in smoke. Did he kill so many demons single-handedly!? He must be a monster! All of a sudden, something different fell down from the sky. Everyone¡¯s eyes widened. The disciples of the Donglu¡¯s Sword League looked as pale as snow. That was a human head! Dark flowing hair and beautiful features that had streaming blood and tears... Lin Muzhe¡¯s head! Thud! The head fell to the ground andid among the demon hearts. At the same time, it also crushed the heart of every disciple. Chapter 116 - Grand Champion, We Meet Again

Chapter 116: Grand Champion, We Meet Again

Changan City, heavy snowfall. Taiji Pce. White Jade Square. Themotion grew louder. The Thousand-Mile Mirror showed the scene at the Resource Station right. The hundreds of demon hearts revealed by Fang Lang as well as the shocking image of Lin Muzhe¡¯s decapitated head. The third prince stared at the Thousand-Mile Mirror. His eyes seemed to sh with shock. After some time, he turned his head. His eyes were a little crazed and grotesque as he stared at the sect leaders who were all looking at Donglu¡¯s God of des, Nan Yehuo, with shock, horror and sorrow. Lin Muzhe, the prince remembered who she was. She was Lin Yun¡¯s older sister who was also naturally gifted and a bringer of misfortune. Donglu¡¯s God of des, Nan Yehuo, had pinned great hopes and expectations upon her. The third prince had even harbored feelings for her in the past. Lin Muzhe was dead. Fang Lang was the one who decapitated her. She died in such a pitiful manner. This also meant Lin Muzhe¡¯s connection with the demon swarm was not dismissable and meant trouble for the third prince. The third prince was closely linked with the Donglu¡¯s Sword League, which inadvertently meant Lin Muzhe was working under the third prince¡¯s orders. Of course, the moment Lin Muzhe¡¯s head appeared in the Thousand-Mile Mirror, the evidence against the third prince only became more solid. It was a stench that he could not wash off! An unsolvable problem! There was animosity between the third prince and Fang Lang. He had previously attacked Fang Lang. The third prince had a Beast Dispelling Pearl in his pce. The third prince¡¯sckey was beheaded by Fang Lang. He was linked to a person present in the situation, there was physical evidence and motive... Everything seemed to point to the third prince, Li Liancheng. The evidence seemed to proim that he was the audacious person who had meddled in this year¡¯s Resource Battle that coincided with the Tang Dynasty Emperor¡¯s birthday celebration! Hundreds of officials were debating the issue! Countless imperial censors wailed with bitter hatred as their faces were flushed with anger. They rushed straight to the Taiji Pce and knelt, petitioning for the impeachment of the third prince, Li Liancheng. Li Liancheng had never liked this group of imperial censors. If the slightest thing went wrong, they were like a pack of cats who jumped on anything fishy. Their call for his impeachment was such an example. This time, Li Liancheng was filled to the brim with hatred for this group of imperial censors! The third prince, Li Liancheng, stood in front of Taiji Pce. His eyes darkened. Nan Yehuo had betrayed him! The whole world knew that Donglu¡¯s Sword League was aligned with him, Li Liancheng. Even he thought so himself. Yet, this happened... The God of des, Nan Yehuo, had pledged fealty to him only to stab him in the back! ... Youzhou Demon Portal. It was deadly silent in the station. The only sound heard was the storm beating down on the forest, tree leaves and ground. This was apanied by the thunder and lightning booming and the billowing of the bloodstained robes. Inside the station, all the disciples were in a daze as they watched the scene. The demon hearts continued to rain down chaotically, sshing into the muddy puddles on the ground. Each heart was like a heavy hammer, falling heavily onto the heart of every disciple. Of course, the beautiful head of Lin Muzhe that fell abruptly amidst the raining hearts was like the thunder that came with the gray clouds, shocking everyone. They gasped in horror! Lin Muzhe¡ªthe genius sword disciple of the Donglu¡¯s Sword League. The disciple who had inherited the teachings of a deceased de lord! This woman was actually dead! She was beheaded by Fang Lang and her head was tossed in among the multitude of demon hearts. The reality was too shocking to handle! It struck the disciples to the core! This was especially true for the Donglu¡¯s Sword League disciples¡ªthey cried out in horror! When Lin Muzhe¡¯s head rolled out into the rain, it felt like a sharp knife to their chest, causing them to feel a deep sense of horror. ¡°You... You killed Senior L-Lin!¡± ¡°How dare you kill Senior Lin!?¡± ¡°The Resource Battle... Killing is not allowed in the f-first round! It¡¯s forbidden!¡± All the Donglu¡¯s Sword League disciples had paleplexions and quivering lips. However, Fang Lang continued to smile brightly. He looked at the Donglu¡¯s Sword League disciples with a kind face and said, ¡°Don¡¯t be mistaken. I was a mere passerby and saw that Senior Lin of the Donglu¡¯s Sword League was being surrounded by the demon swarm. She bravely fought hundreds of demons and sustained grave injuries. Her body was badly disfigured. When I asked her if she had anyst words, she said she wanted to see you all onest time. ¡°All I did was fulfill herst wish. There¡¯s no need to thank me. It¡¯s only right for me to help others,¡± said Fang Lang with a smile. His words lingered in the rain. The Donglu¡¯s Sword League disciples became even paler. Instead of deflecting suspicion, Fang Lang¡¯s words had the opposite effect! He was clearly the murderer! However, his words indicated they had no proof! Inside the Resource Station, the Main Path Guild, the Meridian Guild, the All-Seeing Buddha Sect and the other disciples of various sects fixed their gaze on the scene. The leaders paid special attention. Even if they wanted to, they did not have the confidence to kill Lin Muzhe. However, she was killed by... Fang Lang? That was impossible! This was everyone¡¯s first reaction. Lin Muzhe was not an ordinary ninth-grade sword intent realm disciple. She was a true genius to have received the favor of the God of des and be chosen to inherit the de lord¡¯s skills! How could Fang Lang, a new champion who had just advanced to the third-ss sword wave realm, kill her? Was it Huang Ying from the Sword Guild who had killed her? That was impossible! Even though Huang Ying was talented, she was indecisive. It was possible she did it in self-defense but that was unlikely. She did not have the intention to kill Lin Muzhe. On the contrary, It was pretty impressive Huang Ying was not killed by Lin Muzhe. Fang Lang did not look at the demon hearts that covered the ground or Lin Muzhe¡¯s head. He led the disciples of the Sword Guild into the station. The Sword Guild disciples said nothing. After all, Fang Lang¡¯s shocking bloodstained clothes were terrifying enough. Fang Lang swept an eye over the whole ce and noticed many familiar faces. He greeted them with a smile before he took out their resource tokens and began collecting resources, filling up the token to the brim. They could only fill up one token at the first station. However, Fang Lang filled six tokens under the watchful eyes of every disciple. Fang Lang smiled warmly. There were ripples in the eyes of the surrounding disciples. Lin Muzhe was dead, perhaps something big might happen soon. These disciples were not idiots. They were all geniuses of their respective sects and could sense that something was different. After that, the Main Path Guild, the Meridian Guild, the Immortal Martial Association, the All-Seeing Buddha Sect and the other ten great sect team leaders took out all the tokens they possessed and quickly filled them up with resources. The first Resource Station was quickly emptied. A couple of disciples from the first- or second-ss sects began to protest in dissatisfaction one after another. They had not fully grasped the situation. Of course, the disciples from the ten great sects paid no heed to them. In the distance, Geshu Yuehua entered the station in high spirits after giving the Donglu¡¯s Sword League disciples a good beating. Her eyes were sparkling. As she stared at Fang Lang, her heart throbbed with admiration. Battling side by side made Geshu Yuehua see Fang Lang in a different light. This new Imperial Examination grand champion did not have any ws apart from having a slightly vicious tongue and a mboyant battle style. Donglu¡¯s Sword League disciples all had swollen faces and were covered in bruises, looking extremely heartbroken and pitiful. Geshu Yuehua showed no hint of mercy when she attacked because she had been extremely frightened by the demon swarm. She thought she was going to die in her first Resource Batlle. All the fear and anger she felt needed to be vented and her target was naturally the disciples of the Donglu¡¯s Sword League. All of a sudden, a st rang out in the air. Outside the station, the stormy skies were torn apart. Imperial Court of Judicial Review warriors wearing bamboo hats were rushing toward them. ¡°An abnormality has urred in the Resource Battle. Please stop the contest as ordered.¡± As soon as the words echoed, there was an uproar at the station. The Imperial Court of Judicial Review warriors had powerful auras. Their auras were so oppressive that some of the disciples within the station were struggling to breathe. An Fan, the team leader of the Main Path Guild smiled as he spoke, ¡°Sir, can I ask why the Resource Battle has to be stopped?¡± Many people turned to look at him. The Main Path Guild was one of the ten great sects and the team leader, An Fan, was an extraordinary genius. Since he had asked a question, they should give him an answer, right? However, the Imperial Court of Judicial Review warrior merely looked at him and did not respond. It was an embarrassment to An Fan but his expression did not falter. He merely frowned. After he had spoken, the Imperial Court of Judicial Review warriors looked towards Fang Lang in his blood-covered robes. ¡°The Minister of Rites has received an order. Since a demon swarm appeared in the Youzhou Demon Portal and was encountered by the Sword Guild disciples, the first prince has personallye with the Imperial Court of Judicial Review to investigate the matter. We need to take you away for some questioning.¡± The Imperial Court of Judicial Review warrior who was speaking had his features concealed under the bamboo hat. His words lingered in the station, causing amotion to erupt once again. This was because the news that Fang Lang and the others had truly fought a demon swarm head-on was revealed. The impact of this news was extremely ground-breaking and powerful. Even An Fan from the Main Path Guild narrowed his eyes at the news. Huang Ying stood up wearing a frown. ¡°Sir, could you allow us a moment¡¯s respite?¡± Fang Lang and the others had battled a demon swarm head-on, ughtering numerous demons. Their bodies and minds were exhausted. At that moment, it was only natural that they were given a moment to rest. ¡°No, the first prince has received orders to immediately take you in for questioning.¡± That Imperial Court of Judicial Review firmly turned down her request. Huang Ying¡¯s expression changed slightly. Fang Lang and Jiang Linglong looked over with frowns. ¡°Sir... Is rest an outrageous request?¡± asked Jiang Linglong with eyes that sparkled like the stars. Her eyes shone with a cold brilliance. ¡°I¡¯m merely following my orders.¡± Jiang Linglong was about to speak up again but she was stopped by Fang Lang. He smiled warmly and said, ¡°Perhaps the first prince can¡¯t wait to see us.¡± Several of the Imperial Court of Judicial Review warriors sandwiched the disciples of the Sword Guild between their own men and left the Resource Station. Some of them prepared a specialized flight sword. After they boarded the flight sword, the flight rune was activated and they shot out, tearing through the rain. ... The heavy rain washed over everything in the forest, Pei Liao wore a bamboo hat and had a long saber hidden at his waist. There were numerous warriors of the Imperial Court of Judicial Review behind him. They descended from the tree with a single leap and looked at the demon carcasses that covered the entire ground. Even the cool features of Pei Liao seemed to be visibly moved. ¡°This is truly a small demon swarm.¡± ¡°This group of kids... They actually fought a small demon swarm head-on. Even if it was a demon swarm formed of second- and third-ss demons, it is enough to make many cultivators give up hope,¡± said the Imperial Court of Judicial Review official behind Pei Liao with a sigh. Pei Liao was focused on investigating. He knelt down and grabbed a handful of mud. The mud was stained with a white powder. He brought it up to his nose and sniffed it. His cool features moved slightly. ¡°It¡¯s the powdered remnants of the Beast Dispelling Pearl. It¡¯s made of the demon pill obtained from the seventh-ss great demon, the Three-Eyed Red Tiger. ¡°The Three-Eyed Red Tiger originated from the western region of the Tang Dynasty. The demons there are under the jurisdiction of Asi Luoshan... ¡°Hence, we can deduce that this Beast Dispelling Pearl is likely the one General Asi Luoshan gave to the third prince. ¡°This is one piece of physical evidence.¡± Pei Liao stood up and kept the handful of dirt. ¡°Where is the first prince?¡± asked Pei Liao. ¡°The first prince has gone to confront the Minister of Rites. He has also sent men to apprehend the Sword Guild disciples,¡± replied an Imperial Court of Judicial Review official behind him. Pei Liao¡¯s gaze suddenly became sharper. He turned around and red at the office. ¡°Why didn¡¯t you say so earlier? Apprehend the kids? Those kids are innocent, why does he have to apprehend them?¡± Pei Liao was as cold as ice. ¡°Continue searching for clues. Hurry before the storm washes it away. However, many clues are resistant to the rain. I need you all to make sure we can catch the culprit who orchestrated this. ¡°We need to be certain about the involved party!¡± shouted Pei Liao. Two of the Imperial Court of Judicial Review officials rushed to respond. After that, Pei Liao rushed off into the sky. With a gust of sword energy, he cut through the night sky, rushing toward the depths of the demon portal. Pei Liao wore a cold expression as his eyes shed. What was the first prince up to? Besides that, was this really done by the third prince? It was all too obvious. Even though the third prince was reckless, even though he was domineering, he was not stupid... To do such a thing as the Emperor¡¯s birthday celebration was about to begin would leave the third prince with no leg to stand on once he was exposed. In other words, this might not have been done by the third prince. Instead, the Donglu¡¯s Sword League might have betrayed the third prince and framed him. The people supporting the third prince were numerous great foreign generals. Among them included General Asi Luoshan, the top-ss warrior who dominated the western region. If the third prince was forced into a desperate situation... What would happen? Perhaps... was this the real motive? The biggest test of the Tang Dynasty Emperor!? Pei Liao let out a sigh. He could almost sense the turmoil that was about to befall the Tang Dynasty. ... Deep within the Youzhou Demon Portal. The Minister of Rites, Zhou Yiyuan, walked with his hands behind his back. His gold armor gleamed brightly under the heavy rain. Beside him, the leaders of the various sects all woreplicated expressions. An official of the Imperial Court of Judicial Review wearing a bamboo hat specially used a teleportation spell to deliver a message. This made everyone feel as though something was not right. ¡°Minister of Rites, Zhou Yiyuan, you are responsible for this year¡¯s Resource Battle. You have neglected your duties, resulting in the sudden formation of a small demon swarm on the outer boundary of the Youzhou Demon Portal. The Sword Guild disciples had encountered said demon swarm and a severe ident had happened in thepetition. This has also resulted in the death of a genius disciple. This is a grave issue and the Emperor has given an order. Can Master Zhou pleasee forward?¡± The Imperial Court of Judicial Review official took out a token. It was the Emperor¡¯s token! The surrounding warriors were in an uproar! A demon swarm!? A genius disciple had died!? Wen Ting, who was in the midst of drinking wolfberry tea from his gourd canteen, suddenly looked up. Hisplexion was a little pale. What happened? The disciples of the Sword Guild were cornered by a demon swarm and a genius disciple had been killed!? Why was there no distress signal? He suddenly thought about something. Wen Ting turned his head to look at Zhou Yiyuan. ¡°I never expected you to be this bold, Master Zhou.¡± However, Zhou Yiyuan did not notice Wen Ting¡¯s words. He coolly nodded at the Imperial Court of Judicial Review official. ¡°The demon swarm was a result of my negligence. I plead guilty.¡± After that, Zhou Yiyuan was taken away by the Imperial Court of Judicial Review official, leaving behind the group of people to exchange looks. Wen Ting¡¯s in robe was drenched. He took a sip of the wolfberry tea in his gourd canteen and carefully closed it with a stopper. His thumb rubbed against the handle of his sword. After that, he stepped out of the station and disappeared into the curtain of rain. ... The heavy rain continued to pour. Whenever the two forces under the heavens were unbnced, a storm would result. This storm went on for a long time, even extending into the demon portal. The rain would only stop once the other force was washed clean. In the miles and miles of dense forest. The little hut that was the fourth Resource Station stood peacefully in the midst of the rain, enduring the washing of the heavy rainfall. A flight sword sliced through the rain curtain. The Imperial Court of Judicial Review officials brought the Sword Guild disciples there. Huang Ying, Fang Lang, Jiang Linglong and the others got down from the sword. They wore the bamboo hats provided by the Imperial Court of Judicial Review officials to shield them from the rain. The rain beat down on the bamboo hats, transforming into a water curtain that fell from the edges of the bamboo hat. Fang Lang, in his blood-soaked robes, looked toward the fourth Resource Station through the rain curtain dripping from the bamboo hat. Under the eaves of the station sat a slender figure in a white cloak with a tea tray¡ªhot tea was brewing. The figure slowly raised their head and picked up a tea cup. The tea rippled slightly when the tea cup was raised. The person¡¯s gaze seemed to pierce through the endless downpour andnded upon Fang Lang. ¡°Grand champion, we meet again.¡± Chapter 117 - Ten Years Spent Nurturing His Sword to Unleash Its Power All at Once!

Chapter 117: Ten Years Spent Nurturing His Sword to Unleash Its Power All at Once!

Changan City. The atmosphere at the White Jade Square became more and more grim and even a little solemn. As the pile of evidence grew, the third prince, Li Liancheng, seemed to be trapped in a dead-end, with no way out. Numerous pairs of eyes were fixed upon the third prince, Li Liancheng, causing him to clench his fists. As for his gaze, it was fixed upon Nan Yehuo who stood among the sect leaders in formation. As everyone was staring at the third prince, the white-haired Chao Xiaojian who was dressed in white robes started tough. He walked down the White Jade Steps in the snowy backdrop. With each step he took, he exuded a wisp of de energy. On his final step, his de energy rose like mes! Chao Xiaojian stared intensely at Nan Yehuo. Chao Xiaojian did not know whether the third prince was the main culprit. All he knew was that the Sword Guild disciples had suffered great injustice in this Resource Battle. Since his senior was not here, that meant he, Chao Xiaojian, was the most senior person representing the Sword Guild. Hence, he was in charge of helping these children seek justice and ensure they never suffer these grievances again! Chao Xiaojian would make anyone who wronged them pay for their mistakes, he would make sure they paid in spades! No one knew who the main culprit was. However, he was sure of the Donglu¡¯s Sword Guild¡¯s involvement in this matter! Lin Muzhe used the Demon Dispelling Pearl to lure the demon swarm with the aim of killing the Sword Guild disciples. This was undeniable evidence! Even if Lin Muzhe had died in a terrible manner, Chao Xiaojian still felt Fang Lang and the others had suffered an injustice of great magnitudes! Chao Xiaojian sped his hands and knelt before the Taiji Pce. After that, he dered coldly, ¡°Come out, Nan Yehuo!¡± His voice reverberated around the White Jade Square causing countless snowkes to shatter. ¡°If you dare not approach, believe it or not, I, Chao Xiaojian will ughter all the Donglu¡¯s Sword League disciples within three thousand miles.¡± The words startled the audience, causing the White Jade Square to plunge into a deathly silence. ughtering the entire Donglu¡¯s Sword League! If anyone else had made this deration, they would haveughed it off. However, since it was the White-Haired Sword Demon, Chao Xiaojian... perhaps he would really be able to do it! Under theplex gaze of the sect leaders, Chao Xiaojian transformed into a sliver light, tearing through the heavy snow and shooting for the clouds. Lin Muzhe¡¯s death had caused endless sorrow within Nan Yehuo¡¯s heart. Due to Lin Muzhe¡¯s death, the Donglu¡¯s Sword League would not be able to save themselves. As the sect leader of the Donglu¡¯s Sword League, he did not have much choice. Hence, he took out his sword and chased after Chao Xiaojian. The two people tore through the skies. ... Youzhou Demon Portal. The fourth Resource Station. Under the eaves of the Resource Station, the first prince, Li Tianlin, sat quietly. The stove beside him was burning and the teapot emitted hot steam from its spout. Li Tianlin seemed to be enjoying the feeling of having everything within his grasp. Everything yed into his hand¡ªhe was like a buddha mentioned in the All-Seeing Buddha Sect¡¯s ancient texts, possessing the ability to control everything with a flick of his hand. It was like a game of chess¡ªthe ughter between white and ck was within his grasp. He liked to see the expression of hopelessness in the faces of his opponents. Just like the Schrly Sword Master, Wen Ting, whose will he hadpletely crushed all those years ago. He was different from the third prince, Li Liancheng. In Li Tianlin¡¯s eyes, Li Liancheng was too stupid and dumb. Li Liancheng who spent too much time with the savage foreigners would be a person who would only know how to use violence and brutish tactics to solve problems. This behavior would only bring failure¡ªhe would end up in a hopeless situation beyond the point of recovery. Li Tianlin¡¯s gaze deepened. He finished the tea in his tea cup and slowly stood up. The storm raged on with no end in sight. The breeze caused his dragon robes to flutter. Li Tianlin¡¯s gaze was deep and imperceptible as they looked in the direction of Fang Lang. Li Tianlin thought he was the only one who inherited the bloodline of the Tang Dynasty Emperor. He was the only one who was truly like the Tang Dynasty Emperor in his younger days¡ªa wless strategist who was inplete control of everything. He, Li Tianlin, was the most suitable heir, the most suitable candidate to be the future Tang Dynasty Emperor. However, Li Tianlin knew that... in his lifetime, he would not have the opportunity to ascend the throne and be the next Tang Dynasty Emperor. The battle for the title of crown prince was in actual fact, a huge joke. Even the third prince, Li Liancheng did not have their father¡¯s approval because he had deep ties with the foreigners. The person their father favored was... the idiotic second prince! Li Tianlin found itughable. After so many years, their father had finally decided to name a crown prince. However, it was not him... He had worked so hard yet all this had gone unnoticed by the Tang Dynasty Emperor. Instead, it was the useless second prince who did not know how to do a thing who was chosen by the Tang Dynasty Emperor. How could the next ruler of the Tang Dynasty be an imbecile!? Li Tiancheng felt a ball of fire burning in his belly. As he looked into the rain, an image shed across Li Tiancheng¡¯s eyes. It was an image of him drawing closer to the Tang Code. Deep within the Royal Cityid the Tang Dynasty¡¯s Tang Code. It was the irondw wrought by the blood of the royal sons. It was strong, powerful and mighty. The Tang Code had endured countless ages and was a treasure possessed by all the emperors of the various dynasties! It was also the power that Li Tianlin was in pursuit of! Each time Li Tianlin spilled his blood into the Tang Code, he could sense the frightening heartbeat emitted by the Tang Code. It was like the Tang Code had transformed into a real person! Li Tianlin felt as though he was immeasurably small and insignificant in the presence of the Tang Code. It was the sense of feeling small that fed Li Tianlin¡¯s desire to possess and control the Tang Code. Only the true Emperor of the Tang Dynasty was qualified to wield the Tang Code. Li Tianlin looked at the raindrops falling¡ªthend that gradually filled with mist. His eyes deepened. The Emperor and the Tang Code... What on earth happened ten years ago? Ten years ago, tXuanyuan Taihua went missing in the Lon Demon Portal. Apart from that, Martial Arts King Jiang who returned from the demon portal severely injured had locked himself in his manor for more than ten years. After the news shocked the entire Tang Dynasty, no one paid attention to whether the Tang Dynasty Emperor had sessfully broken through the limits of man. However, Li Tianlin continued to give notice to this issue. Over the years, he had never stopped investigating to see if he could uncover any clues. Had the Emperor seeded? Or... did he fail? If the Emperor had seeded, then Li Tianlin would never have the opportunity to ascend the throne in his lifetime. However, if the Emperor had failed, then it was Li Tianlin¡¯s chance to stir trouble and change his fortune. Hence, no matter what, Li Tianlin needed to uncover the truth! So what if the world descended into turmoil? ... Fang Lang looked calmly at the first prince, Li Tianlin. To be honest, as soon as he heard the Imperial Court of Judicial Review official mention the first prince had ordered the arrest, Fang Lang knew he came to the wrong conclusion! His deduction was wrong from the start. The person who had ordered Lin Muzhe to lure the demon swarm and act against them was not the third prince! In other words, the third prince was a scapegoat¡ªhe was a pawn. The true mastermind, the nobleman who was behind Lin Muzhe and the Donglu¡¯s Sword Guild¡¯s plot was the first prince, Li Tianlin. Hence, Fang Lang did not refuse to see the first prince for himself. Perhaps the fact that he had killed Lin Muzhe was beyond the first prince¡¯s expectation¡ªan unexpected change for the royalty. Fang Lang¡¯s expression under his bamboo hat was not overly friendly. As he faced the first prince, Li Tianlin, in his bloody robes, Fang Lang felt a feeling of hatred and displeasure surge deep within his chest. ¡°You truly surpassed my expectation by killing Lin Muzhe,¡± said the first prince with a smile. ¡°Have you given more thought to the matter we spoke aboutst time?¡± The first prince had previously chatted with Fang Lang at the Ministry of Rites. Fang Lang had rejected the first prince¡¯s recruitment offer. Fang Lang shook his head. ¡°My thoughts on that have not changed.¡± The first prince frowned. After a while, he poured a cup of tea and tossed it. The cup of tea cut across the curtain of rain steadily as it flew in Fang Lang¡¯s direction. ¡°Drink some tea and think about it carefully.¡± The tea cup flew toward Fang Lang. Fang Lang raised his hand¡ªhis palm peeked out of his blood-stained sleeve. He brought his thumb and middle finger together and made a flicking gesture. Whoosh! The surrounding curtain of rain instantly exploded. A formless sword wave rippled through the air. The tea cup that was flying towards him abruptly shattered into pieces! ¡°We¡¯re on different paths, I can¡¯t drink your tea,¡± said Fang Lang. The tea vaporized and disappeared into the rain as vapor. That finger flick demonstrated Fang Lang¡¯s attitude. The smile on the first prince¡¯s face began to falter. ¡°Lin Muzhe must have been sent by you,¡± said Fang Lang coolly as he shook off the water that had gotten onto his hand. He narrowed his eyes. Ni Wen, Li Bubai and Geshu Yehuo were surprised by the revtion. They thought Lin Muzhe was a disciple of the Donglu¡¯s Sword Guild... The person who sent her should have been the third prince, right? ¡°It was merely a test for you,¡± said the first prince indifferently. ¡°A test? If I was killed by Lin Muzhe then it wouldn¡¯t be a test any longer.¡± ¡°In that case, you¡¯d be counted as a victim of the third prince¡¯s plot.¡± ¡°All the royal princes are so arrogant, so prideful, so cold-blooded. You are the same as the third prince. Do you think that as a royal, any handout from you is deserving of deep gratitude?¡± Fang Lang raised his hand and pointed the sheathed Blooming Lotus Sword at an angle towards the dark clouds enveloping the skies. He slowly unsheathed the Blooming Lotus Sword. It was like there was energy condensing, threatening slice through the thick mist that epassed the skies. The officials of the Imperial Court of Judicial Review scurried to grab the swords at their waist. The atmosphere instantly froze and the raindrops suspended in the air. The atmosphere was filled with hostility. Huang Ying and Jiang Linglong also gripped their swords. Their expressions were serious. The first prince appeared to acknowledge he was the one who had sent Lin Muzhe. Since that was the case, their only option was to draw their swords. ¡°Since you refused to join me, you will now face my wrath. Honestly, if you hadn¡¯t drawn the Blooming Lotus Sword, I would have really thought you were a learned gentleman. However, now that you¡¯ve drawn the Blooming Lotus, you¡¯ve be just like that woman, Xuanyuan Taihua... Putting on airs. It¡¯s extremely detestable!¡± said Li Tianlin coolly. ¡°How dare you draw your sword against me!?¡± Li Tianlin stood up in his white cloak. Very quickly, the cool, indifferent expression on his face morphed into a contemtive smile. ¡°Wen Ting was just the same all those years ago. You really are his prot¨¦g¨¦. The mentor and the disciple are equally arrogant and egotistical, with no sense of respect.¡± Li Tianlin extended his arm, pointing one finger and the falling raindrops froze midair. ¡°I won¡¯t kill you, I¡¯m not like the third prince. When he loses his mind to anger, he can¡¯t control his actions. However, I... won¡¯t.¡± Li Tianlin smiled brightly. He took step after step into the rain. The rain seemed to dissipate around his body. ¡°Champion... You are extremely confident, gleaming with brilliance. Just like Wen Ting all those years ago. If you work for me, I will give you a bright future. However, if you choose to oppose me... That would be a waste of your talents. ¡°I will nt a terrible, frightful seed deep within your heart and destroy your sword drive, causing you to live a wretched, muddleheaded life... just like Wen Ting.¡± As his stepnded on the ground, the first prince¡¯s white cloak billowed. The raindrops filling the sky seemed to bepletely frozen, like a pause button had been pressed. A mountain-like sense of oppression felt like a single boat faced with a mighty thousand-meter wave appeared. The first prince, Li Tianlin¡¯s eyes shed with a trace of resplendent, golden brilliance. There was a faint soul-crushing force that shot out towards Fang Lang. Fang Lang wore a cool, stern expression. Since he had chosen to meet the first prince, naturally, he had a trump card. Enemies were most dangerous when they were hidden in the dark. However, once they were brought out into the open, that daunting feeling would recede. It seemed to Fang Lang that the first prince was more hateful than the third prince. This iparable self-confidence, toying with people¡¯s hearts and that lofty, arrogant air made a fire burn within his heart. Fang Lang did not understand the battle for the crown prince, nor did he have the desire to be dragged into this fight. However, despite his unwillingness, he could not avoid it. He was caught in this tide with little control of his body, he would just have to bare his canines and tear this huge into shreds, just like he did when he faced the third prince. However, back then, he had relied on some luck. Yet now, Fang Lang had something to base his confidence on. What was his ace? Fang Lang stroked the hilt of the Blooming Lotus Sword. The carvings on the guard of the Blooming Lotus Sword seemed to be endlessly agitated as they breathed in and out. This feeling was exactly the same as the situation back in the Qiuling Demon Portal in the past. The Blooming Lotus Sword seemed toe to life. There was a trace of will slumbering deep within the Blooming Lotus Sword that was passed on by Xuanyuan Taihua. No one else could awaken it, except for Fang Lang! This was because Fang Lang¡¯s energy center contained the Innate Sword Intent Seed. Through borrowing Wen Ting¡¯s power, he was able to use this Innate Sword Intent Seed to awaken the sword intent! This was Fang Lang¡¯s trump card which gave him the confidence to face the first prince head-on! He wished to be like a swordsman who pressed forward courageously regardless of the storm that was up ahead. With a swing of his sword, he would destroy everything! Even though Wen Ting dared not swing his sword, Fang Lang would do so! The golden light shining out of the first prince¡¯s eyes seemed to form a unique ¡®domain¡¯, causing Fang Lang, Jiang Linglong and the others to be enveloped within it. In everyone¡¯s eyes, the first prince¡¯s stature seemed to grow continuously. It was as if he had transformed into a god that was looking at the ant-like humans from up high. That oppressive aura nearly made all of them suffer a breakdown! Huang Ying despaired as her expression changed drastically. So this was the situation Wen Ting had faced back then. This was the type of despair he had faced! Huang Ying had previously scolded Wen Ting for not striving hard enough for excellence and was sad when Wen Ting did not keep his promise. However, Huang Ying finally understood the hopelessness that Wen Ting had endured, the hopelessness he felt after his sword drive was crushed. Fang Lang closed his eyes as his spiritual sense flooded quickly into the Blooming Lotus Sword, stirring the Innate Sword Intent Seed in his energy center. Wisps of sword intent were stirred and surged into the Blooming Lotus Sword in a crazed manner. Fang Lang seemed to see a whole world contained within the Blooming Lotus Sword. There was a faint, indistinct figure dressed in white robes, with unparalleled beauty. ... Whoosh! A gourd canteen was thrown at high speed, crashing viciously into the muddy mire. Instantly, the gourd canteen exploded into pieces. The wolfberry tea within the canteen sttered all over the ground. Huang Ying, Ni Wen, Liu Bubai and the others instantly felt the oppressive force on their bodies rx. Fang Lang was stunned. His eyes widened as he saw anguid figure descend from the sky, standing before them as a shield. The figure held a thin sword as he slowly straightened up. It was like he held up the sky. Countless raindrops were sent flying back up into the sky! Wen Ting had rushed over and shielded Fang Lang and the others from the first prince. He stared at the first prince. The first prince¡¯s eyes were filled with shining gold light¡ªthey returned Wen Ting¡¯s gaze. As their eyes met, Wen Ting put on a slight smile. ¡°Your Highness, long time no see! You¡¯re as detestable as you¡¯ve always been.¡± The first prince¡¯s gold-light emitting eyes looked at Wen Ting coolly. ¡°You dare show up before me. I¡¯ve destroyed you once and I¡¯ll destroy you again.¡± The first prince raised his hand and aimed at Wen Ting in the distance. He viciously clenched his fist. The air surrounding Wen Tingpressed! An unending pressure descended on Wen Ting¡¯s body, causing him to look as though it could copse any minute. All of a sudden, Wen Ting smiled. A blush appeared on his face. He had been waiting for this day for too long! ¡°There was once a youth who told me that an ant could kill an elephant, hence an ordinary person would be able to y an immortal... The body may be weak but never lose your boldness in wielding your sword. ¡°I¡¯ve learned that and today, I will avenge my past self!¡± said Wen Ting with a smile. Shackles appeared around him. He tapped his fingers lightly and de energy spread out, shattering the shackles. Instantly, his aura began to increase by many folds! It went from the fourth-ss sword intent realm to the fifth-ss, sixth-ss, seventh-ss... Rising all the way until it reached the peak of the seventh-ss! After that, the sword in Wen Ting¡¯s hand seemed to transform into a shockingly gigantic shark. It opened its jaws and swallowed the de energy, sword intent and power from Wen Ting¡¯s body. The de energy and power hidden in his lungs, kidneys, heart, any part of his body was all swallowed by Wen Ting¡¯s sword! He was using his body to nurture his sword! It was like a pack of hungry wolves, waiting for the time to attack, the time to consume the entire forest! This was not the halfhearted skill Fang Lang had borrowed with the Power Loan Card. This was the sword Wen Ting had cultivated for ten years. It was the true secret killing technique! Li Tianlin¡¯s eyes froze as though he could not imagine the piece of trash whose sword drive he had crushed years ago was now removing his shackles before his very eyes and advancing straight into the seventh-ss. ¡°Seventh-ss. Not bad. However, it¡¯s still far from enough,¡± said Li Tianlin coolly. His eyes shed with brilliant gold light as endless ripples of oppressive aura emanated. He watched Wen Ting with the illusionary aura of the Sky God. The third prince waved his sword at Wen Ting then raised his foot, looking as though he was about to crush an ant under his foot. However, his movement froze all of a sudden. Wen Ting fiddled with his beard as his lips parted. Instantly, Wen Ting¡¯s seventh-ss cultivation began to subside rapidly, just like the flood waters receding. Sixth-ss... Fifth-ss... Falling back to the fourth-ss... With each fall into the next ss, Wen Ting¡¯s white sideburns became thicker. Second-ss, first-ss. Finally... there was no trace of a cultivator¡¯s aura on his body. His head was full of white hair. He looked like an ordinary man holding a sword. The first prince¡¯s eyes were golden like a god. Wen Ting¡¯s jet-ck eyes looked like the eyes of amoner who worshipped the Sky God as he looked at the first prince, Li Tianlin. Wen Ting swung his sword in an ordinary fashion. The giant illusion that was about to step on him was cleaved away¡ªit was like a mountain had been sliced apart. The dark storm and heavy rain in front of the first prince were cut away. This sword attack was like amoner crushing a mountain or killing a god with one swing! ¡°Zhou Yiyuan! Help me!¡± When Li Tianlin saw this sword attack, his pupils contracted. For the first time, he let out a loud roar! A loud cry for help! The maniacal Wen Ting had been silently enduring his suffering for ten years in order to unleash this attack! His outstretched palm attack had been pierced by a mere sword. Golden blood began flying all over the air. A sword pierced his palm and arm then plunged into his chest. His heart! It pierced through his chest! Wen Ting released his grip with a bright smile. Ten years he spent nurturing his sword to unleash its power all at once! The sword that pierced through Li Tianlin¡¯s heart suddenly shuddered. It looked as though it was howling like a wild beast, sounding like a hungry wolf. It was covered in golden blood! The sword writhed wildly in Li Tianlin¡¯s body. All Li Tianlin¡¯s organs, including his heart, lungs, liver were all damaged by the gust of de energy! Chapter 118 - Tearing Apart Two Realms, A Woman Appears

Chapter 118: Tearing Apart Two Realms, A Woman Appears

Luojiang City. The snow drifted in flurries, coating the whole city in a nket of snow that made the city look like it was dressed in white in robes. Large rednterns were hung proudly over the entire Luojiang City. The Tang Dynasty Emperor¡¯s birthday celebration not only impacted Changan City but its effect spread across the entire Tang Dynasty. Luojiang City¡¯s main street was unusually lively on this day. Countless people thronged the streets. The Tang Emperor¡¯s birthday was an important day in the Tang Dynasty that happened once a year. It was a day where the people would celebrate to their heart¡¯s content. Along the lively streets, everything under the heavens was celebrating this special day. Ducking into a long, deserted alley, the dull sound of nging metal could be heard. The hot metal glowed red as sparks constantly flew everywhere. The old man continued hammering the metal. Suddenly, his movements stopped. He turned his head to look at the nascent sword ore covered in thick soot. As he looked at the nascent sword ore, it came back to life, emitting a clear sword cry. The sword cry sounded like it was about to tear apart the entire workshop. ¡°I still have half a nascent sword ore from making that sword for Wen Ting.¡± The old man cocked an eyebrow and sighed. His cloudy eyes were fixed on a falling snowke fluttering outside the cksmith. He recalled the memory from that year in the snowke. That year... A youth tired of life came to his cksmith led by Cui Cheng. The youth¡¯s sword drive had been crushed, his hopes turned to ash. He spent his days drinking away his sorrows, tugging on his beard, depressed. The old man could see that the youth had lost his boldness for wielding his sword. Cui Cheng asked the old man to forge a sword for the youth, to help him regain his heart for sword mastery. The old man rejected him right on the spot. That was because he could tell Wen Ting was not a match for his swords. A man who had his sword drive crushed, a man whose hopes and dreams for sword-wielding had turned to ash was not qualified to have a sword forged by him. Even if Cui Cheng was willing to fork out 100,000 gold coins, the old man would still grit his teeth and turn him down. HIs was not an uncultured man who forged swords just for money! He did not want to sully his reputation. Cui Cheng took Wen Ting away. However, a few dayster, Wen Ting came to seek the old man on his own. His eyes seemed to be filled with the smashed pieces of his sword drive like the ashes were reigniting. Wen Ting took out a nascent sword ore and knelt outside the cksmith¡¯s workshop. He begged him for three days and three nights to forge a new sword for him. The old man would never forget Wen Ting¡¯s words. He wanted to make a sword that could swallow all the de energy from his body. It would be a savage and vicious sword. The old man refused right away. The old man knew he was no saint. However, he was still a man of principles. The next day after he refused, the old man saw Xuanyuan Taihua. That peerless beauty renown all over the world. He agreed then. Wen Ting was cultivating with the Sword Nurturing Spell he had learned from Xuanyuan Taihua. This was a sword spell that used one¡¯s life as payment. One lifetime would only be able to cultivate with a single sword. The sword would only be able to kill one person. This was not a sword disciple¡¯s flight sword. Instead, it would be like treating the sword as a wild beast, feeding it and nurturing it, waiting for the right moment to strike. When it was unleashed, it would be like a deadly beast that could destroy the earth and tear one¡¯s foe apart! The old man spent a full day and a full night, hammering the nascent sword ore the size of a palm. The more he forged it, the more it drained Wen Ting¡¯s blood. As it did so, the sword became more refined. Wen Tinghadpletely bled out. The sword was as thin as two little fingers. In the end, Wen Ting dragged his iparably weak body away with his fine sword. However, the money for the sword was never paid. ... The old man came back to his senses. Wen Ting owing him money was a small matter. He did not take it to heart. He looked at the nascent sword ore. With a pinch of his fingers, the sword intent stopped instantly, allowing the moving nascent sword ore to quiet down. The old man picked up his hammer and continued to beat it. However, he shook his head feeling great sorrow. Wen Ting would have nurtured that horrible sword for ten years. He feared that the man would be facing his foe, spreading his sharp ws and fangs! The old man sighed. He still did not fully understand. What was it all for? ... Ten years nurturing a sword to finally unleash its power! Once it was unleashed, it was like a rabid, hungry wolf, chasing Wen Ting¡¯s crazy belief until it hit its limit. The sword pierced through the first prince, Li Tianlin¡¯s arm. After piercing his arm, it slid to stab his palm then his heart. After that, the scene was like the beginning of a nightmare. The thin sword that Wen Ting had nurtured for ten years was specially constructed for that moment. The sword was sensitive to the smell of blood and targeted the vital organs! Countless stab wounds appeared all over Li Tianlin¡¯s body. Multiple spurts of blood poured out of his body from his back. Golden blood gushed out of his body. The entire ce instantly became silent. Everyone¡¯s eyes went asrge as saucers as they watched the shocking scene before them! A single stab from Wen Ting possessed this amount of explosive power! This was an unimaginable power! The first prince was of royal blood. His status was high and noble. His ability was equal to some of the peak ninth-ss cultivators. For Wen Ting, who had the power of fourth-ss sword intent, to kill Li Tianlin, it was like an ordinary person hoping to kill the Sky God! This was an unnatural order of events! However, Huang Ying, Fang Lang, Jiang Linglong and the others were silent. This attack might be Wen Ting¡¯sst shining moment in his life, an unbeatable shining moment! The most amazingly stunning moment that a sword cultivator could ever experience in their lifetime! The heavy rain that had been sent back up into the sky instantly fell to the ground at that moment! As soon as Li Tianlin¡¯s blood began to spill, the rain that had been temporarily paused fell all of a sudden! The pitter-patter of the rain rang out. Wen Ting was instantly drenched, looking like a drowned rat. However, his smile was brilliant because of his attack. Even though this attack had drained all the force in his body, even though this attack had extinguished his life¡¯s light, turning him into an ordinary person, Wen Ting had no regrets! The high and mighty first prince, Li Tianlin, was also soaked by the rain. The rainwater mixed with his golden blood, making him look sickly. Swish, swish! The thin sword was like a hungry jackal¡ªit continued to snap and tear frenziedly, piercing through Li Tianlin¡¯s vital organs! Even if Li Tianlin was extremely powerful, in the face of this sword that was nurtured for ten years, it was like facing a hellish demonic sword. Li Tianlin was unable to summon any strength to retaliate! He waspletely devastated and annihted. The lofty and arrogant first prince was now lying in the mud like amon python, looking as wretched as a mud snake! Wen Ting, the desperate person without any hope, whose sword drive was crushed by the first prince, had finally managed to exact his revenge after ten years! The Schrly Sword Master! Ten years was not too long a wait for the Schrly Sword Master! White-haired Wen Ting looked at the thin sword that was moving in and out of the first prince¡¯s body with a genial expression. The first prince smiled weakly, looking frightfully pale. His body was empty and hollow to the most extreme level. His vital organs were utterly broken, filled with as many holes as a pincushion. ¡°So the great royal prince only amounts to this? Li Tianlin, you¡¯re... unimpressive.¡± Wen Ting fell to the ground in the rain. He started chuckling loudly. It felt like a blessed relief. He was fully satisfied. Wen Ting had not known if he really could kill Li Tianlin with his sword. However, he had done his best. The force of the Tang Code that was about toe... Wen Ting would not be able to face it, neither did he have the desire or will to do so. After all, before the Tang Code came, he had endured much suffering and attacks. His heart was d! Since it took an entire lifetime¡¯s worth of cultivation, he deserved to be happy this once! ¡°Hahahaha...¡± Wen Ting startedughing in the midst of the heavy storm. The scene from ten years ago appeared before his eyes. On that rainy night, his spirits werepletely crushed. He stumbled and fell on the streets, with the strong stench of alcohol on him as he was drenched by the rain. An indescribably beautiful woman walked up to him and leaned close to his ear. Both time and the rainwater seemed to stop for her. That woman knew what the base desire of his cultivation was. She taught him the Sword Nurturing Spell and gave him a chance to rip off the evil, dark cloud that was hanging over his head. It was an opportunity for him to personally kill the first prince, Li Tianlin! This would give him the chance to use the body of an ordinary person to kill the god-like! Li Tianlin felt a torturous pain as if he was in hell! How could he suffer such indignity when his ns were infallible!? He had been too careless. He knew Wen Ting had been nurturing a sword. However, he never imagined Wen Ting¡¯s sword would turn out to be more like a wild beast than a sword! That mad man! ¡°Zhou Yiyuan!¡± The first prince called out for Zhou Yiyuan, hoping the minister would help him subdue this crazy sword! He, Li Tianlin, was the man who would ascend the throne of the Tang Dynasty in the future. How could he die here!? How could he be killed by a man whose sword drive he hadpletely crushed ten years ago!? As long as Zhou Yiyuan could subdue this sword that was eating away at his body, he would be able to rip the shackles and regain control over his body. When that happened, he would tear Wen Ting apart, limb by limb! ... At that exact moment when the first prince began to bleed, there seemed to be some movement within the Youzhou Demon Portal. It was as though a formless ripple was moving through the demon portal, to the extent that the closed slit on the earth was starting to move. A nameless connection arrived at the ancient city walls in Changan City. Numerous ancient monasteries outside Changan City began to sound the bells. The ringing bells broke through the peace, disrupting the deathly silence of thend. Above the ancient city walls floated the Tang Code. It was being revived. An immeasurable majestic brilliance enveloped Changan City. In the center of White Jade Square. The various civil and military officials and the various sect leaders were all staring at the Tang Code in astonishment. There were two things in the entire Tang Dynasty thatmanded utmost respect. The first was the Tang Emperor, the second was the Tang Code. This Tang Code had been around for countless centuries. It had been there since the establishment of the Tang Dynasty, enduring the ages. The Tang Code had changed hands multiple times and had been through the Wei Dynasty of the Eight Dynasties. It was even there during the ancient Zhou and Xia Dynasty that dated back several millennia! Of course, many dynasties have met their fall. However, the irondws continued to endure! Countless royal families of the various dynasties used blood to douse the unbreakable irondws! This was a truly magical item in this human realm! In the skies, Chao Xiaojian and Nan Yehuo were in the midst of a huge battle. Meanwhile, at the summit of the Royal City, the Tang Code was descending! The silence within the Taiji Pce was frightening. The Tang Emperor who was referred to as the most powerful Emperor among all the dynasties, King of all Kings, was seated high up in his throne. His eyes seemed to be glowing with an indescribably deep light as he stared at the Tang Code. Boom... A tremble could be felt. The Tang Code instantly disappeared! The space where it had stood instantly copsed! It did not rely on space maniption prepared by any spell masters! The Tang Code was able to directly pierce through space and disappear from the sky above the Royal City and the eyes of everyone watching. The atmosphere was frightfully oppressive. The third prince was crouched in front of the Taiji Pce¡ªhe was trembling. A moment ago, in an instant, he felt as though the Tang Code was about to swallow him whole! That horrifying, nightmarish feeling sapped the strength out of him. He felt as though he could not even stand. The fifth princess looked extremely pale. However, she continued to pat the second prince who was shivering with unmasked terror beside her! The outside world was extremely scary. It was best to continue drifting along. ... Inside the Youzhou Demon Portal. The expression of Minister of Rites, Zhou Yiyuan, changed slightly as he was being led away by Imperial Court of Judicial Review officials. Amidst the curtain of rain, he felt as though he could hear the heart-wrenching cry of the first prince! This caused his expression to change drastically! The first prince was extremely powerful. Not only did he possess the imperial bloodline, he was also known as the top cultivator in the Tang Dynasty. Yet, at this moment, he was letting out such a pained cry! Zhou Yiyuan did not care about the Imperial Court of Judicial Review officials surrounding him. He rushed into the rain in his gold armor, turned into a sh of golden light and disappeared into the sky. He dared not dally. He needed to race there as fast as he could! Very quickly, he arrived on the scene. Before the fourth Resource Station, he saw the first prince bleeding profusely, looking iparably wretched. The first prince, Li Tianlin, always had a well-thought-out n! His body was covered in hundreds of stab wounds. His vital organs were full of holes! A thin sword stained with golden blood was moving in and out of his body like a hungry jackal! As it took bites, it also drank his blood! Wen Ting sat on the ground, smiling brightly. Zhou Yiyuan narrowed his eyes. This was... Wen Ting¡¯s sword!? He had previously asked how Wen Ting¡¯s sword mastery was. The answer that he received was ¡®I may look weak but I¡¯m very strong!¡¯. Now, Zhou Yiyuan could see the extent of Wen Ting¡¯s strength! He had used his life to nurture this one sword! ¡°Stop this!¡± roared Zhou Yiyuan fiercely. The gold armor that he wore radiated brilliantly. As the first prince¡¯s right-hand man, he could not sit by and watch the first prince get destroyed right before his eyes. If the first prince were to die, everything he had done in the Youzhou Demon Portal would be meaningless. Boom! Zhou Yiyuan¡¯s aura rose steadily. The rain clouds in the sky were torn into shreds. A terrifying vital energy seemed to surge over like a giant wave hitting the shore! Zhou Yiyuan was revealing the extent of his cultivation right now. His eight-ss, martial arts master, void-shattering realm! It was an extremely powerful martial arts mastery that could shatter through voids! As soon as the first prince saw Zhou Yiyuan had arrived, an expression of joy shed across his features. On the other hand, Wen Ting shook his head with a smile as he sat in the rain. It was such a shame. If he could have broken into the eight-ss before his mastery dropped. His sword attack would have been enough topletely kill the first prince! However, at this moment, he was just a little short! Now that Zhou Yiyuan, an eight-ss cultivator had appeared, who could withstand his might? Everyone¡¯s eyes were focused on Wen Ting, Zhou Yiyuan and the first prince. To one side, Fang Lang in his bloody clothes, who had been ignored this whole time, suddenly smiled! Everyone had forgotten about him. Fang Lang who possessed the Blooming Lotus Sword smiled brightly. He did not spare any spiritual sense, instead he poured it into the core energy center to stimte the Innate Sword Intent Seeds to surge into Blooming Lotus Sword! After that, Fang Lang picked up the Blooming Lotus Sword and stretched out his hand! With a gentle bend of his body, a violent swung was unleashed! Ding! The clear sound of a sword cry overpowered all the other sounds! The storm and heavy rains seemed to freeze. Even Zhou Yiyuan, an eight-ss martial arts master, felt his blood stop. Li Tianlin who was wearing a smile since Zhou Yiyuan appeared paused. Boom! Crash! It was like the Blooming Lotus Sword had a heartbeat. After that, the sword streaked into the skies like a rainbow! The Youzhou Demon Portal! Thend that was formed through the collision of two realms was sliced apart by the Blooming Lotus Sword, resulting in a crack! A hand suddenly stretched through the crack. It was an extraordinarily fair hand! It was a wless hand, with skin that looked like jade. It was like the hand of an immortal! This hand grabbed hold of the Blooming Lotus Sword! Boom! In an instant, the entire world seemed to go dark! ¡°Little fellow, I heard your cry!¡± The faint voice was mellow, melodious and also heroic. It sounded like something out of this world as it rang out in every corner of the Youzhou Demon Portal! Under the skies, everyone was frozen stiff, Fang Lang included. Fang Lang had only nned to awaken the sword will that was in a deep slumber within the Blooming Lotus Sword. He did not expect to tear apart the skies! Wen Ting raised his head in a daze, looking at the hand stretching out through the crack in the sky. ¡°Xuan... Xuanyuan... Taihua?¡± he stuttered as though he had suffered a great shock. Jiang Linglong merely raised her head. Her star-like eyes were filled with a strange light as she stared at the bizarre illusion. Her body trembled violently. Fang Lang... Fang Lang had somehow managed to summon Xuanyuan Taihua!? Only the Fang Lang who managed to obtain the Blooming Lotus Sword could have done such a thing! Jiang Linglong wanted to scream. She dearly wished to know what had happened all those years ago in the Lon Demon Portal! Why did Martial Arts King Jiang end up in such a state after he returned!? The first prince seemed to sense the life force within his body being consumed. He stared at the woman that appeared through the crack in the sky. A sh of fear appeared in his gold eyes for the first time! Xuanyuan Taihua! She was still alive!? ¡°Zhou Yiyuan! Hurry! Save me!¡± shouted the first prince frantically. Zhou Yiyuan came quickly back to his senses. He shut his eyes tightly and his figure instantly shot towards the first prince. However, he had barely moved when the woman in the crack beckoned for the Blooming Lotus Sword. Up in the skies, an endless golden brilliance shone out. In an instant, the de energy transformed into a silver lotus flower. It was extraordinarily captivating, drawing the attention of everyone there. Right at that moment, within the lotus flower of de energy turned a bright white color as a white light shone down from the crack that divided the sky into two realms, aiming straight for Zhou Yiyuan! Zhou Yiyuan was just about to help the first prince subdue Wen Ting¡¯s sword when his body trembled! He turned around and roared angrily. With a single punch, the eight-ss martial arts master shattered the void! His vital energy was like a surging river tide! After that, with a strike of the Blooming Lotus Sword, it seemed to slice apart the river tide! The Blooming Lotus Sword directly pierced through the crest of the skull and his spine, pinning him to the ground! The extremely powerful eight-ss martial arts master, who was merely a hair¡¯s breadth away from stepping into the ninth-ss realm, was instantly killed! The first prince stared at the scene in a daze. An inexplicable cold feeling filled his heart... ¡®Today... might be the day I die,¡¯ he thought He was always unppable, always with aplete n. However, right now... He felt lost. There were too many things that happened outside of his calctions. He felt like an idiot. Swish! Wen Ting¡¯s sword plunged into his kidney once again, drawing out a streak of golden blood. He had lost too much blood. Too much... He could feel his life force slipping out of his body! Perhaps... he was really going to die! All of a sudden, Fang Lang leaped up with a red flight sword under his feet. The first prince looked at Fang Lang, stupefied! What was he nning on doing!? Fang Lang smiled warmly and raised his arm. A rune was condensing behind his flight sword, in a counter-clockwise spiral. After that, it abruptly sped up, shooting Fang Lang towards the first prince! After the extreme quiet, there was extreme action! Fang Lang¡¯s cultivation kept dropping while he was on the flight sword! He had once again used the Power Loan Card to use Wen Ting¡¯s ¡®Sword Nurturing Spell¡¯ technique! He now wielded a sword that most normal people would never dare to use! It was not toote to exact revenge after ten years. However, Fang Lang could not wait for ten years. He would not stop until he had avenged himself! Swish! It was like an ember that caused a forest fire! At that moment, Fang Lang swung his sword! The first prince stretched out his hand as though to grab Fang Lang¡¯s sword. However, this was not Fang Lang¡¯s sword but Wen Ting¡¯s sword. It pierced into the first prince¡¯s kidney. Li Tianlin shuddered. The sword was withdrawn then thrust back into his neck, causing golden blood to spill. A head with a shocked expression suddenly flew into the sky. Chapter 119 - Three Arrows Materialized Before The Tang Code

Chapter 119: Three Arrows Materialized Before The Tang Code

Trantor: EndlessFantasy Trantion Editor: EndlessFantasy Trantion The rain seemed to freeze. Golden blood continued to gush out of the first prince¡¯s open throat. The head that went flying had hair that was stained gold from the blood. It went spinning like a top until it crashnded into a puddle of mud. Over the sound of wind and the rain could, one could still hear the sound of the sword slicing into the body. All of a sudden, Li Tianlin stopped hearing any sounds. Li Tianlin¡¯s eyes were filled with disbelief and shock. There was also a sense of fear deep into his bones. When the sword pierced his neck, there was a pain that reverberated deep within Li Tianlin¡¯s soul! Fang Lang... He had dared to lift a sword against him! Not only did he raise his sword, but he attempted to cut off the first prince¡¯s head! Li Tianlin was a little dazed. Perhaps he had underestimated Fang Lang and Wen Ting. He did not see them as a threat but at that moment, they had acted decisively and ruthlessly! Even his status, position and power did not waver their determination. Like reckless, carefree youths waving their swords around without a care in the world after they were provoked. They did not know the meaning of fear! Fang Lang and Wen Ting had this easygoing reckless and crazy attitude. The first prince felt a little regretful. Why did he provoke Fang Lang!? Ding! A dull sound rang out as the first prince¡¯s head crashed into the group. The arrogant, high and mighty head had fallen onto the dusty ground. It was now covered in the dirt that he never allowed on him. Fang Lang rode his Meteor flight sword through the rain. He flew a few meters above the ground. Only the sound of breathing could be heard. Everyone was frozen to the spot with shock! Even Wen Ting stoppedughing and sat there in a daze. The first prince, Li Tianlin, was... killed by Fang Lang with a single swing of his sword! It was exactly the same as when Fang Lang chopped off the head of Lin Muzhe! Huang Ying was astounded. Jiang Linglong¡¯s eyes were shining brightly like the stars. Fang Lang... still had the same bravado as always. Just like when he had killed Lin Yun back then. No matter how noble one¡¯s birth was, Fang Lang did not care. He would swing his sword at anyone. Ni Wen, Liu Bubai and the others were also in shock. The Imperial Court of Judicial Review officials all stood with their hands on their swords, not knowing what to do next. In their eyes, the first prince was lofty and mighty, yet he had been beheaded by Fang Lang! Beneath the heavens, the heavy rain poured. There was still a tear in the sky inside the Youzhou Demon Portal. A peerless beauty stood behind the barrier, peering into this world. She also looked stunned by Fang Lang¡¯s actions. For a moment, there wasplete silence. An unknown time had passed before the ce began to fill with sound, The first person to speak was neither Wen Ting nor Jiang Linglong... Instead, it was Geshu Yehuo. This wild girl spluttered and stammered, ¡°You stole... a-another head!?¡± Fang Lang remained silent. Her focus was different from everyone else. Geshu Yehuo was used to Fang Lang stealing kills by now. However, she did not expect he would snatch the royal prince from Wen Ting¡¯s hands! Everyone came around and nearly burst intoughter. After such a groundbreaking event, the unusual line lightened the atmosphere. Fang Lang managed to behead the first prince with one fell swoop¡ªthe sight impacted everyone greatly. Even Zhou Yiyuan who had been killed with one move in the distance did not seem as amazing any longer. Li Tianlin¡¯s bodyy in the rain in his dragon robes. The thin sword has lost its target and flew back to Wen Ting. Wen Ting looked gaunt with a full head of white hair. In an instant, it looked like he had aged drastically. However, Wen Ting¡¯s smile was full of joy. Ten years spent nurturing a sword. Finally, he achieved his goal. ¡°The first prince was killed by me,¡± said Wen Ting slowly. Wen Ting was not saying this for his own benefit but for Fang Lang and everyone who was a witness to the decapitation. The crowd remained silent. Fang Lang stood in his bloodied robes, holding the Obsidian Sword. His robes were a glorious red. ¡°I cut off his head,¡± said Fang Lang mildly. Wounding the first prince and killing him were two vastly different concepts. The punishment for killing a prince was inescapable. However, Fang Lang had no regrets. As soon as the first prince had expressed he was about to cripple Fang Lang, he was left with no options. Like a newborn calf who did not fear a lion, Fang Lang¡¯s attitude was the same. He embarked on the path of cultivation because he wanted to be stronger¡ªhe wanted to protect the things in his life. He had no regrets for his actions. If he did not kill the first prince, sooner orter, the first prince would end his life. Therefore, it was best for the first prince to die! Fang Lang raised his head and looked toward the woman in the crack between the two realms who shone with a brilliant light. ¡°Sect Leader Taihua! I obtained the Blooming Lotus Sword at Mount Shu. We were fated to meet. I am willing to learn under you! Please take me away!¡± shouted Fang Lang loudly. His shout reached the First Sword Taihua in the sky. The crowd gasped. They understood Fang Lang¡¯s n. From the start, he killed the first prince because he nned to seek protection from Xuanyuan Taihua. He hoped Xuanyuan Taihua would help him escape thisnd. Fang Lang had prepared for the oue when he decided to kill Li Tianlin. As for Old Fang in Luojiang City, Fang Lang believed with Old Jiang there, Old Fang would be safe. This was the tacit understanding Fang Lang had with Old Jiang. The figure in the sky could not help but smile at Fang Lang¡¯s shout. After a long time, the rain continued to pour. The First Sword Taihua spoke casually, ¡°What an amusing little one, I ept you as my student.¡± The First Sword Taihua stretched out her hand and made a gesture with her fingers. Her hand was beautiful and smooth like jade. Out of the blue, the world became like a drum and a loud thumping could be heard. The sound of drums reverberated to all corners causing every single raindrop to explode from the shock waves. After that, a lotus flower de energy descended from the skies, dropping at high speed toward the first prince¡¯s corpse. However, the first prince¡¯s dead body shuddered and flipped over to stand up with an angry roar! The corpse raised its head and ran away at high speeds! In the blink of an eye, the corpse ran hundreds of miles! That was not something a dead person would do! Everyone was stunned. Fang Lang cursed loudly. ¡°F*cking hell!¡± He almost had him!!! ¡°The life force of a ninth-ss cultivator is far beyond your imagination. The ninth-ss cultivators can condense their spiritual sense. As long as the spiritual sense survives, the person cannot be killed. This is especially true for Li Tianlin. The person backing him had used a paper talisman to protect his spiritual sense... He¡¯s not willing to let the first prince die so easily,¡± First Sword Taihua spoke gently but her voice was filled with authority from the crack between the two realms. As that lotus flower de energy descended, its speed increased. No matter how fast the first prince tried to run, he would not be able to escape from it! ¡°No! Xuanyuan Taihua! Are you really going to kill me!? I am the first prince of the Tang Dynasty! I have royal blood in my veins!¡± roared Li Tianlin in a crazed manner. He could act high and mighty when he was facing Fang Lang and Wen Ting. However, this was Xuanyuan Taihua! The legendary First Sword Taihua who had torn off the shackles of the Tang Code! This was the woman whose sword abilities elevated the Sword Guild to be one of the ten great guilds! He was an ant next to her! Li Tianlin wanted to escape but he slowly felt more and more bereft of hope. As he watched the descending lotus flower de energy, he could sense the overwhelming energy that was out of this world! This woman... was a monster! If this woman was to unleash her power, he would not be able to escape! The lotus flower de energy continued to shrink until it was the size of a palm. Then, it gentlynded on the first prince¡¯s shoulder, making him freeze. Boom! A powerful aura appeared. When the aura appeared, Xuanyuan Taihua who was hidden within the crack between two realms pinched her fingers. The sword that pinned Zhou Yiyuan to death instantly bloomed like a lotus flower and sliced away the silhouette behind Li Tianlin. The illusionary eyes darkened as it fixed a stare at the First Sword Taihua. Then, the silhouette vanishedpletely. Li Tianlin waspletely devoided of hope now. The only thing reflected within his golden eyes was the lotus flower de energy. The de energy surged thunderously! As soon as it expanded, 60 shed were delivered¡ªeach sh was capable of ughtering thousands! The lotus flower de energy consumed his body, tearing through Li Tianlin¡¯s spiritual sense as though it was a piece of cloth, shredding it like countless sharp knives. ¡°I, Xuanyuan Taihua, am the one who killed you. All the me should be ced on me.¡± First Sword Taihua¡¯s words reverberated through thends. The person who killed Li Tianlin, the person with royal blood in his veins, was neither Fang Lang nor Wen Ting. It was her... Xuanyuan Taihua! As soon as she made that deration, the sky changed color! Boom! All of a sudden, the Youzhou Demon Portal trembled! Everyone within the demon portal could feel their bodies shudder. A terrifying power was released. Fang Lang, Wen Ting, Jiang Linglong and the others raised their heads quickly, staring into the void that was ripping apart. The sky looked as though it was being ruthlessly torn to shreds. Finally, a blood-colored light shone. A corner of the Tang Code appeared in the center of the void! The Tang Code that floated above Changan City... had torn through the sky! ... Heavy snowfall befell Changan City on this winter¡¯s day. High up in the skies, there were powerful warriors engaged in battle! The white-haired, white-robed Chao Xiaojian wielded a green steel sword covered in scratches against Nan Yehuo! Nan Yehuo was a sect leader while Chao Xiaojian was merely the vice leader of the Sword Guild. However, during the period of Xuanyuan Taihua¡¯s absence, Chao Xiaojian had taken control of the entire Sword Guild. Hence, Chao Xiaojian¡¯s performance wasparable to Nan Yehuo. They were both the strongest warriors of their respective sects! Sparks flew as their swords shed. It was like a brilliant arc of me shing in the sky. Chao Xiaojian swung his sword as he stepped across the sea of clouds, his white hair fluttering around him. He loomed like a peerless sword immortal. He crossed des with Nan Yehuo multiple times. Over time, he felt as though something was not right. Chao Xioajian was very aware of his own prowess. In order to ensure the continued power of the Sword Guild over the years, he was continuously working to raise the level of his cultivation. He even went into the demon realm, ughtering numerous demons and demon kings! All for the sake of improving his sword mastery! He had previously made a crazy deration that although he could not defeat the Emperor, he could defeat Nan Yehuo. That was not a baseless brag. In the Tang Dynasty, there were only five people Chao Xiaojian feared¡ªfive whom he knew he could not defeat. Jiang Wushen, the old cultivator of the Main Path Guild, Li Qingwang of the Meridian Guild, the old monk of the All-Seeing Buddha Sect, andstly... the grand chancellor, Lu Taixuan. As for his sect leader and the Tang Emperor, they were beyond the ninth-ss realm. Hence, Chao Xiaojian believed his senior was unbeatable! Boom! Among the sea of clouds, the de energy raged like surging seas. At the other end, Nan Yehuo¡¯s fiery red sword was covered in bright red sparks! Chao Xiaojian frowned. Something was not right! Nan Yehuo could not be this powerful! Just as Chao Xiaojian was about tond the killing blow, his body trembled suddenly! He turned his head toward the Youzhou Demon Portal. The steel sword covered in scratches hovered by his side. He looked on in shock. ¡°That¡¯s our sect leader¡¯s aura...¡± mumbled Chao Xiaojian. There was no mistake. That was Xuanyuan Taihua¡¯s aura! Nan Yehuo¡¯s unibrow pulled together. A trace of fear shone in his eyes. The woman filled him with fear and terror! As soon as Xuanyuan Taihua¡¯s aura appeared, Chao Xiaojian and Nan Yehuo rushed to take cover. They saw the Tang Code that floated above Changan City abruptly disappear! Chao Xiaojian was shocked! The Tang Code was gone!? A sh of light crossed Nan Yehuo¡¯s eyes. With a wave of his wide sleeve, his fiery red sword was gripped tightly in his hands. Chao Xiaojian¡¯s heart lurched as he sensed Nan Yehuo¡¯s aura grow unceasingly! Chao Xiaojian, who sensed something was wrong from the beginning, finally realized the cause of this strange sensation! ¡°You consumed a Great Elixir Pill of the Main Path Guild!¡± Chao Xiaojian¡¯s expression became solemn. The Great Elixir Pill of the Main Guild was extremely valuable. As the sect leader of the Donglu¡¯s Sword League, Nan Yehuo should not have ess to this medicinal pill! Clearly, the waters of Changan were murkier than he had imagined... Chao Xiaojian focused his senses and leaped into the skies, his white hair fluttered around him. His steel sword split into seven de fragments with a swing! The de fragments spun at high speeds, stirring up the clouds and imbuing them with sword intent. So what if Nan Yehuo had consumed a Great Elixir Pill? Chao Xiaojian was ready for a good fight! The aura emanating from Nan Yehuo¡¯s body continued to increase, turning the sky around him into a fiery red color! With the help of the Great Elixir Pill from the Main Path Guild, Nan Yehuo currently possessed a power that could rival Jiang Wushen, Lu Taixuan and the others. Nan Yehuo lowered his face and did not spare Chao Xiaojian a look. That fiery red sword circled around Nan Yehuo. After that, the scarlet me swiftly descended like a meteor, tearing through the clouds¡ªit was heading toward Changan City! Chao Xiaojian, who had been prepared for a tough fight, was stunned. After a moment, hisplexion paled. Nan Yehuo¡¯s target was not him! ... Youzhou Demon Portal. The storm raged on, raining down on the mud-filled ground. The atmosphere was extremely solemn. There was a terrifyingly oppressive aura rolling across the entire Youzhou Demon Portal! The Tang Code had appeared, tearing through the sky. Blood drained from the faces of everyone present. Fang Lang raised his head. The oppressive bright light had traveled through space and time to crush his head and shoulders, almost forcing him to his knees. Wen Ting and his head of white hair looked calmly upon at the Tang Code above his head. His blood-stained thin sword continued to vibrate next to him. From the moment his sword had pierced through the first prince¡¯s body, he knew he had broken the Tang Code and would have to face the judgment of the Tang Code. If he could survive the Tang Code¡¯s soul attack, his life would be preserved. Fang Lang withdrew his flight sword. His bloodied robes billowed in the storm. He stared at the Tang Code. The powerful Tang Code of the Tang Dynasty was reflected in his eyes. The atmosphere was stifling as though they were breathing in mud. It made everyone feel suffocated. Fang Lang did not know if it was his imagination but he felt a pair of cold, merciless eyes staring out of the Tang Code. A sudden earthquake shook the ground, causing everyone to shut their eyes tightly! Fang Lang, Wen Ting, Jiang Linglong and the others looked at the sight before them. They could clearly see the Tang Code floating above the first prince¡¯s corpse. In an instant, it mysteriously absorbed all the golden blood that spilled from Li Tianlin¡¯s body. The blood was channeled into a narrow stream like a spool of golden thread. Swish! Li Tianlin¡¯s corpse suddenly exploded into pieces, causing everyone¡¯s hair to stand on end. An unknown force had transformed the corpse into hemp flowers and golden blood sttered everywhere and showered the Tang Code. Splish, ssh! The world went silent but for the sound of blood sttering on the icy cold Tang Code and the heartbeat with the Tang Code! What...what was this!? Everyone was covered in goosebumps! In the crack between the two realms, the legendary First Sword Taihua whose face was a blur looked at the scene before herplicated emotions flickered in her eyes. As Li Tianlin¡¯s golden blood sshed the Tang Code, a ripple of energy began to roll out from the Tang Code! Three blood-colored arrows materialized from the Tang Code! The arrows seemed to radiate with a sense of judgment and punishment. With a shudder, the three blood-colored arrows sped across the skies like it was shot from a tightly strung bow! As that happened, the arrows transformed into three blood dragons that raced across the sky. Thergest dragon brandished its ws and teeth as it sped across the sky, flying straight toward Xuanyuan Taihua in the crack between the two realms. The remaining two smaller-sized blood dragons charged at Fang Lang and Wen Ting! Fang Lang could feel the shackles on his power! At that moment, he was a prisoner! An arrow! It was an arrow of judgment! It was an arrow more terrifying than the previous one! Chapter 120 - A Chip on the Tang Code

Chapter 120: A Chip on the Tang Code

Fang Lang had previously experienced the tremendous power of the Tang Code¡¯s judgment arrow! When he had pierced the third prince with his sword and got his hands stained with royal blood, the Tang Code sent out a single blood arrow. The Tang Code¡¯s judgment arrow meted out punishments proportional to the crime onto the soul. However, after Fang Lang deflected the arrow, his crime was wiped clean and the Tang Code no longer demanded his death. Hence, all he had to do was to block this arrow once. However, the three blood arrows had transformed into three blood dragons! These dragons were far more powerful than the arrow he encountered previously! The blood dragons looked full of vigor, Each scale of their body glittered vividly. Their teeth and ws looked ready to swallow the whole realm in its entirety! The intention to kill in order to exact justice was overbearing. It was like there was a figure behind the Tang Code who ruthlessly shot out the three arrows! Three arrows aimed for the soul! Naturally, Fang Lang was not afraid of the arrows. Even though these arrows were many times more powerful than the one he had faced before, Fang Lang did not feel a trace of fear. Fang Lang was more worried about Wen Ting and his newly-acquired mentor in the sky. After all, Wen Ting had spent ten years nurturing a single sword and was as weak as amoner. He definitely could not block the Tang Code arrow. As for First Sword Taihua in between the realms, since she had personally killed the first prince, the blood dragon she faced was thergest one. The dragon nearly filled the whole sky! The mysterious oppressive power continued to roll out across the sky. No one could move under the oppressive aura. Wen Ting sat numbly in the same spot. An unperturbed expression appeared on his features. He had spent ten years nurturing a single sword and had managed to mortally wound Li Tianlin¡ªit was sufficient. All the resentment he had felt over the past ten years was released at once and his heart was satisfied. As for the might of the Tang Code, Wen Ting knew he would not be able to block it. Hence, he did not even try. The blood-colored arrow did not have the earth-shattering momentum. However, it did not pierce through any raindrops. This was a power that acted upon the soul. Wen Ting could sense death approaching him. He slowly closed his eyes. Out of the blue, a clear sound rang out! The arrow that could destroy souls was blocked! A bloodstained thin sword flew across the sky and blocked the Tang Code arrow heading for Wen Ting! The sword swung left and right non-stop. It was the ravenous, jackal-like sword that Wen Ting nurtured for ten years! At that moment, it was bent at a ridiculous angle from the force of the impact! Wen Ting stared at it nkly. He had assumed he would be dead meat. He did not anticipate the sword he nurtured for ten years would save him at this near-death moment! The sword was emitting a pitiful cry. The sword intent Wen Ting had nurtured for the past ten years was dissipating bit by bit as it was destroyed by the blood arrow. At the same time, the arrow seemed to be losing its strength. Crack! A loud splintering sound rang out next to Wen Ting¡¯s ears. The thin sword shattered and he felt something emanate from inside the sword. In the end, thest bit of force in the blood arrow was worn out! The sword that Wen Ting nurtured for ten years was thoroughly destroyed! The broken sword seemed to be glowing brightly in Wen Ting¡¯s eyes. The sword drive in Wen Ting that was crushed by the first prince returned to its original state. In fact, it was more formidable than it used to be! Wen Ting was astonished. Over the past ten years, he had not been nurturing a sword but his sword drive! He had been regenerating his sword drive! The sword he was nurturing was merely the outer shell of his sword drive. When the outer shell was shattered, his sword drive returned to him! Wen Ting raised his head and looked at First Sword Taihua in the sky. The realization hit him... was this the n of First Sword Taihua all along? Wen Ting thought Xuanyuan Taihua had taught him the Sword Nurturing Spell in order to give him a chance to personally kill Li Tianlin. However, it seemed that was not the only reason. Xuanyuan Taihua was also helping him rebuild his sword drive! After they killed Li Tianlin, it resulted in the appearance of the blood arrow. By using the blood arrow to destroy the shackles, his sword drive returned! Ten years spent nurturing a sword in return for his life! Wen Ting¡¯s aura continued to grow as he recovered bit by bit. The life force he had lost could not be regained. However, at the rate that he was recovering, he might be able to return to the peak when he managed to attack the first prince, peak seventh ss, though it would take him a long time. He would have the opportunity to do so. Wen Ting looked at Fang Lang. Compared to Wen Ting, Fang Lang seemed much more rxed when faced with the judgment arrow. Fang Lang had his arms wide open and his eyes closed. Since he knew he could not block it, he chose to... enjoy it! ¡®Come on, shoot me!¡¯ Wen Ting could imagine Fang Lang¡¯s thoughts from his expression. Swoosh! The blood arrow tore through Fang Lang¡¯s consciousness. Ding! A clear sound rang out. Fang Lang¡¯s consciousness transformed into a bright golden color. The blood arrow crashed against his sturdy golden consciousness, making an eerie clinking sound. Fang Lang waspletely unharmed! However, after the collision, the spiritual sense within the blood arrow slowly melted away. The energy was dispelled but a majority of the spiritual sense remained in Fang Lang¡¯s consciousness, merging bit by bit into his spiritual sense. Fang Lang felt the familiar feeling of gaining. He closed his eyes and wore an expression of enjoyment. The winds continued to howl as the storms continued. Wen Ting looked extremely calm. Huang Ying, Ni Wen, Liu Bubai and the others let out a breath of relief. Jiang Linglong looked on with sparkling eyes. She raised her head to look at First Sword Taihua. Was it Xuanyuan Taihua who helped Fang Lang block the killing attack of the Tang Code? Before she had the time to figure it out, Fang Lang opened his eyes. Wen Ting looked up toward the sky. The power of the blood arrows that was directed at Fang Lang and Wen Ting was only a fraction of the judgment. The true power of the arrow that could destroy the heavens and earth¡ªthe god-killing power¡ªwas heading straight for Xuanyuan Taihua. The killing intent contained within the arrow was stronger than anything they had ever seen before! The Tang Code had concluded Xuanyuan Taihua was the one who killed Li Tianlin. All the power was aimed at the woman in the sky¡ªeveryone held their breath. Inside the void, the peerless First Sword Taihua smiled cooly. She then raised her hand and made a gesture with her dainty flower-like fingers. A lotus flower de energy appeared in front of her and began to tussle with the blood dragon. First Sword Taihua raised her hand and caught hold of the Blooming Lotus Sword. The lotus flower carvings on the Blooming Lotus Sword seemed toe to life. The flowers appeared to be in bloom. With a gentle tap by the sword, the blood dragon was instantly cut in half! However, the two halves rapidly rejoined into one. This was a battle of wills! All the light under the heavens disappeared right at that moment. The only thing left was the sh between two unlimited powers. The Tang Code was enveloped within a mass of golden blood. It was watered and cleaned, and seemed to glow with a new, terrifying life force! The Tang Code shook once and a change urred in its will. In the next moment, the golden blood around the Tang Code began to flow and condense into a golden human figure. The figure looked a little like the first prince, Li Tianlin. The eyes were iparably cold. The figure wielded a golden sword. With a twist of its body, a wave of energy exploded from the ground, spreading out in all directions! First Sword Taihua appeared to be frowning. After that, she stretched out a hand and with a flick of her fingers, the Blooming Lotus Sword instantly shot out. It looked like a ray of light tearing through the dark sky as it appeared before Fang Lang. Fang Lang was in shock. Before he could react, his body was dragged up by the power of the Blooming Lotus Sword¡ªhe was carried up into the clouds. Down below, everyone was shocked! ¡°This... is a battle of wills!¡± ¡°First Sword Taihua¡¯s will is battling the Tang Code¡¯s will!¡± ¡°That¡¯s unbelievable! That¡¯s the Tang Code! The most powerful magical artifact in the Tang Dynasty! First Sword Taihua is so amazing!¡± Pei Liao, who had torn through the curtain of rain at high speed to get here, was shocked. His handsome and cool face struggled to maintain a calm expression. Jiang Linglong asked curiously under her veil, ¡°Why did she drag Fang Lang up there?¡± Pei Liao stroked the hilt of his sword in the leather sheath at his waist. ¡°During a battle of wills, the physical body still needs to be protected. The Tang Code has used the first prince¡¯s blood to create a figure. Xuanyuan Taihua is using her new disciple, Fang Lang, as a shield. ¡°The only problem now is... whether Fang Lang will be a match for the figure created from the first prince¡¯s blood! If he¡¯s can¡¯t keep up, Xuanyuan Taihua might lose this battle!¡± said Pei Liao after he took a deep breath. After he spoke, everyone raised their heads and looked at the swirling dark clouds in the stormy sky. Streaks of lightning and thunder roiled behind the clouds. Fang Lang was dragged into the sky by the Blooming Lotus Sword. He turned his head and looked at the mysterious figure in the barrier within the two realms. First Sword Tai Hua hunkered down and her gentle voice rang out. ¡°The appearance of the Tang Code here is part of a scheme. The first prince still has one of the ten great sects working for him to carry out his n.¡± When Fang Lang heard her words, his eyes hardened. ¡°The first prince used his own bloodline as bait to lure the Tang Code here, away from Changan. Even if Wen Ting did not wound Li Tianlin, he would have found another way to spill his own blood. ¡°A major part of this scheme has been carried out. However, your appearance threw a wrench into his n. You cut off his head and summoned me, there were out of his calctions.¡± The First Sword seemed to be having a conversation with Fang Lang from a different realm. Fang Lang could not help but draw a deep breath when he heard her voice. He had truly made a formidable enemy out of the first prince. Thankfully, the first prince was dead! ¡°Why did they do all that? Isn¡¯t the first prince the crown prince? Why did he need to do all this?¡± asked Fang Lang. ¡°Crown prince? The Tang Dynasty... will not have a crown prince,¡± answered the First Sword mildly. ¡°There lives a wild beast within the Tang Code. They were hoping to test this wild beast. However, they are merely seeking death by doing so. This is because they have not the ability to withstand the might of this wild beast,¡± exined the First Sword. ¡°I¡¯m sure you know the concept of nurturing a sword with your body. The Tang Code... you can consider it as the sword.¡± As Fang Lang listened, his brain felt like it was exploding. He took a deep breath. However, the First Sword continued without waiting for Fang Lang to calm down. ¡°I am now trying to subdue the will of the wild beast inside the Tang Code. Help me keep the threat formed from that royal blood at bay. All you need to do is to hold it back for five breaths. ¡°It¡¯s such a shame that there¡¯s only the Blooming Lotus Sword. Remember this and get the other three swords. The Withering Lotus, the Circling Lotus and the Reincarnating Lotus.. Perhaps then, there¡¯ll be a chance.¡± After she said that, the First Sword spoke no more. Boom! Fang Langnded among the clouds. All he could feel was an overwhelming sense of oppressive power, as mighty as the mountains! Fang Lang felt as though he was about to suffocate. He was only a cultivator of the third-ss sword wave realm. Why did he have to endure such suffering and pressure!? Ominous storm clouds threatened to engulf him! Among the storm clouds, a sh of golden light tore through! He saw the golden blood figure turn into Li Tianliin! The Tang Code was at the top of the figure¡¯s head and he wielded a golden longsword as he stepped through the air toward Fang Lang. The royal blood did not stop moving. The power that belonged to the royal family was capable of toppling mountains and overturning the seas with the help of the Tang Code. The overbearing presence seemed to fill every space within Fang Lang¡¯s chest! Fang Lang could feel himself shaking. He did not even have the courage to wield his sword. He could hardly resist the urge to kneel! That figure formed out of golden blood was terrifying and indubitably powerful! Like a god who could tear through the barrier separating heaven and earth. The pair of cruel, ruthless eyes was akin to a steward of the penal code as it walked toward Fang Lang, one step after another. With each approaching step, the oppressive aura became stronger and more frightening! Fang Lang was familiar with this oppression. The overbearing force in the Spirit Pagoda was simr. However, this was more terrifying than the presence the Spirit Pagoda. It seemed tock human warmth and kindness! Fang Lang gripped the Blooming Lotus Sword, feeling like he could hardly breathe. He sensed the noise of the strong winds around him¡ªthe gale and the heavy downpour! ¡®Ding! ¡®Challenge mission! ¡®The road to cultivation is long and winding with endless terrors. When you are near death, you need a strong heart and courage. Fear nothing! Help Xuanyuan Taihua to hold off the Tang Code for at least five breaths. The price would be determined by the host¡¯s performance.¡¯ As Fang Lang was panting to catch his breath, the System appeared in his mind. He had triggered a mission! Fang Lang gripped his sword and stood still among the cloudyers. He could feel every single pore in his body was filled with oppressive force! Fang Lang finally understood how Wen Ting¡¯s sword drive had been shattered all those years ago. This unmatched and overbearing sense of royal oppression felt like it could annihte everything! He gritted his teeth as the winds continued to blow, causing his bloodied robes to cling tightly against his body. In the gap between the two realms sat Xuanyuan Taihua¡ªa powerful spiritual sense that seemed as expansive as the horizon. Her presence filled the world with her signature de energy. On the other sideid the Tang Code. The Tang Code hovered in the sky as a pair of cold, cruel eyes watched over the scene. The two wills shing in the skies caused the sea of clouds to change! The figure of gold blood drew closer with each step. One step, two step, three step... The force of the Tang Code crashed down on Xuanyuan Taihua¡¯s de energy world, causing it to copse bit by bit. In the sh of wills, Xuanyuan Taihua looked like she was struggling. Five breaths... was not enough! She might need more time! Xuanyuan Taihua frowned deeply. Could Fang Lang withstand the pressure? Thump! Thump, thump! Each step sounded as though the golden figure was treading on war drums! Fang Lang felt as though his will was utterly extinguished. It was like a weak candlelight forced to burn in a narrow, lonely corner. He wielded the Blooming Lotus Sword but he stood numbed by fear. Multiple scenes shed through Fang Lang¡¯s mind. It was images of him training from the moment he entered this world. In those images, he failed countless times. He was beaten round after round and also failed his exams numerous times. However, Fang Lang never gave up. He never wavered in his desire to be a cultivator. Even after he obtained the System, Fang Lang never rxed for a moment. He continued to push on, working hard in his cultivation and training his spiritual sense until he reached his limits. Otherwise, even with the help of the System, it would have been extremely difficult for him to be the grand champion with less than a month¡¯s preparation. Without his diligence, he would not be where he was. The frightful oppression was ready to rip apart his physical body and subdue his sword drive. Fang Lang gripped his sword and hunkered down. Every pore on his body was bleeding but he stood there, numb. With the lofty Tang Code above, the figure of golden blood took one step after another, looking like a golden-armored war god. It walked past Fang Lang, ignoring the ¡®ant¡¯ it was crushing. It raised the sword in its hand and pointed it at First Sword Taihua. All of a sudden, Fang Lang opened his eyes. His eyes were filled with a maniacal glint. ¡°Are you looking down on me!?¡± As soon as he finished speaking, Fang Lang aimed an attack at the figure with all the force he could muster. It was like a sword disciple on a lonely boat taking on a mighty wave in hopes to cleave it in half! Sword Draw Technique! Fang Lang sliced apart the suffocating presence! This was the characteristic of a sword master. As long as they had a sword, they would continue to push forward unceasingly! Fang Lang wielded the Blooming Lotus Sword and hacked at the golden figure conjured from Li Tianlin¡¯s blood! He swung again and the force of his attack did not lessen. Instead, it continued to build as he swung at the Tang Code, again and again! In the distance, the First Sword was stunned! She had only asked Fang Lang to stall, yet... he had directly attacked the Tang Code!? Thud! The Blooming Lotus Sword shed against the Tang Code! All of a sudden, the heavens and earth seemed to be devoid of sound. Silence engulfed the world. In everyone¡¯s eyes, the only thing they saw was... The Blooming Lotus Sword was covered in cracks while a chip formed on the Tang Code! Chapter 121 - Pry Into the Condition of the Mighty One

Chapter 121: Pry Into the Condition of the Mighty One

Crack! A clear sound rang through the sky, overwhelming the sound of the storm. Even the thunder booming among the dark clouds was drowned out by the crack. It wasplete silence among the sea of dark storm clouds. Fang Lang¡¯s heavy panting reverberated in his body. He was covered in blood and his eyes were red-tinged and a little crazed. The suffocating presence of the Tang Code was so strong it made Fang Lang tremble. The aura struck the deep parts of his soul. If Fang Lang could not endure this, he would likely end up like Wen Ting ten years ago. His will would be crushed and his sword drive destroyed! However, Fang Lang was different from Wen Ting. Wen Ting was a genius who had never encountered struggles since he was young. As for Fang Lang, he was not born a genius¡ªhe was only a white core. Even though with the help of the System, his core appeared purple to others, in reality, Fang Lang was still a white core. He was never a genius. Before he obtained the System, he had failed more times than he could count. No matter if it was flunking his exams or stagnating in his cultivation, Fang Lang had experienced it all. Hence, Fang Lang had a tenacity unique to him. In fact, in the boundless universe, many talents weremon. However, everyone who strived toward a goal would have tenacity. It did not matter if it were the world of cultivators or the ordinary world. There would be people of this sort in any world. With the existence of the System, Fang Lang had embraced his opportunity. Hence, Fang Lang carried within his heart a need to give it all as he faced the oppression of the Tang Code. As it tried to destroy his sword drive, Fang Lang resisted against it! He waved the Blooming Lotus Sword in his hand and sliced the figure formed of Li Tianlin¡¯s royal blood. Xuanyuan Taihua expected Fang Lang to fear raising his sword against the golden figure as the figure was ten times stronger than the living Li Tianlin due to the support from the Tang Code. Li Tianlin was dead but the golden figure came back stronger. Due to this, Xuanyuan Taihua was worried and had only asked Fang Lang to defend for five breaths. However, Fang Lang managed to raise his sword. When Li Tianlin was alive, Fang Lang had dared to chop his head off. He had nothing to fear from a golden figure who was not even alive!? Fang Lang¡¯s sword attack surprised the peerless First Sword Xuanyuan Taihua! In the barrier between the two realms, Xuanyuan Taihua wore aplicated expression as she looked at Fang Lang. He was the disciple she epted out of convenience. However, he turned out to be... more outstanding than she expected! His excellence did not merely present itself in his cultivation but also in his inner self! ¡°Perhaps... with this disciple, I¡¯ll have the opportunity to retrieve the remaining three swords, the Withering Lotus, the Circling Lotus and the Reincarnating Lotus. I might be able to turn this hopeless situation around.¡± Xuanyuan Taihua¡¯s expression was full ofplex emotions. Ten years ago, she had taught Wen TIng the Sword Nurturing Spell in order to help Wen Ting rebuild his sword drive. Ten yearster, an unexpected youth appeared in the world! Just like a wild card, he unexpectedly entered the chessboard and carved out a spot for himself. Hence, Xuanyuan Taihua made changes to her n. Her body glowed with a brilliant light that spread as far as 10,000 feet. The de energy world behind her became even more powerful and strong. Fang Lang¡¯s sword attack had caused a small chip in the Tang Code. It was like he carved out a tiny opening in a vast territory. He gave Xuanyuan Taihua an opportunity to strike in the battle of wills! Bang! Fang Lang floated upon the sea of ck storm clouds like a leaf. The blood figure of Li Tianlin exploded into two masses of vibrating liquid. Fang Lang could faintly hear an angry howl that made him hold his breath! He stared at the small opening in the Tang Code. His breath being forced back into his organs! There was a dazed look in his eyes as he stood in his blood-soaked garment. So this was the Tang Code? This was the Tang Code of the Tang Dynasty? Why was it so mysterious!? Fang Lang felt as though his brain was full of glue. When he looked at the chip in the Tang Code, an angered wild beast seemed to vibrate violently. Fang Lang could vaguely see a vast, bloody territory appear behind the Tang Code. Inside the boundless territory, there was a great figure standing there overlooking the area. It was a startling scene. It made him feel as though an evil beast was about to leap out at him! Thankfully, Xuanyuan Taihua¡¯s de energy world fought back against that vision, helping Fang Lang resist the impact. Fang Lang¡¯s will recovered. However, he noticed the first prince¡¯s golden figure was twisting and writhing... In the end, it was engulfed by the Tang Code. The small opening that was formed in the Tang Code was beginning to mend under the shower of golden blood. Xuanyuan Taihua who was caught between the realms of the demon world and the Tang Dynasty widened her eyes. Her eyes were filled with neither joy nor sadness. She raised her hand and pointed the sword slightly before her and gently tapped it. At that moment, multiple lotus flowers bloomed within the de energy world. It was an illusion of a thousand lives and deaths! It was like a cleansing rain falling upon the peaceful surface of a pond, causing countless ripples. Before the old ones disappeared, new ripples were formed! Bang! The Blooming Lotus Sword in Fang Lang¡¯s hands was stained by the blood flowing from every pore on his body. It shuddered, emitting an exhausted screech then a mighty roar as it exploded into multiple shards that turned into countless blooming lotus flowers among the dark sea of storm clouds. The shards rushed toward the small crack on the Tang Code. Like a needle stabbing into an open wound, the Blooming Lotus shards melded together with the Tang Code! It was like a nail hammering into the coffin, pinning down the roaring will within! The First Sword stood up and waved. Countless shards of the Blooming Lotus Sword began to reform. In the end, a newly reformed Blooming Lotus Sword appeared without the sword tip. Fang Lang was pushed by a force and fell off the sea of dark clouds! With a shudder of the Tang Code, numerous thunder dragons flew around the storm clouds and curled around the Tang Code. The dragons transformed into a burly figure like the Thunder God and faced Xuanyuan Taihua. This was thest scene that Fang Lang saw. Thud! Fang Lang dropped out of the sea of clouds and blended with the raindrops, falling rapidly down to the earth! ... Youzhou Demon Portal. The fourth Resource Station. Pei Liao, Jiang Linglong, Wen Ting and everyone else looked up into the sky overcast with ck storm clouds. The heavy rain continued to pour down, beating on the earth. They did not know what went on above the sea of clouds. They only saw the golden blood figure of Li Tianlin created by the Tang Code advance on Fang Lang, As though a curtain had been drawn, their eyes were shielded. They could only sense a terrifying sh of forces in the skies. Xuanyuan Taihua and the Tang Code¡¯s battle of wills was not over yet! All of a sudden, everyone¡¯s pupils constricted. They could see a blood-covered figure falling through the dark sea of clouds. An exhausted Fang Lang was falling from the skies. Pei Liao took a step forward and shot out into the sky. With a sweep of his sleeve, he wrapped Fang Lang¡¯s body and brought him down to earth. Pei Liao did not say a thing. Jiang Linglong, Wen Ting and the others quickly rushed over. When they saw Fang Lang¡¯s crazy but happy smile and the fact that he was still panting, they let out a sigh of relief. Fang Lang was not dead. Jiang Linglong quickly took out a bottle of medicinal pill from within her space ring. She poured out a couple of pills and stuffed them into Fang Lang¡¯s mouth to heal his injuries. Only then did everyone shift their gaze to the side. Their gazended on the Blooming Lotus Sword which was covered in cracks and missing a sword tip. Their faces were full of disbelief! The Blooming Lotus Sword... was shattered!? This was First Sword Taihua¡¯s legendary sword. How could it be broken!? They did not witness Fang Lang swinging his sword against the Tang Code. However, the sight of the shattered Blooming Lotus Sword made their hairs stand on end. They were extremely curious to see the battle going on in the sky! Pei Liao¡¯s handsome and cool face was full of emotion. He stared at the missing edge of the Blooming Lotus Sword. There seemed to be cold sweat mixed in with the rain on his forehead. ¡°Where was the piece of the Blooming Lotus Sword?¡± ... Compared to the violence in the Youzhou Demon Portal, it was still extremely lively in Changan City. After all, it was soon to be the birthday celebration of the Tang Dynasty Emperor. This was a joyous day of celebration throughout the Tang Dynasty. At the Martial Arts King Manor. A heavy flurry of snownded on the dark ck tiles, coating the entire roof with a thickyer of white. Compared to the merriment outside the manor, the area within the manor was extremely quiet. Princess Pei Shi wore a red overcoat and sat by the window. She held a brush and copied the poemsposed by Fang Lang with elegant brushstrokes. Once she was done writing, she picked up the paper and tapped it with her finger. A smile appeared on her face. ¡°I¡¯ll get Little Lang to write a couple more poems so that it can bepiled into a book of poetry. The style of these poems is slightly different but they¡¯re meaningful. I still can¡¯t fathom how that kid managed topose all these poems!¡± eximed Princess Pei Shi admiringly. As she was admiring the poems, the door in the small courtyard next door was shut tightly. A mysterious figure quietly sat in the pagoda of the adjacent courtyard, looking at the sky full of drifting snowkes. When the man looked in the direction of the Youzhou Demon Portal, his eyes darkened. He seemed to see the torn barrier between the two realms and the appearance of the First Sword. ¡°Taihua... finally appeared!¡¯ After a long time had passed, Martial Arts King Jiang finally spoke out. He stood up and walked toward his own house and shut the door. It was devoid of sound and shut off from the rest of the world. ... The White Jade Square, before the Taiji Pce. The heavy snowfall came to an abrupt halt. All eyes were fixated on the images on the Thousand-Mile Mirror. The image on the Thousand-Mile Mirror changed and very quickly showed the scene in the Youzhou Demon Portal. A deathly silence engulfed the White Jade Square. The civil and military officials and the sect leaders were all in a trance as they watched the disy on the Thousand-Mile Mirror. A couple of imperial censors, who were kneeling on the ground, calling out for the third prince¡¯s impeachment, began to shake like leaves! Grand Chancellor Lu Taixuan¡¯s eyes were wide open as he fixed his gaze upon the image. He took a deep breath. Li Puyi was even more restless. His palms were clenched tightly under the sleeves of his official robes! W-what was this!? In the images, the Minister of Rite, Zhou Yiyuan¡¯s dead body was on the ground. The blood spilling out of his body had formed a little pool. The powerful martial artist who had achieved the eighth-ss void-shattering realm was dead. He died a tragic death in the Youzhou Demon Portal! Zhou Yiyuan was a high-ranking official of the Tang Dynasty! What on earth happened in the Youzhou Demon Portal!? The audience¡¯s vision followed the Thousand-Mile Mirror. The scene in the Thousand-Mile Mirror continued to climb higher and higher... Finally, it presented the crack in the skies. It was the torn barrier between the two realms! Between the realms stood a graceful, gorgeous figure¡ªa peerless beauty. That spectacr figure was facing the Tang Code that glowed with a golden brilliance as bright as the sun! Xuanyuan Taihua was battling the Tang Code! Before the Taiji Pce, shallow breathing could be heard! ¡°Xuanyuan Taihua!?¡± ¡°First Sword Taihua!¡± ¡°That¡¯s her! The First Sword who¡¯s been missing for ten years! S-she¡¯s... not dead!¡± The civil and military officials and the warriors from the various sects were shocked! At that moment, the entire area broke out in an uproar! The legendary cultivator of the Tang Dynasty who had gone missing ten years ago suddenly appeared and was engaged in battle with the most powerful magical artifact of the Tang Dynasty! Their shock was justifiable! Xuanyuan Taihua was not dead! She appeared out of the blue. However, why was she gone for the past ten years? Where did she go? What were her reasons for disappearing? All these questions appeared in the minds of every single person present. A gigantic seemed to have appeared in the skies above Changan City and all were trapped within. All of a sudden, from deep within the Royal City, a shattering sound rang out. The sound was quickly followed by a golden pir of light shooting into the sky. Under everyone¡¯s gaze, the first prince, Li Tianlin¡¯s illusion appeared within the light pir. The illusion smiled wanly then... It began to fall and ignite! The light crumbled! The third prince who was kneeling on the ground watched the scene in a daze. Goosebumps appeared as he shook like a leaf! The life token shattered. This meant the first prince, Li Tianlin, was dead! An inexplicable sense of sorrow filled Li Liancheng¡¯s heart despite the neverending conflict between the brothers. Although it was said that the royal family was heartless, they were still rted by blood. Grief struck Li Liancheng. Of course, this sorrow soon turned into joy. With Li Tianlin dead, the fight for the title of crown prince was over. The position of crown prince would likely belong to Li Liancheng. Li Liancheng stared intently at the Youzhou Demon Portal in the Thousand-Mile Mirror. ¡®Who killed the first prince? ¡®Was it Xuanyuan Taihua? ¡®No...¡¯ The face of the stubborn and crazy youth appeared in Li Liancheng¡¯s mind. ¡®Fang Lang?¡¯ Li Liancheng pondered, ¡®Was it really Fang Lang who killed Li Tianlin? It could be possible...¡¯ In front of Taiji Pce. The idiotic second prince also showed had a look of sorrow. ¡°Big brother seems to be dead. I think I saw my eldest brother dead! It¡¯s horrible! So horrible!¡± The second prince held his face in his hands. He was shivering from fright. The fifth princess was deathly pale. Her entire body was trembling as well. She suddenly gasped then coughed violently. She sped her mouth. After her coughing episode, her silk handkerchief was covered in fresh blood. It was a heart-wrenching sight. ¡°Big brother...¡± The fifth princess sobbed, filled with unbearable grief. Amotion broke out among the officials. Numerous officials knelt on the ground in sorrow. The news shook many. Li Tianlin was dead. Xuanyuan Taihua and the Tang Code were engaged in battle! What did this mean!? It meant the person who killed the first prince was likely Xuanyuan Taihua! At the area that held the ten great sects, the expressions on the cultivators¡¯ faces changed drastically. After all, this was unbelievable news! However, after themotion in the White Jade Square settled, silence reigned. If this was a normal day, the imperial censors would have knelt to call out for judgment. However, to impeach Xuanyuan Taihua... The imperial censors were unsure and hesitant. All of a sudden, everyone raised their heads to find the sky above Changan City was a fiery red! It was like there was a sea of fire spreading across the sky! Those who were deeply shocked by the news of the first prince¡¯s death raised their heads. They saw a human figure tear through the fiery red clouds. With each step the figure took, their aura seemed to grow drastically! The terrifying aura lingered in the air. It was like a fiery Sky God was descending from the heavens! A ming red sword circled around the figure. Like a roaring me dragon that set fire to the clouds, the figure charged at Changan. The figure descended at a shocking speed and shot out directly toward the Taiji Pce! ¡°Nan Yehuo of the Donglu¡¯s Sword League?!¡± ¡°How dare he! How dare he!¡± ¡°There¡¯s a rogue swords master! Guard the Emperor! Hurry and protect the Emperor!¡± On the White Jade Square, the officials and the cultivators felt as though they were experiencing shock after shock like never before. Too many things have happened in a single day. The strange incident in the Youzhou Demon Portal, the death of the first prince and the reappearance of Xuanyuan Taihua! Each piece of news was enough to shake the foundations of the Tang Dynasty. On top of that, the sect leader of the Donglu¡¯s Sword League, Nan Yehuo¡ªa sword master with power great enough to dominate the world¡ªwas charging toward the Taiji Pce! The intelligent officials finally connected the dots and were shocked! The first prince, the Minister of Rites and Nan Yehuo! The series of events suggested the Emperor was their target right from the start! The me swiftly descended as the fiery snake slithered out. The sea of fire filled the entire sky! It was fast! It was too fast! At that moment, Nan Yehuo¡¯s cultivation seemed to sublimate. That powerful aura was about to break through into the ninth ss! It seemed like it was about to break through the shackles of this world! Before Lu Taixuan and the others could react, it was toote! In fact, even if they acted immediately, they might not be able to block the attack! Instead of descending into chaos like the officials, the warriors of the various sects had a glint of curiosity in their shocked expressions. Nan Yehuo¡¯s attack would pry into the condition of the mighty one in the pce! It was a great opportunity while the Tang Code that hung above everyone¡¯s heads was gone! Chapter 122 - The Tang Code’s Arrow

Chapter 122: The Tang Code¡¯s Arrow

In the Youzhou Demon Portal, dark clouds were looming over the sky above it. Beyond the dark clouds were dragon-like thunderbolts that were rolling in between the clouds and finally gathering around the Code. The Code was like a talisman with the world¡¯s most intricate pattern drawn by lightning and thunder. However, it was not as terrifying as drinking the royal blood that was freshly extracted from Li Tianlin¡¯s body. Instead, it seemed rather bright and refreshing. The crack that Fang Lang left on the Code was filled with the de tip of the Blooming Lotus Sword. The de tip was like a shining, brilliant star in the night sky. Xuanyuan Taihua was hovering in the air, so was the Code. She was not as ferocious as before, her body now was enveloped in a ball of mysterious mist. She stared at the Code for a long time before letting out a murky breath. The Code was shaking slightly and let out a unique wave as if it was sighing. It was no longer vicious and ruthless. Another soul was awakening in the Code. Xuanyuan Taihua stood up from her cross-legged position and bowed gently to the Code. Then, she touched between her brows with her fair fingers and a gorgeous lotus pattern bloomed on her skin instantly. Suddenly, a strong surge of spiritual sense shot out from her, or rather it should be considered as divine sense. The divine sense drilled into the whirlpool of thunderbolts with the Code as its core. Ten thousand miles below the dark clouds, the rain was pouring heavily onto the earth. The sttering raindrops cause the muddy puddles to ripple. The chilly droplets dripped on Fang Lang¡¯s face. Fang Lang¡¯s crazy smile slowly faltered. Under the public¡¯s gaze, he felt an enormous force attracting his spiritual sense. What was happening? Fang Lang was stunned. Ni Wen, Jiang Linglong and Liu Bubai watched Fang Lang worriedly. ¡°He fainted! Lang¡¯zi fainted!¡± Liu Bubai shouted in panic. Even the faint-hearted Ni Wen kept shaking Fang Lang¡¯s body. Fang Lang stared nkly at everyone. Then, his eyes shuttered slowly. His soul was drawn by a mysterious force. ... A blood-red world with thousands of miles of rivers and mountains. When Fang Lang regained consciousness and opened his eyes, he found that he was in a world covered in the color of blood. Suppressing, suffocating, terrifying, bone-chilling... Fang Lang was suffocated by the overwhelming senses. ¡®Where... am I?¡¯ Fang Lang was stunned. He thought he managed to endure the pressure from Li Tianlin¡¯s blood? He even sliced his blood-transformed figure in half and left a small crack on the Code as his swordnded on it. ¡®Shouldn¡¯t everything be over by now?¡¯ ¡®Did my master lose the battle of will against the Code?¡¯ Fang Lang took a deep breath. He was not feeling too well under the indescribably crushing force. ¡°Hmm?¡± Suddenly, a melodious voice echoed through the air. Then, Fang Lang felt that he was surrounded by warm white light, shielding him from the torturous sensation from the blood-colored world. Fang Lang felt relieved and gasped for air. A white figure flew over with blurry facial features. However, judging by the familiar scent, Fang Lang was sure that this person was the female de lord that was sitting in between the two worlds. ¡°It¡¯s an honor to meet you, master. I¡¯m Fang Lang.¡± Fang Lang immediately put his hands together and bowed. ¡°How did your spiritual sense get in here? Uhm... I see what¡¯s happening.¡± Xuanyuan Taihua was basking in a mysterious radiance, her face remained obscured. She watched Fang Lang and had a moment of thought before she nodded slightly. Then, she extended her snowy palm. She put her middle finger and index finger together and formed a finger de. Then, she gently tapped in between Fang Lang¡¯s eyebrows. The moment her fingers touched his skin, he felt a chill spreading throughout his entire body. A blooming lotus pattern appeared on his forehead. ¡°It¡¯s surprising that you managed to infuse your own spiritual sense in the Blooming Lotus Sword in such a short period of time. When you left the de tip in the Code, you were sucked into this realm. However, you need to have proper protection, otherwise, you¡¯ll be influenced by it.¡± Xuanyuan Taihua¡¯s voice was gentle yet her tone was filled with the heroic spirit of a female de lord. ¡°Thank you, master!¡± Fang Lang bowed politely once more. ¡°Okay, okay... you don¡¯t have to remind me again. I promise to take you as my disciple, I always keep my word,¡± the female de lord said. She seemed to be slightly annoyed by Fang Lang¡¯s nagging. Fang Lang smiled brightly. He had just killed the first prince, Li Tianlin. He was in dire need of support! ¡°What is this ce, master?¡± Fang Lang finally had the time to observe their surroundings. ¡°Disciple Lang, don¡¯t you worry. Just stay put,¡± Xuanyuan Taihua said. Then, she waved her hand. Fang Lang felt that his figure was pushed away and flew away like a dandelion. Opposite of Xuanyuan Taihua, countless blood energies swarmed together and transformed into a pair of eyes... What kind of eyes they were! With just one look, a chill ran down Fang Lang¡¯s spine. However, its presence made Fang Lang think that he might be inside the Core! Fang Lang took a deep breath! He could not go any nearer and listen to the conversation between the gorgeous female de lord and the eyes. He could only see them from afar. Something was floating in the Code for fifteen years. Fang Lang breathed in deeply, ¡®The Code... has a consciousness?¡¯ ¡®Is the Tang Code a living or non-living thing?¡¯ ... Xuanyuan Taihua stared at the eyes in silence. ¡°The Blooming Lotus Sword hitting the Code was purely by chance. Your consciousness won¡¯tst for too long,¡± the female de lord said. Shortly after, a voice sounded beside her ear, ¡°Only Blooming Lotus? What about Withering Lotus, Circling Lotus, and Reincarnating Lotus? They¡¯re still nowhere to be found?¡± The echoing voice was low and deep as if it was trying to suppress something. ¡°No,¡± she answered. ¡°Have you returned to the Tang Dynasty?¡± ¡°No.¡± ¡°You can¡¯t go back, not before the Withering Lotus, Circling Lotus, and Reincarnating Lotus resurfaces... I am sorry.¡± There was a loud sigh. The female de lordughed, ¡°It¡¯s nothing.¡± ¡°I will not be conscious for long. When can we retrieve the remaining three swords?¡± The deep voice asked. ¡°I don¡¯t know, but it¡¯ll be soon,¡± she chuckled and said. She then thought of Fang Lang. Just after saying this, the Code started shaking violently. ¡°Changan¡¯s in trouble. I need to go and resolve it,¡± the female de lord said calmly. The voice in the Code sounded again, ¡°Is that the guy who cracked the code? Such bravery. It¡¯s been quite a while since I met a youngster with such valor.¡± The female de lord was stunned because she did not expect Fang Lang¡¯s name to be mentioned, but she smiled and said, ¡°Rare indeed.¡± ¡°Zhao Longshi from the Main Path Guild won¡¯t miss the chance to investigate the matters in Changan. Li Tianlin was also hypnotized by him.¡± The voice in the Code sounded again. The female de lord nodded, ¡°The Main Path Guild is good at hypnotism.¡± ¡°Since he¡¯s such a valiant kid, can I borrow him for a while?¡± the voice asked. She waved her hand and said, ¡°It¡¯s his fate and honor.¡± ... Fang Lang had no clue that he was sold to someone else. He was still immersed in the excitement of gaining a master. Finally, someone would take over in the Tang Dynasty and he could finally settle down and focus on cultivation. With the System, he could bind to all the geniuses in the world gradually. With more binding partners, his core could gradually upgrade to the highest level! By then, he would be the strongest cultivator in the world! Master and the pair of eyes seemed to have ended their conversation. She raised her snowy hand and waved at Fang Lang. The ball of light surrounding Fang Lang flew over to her like a dandelion. ¡°Soak in the moment, feel the difference between getting shot and firing the shot,¡± she said. Fang Lang raised his eyebrow, how ungracious of her! ¡®What kind of words are those! He has to keep his morals as a disciple.¡¯ ¡°Yes, I¡¯m ready,¡± Fang Lang answered seriously. Right after his answer, Xuanyuan Taihua pointed between his brows with her fingers again. Boom! Fang Lang felt the scene in front of him change. ... The rain was pouring like torrents in the Youzhou Demon Portal! Jiang Linglong and the others were gathered around Fang Lang with worried faces. Pei Liao was puzzled. ¡°It shouldn¡¯t be. Fang Lang was just exhausted andcking in willpower. He would just suffer from fatigue at most, he shouldn¡¯t faint,¡± Pei Liao said. Wen Ting ced his hands on his back, ¡°Did he fall asleep from overexertion? Pei Liao, it¡¯s just been a few years since we met, but I can see that you¡¯re regressing.¡± ¡°He¡¯s not asleep. He fainted. His soul was drawn to another ce. Please don¡¯t doubt my medical skills. I am a professional killer and healer,¡± Pei Liao said seriously. Suddenly, Fang Lang¡¯s eyes shot wide open. When Pei Liao and Wen Ting met his eyes, they felt a chill run down their spine. ¡°This...¡± Pei Liao was speechless. However, before he could say anything further, a thunderous sound exploded in the sky above them. The storm was ripped apart! Pei Liao, Wen Ting, Liu Bubai and the others struggled to raise their heads. They felt an immense pressure weighing down on them. The Code that was surrounded by dazzling thunderbolts floated above their heads. Boom! Pei Liao, Wen Ting and the others were crouching on the floor. They could not even gather the strength to move a single finger. Fang Lang stood up slowly as everyone stared at him in shock. The crackled Blooming Lotus Sword was soaring above them. The Code shuddered above Fang Lang. The space cracked open and Fang Lang was sucked in and disappeared into thin air! Silence filled the Youzhou Demon Portal, absolute silence. Only the stter of rain on the ground could be heard. Pei Liao, Wen Ting and the others held their breath as they stared at each other in shock. What... just happened? ... There was a sea of mes in the sky above the Taiji Pce in Changan. A zing dragon dived down from the sky like a ming sword that chased away the chilliness of Changan¡¯s winter. Nan Yehuo climbed up the sky above the Taiji Pce. He could feel the rising energy in his body, almost pushing him to break off the shackles and achieve transcendence! However, Nan Yehuo knew that it was just an illusion. It would be impossible for him to reach transcendence with his foundation. The sudden burst of strength was due to the Great Elixir Pill from the Main Guild Path. He was satisfied to be able to experience such a state even though it was just a fleeting moment under the influence of the pill. He was filled with despair as he could only watch new cultivators surpass him as he had already reached his limits and was unable to advance any further. Therefore, he had to give it onest shot. This was a secret n that he had been plotting for a long time. Many years ago, he was still hesitant when the sect leader of Main Path Guild, Zhao Longshi came to him with this n. The n was too risky as the Emperor was practically untouchable. He did not have the courage to pull it off. This was because if there were any miscalctions, he would put the entire sect in danger. The Donglu¡¯s Sword League would bepletely destroyed because of his decision. However, if he seeded, it would be the turning point for Donglu¡¯s Sword League. This opportunity was not that important to the Main Path Guild, but Donglu¡¯s Sword League needed it. He needed it. Nan Yehuo finally made up his mind when Lin Yun and Lin Muzhe died. This was the only chance for Donglu¡¯s Sword League to rise up! Nan Yehuo grabbed the ming sword, melting the snow in the sky as he hovered in the sky above the Taiji Pce with a sea of mes behind him. Everyone¡¯s gaze was focused on him. The Emperor had been hiding behind the shadows for too long. The people¡¯s temptation to pry grew over the years. They wanted to see his true appearance! So did Nan Yehuo! He would be the first to witness the Emperor¡¯s true colors after he ripped off his veil! He might change the course of the Tang Dynasty¡¯s history. Chao Xiaojian was flying down from the sky with a dark expression. Nan Yehuo who swallowed the Great Elixir Pill had almost achieved transcendence! He was unable to stop him! In the White Jade Square, Lu Taixuan was nning to stop him but it was toote. He could only frown and watch the events unfold before him. Boom! Thepiszuli roof tiles exploded above the Taiji Pce as they were engulfed by the ming de energy, which melted them intova. Nan Yehuo tore open the Taiji Pce¡¯s roof. The four golden armor guards entered the main court of Taiji Pce. Old Man Gao was bellowing outside the main court, massive energy exuded from his body. However, it was still toote. They watched as Nan Yehuo charged at the great figure on the throne with the ming sword in hand like a zing dragon! The Emperor remained hidden behind the thickyer of mist! Nan Yehuo¡¯s unibrow was burning. He felt that this attack was the pinnacle of his cultivation in sword mastery. This was the moment that he dreamt for in his entire life! This move would even put Xuanyuan Taihua to shame! ¡°Your majesty! Time to face the world!¡± Nan Yehuo said. The zing sword darted out, aiming at the great figure! At that moment, the space above the Taiji Pce started modting. The Code appeared mid-air and underneath it was a figure in a blood-red robe. The figure was floating in the air, holding a blood-red bow and arrow. The crowd looked up in astonishment upon the appearance of Code. Fang Lang! Why did Fang Lang appear together with the Code? The moment the Code returned, a mysterious wave of energy rippled through the sky. Inside the Taiji Pce, the great figure on the throne extended his hand slowly. Boom! Sparks flew everywhere, an explosion erupted from the throne. Nan Yehuo was coughing blood, his eyes narrowed as he saw his ming sword get crushed by the hand! In the sky above the Taiji Pce, everybody watched as Fang Lang released the bow and shot out a blood arrow that represented the Code¡¯s order to kill. The arrow impaled Nan Yehuo onto the Taiji Pce. His blood-red robe fluttered in the air. The ¡°ruthless¡± Fang Lang continued... He drew the bow and shot the arrow. He drew the bow again and shot another arrow. He shot arrow after arrow at Nan Yehuo in the Taiji Pce who stared in disbelief. Chapter 123 - If You Were Never Lost, Why Didn’t You Return

Chapter 123: If You Were Never Lost, Why Didn¡¯t You Return

Changan stopped snowing. The sky was covered in thick soot and ming clouds as if there was a massive stove burning behind it. Everyone on the ground was looking up in utter shock. In the sky above the pce, the Code that mysteriously vanished had appeared once again, ripping through the space and shocking everyone with its presence. The only difference was there was a figure below the Code. The figure was dressed in a blood-red robe, his face as naive as before. The face of the most outstanding person in the White Jade Square and the person who stepped foot onto the White Jade Court. He appeared in front of everyone in the most unexpected way! Under the Code, the bow was still anchored. The figure still drew the bow mercilessly, ready to shoot. At that moment, Fang Lang seemed to be shining brilliantly. Lu Taixuan, Li Puyi and the other important officials squinted their eyes and stared at him in disbelief. How did Fang Lang... get involved with the Code? The imperial censors and the other officials had their mouths wide open as they sucked in a cold breath. The third prince, Li Liancheng, was crouching on the floor as he lifted his head and watched in a daze. The second prince was giggling while the fifth princess coughed and nced curiously at the youngd beneath the Code. Swoosh! Swoosh! Swoosh! The Tang Code¡¯s red arrow that bore the punishment shot out from the young man¡¯s bow. It was as if the young man was chosen by the Code to be its representative. The sect leaders of the ten great sects watched in horror. The Main Path Guild, Meridian Guild, Immortal Martial Association and All-Seeing Buddha Sect were astounded. The Blooming Lotus circled around the young man. The Code was hovering above his head as he shot arrows on behalf of the Code. With everyone watching, the young man shot an arrow towards the Taiji Pce and impaled Nan Yehuo on the floor. Then, he kept shooting, all the arrows went straight into Nan Yehuo¡¯s body and pinned his soul! The Code¡¯s attack would harm one¡¯s soul. Although Nan Yehuo¡¯s strength was enhanced by the Great Elixir Pill so much to the point that he was on the verge of transcendence, the Tang Code¡¯s red arrow would still be able to pierce through his soul and severely wound him! Every cultivator in the Tang Dynasty knew that one could never escape from the Code¡¯s judgment. Even if that person was at the peak of the ninth-ss realm. Therefore, when Fang Lang shot out the Code¡¯s arrow, it was able to impale Nan Yehuo on the floor. Of course, another important reason was that the Emperor extended his hand and crushed Nan Yehuo¡¯s sword. Nan Yehuo¡¯s injured and shaken soul made him vulnerable and he was unable to react in time to avoid the Tang Code¡¯s red arrow. He felt that his soul was about to explode. Blood kept oozing out of his mouth as he stared at the great figure with his blood-shot eyes. ¡°Did I make the wrong decision?¡± Nan Yehuo struggled to get back on his feet. However, when he finally managed to stand up, another red arrow shot through his back and seeped into his soul. Bang! Nan Yehuo fell onto the ground from the impact of that arrow. Both his arms were trembling, blood flowed out from his nose and mouth continuously. Above the Taiji Pce, Fang Lang was dressed in a blood-red robe, shooting mercilessly. Nocked the arrow, fingers curled, drew the bow and fired! He executed the series of actions seamlessly without hesitation. It was as if he represented the unforgiving Code who was judging Nan Yehuo. The surrounding was silent, only the sound of Nan Yehuo getting shot arrow after arrow could be heard in the Taiji Pce. Nan Yehuo gave up all hope as he knew that he had missed the window of opportunity. He had made a wrong bet. Nan Yehuo¡¯s unibrow kept shaking, his hair was disheveled. He raised his head and stared at the sky. He noticed Fang Lang with the Code above his head. He never expected that this insignificant young man that he once ignored would hold the key that changed the course of events. That arrow was the confounding factor that turned the tide around. He gaped at Fang Lang who had transformed into the adjudicator of the Code. ¡°You... again...¡± Nan Yehuo¡¯s voice was deep and hoarse. He had an ambiguous expression on his face. Fang Lang! Him again! Nan Yehuo was furious. He regretted not killing him when he had the chance. He thought he treated Fang Lang as someone he valued. However, it was not easy to kill Fang Lang and he turned out to be the person who ruined his entire n. The Tang Code¡¯s red arrow was corroding his soul. Nan Yehuo realized that he might not get out of this alive. He had lost this battle. Nan Yehuo stumbled his way up reluctantly. He was not willing to go down like this. Donglu¡¯s Sword League would certainly fall without a chance of survival. He had to find a way to save Donglu¡¯s Sword League! If only he could catch a glimpse of the great figure and reveal the truth to the world! Someone would definitely lend a hand to protect Donglu¡¯s Sword League from annihtion. Somehow, Nan Yehuo managed to gather the strength and charged towards the Emperor. He moved so quickly that his reflection turned into a ball of mes in the golden armor guards¡¯ eyes. Swoosh! Above the Taiji Pce, Fang Lang¡¯s consciousness was still under the Code¡¯s control. He continued to shoot the Tang Code¡¯s red arrows at Nan Yehuo¡¯s soul. However, Nan Yehuo went berserk and ignored the immense pain in his soul. He channeled the monstrous power that he temporarily gained from the Grand Elixir Pill and reached the front of the throne. He extended his palm towards the figure behind the mist. He felt theyers of transcendence and was on the brink of removing the mysterious veil that covered the Emperor. Nheless, the figure on the throne reached out his hand once more and aimed at Nan Yehuo. With a hitting motion mid-air, it seemed as if a palm attacknded on Nan Yehuo¡¯s skull in a sh. This was from someone who had attained transcendence. It was unstoppable. Nan Yehuo¡¯s hand froze in mid-air. His knees hit the floor with a thump. His powerful energy started to dissipate and his soul slowly withered. Nan Yehuo stared nkly at the mist covering the Emperor. The moment when the Emperor raised his hand, Nan Yehuo saw that the cloud of fuzzy mist wavered and suddenly... His pupils narrowed in disbelief! ¡°You... You...¡± It was as if he discovered a huge secret! Unfortunately, he discovered it at thest moment of his life. Above the Taiji Pce, Fang Lang shot another arrow between Nan Yehuo¡¯s brows and ripped his soul. Thud. Nan Yehuo¡¯s body slumped to the ground. His soul and divine sense werepletely broken. There were no signs of life. Nan Yehuo from Donglu¡¯s Sword League was dead! Fang Lang impaled him in the Taiji Pce! Shortly after, the golden armor guards, head of the pce guards and the others swarmed into the pce and removed his body. Themotion finally ended. The leaders of the great sects were all standing on the White Jade Square, staring speechlessly at the great figure inside Taiji Pce. They were all deep in their thoughts. The emperor¡¯s palm had easily destroyed all of Nan Yehuo¡¯s soul energy and his cultivation that was at the brink of transcendence. This had shocked everyone present. Maybe... The Emperor was still the untouchable, almighty ruler. He still holds the power of transcendence! A sense of fear washed over the cultivators. No one paid much attention to what Nan Yehuo had discovered at his veryst moments. Only Nan Yehuo himself knew about it. A dead man tells no tales. The ming clouds in the sky began to recede and it started to snow again. The Code was exuding immense energy as if it were the sounds that came from an ancient bell which echoed in every corner of the pce. It felt as though there were a pair of invisible eyes in the Code overlooking everybody. The Code released Fang Lang and he finally regained consciousness. A wave of weakness erupted in his body. However, Fang Lang¡¯s eyes still sparkled with excitement. At the moment when he shot the Tang Code¡¯s red arrow under the influence of the Code to put an end to Nan Yehuo¡¯s life, he felt a unique strength and enlightenment. This was what his master was referring to¡ªthe difference between shooting and being shot! Fang Lang learned so much that he felt his cultivation significantly improved! The slightest revtion from the Code made him realize so much! The Code was no longer hovering above Fang Lang¡¯s head. It reverted back to its usual icy demeanor and floated above the Taiji Pce, exuding a suffocating pressure. On the White Jade Square, all the sect leaders were kneeling on the floor and bowed silently as they faced the Taiji Pce. They were waiting for the Emperor¡¯s judgment. Of course, there was an exception. Chao Xiaojian flew down from the sky as he carried Fang Lang in his arms. He stared at the Blooming Lotus Sword in Fang Lang¡¯s hand that had a shattered tip. Suddenly, his breath quickened. ¡°Sect Leader... She appeared?¡± Chao Xiaojian¡¯s voice was low and hoarse. Fang Lang who was still in the blood-red robe nodded. Then, Chao Xiaojian spewed a breath of de energy and flew towards the Youzhou Demon Portal with Fang Lang before he could pay his respects to the Emperor. Fang Lang was stunned. He had just returned to Changan but Chao Xiaojian was flying him right back to YouZhou Demon Portal. Snow started falling from the sky above Changan City. Nan Yehuo¡¯s body was removed from the Taiji Pce. It was as if the earth was mourning him with a sad melody. Nan Yehuo had died, after the first prince, Li Tianlin¡¯s death. What wasing next would be the Emperor¡¯s judgment. No one was bothered about Chao Xiaojian and Fang Lang, no one dared to. Fang Lang¡¯s appearance with the Code was a symbol of his status as the embodiment of the Code. It was as if the Code was trying to send a message to everybody. Even the imperial censors would not dare to target Fang Lang anymore. In fact, even the third prince, Li Liancheng, understood that he had to think twice beforeying hands on Fang Lang in the future. The Code above his head, shooting arrows on behalf of the Code. These events had elevated Fang Lang¡¯s status. He was no longer an ordinary person that would easily be overlooked by others. ... Snow was falling heavily In the Martial Arts King Manor. Princess Pei Shi finally finished reading the collection of poems. She walked out of her room contentedly to savor the scenic winter view of Changan. Youzhou Demon Portal was much more terrifying than a restless Changan City. Princess Pei Shi walked to the front of the Martial King Jiang¡¯s courtyard naively. She frowned slightly when she saw the sealed doors. ¡°He started cultivating in seclusion again.¡± Princess Pei Shi sighed and rubbed her hands together while she breathed out warm air. She then proceeded to take her leave. The Martial Art King¡¯s courtyard was sealed off by an invisible energy. Even the falling snow would be obliterated before it could reach the courtyard. ... In the Youzhou Demon Portal, it was still raining heavily. Everyone was staring at the crack between the barriers of the two worlds. The female de lord was still standing upright in the barrier. They noticed that the crack was gradually healing by itself. Wen Ting, Jiang Linglong and the others were watching with aplicated look on their faces. The events that happened in the demon portal today were totally unexpected and was even beyond their imagination. They were still shaken about it. The death of the first prince, Li Tianlin; the appearance of Xuanyuan Taihua after disappearing for over a decade, the emergence of the Code! It all ended when the Code swept Fang Lang away. They had no idea what happened in Changan since they did not have the Thousand-Mile Mirror. The only thing they knew was that Fang Lang was abducted by the Code. ¡°Are you leaving?¡± Jiang Linglong raised her veiled head and asked the receding figure between the barriers of the two worlds. Xuanyuan Taihua¡¯s body was encased in a mysterious glow of de energy. She looked down at Jiang Linglong andughed, ¡°Send my regards to your father, I¡¯m thankful for him.¡± Jiang Linglong shuddered as she heard the female de lord¡¯s words. ¡°If you were never lost, why didn¡¯t you return?¡± Jiang Linglong yelled out loud. However, she did not answer this time. Her gaze seemed to have prated the barrier and she looked over thousands of miles of rivers and mountains of the Tang Dynasty. The crack kept narrowing, until... A de of light flew from the outside of the Youzhou Demon Portal at an incredible speed. Zhao Xiaojian and Fang Lang charged into the Youzhou Demon Portal and flew in the rainstorm. Zhao Xiaojian was flying at maximum speed without reservations about the consumption of his cultivation. In the sky above the fourth Resource Station, Chao Xiaojian and Fang Lang appeared. However, the crack between the barriers of the two worlds had sealed offpletely. The figure of the gorgeous female de lord vanished mysteriously, just like the way she emerged. Chao Xiaojian hovered in the air without any form of shelter. His body was hampered by the heavy downpour where the rain droplets gathered and dripped from his chin. He was in a daze as he took in the remnants of Xuanyuan Taihua¡¯s de energy on earth. After a long while, he released a murky breath. ¡°She¡¯s gone again before I could meet her, what a waste. What made her abandon the Sword Guild and stay in the demon world alone?¡± Seeing how lost Chao Xiaojian was, Fang Lang told him some of the things that happened to him. For instance, Xuanyuan Taihua agreed to take him as her disciple and ordered him to search for the three other swords, Withering Lotus, Circling Lotus and Reincarnating Lotus. Chao Xiaojian¡¯s face lit up after hearing that the sect leader was still alive. This was good news for him. She must have her reasons to leave the sect and wander in the demon realm. Otherwise, who would want to leave their home and wander for a decade? Chao Xiaojian did not know why she did it, but he believed that she must be bearing a great weight on her shoulders. He could only help her by protecting the Sword Guild and maintaining its rank within the top ten great sects. Chao Xiaojian swiped away the rain on his body andughed. Then, he took Fang Lang and bowed towards the healed crack between the barriers of the two worlds, towards the female de lord that was overlooking the entire Tang Dynasty. Chapter 124 - The Person Everyone Overlooked

Chapter 124: The Person Everyone Overlooked

¡°The sect leader epted you as her disciple?¡± Chao Xiaojian asked Fang Lang as theynded on the ground. Fang Lang nodded and said, ¡°She even told me to retrieve the three swords¡ªWithering Lotus, Circling Lotus and Reincarnating Lotus. They seem to be involved in something important. Master was able to rip through the barriers because she was summoned by the Blooming Lotus Sword. Perhaps she could return to the Tang Dynasty once I gathered all three swords.¡± Chao Xiaojian¡¯s eyes brightened upon hearing Fang Lang¡¯s exnation. ¡°You¡¯re right!¡± However, Chao Xiaojian furrowed his eyebrows shortly after. ¡°The Withering Lotus Sword is guarding a secret ce in the Meridian Guild... The Circling Lotus Sword is in the All-Seeing Buddha Sect as the guardian of the sea of Buddhas... The Reincarnating Lotus Sword was stuck in the Main Path Mausoleum ever since our sect leader defeated Zhao Longshi from the Main Path Guild. Anyways, these three swords are situated in the three greatest sects of Tang Dynasty. It would not be an easy task to retrieve all three swords! The more pressing issue is whether the three sects would allow you to draw the swords even if you could.¡± Chao Xiaojian felt a growing headache. However, Fang Lang¡¯s words made sense. If one Blooming Lotus Sword was able to summon the sect leader, maybe she could return to the world if she was summoned along with the other three swords. Chao Xiaojian¡¯s eyes lit up. If his prediction was true, they would not need to fear the other sects, not even the Main Path Guild, All Seeing Buddha Sect or the Meridian Guild! The worst case scenario was that they would end up in a battle! Chao Xiaojian¡¯s eyes seemed a little lost as he stared at the pouring rain. He vaguely remembered the scene. ... There was a blizzard that year. The entire nation was covered in snow, hundreds of people lost their homes and frozen bodies were found along the streets and out in the wild. A frail young boy and his sister were begging on the streets, cold and famished. He begged, stole, got into fights... The young boy had done all sorts of things in order to keep his sister and himself alive. However, he still lost her to hunger. She died in an old temple, he cried silently beside her stiff body. He carried her lifeless body and left the city. He nned to bring her home and bury her beside their parents grave. The young boy was so hungry that he almost lost consciousness. Suddenly, he saw a breath-taking female de lord in a white dress. She touched his head gently. Then, she snapped her fingers and de energy started to rise. They flew across thousands of miles back to his homnd and he finally buried his sister beside his house. The young boy begged the female de lord to take him as a disciple but she rejected his request. He followed her stubbornly in the snowstorm. The female de lord still refused to take him in, but she did not leave him behind. Both of them continued walking. She had helped many others along the way, fought off robbers, bandits and saved refugees from dangers. Back then, the young man swore in his heart that one day he would be a great sword master like the female de lord. A noble sword master like her. After that, the female de lord brought him back to Mount Shu. Although she did not agree to ept him as her disciple, the young boy¡¯s talents and core shocked the entire Mount Shu. The sect leader of the Sword Guild back then took him in as his disciple and the female de lord became his senior. Until... now. ... Chao Xiaojian regained his senses and watched Fang Lang with mixed feelings. This kid... How could he be better than himself? He was neither better looking nor as confident as him. Why did she agree to take him as her disciple? Was it because of his shamelessness? ¡°That¡¯s great. From now onwards, I, Chao Xiaojian, will be your fellow master! Your status in the Sword Guild is also upgraded to a young fellow master!¡± Chao Xiaojian said. Fang Lang rubbed the back of his head and smiled warmly. This was all an ident. He just wanted to be on the good side of Taihua de Lord. Around them, Huang Ying, Jiang Linglong, and the others stared at them with an odd expression. A shade of jealousy shed across Pei Liao¡¯s face. He also wanted to be the disciple of Taihua de Lord but he was rejected harshly. In the end, she chose Fang Lang as her disciple. The rain was still pouring relentlessly. They did not linger any further. Pei Liao left with the Imperial Court of Judicial Review officials, bringing the body of the Minister of Rites, Zhou Yiyuan along with them. This matter involved too many stakeholders. The first prince, Li Tianlin¡¯s supporters would most likely receive serious punishments. Fang Lang and the others chose to take a rest at the Resource Station. Chao Xiaojian also stayed behind to safeguard them instead of returning to Changan. The Qianlong Resource Battle halted because of this matter. Most of the disciples from the other sects chose to wait at the Resource Station for the uing arrangements. ... In Changan City. The entire pce was shocked when Pei Liao and the Imperial Court of Judicial Review officials brought back Zhou Yiyuan¡¯s body. Pei Liao revealed everything that happened in the Youzhou Demon Portal, leaving no details behind. Pei Liao kneeled before the Taiji Pce. The first prince¡¯s group had framed the third prince and plotted a huge scheme together with traitor Nan Yehuo. It was quite certain that they were nning to overthrow the Emperor. Pei Liao also mentioned that the death of the first prince, Li Tianlin was caused by Taihua de Lord. Of course, Pei Liao did not reveal that Wen Ting had been feeding his sword for a decade just so he could impale the first prince, and that Fang Lang was the one who chopped off his head. To him, those were acts of self-defense. Furthermore, since the first prince¡¯s evil n was exposed, he would not be free from the crimes he hadmitted. There was no need to drag Fang Lang and Wen Ting into this mess. The great figure in the Taiji Pce seemed furious today. The Taiji Pce kept issuing edicts, each one deadlier than before! The officials who were supporters of the first prince were crouching on the ground as they received their judgment. All of those who participated in this scheme were sent to jail. Some of them who were in the position of power were immediately beheaded outside the Vermilion Bird Gate. Crimson blood dyed the snow red. The Emperor was so infuriated that it shook the entire Tang Dynasty. Donglu¡¯s Sword League was eradicated as a sect and all of their members were sentenced to death. The Main Path Guild¡¯s sect leader, Zhao Longshi personally rode to Changan on his crane with a severed head of an elder from his sect to report his crimes in front of Changan City. This elder was the one who gave Nan Yehuo the Great Elixir Pill. However, the Emperor was not satisfied. He ordered Zhao Longshi to enter the demon realm to kill three ninth-ss great demons as a punishment. The Emperor¡¯s decision shook everyone. Even though it was a known fact that the Main Path Guild was the biggest supporter of the first prince, the Emperor had shown his upromising attitude in this matter as the decision was made without direct evidence. Zhao Longshi received his punishment respectfully and left on his crane. The third prince, Li Liancheng, also received punishment. Although he was framed by the first prince, he was once very close to the Donglu¡¯s Sword League, so he received his fair share of punishment. He was grounded in the Cold Pce for three years! Li Liancheng¡¯s eyes turned red when he heard his punishment. He was outraged as he was a victim too. However, he remembered the scene where the Emperor killed Nan Yehuo with one palm attack and epted his fate. The snow in Changan deepened. Folks were shook when they heard the news. No one expected that this year¡¯s royal celebration would bememorated with severed heads! The Qianlong Resource Battle resumed with the Emperor sending the fifth princess to oversee the battle. The Sword Guild disciples were immediately qualified for the finals as they were unfairly treated throughout the resource battle. In addition to that, the resources gained by the Donglu¡¯s Sword Guild would be transferred to the Sword Guild. Half the total amount of resources earned by the Main Guild Path¡¯s disciples would be given to the Sword Guild as well. Even though the disciples were not satisfied with the decision, they dared not make a move after seeing the gorgeous female de lord mounted in between the barriers of the two worlds in the Thousand-Mile Mirror. From this day onwards, the Sword Guild was no longer the old sect that had been dwindling over the past ten years. With Xuanyuan Taihua alive, the Sword Guild would not be bullied by others anymore! ... At the fourth Resource Station in the Youzhou Demon Portal, Fang Lang and the others let out a sigh of relief after hearing the judgment from Changan. Wen Ting and Fang Lang had mentally prepared themselves to receive some sort of punishment, but they did not expect themselves to be exempted from the punishments as the first prince was sentenced with the crime of rebellion and that Xuanyuan Taihua was the one who killed him. Both of them were exempted from being executed by the Tang Code¡¯s red arrow. Regarding thepensation they received for the resource battle, Fang Lang was stunned when he heard that they would be entering the finals and also obtaining half of the Main Path Guild¡¯s resources. This was such a satisfying win! The Main Path Guild¡¯s disciples had to risk their lives in the resource battle for their benefit. Fang Lang thought that Li Yuanzhen would be furious if he heard the news. Fang Lang nced at Liu Bubai who was holding the broadsword. Even though Liu Bubai had not done much in this battle, he never thought that his willpower could influence the resource battle. After a shortmotion, silence was restored in the fourth Resource Station. Everyone took out their spirit crystals and resumed the battle. Fang Lang started to finalize the rewards that he earned from this battle. He could not deny that battling was the best way to improve one¡¯s strength. Fang Lang endured the Tang Code¡¯s red arrow and significantly improved his spiritual sense, which made him level up to a fifth-grade spell advisor! For sword mastery, he managed to attain a third-grade sword wave realm. This was the result of two Power Loan Cards and a halfpleted Sword Nurturing Spell. Even though his advancements were limited, Fang Lang¡¯s martial arts mastery was stabilized as a third-ss martial arts master at the blood-bending realm with the help of the Code. Overall, Fang Lang¡¯s strength was greatly enhanced! These were just on the surface. ¡®Ding! Congrattions to the host forpleting the mission. It was aplished perfectly. Awarded with a random sword spell from Xuanyuan Taihua, the sword spell would allow the host to evolve to sword wave specialty.¡¯ This was Fang Lang¡¯s reward from leaving a crack in the Code when he was on the mission! ¡®Ding! Host and binding partner, Wen Ting casted the Sword Nurturing Spell together and fought the enemies side-by-side. Deep cultivation was achieved, triggering passive cultivation and rewarded with Meta Sword Nurturing Spell.¡¯ The System¡¯s notification popped up in Fang Lang¡¯s mind. The rewards awarded to Fang Lang were beyond his expectations. Meta Sword Nurturing Spell? Fang Lang¡¯s eyes sparkled in excitement. Was this the halfpleted spell he casted when he activated the Power Loan Card? The power was immense! If Fang Lang had the opportunity, he would be able to kill fourth-ss beings! ... Rain was still pouring heavily, the droplets hit the ground and rippled through the surface of puddles. A few light blue-robed figures were walking in the rain. The atmosphere around them was tense. They were the disciples of the Main Path Guild. They were outraged when they received the news back at the Resource Station, even their senior, An Fan¡¯s expression darkened. They did notin about the unjust ruling as the Main Path Guild was involved with Nan Yehuo¡¯s assasination of the Emperor after taking the Great Elixir Pill. However, they were still unconvinced. ¡°If that¡¯s the case... We will meet the Sword Guild disciples in the final battle! We will destroy them in the finals and let them realize that they are not worthy of these resources!¡± ... In Changan City, the flight swords filled the sky like a swarm of bees, soaring across the Tang Dynasty¡¯s sky in all directions. In the heavily guarded Western Region Demon Portal, the atmosphere was tense as dust swept up from the sandy earth. Inside the barracks, a small guard delivered the news from Changan to Asi Laoshan. ¡°The third prince is grounded in the Cold Pce for three years? The first prince is dead and the third prince is imprisoned in the Cold Pce. This battle of the throne is a joke.¡± Asi Laoshan put down the letter and closed his eyes slowly. Even though he was not physically present in the Imperial City, it was as though he had experienced the entire bloodbath. As if he could see the gorgeous Taihua de Lord, witnessed Nan Yehuo explode with monstrous strength after taking the Great Elixir Pill which almost made him transcend. He also saw the palm of the great Emperor. Asi Laoshan opened his brooding eyes. He walked out of the tent and stared at the endless sand dunes and the towering demon portal in the air. ¡°Something¡¯s... not right. There was something off about the crisis in Changan.¡± At the same time, in one of the barracks thousands of miles away from the Western Region Demon Portal, Song Xianzhi had finished reading the letter sent by the flight sword. He tapped gently on the table with his fingers and a frown formed on his handsome face, ¡°This is not right, everybody seemed to have forgotten about someone. What was Jiang Wushen doing in such a major crisis? Why did he stay quiet?¡± Chapter 125 - How Evil Could Young Fellow Master Be

Chapter 125: How Evil Could Young Fellow Master Be

The snow fell continuously for three days. Changan City waspletely covered with snow. However, the chilly winter still could not dampen the joy of the Emperor¡¯s birthday celebration. The jubtion of the folks for this annual event. Fang Lang waited for the remaining team from the Sword Guild that participated in the Qianlong Resource Battle. Chao Xiaojian had escorted them out of the Youzhou Demon Portal. All of them qualified for the final battle after the interference from the first prince. As expected, thest battle would be worth the most resources. Therefore, even Fang Lang and the others who had returned to Changan to wait for the final battle continued to train and prepare for the battle without letting their guard down. The rain was still pouring in the Youzhou Demon Portal. The disciples from the other sects were still battling for resources. At the Resource Station six thousand miles away, the disciples fought bravely through the first round. In the second round, the disciples needed to hunt and fight for resource tokens. This year¡¯s resource battle was aspetitive as the former years. Especially the disciples from the ten great sects that had demonstrated outstanding strength and performance. The other disciples from the first-ss and second-ss sects were no match for them. They threw out their resource tokens and gave up. The Main Path Guild¡¯s disciples were unbeatable under the leadership of An Fan, most likely motivated by the fact that they were unjustly punished. They attacked ruthlessly without reservations. Everyone knew that the Main Path Guild¡¯s disciples were furious. The disciples from the other sects knew that if the Main Path Guild advanced into the final resource battle, there would be a tremendous fight with the Sword Guild disciples. The other disciples were fine with the Sword Guild getting into the finals as they witnessed how Fang Lang caused a rain of the dragon beasts¡¯ hearts in the sky at the first resource battle.The scene had a great impact in their minds. They knew that the Sword Guild earned the resources from taking on the demon swarm. They killed countless demon beasts! All of them were still alive because they gripped onto the only slim chance of survival. At the very least, if the disciples from the first-ss and second-ss sects were met with the beast swarm, they would be dead or severely injured. Therefore, no one objected to the judgment, even though most of them knew that Fang Lang was able to do that because of the Blooming Lotus Sword and Xuanyuan Taihua¡¯s consciousness. After three days of vigorous battle in the Youzhou Demon Portal, the first two rounds of the resource battle came to an end. There were ten teams that advanced to the third round. Other than the Sword Guild, the other ten great sects were included, as well as Nanhai Sword Association which totaled up to ten teams. Initially, the Donglu¡¯s Sword League would certainly have a spot but after Lin Muzhe¡¯s death and Nan Yehuo¡¯s rebellion, their disciples were disqualified from the battle. On the fourth day, an enormous ring was set up in front of the Vermilion Bird Gate in Changan City. The ring was square-shaped, measuring a thousand meters in length and width. This was the battleground for the third round of the resource battle. The ten teams would be having a group battle in the ring. By defeating a group, the team would receive one portion of resources that included several high-grade spirit crystals, a few dozen mid-grade spirit crystals and thousands of low-grade spirit crystals, not to mention that there would be pills, spells and talismans. Every portion of resources was priceless. Of course, the most anticipated event would be the group battle among the disciples. Before the Vermilion Bird Gate, the folks on the Vermilion Street were in a frenzy. They cramped around the ring and stared at the battle excitedly. In the eyes of the ordinary folks who could not cultivate yet yearned to be a cultivator, this was a fiesta! With the Emperor¡¯s birthday around the corner, Changan was filled with a celebratory atmosphere. ... In the far corner of the Martial Arts King Manor¡¯s guest courtyard, Fang Lang slowly opened his eyes after a day of cultivation. His eyes were deep. Something was sparkling inside. Since the day he withstood the stronger Tang Code¡¯s red arrow, Fang Lang¡¯s consciousness had umted an extensive amount of spiritual sense. He was able to reach fifth-grade spell advisor, surpassing his cultivation in sword mastery. The Tears of God crystal in his mind grew into the size of a human fist. Fang Lang was speechless. Suddenly, he lost the motivation to train, he just wanted to open his arms and let the Code shoot him every three days. His master told Fang Lang to experience the difference between shooting others and being shot at. He thought that it was definitely more enjoyable to be shot at. After all, his strength would improve immensely after being shot! Nheless, Fang Lang did not stop cultivating throughout these four days. While he was stabilizing his spell mastery cultivation, he did not neglect his sword mastery and martial arts mastery. He also consumed a lot of cultivation resources from the System to stabilize his cultivation and replenished the depleted spiritual energy that was spent on his advancements. Inside the courtyard of the Martial Arts King Manor, Fang Lang walked out and stood in the middle of the courtyard. Standing opposite of him was Jiang Linglong with the White Frost de in her hand. Jiang Linglong¡¯s face was hidden under the veil, her eyes focused as if she was facing her rival. Fang Lang tossed the Obsidian Sword gently and tapped his fingers in the air. Suddenly, a ferocious de energy rose, surrounding them with hundreds of eternal cycles! The Obsidian Sword shot out and a brilliant lotus flower de energy that exploded around Jiang Linglong! Jiang Linglong released her sword wave unreservedly, apanied with the Four Seasons, and formed a massive over Fang Lang¡¯s lotus flower de energy! A strong wind of wave energy erupted in the courtyard. The impact was so strong that cracks were formed intertwined with each other on the ground. After the dust settled, Jiang Linglong took several steps back as she watched in disbelief, slightly disgruntled. She was defeated. Somehow, Fang Lang had caught up with her footsteps and even surpassed her in terms of cultivation. Her pride suffered a slight blow. ¡®Ding! Deep cultivation exchange aplished with binding partner, Jiang Linglong. Meditation Card awarded.¡¯ The System notified him. He got a Meditation Card just by practicing with Old Jiang. This was something. Fang Lang was thrilled because the Instant Lotus de was the sword spell that he siphoned from his master. It was not a special technique, but a powerful sword spell. Fang Lang discussed the principle of this craft with Ni Wen for a whole day and they finally found that this skill utilizes the eternal cycle topress the energy. The higher the number of cycles, the greater the energy that would bepressed, giving rise to a more powerful attack! ording to Fang Lang, if the person¡¯s cultivation was strong enough, this skill would have the power equivalent to a small missile. It¡¯s power would be nothing less than a forbidden spell casted at maximum capacity by a high-grade spell master. Fang Lang could only manage to muster the power of a small grenade. Fang Lang was marveled by the divinity of this skill. No wonder Xuanyuan Taihua was named as the Tang Dynasty¡¯s First Sword! After they finished practicing, something came to Jiang Linglong¡¯s mind and she said, ¡°Oh right, my father asked you to pay a visit to his courtyard.¡± Fang Lang shuddered, the image of a disheveled Martial Arts King entering the pce to control the foreigners kept surfacing in his mind. Fang Lang did not reject her request. After packing up briefly, he went to the Martial Arts King Jiangs courtyard. The door of the courtyard was closed. However, just as he arrived, he could sense a pair of eyes slowly opening inside the courtyard. It was radiating an overwhelming spiritual sense that made Fang Lang¡¯s breath hitch. Fang Lang could better understand how terrifying these powerful beings were as his cultivation grew. When he stepped inside the courtyard, it waspletely silent as if all noise had been cut off. Inside the courtyard, Martial Arts King Jiang was sitting in the pavilion. The muscr figure was in a sitting position, his facial expression was serious and his breathing was controlled. Fang Lang bowed at him when they met. ¡°You are Jiang Linglong¡¯s friend. No need for formalities,¡± said Martial Arts King Jiang. Fang Lang chuckled and stood up. He then activated the Stats Scanner. ... Age: 218 Cultivation: ??? Core: 91 (Starry) Introduction: This is also a man that is out of your league ... Fang Lang took a deep breath when he read the introduction. He could not read his cultivation, but this core was much more impressive than Chao Xiaojian! Most importantly, Martial Arts King Jiang had lived more than two centuries! Fang Lang was stunned. After all, Old Jiang was just fifteen years old. Martial Arts King Jiang stared into Fang Lang with his brooding eyes. At that moment, Fang Lang felt his heart clenched and all his thoughts were cleared from his mind. The pressure Martial Arts King Jiang exuded was much stronger than Chao Xiaojian! ¡°Kid... You¡¯re something. Xuanyuan Taihua rarely takes in disciples. Let me see the Blooming Lotus Sword,¡± he said. Fang Lang took out the chipped and cracked Blooming Lotus Sword and passed it to him. ¡°The sword is broken... This marks the beginning of a storm. Sigh...¡± Martial Arts King Jiang sighed and returned the sword to Fang Lang. ¡°You promised Xuanyuan Taihua that you¡¯ll retrieve the remaining three swords, but it would not be an easy task. There are lots of people trying to stop you from getting to the swords.¡± He continued. ¡°However, it is important that you find those three swords, the Withering Lotus, Circling Lotus and Reincarnating Lotus,¡± Martial Arts King Jiang looked at Fang Lang with a glimpse of hope. Fang Lang had no choice but to agree. After returning the Blooming Lotus Sword to Fang Lang, Martial Arts King Jiang sat in the pavilion as he watched him leave. After a long while, his eyes shifted to the sky above Changan City. ¡°Birth, death and rebirth; the Code... It would not be easy to change one¡¯s fate.¡± ... Fang Lang walked out of the courtyard and met with Huang Ying, Liu Bubai, and Geshu Yuehua. The three of them looked extremely serious. Their expression darkened when they saw Fang Lang. Liu Bubai took a deep breath and said, ¡°Lang¡¯zi, our opponent in the final resource battle had been announced...¡± Fang Lang raised his eyebrow and asked curiously, ¡°Who is it?¡± ¡°The Main Path Guild.¡± Liu Bubai continued, ¡°They are just too strong! They are well-trained in all aspects, from their leader An Fan to the other new disciples!¡± ¡°Wei Sheng¡¯s team from the Immortal Martial Association was already very strong, but they werepletely destroyed by them! Their leader, An Fan, is very powerful. He was the champion of the Imperial examination two years ago. With the abundant resources offered by the Main Path Guild, he was able to reach the peak of the ninth-grade phantasm realm. He even defeated the disciples from the Meridian Guild, Karma Society and the All-Seeing Buddha Sect!¡± Liu Bubai and Geshu Yuehua were in awe. Huang Ying was slightly dazed. An Fan was inarguably skillful. In the battle between the Sword Guild and the Main Path Guild, she would be the one fighting against An Fan. the Sword Guild would not stand a chance if she can¡¯t hold him off. Huang Ying knew that she could not defeat An Fan, perhaps if Wen Ting was here, there might still be a chance. Not her. Huang Ying had confidence in the fight between the new disciples, but she did not want to cause them to lose the battle. Wen Ting arrived. His expression was serious as he called everyone to gather. Soon, all of the team gathered at Fang Lang¡¯s courtyard. Wen Ting sipped on his wolfberry tea, his face was pale as he analyzed the strategy for the final battle. Fang Langughed, ¡°We ughtered the demon swarm. I even made it rain demon beast hearts at the Resource Station. Aren¡¯t they at least intimidated by us?¡± Wen Ting nced at Fang Lang, ¡°I can see that you¡¯re confident. You do have the right to be. However, they think that it was Taihua de Lord¡¯s consciousness in the Blooming Lotus Sword that defeated the demon swarm. They are fearful of the Blooming Lotus. They are wary of you, but not to the extent of being afraid.¡± Fang Lang raised his eyebrow. Wen Ting looked at Fang Lang seriously, ¡°Do not underestimate the Main Path Guild¡¯s team. Strictly speaking, they are no less than the demon swarm. If An Fan defeats Huang Ying and gets involved in the fight between the new disciples, it will be over for you guys.¡± Jiang Linglong frowned slightly, ¡°We¡¯ll defeat the new disciples as soon as we can and help senior Huang Ying then?¡± Fang Lang raised his thumb at Old Jiang and said, ¡°As your young fellow master, I think that¡¯s a great idea, Little Jiang.¡± ¡°Little Jiang?¡± Jiang Linglong stared at Fang Lang coldly, her voice slightly raised. The temperature around them dropped a few degrees. Fang Lang smacked his lips awkwardly. How evil could a young fellow master be? ¡°Little Jiang¡± was merely a term of endearment. In the courtyard, everybody burst out inughter. They continued to discuss the strategy for tomorrow¡¯s battle. As the night deepened, all of them returned to their own quarters to cultivate after the discussion. They had to prepare for tomorrow¡¯s final resource battle. The moon was hanging high above the sky, showering cold luscious rays on the earth. Huang Ying was sitting alone in the pavilion,quietly sharpening her sword. The body of the de reflected the silvery moonlight. Her mind started to wander. She was very stressed about having to fight the previous champion of the Imperial Examination, An Fan. Even though she was talented, her skills were far from An Fan¡¯s. Wen Ting walked over slowly with his fresh wolfberry tea. He seemed to have sensed Huang Ying¡¯s fears and doubts. Wen Ting reached out and gently caressed Huang Ying¡¯s head. ¡°You¡¯re still so easily affected after so many years. This is not good. You¡¯re a sword master, you need to believe that the sword in your hand can cut through everything. Also, you need to have more confidence in those kids.¡± Wen Ting chuckled under the moon. Huang Ying raised her head and stared at Wen Ting in a daze. This familiar scene soothed her restless heart. Huang Ying pouted her lips as she looked up at Wen Ting as if they had travelled back in time. ... The next day, it was snowing heavily. The snow on Changan¡¯s Vermilion street was shovelled to the side to clear the path. Princess Pei Shi ordered a coach for Fang Lang and the others. Once everybody was on board, the horses started prancing towards the Vermilion Bird gate. The giant ring was ced before the Vermilion Bird Gate. Both sides of the street were filled with excited folks. The crowd was exhrated after witnessing two days of incredible battles in the ring. They were all hoping to join the path of cultivation in their next life. Snow whirled down from the sky like goose feathers. The Main Path Guild disciples that were led by An Fan were standing in the ring. An Fan stared at the approaching coach on Vermilion Street. He could see the faint outline of the Sword Guild disciples inside. A smile grew on An Fan¡¯s charming face, his smile was slightly cold. Li Yuanzhen¡¯s had aplicated expression. There was a vengeful rage burning in his eyes, an obsession that was enough to melt the snow away. The coach stopped. Under the gaze of the crowd, the hundreds of officials and the fifth princess on the Vermilion Tower, the curtains of the coach were unveiled. Fang Lang walked out, he was dressed in a white robe with a warm smile on his face. He shone as bright as when he received his title as the grand champion. Chapter 126 - A Lightning Victory

Chapter 126: A Lightning Victory

The atmosphere before the Vermilion Bird Gate was electric. This was the day of the Emperor¡¯s birthday celebration and the final resource battle. In the past few days, the folks of Changan had witnessed incredible fights from the Main Path Guild disciples. Most of the people and rich families were hoping that they could send their children to the academy, so that they could have the opportunity to learn and grow into great cultivators like An Fan and Li Yuanzhen. The final resource battle where the Sword Guild would fight against the Main Path Guild would put up a great show for the folks. However, hundreds of officials and the sect leaders were interested in the exhibition of skills and techniques. After all, even if the Main Path Guild won, they needed to give half of their share to the Sword Guild. Therefore, the Sword Guild was practically undefeatable in this battle for resources. However, this did not mean that the Main Path Guild¡¯s disciples have lost the will to win. If anything, they were more motivated to win. Only then, they could prove to everyone that the Main Path Guild¡¯s team dominated the resource battle. Even if the Sword Guild¡¯s disciples got their hands on the resources, they were not worthy of it! Before the battle had even begun, they were already at each other¡¯s throats. The snow on the ring was cleared. The five disciples of the Main Path Guild who stood in the ring were led by An Fan. The resource battle was not an individual fight but a group battle. A battle that would decide the winner and the distribution of the resources. This was simple and straightforward but it attracted the attention of the entire nation. Fang Lang alighted the coach and stepped into the spotlight. After all, it was just several months after the Imperial Examination had ended. The folks of Changan were still very familiar with the champion¡¯s name. Nheless, most of them understood that the new champion might not be able to turn the tide around since he had just joined the sect not long ago. How could he beat a senior disciple? This resource battle was not just among the new disciples. It also involved a battle between senior disciples. Once the senior disciple of the Sword Guild got defeated, the senior disciple of the opponents team would interfere with the battle between the new disciples. It would instantly cripple the new disciples of the other team. Therefore, there were no expectations for the Sword Guild to win the battle. This was because there was a grand champion in both teams! An Fan from the Main Path Guild was the grand champion two years ago. This was a battle between the old champion and the new champion! All the disciples were standing around the ring looking solemn. Ximen Xianxian opened his paper fan and fanned lightly as he sighed, ¡°Even though Brother Lang had made so many miracles, it would be difficult for the Sword Guild to win the final resource battle as this is a group fight.¡± Wei Sheng also frowned. The Immortal Martial Association had lost to the Main Path Guild because An Fan was much stronger than their senior disciple with a fourth-ss sword mastery. Wei Sheng had no idea if Fang Lang could change the situation. He watched Fang Lang walk up the ring slowly with a hopeful gaze. Above the Vermilion Tower, the fifth princess kept coughing as she stared at the disciples from both sects standing at opposite ends. Her eyes were fixated on the grinning Fang Lang dressed in white. This guy was the reason why the first prince¡¯s rebellion failed. He was the young fellow master of the Sword Guild, the first ever disciple of Taihua de Lord in two centuries. Curiosity shed across the fifth princess¡¯s eyes. ... In the tallest restaurant in Changan City, there were two people eating and drinking on the fifth floor by the window. They were watching the ring before the Vermilion Bird Gate. Lu Taixuan poured himself a ss of alcohol. He swirled the liquid, creating ripples in the cup. Opposite of him sat Chao Xiaojian with a head full of white hair. Lu Taixuan was gently sipping on the alcohol without eating anything. On the other hand, Chao Xiaojian was stuffing his mouth with food and washing it down with a mouthful of alcohol as he admired the scenic wintery view of Changan. ¡°Aren¡¯t you worried about this battle? The average skill of the Main Path Guild is no less than your Sword Guild disciples. Especially An Fan, who was the champion of the Imperial Examination two years ago. He is extremely talented in spell mastery. Even though Huang Ying is good, she is no match for An Fan,¡± Lu Taixuan said with augh, after taking a sip of the alcohol while he nced at Chao Xiaojian. Chao Xiaojian¡¯s mouth was stuffed with food. He took a big gulp of alcohol and mmed the cup on the table. He wiped his mouth with his hand and answered, ¡°An Fan? There were no worthy opponents in that year¡¯s Imperial Examination. How could he bepared to Fang Lang? ¡°There were so many geniuses in this year¡¯s battle, yet Fang Lang exceeded everybody¡¯s expectations and won the grand champion title. You think An Fan is...worthy? Furthermore, Fang Lang was personally chosen by my senior, the sect leader of the Sword Guild. He is the young fellow master of our sect. Who¡¯s An Fan anyway?¡± Chao Xiaojian scoffed. Lu Taixuan shook his head andughed. Not only was Chao Xiaojian arrogant, he indulged his disciples with such despicable behavior too. ¡°It¡¯s a battle between champions.¡± Chao Xiaojian leaned against the window and chuckled, ¡°Master Lu, just you wait. Fang Lang will definitely cook something up. I just pity the right administrator¡¯s son. He will be suffering from nightmares again after this battle.¡± Lu Taixuan burst outughing after hearing his words. A battle between champions, now that¡¯s interesting. After a while, Lu Taixuan filled Chao Xiaojian¡¯s ss and said, ¡°After the resource battle, Fang Lang should be on his way to retrieve those three swords, right? It would be a treacherous journey ahead. Many people don¡¯t want Sect Leader Taihua to return. So, are you going to personally protect them?¡± Chao Xiaojian nodded his head, but he shook his head shortly after. ¡°I won¡¯t be joining him. I¡¯ll be staying in Mount Shu. I¡¯m going to see if anyone dares to start a fight.¡± Lu Taixuan was stunned, ¡°You¡¯ll let him go alone? Aren¡¯t you just looking for trouble?¡± Chao Xiaojian raised his ss and smiled as he watched the snow fall from the sky, ¡°I will send someone to protect him. He¡¯s not too weak himself, you know?¡± Chao Xiaojianughed and downed the remaining liquid in the ss. Then, he bowed at Lu Taixuan. The sword beside his waist immediately darted out of its sheath and transformed into a ray of light. Lu Taixuan stood up, ¡°Aren¡¯t you watching the battle?¡± Chao Xiaojian leaped out of the restaurant, the de ray circled around him as he flew into the sky, his white hair fluttered in the air. ¡°I¡¯m not. This kid from my Sword Guild will definitely win. Let these youngsters battle. I have received orders to clean up a sect.¡± Chao Xiaojian¡¯s words fell like snowkes. Then, he flew towards East on his sword. Lu Taixuan raised his ss gently as he shook his head. He looked out of the window and settled his gaze on the ring before the Vermilion Bird Gate and sipped on the alcohol. ... In the ring, twelve of them were lined in pairs. The senior disciple against the senior disciples, and the new disciples against the new disciples. A gust of wind formed whirles of snowkes and fluttered their white robes. The referee of this battle was a seventh-ss cultivator appointed by the Imperial Courts. He could interfere with the battle if any idents urred. Fang Lang was facing Li Yuanzhen while Huang Ying was opposite An Fan. However, An Fan was not looking at Huang Ying, he was fixated on Fang Lang. ¡°New champion... What a coincidence. I¡¯m your senior, the champion two years ago,¡± An Fan said with augh. Fang Lang raised his eyebrow and bowed after hearing what he said. Li Yuanzhen deadly stared at Fang Lang, ¡°I won¡¯t lose again in this battle!¡± He had lost to Fang Lang in the Imperial Examination. That battle was an insult to him. Therefore, he swore that he would not lose to him again! This was a group battle. It was impossible for Fang Lang to y any tricks with the flight sword or any other unpredictable moves. Not that he would give Fang Lang a chance to do so! ng. The referee knocked on the golden gong. The disciples of the Sword Guild and the Main Path Guild moved apart and positioned themselves into the formation that they had prepared. Ni Wen was standing at the very back, protected by Liu Bubai and his broadsword. Geshu Yuehua and Jiang Linglong would focus on attacking while Fang Lang would deal with the spells casted by the opponents. Huang Ying and An Fan were facing each other on the other side of the ring, separating them into different categories. The lower fourth-ss realm¡ªfirst-ss spell disciple, second-ss spell master, third-ss spell advisor and fourth-ss phantasm realm. The upper fourth-ss realm¡ªfirst-ss sword disciple, second-ss sword master, third-ss sword wave and fourth-ss sword intent realm! Huang Ying and An Fan¡¯s cultivation reached the peak of the lower fourth-ss realm. Their battle would cause a lot more destruction than the new disciples. After all, they were on the verge of entering the upper fourth-ss realm! ng. The gong sounded again. The referee announced, ¡°Let the battle begin!¡± The referee vanished from the middle of the ring after making the announcement. Instantly, the atmosphere in the ring became fierce and dangerous. Even the gentle snow started whirling in the air. The crowd around the ring quietened, the folks and disciples from other sects were focused on the ring, ready to watch the impending battle. Fang Lang started charging forward at an incredible speed with his hand on the sword handle. On the other side of the ring, the formation of the Main Path Guild surprised everyone. Li Yuanzhen was protected by the four other new disciples since he had reached the third-level spell advisor realm. They were not actively attacking. Instead, they set up walls after walls of spiritual energy barriers! The new disciples of the Main Path Guild had chosen defense from the very beginning! Fang Lang narrowed his eyes as he realized their n. The Main Path Guild disciples knew that they might not be able to defeat the team that was made up of Fang Lang, Jiang Linglong and Geshu Yuehua. Therefore, they decided to y it safe and defend themselves until An Fan defeated Huang Ying and joined their battle. In that case, they would be able to end the battle instantly. Their decision created an uproar in the crowd. They were impressed by their choice of strategy. Fang Lang frowned. ¡°Walls up!¡± Li Yuanzhen bellowed, shattering a speck of snow. Then, he put his hands together and made multiple shadows of gestures to cast the rune! He red at Fang Lang and thought about what An Fan told him. He would defeat Fang Lang with his most powerful rune that he was capable of. The wooden staff of the four Main Path Guild disciples started flying around. Suddenly, the ground of the ring cracked open. An earth wall rose from the ground like an angry dragon. There was also a flowing water curtain that safeguarded the Main Path Guild disciples inside like a water dungeon. The four Main Path Guild disciples had decent skills. They were all in the third-ss spell advisor realm. With all of them channeling their forces on defense, even Wei Sheng would need to spend much time and effort to break their defenses. Li Yuanzhen was trying to form the rune, the spiritual energy grew restless in the air. Li Yuanzhen¡¯s spiritual sense gathered and was about to materialise. There was a massive rune pattern above Li Yuanzhen¡¯s head. A killer sense exuded from it. ¡°Li Yuanzhen is gathering the third-ss killer rune, Thunder of Doom! This is the most powerful rune out of the third-ss runes! Stop him!¡± Ni Wen yelled from the back of the Sword Guild team. Fang Lang chuckled, ¡°Defense? That¡¯s great. We¡¯ll shatter your shields with our sharpest des! Little Jiang, Yuehua, attack their defenses. Little Wen, increase the perimeter of the attacking rune! Old Liu, protect Little Wen. We need to strike them down as soon as possible so that we can help senior Huang Ying!¡± Fang Lang assigned a task to each member of the team. Liu Bubai held the broadsword in his hand, his face filled withplex emotions. Liu Bubai had a feeling that he would not be needed in this battle. Since their opponent chose to defend themselves, no one would be attacking Ni Wen. there was no need for him to protect her. Liu Bubai was frustrated as he had worn the thickest armor. ¡®Someonee fight me! There¡¯s no one for me to fight with!¡¯ While Liu Bubai was venting, Fang Lang, Jiang Linglong and Geshu Yuehua had approached the opponent¡¯s formation. Geshu Yuehua grinned at the towering earth wall, showing her cute little canine tooth. Then, she let out a high-pitched shriek and spun her sword like a windmill to rip through the water curtain and mmed onto the earth wall. With her innate superhuman strength, the earth wall shuddered upon the impact, causing it to be filled with cracks. The spell masters of the Main Path Guild were stunned. They quickly strengthened their defense rune with more spiritual sense! Fang Lang did not use the Sword Draw Technique. He cast the spirit sense that he attained with the help of the Code, which was at the fifth-level spell advisor realm. ¡°Spell: Spirit Awl¡± Fang Lang targeted one of the Main Path Guild disciples who was about to mend the rune. With the giant awl stabbed into the disciple¡¯s consciousness, he felt as if his head was about to explode, disrupting the rune that he was trying to form! Fang Lang said that he would destroy their defense with the sharpest de, but if he had the chance to cripple them from the inside, why would he choose otherwise? As the disciple lost focus, it tore a huge hole in their defense. Jiang Linglong stabbed her sword forward in the Summer Rain Style. Every rain droplet turned into sharp des and charged towards the earth. The defense of the four Main Path Guild disciples were shattered into pieces by Jiang Linglong and Geshu Yuehua. Fang Lang watched Li Yuanzhen cast the Thunder of Doom at lightning¡¯s speed. He grinned and channeled his energy to his chest. The acupoints all over his body glowed brightly and erupted with wave energy! He touched the scabbard with his fingers. The Champion¡¯s de charged towards the sky in an instant! Li Yuanzhen¡¯s forehead was covered in bean-sized droplets of sweat. Their defense fell apart too quickly! At this rate, his rune would not bepleted in time! The formation of the Thunder of Doom required a lot of his strength. Boom! Finally, a thunderous roar sounded above his head. Dark clouds were umted in the rune. ¡°It¡¯s done!¡± Li Yuanzhen opened his eyes, his gaze filled with joy. Thunder and lightning danced within the dark clouds. ¡°Thunder of Doom!¡± Li Yuanzhen roared. The rune pattern was spinning between his palms. He shoved it forward and a massive air wave was headed towards Fang Lang¡¯s direction. Li Yuanzhen¡¯s gaze was filled with determination and madness. He was still the best spell master in this cohort, the top schr of Changan. The previous time, his rune was iplete, but this time, he would not lose again! Fang Lang¡¯s white robe fluttered violently in the wind, but he remained calm. He gestured two fingers and pushed downwards. A thunder pped behind the thick clouds. Li Yuanzhen lifted his head. He saw the brilliant and dazzling thunderbolt sword charge from the sky, crashing into his Thunder of Doom. It pierced a hole in his rune and it kept crashing down with immense strength and thunder! Li Yuanzhen waspletely shocked as the sword impaled his shoulder and pinned him onto the ground. Flight Sword! Again! Although it was a different flight sword from the previous battle, it had the same effect! Li Yuanzhen was nailed to the ground. His eyes seemed lost, blood kept flowing from his body, forming a pool underneath him. He hadpletely lost it. The people around them went into a frenzy! Sounds of doubt, anger, sorrows, praises... filled the atmosphere. The new disciples of the Main Path Guild were instantly defeated. The time it took was less than the time needed to take ten breaths. It was a lightning victory! Everyone was taken aback by how quick the battle ended. Those people who bet money on the Main Path Guild were howling as they covered their chest. From afar, An Fan who had seized control over Huang Ying from the very beginning, faltered. Chapter 127 - A Battle Between Champions!

Chapter 127: A Battle Between Champions!

The atmosphere in Changan was so vibrant and lively that it almost chased away the wintery snow. The city was still filled with endless chattering. There was an uproar in the gambling house in Changan as if someone had sshed it with boiling water. Most of the gamblers were wailing loudly, some of them shed tears of joy. It had only been less than fifteen minutes since the battle between the Sword Guild and the Main Path Guild had begun, but the Main Path Guild¡¯s team led by Li Yuanzhen had been defeated. ¡°A bunch of useless shits! Where did their previous confidence go? Was it all a pretense?¡± ¡°Where was the team who destroyed the new disciples from other sects? Li Yuanzhen is just a big bully!¡± ¡°What kind of stupid strategy this is? Just defending without attacking. A defense so fragile that it was crippled within seconds! Idiots! Idiots!¡± ¡°Such a weak defense. I could do that too! Garbage!¡± ... All of the gamblers were berating them. Some of them were low-level cultivators, some were Changan¡¯s gambling addicts. Ximen Xianxian, Wei Sheng and the others looked solemn. Their levels were far above those ordinary folks and cultivators. Was the Main Path Guild¡¯s defense strong? Undoubtedly! If it was up to the disciples from Karma Society, Immortal Martial Association and any other sects, they could not have broken through their defense in such a short amount of time. However, the Sword Guild¡¯s new disciples seemed to have found the sharpest de and pierced through their defense so easily! Li Yuanzhen and the other new disciples of the Main Path Guild could not defend themselves from it! ¡°So strong!¡± Ximen Xianxian broke out in cold sweat. We Sheng clenched his fist as he stared in awe. He was staring at the thunder de that Fang Lang had used to pin Li Yuanzhen onto the ring. He took in a deep breath to calm the turmoil inside his heart. ¡®Fang Lang has improved significantly! Is this guy a... monster? How long has it been since the Imperial Examination? He has gotten so much stronger since then!¡¯ Wei Sheng always regretted the fact that he did not have the opportunity to fight Fang Lang in the Imperial Examination. However, now he was not confident that he could match Fang Lang¡¯s standards! He knew that even without the urrence of unfortunate events in the resource battle, with the skill that Fang Lang and Jiang Linglong possessed, they could easily lead the Sword Guild to the final battle! The Thunder of Doom exploded the instant Li Yuanzhen went down. The remaining Main Path Guild disciples were trapped by Geshu Yuehua and Jiang Linglong¡¯s attack. Even though they attempted to fight back with runes, they were quickly defeated. The three of them refused to give up and vowed to fight until their veryst breath. It was only a matter of time before they would be crushed by Jiang Linglong and Geshu Yuehua, but they were not what Fang Lang was after. After dealing with Li Yuanzhen, Fang Lang tapped his fingers to transform the Champion¡¯s de into a de thunder and directed it towards the direction of An Fan who was attacking Huang Ying with continuous runes. An Fan was the key to the final victory of this battle. Fang Lang scanned An Fan as he charged towards him. ... Age: 26 Cultivation: Ninth-Grade Phantasm (Fourth-ss Spell Mastery); Third-Grade Sword Wave (Third-ss Sword Mastery) Core: 79 (Gold) Introduction: This is a petty person who holds grudges ... Fang Lang nced through the introduction given by the System and proceeded to lose interest in An Fan. An Fan was quite talented, with a 79-point gold core. He was slightly better than Huang Ying, but Fang Lang was disappointed. Fang Lang still had an empty slot for a binding partner. However, An Fan was not the person he was looking for. On the other side of the ring, the battle between Huang Ying and An Fan was still ongoing! Huang Ying attacked from the beginning of the battle, spreading her sword intent, instantly casting a sword mirage. The Ten de Sword Mirage was the pinnacle of the sword intent realm. Half of the ring was covered by the sword mirage. Huang Ying wanted to breakfree from An Fan¡¯s shackles by using the most powerful technique of a sword master. Huang Ying was bearing a heavy weight on her shoulders. An Fan was incredibly strong. They were in the same cohort and he was the champion that year. Huang Ying was underperforming due to mental stress. She was not confident in this fight with An Fan. An Fan was surrounded by floating runes, his hair and light blue robe fluttered in the air. He raised his hand and started chanting. The surge of his spiritual sense was like rough currents that could move mountains, stirring up violent windstorms. An Fan slightly panicked when he saw that Li Yuanzhen and the team were defeated. He wanted to finish the battle with Huang Ying as quickly as possible. Even though Huang Ying was in the same batch as him and joined the Sword Guild, he never paid attention to her. An Fan thought that defeating Huang Ying would be an easy task. In his eyes, Fang Lang was more of a threat than her. However, An Fan soon realized that he was wrong. The female sword master in front of him exhibited incredible tenacity even if her de energy and de wave were destroyed by his runes. Her body was full of wounds inflicted by his killing rune, blood kept flowing out from the wounds. Nevertheless, she continued attacking relentlessly. Without any defense, she kept attacking with different sword forms! She used her sword to slice through runes, using attacks as her shield. Just like that, she managed to hold off An Fan! ¡°Stacking rune!¡± An Fan ced his palms together with a serious expression. Spiritual sense exuded between his eyes unreservedly. The air in the ring was thick and suffocating. This was the first time he took this woman seriously. With all five elements stacked in the rune, its attack power was significantly amplified. This was the signature spell of the Main Path Guild, Five Phase Rune! Huang Ying¡¯s expression grew more determined. Wen Ting¡¯s advice kept ringing in her mind. Wen Ting told her to give her very best. She did not need to worry about anything else but to attack and bring out her sword mastery. Other than that, she just needed to believe the little ones. Huang Ying trusted Wen Ting like how she did years ago. Therefore, she did what he mentioned. And she seeded! It was enough as long as she kept stalling An Fan from interfering with the new disciples¡¯ battle. ¡°You¡¯re crazy!¡± An Fan swore under his breath as he watched the wounded and bleeding Huang Ying get beaten down again and again by his rune. The Five Phase Rune originated from the Main Path Guild. It was extremely powerful. If Huang Ying continued fighting against it in such a state, she would be digging her own grave! However, An Fan maneuvered the rune calmly towards Huang Ying. When the five runes were about to engulf Huang Ying, An Fan¡¯s expression changed abruptly. From afar, Fang Lang waved his finger de and cast a de thunder towards their direction. ¡°Young fellow master, I¡¯ll cover you!¡± Huang Ying¡¯s eyes lit up when she saw that Fang Lang had rushed over. She raised her sword in the air and shouted. With a determined gaze and residual blood on the corner of her mouth, she raised her sword and charged towards the approaching Five Phase Rune! An Fan that was hovering in the air scoffed, ¡°This will be your demise. The new champion, Fang Lang just entered the third-ss realm and you¡¯re depending on him to attack?¡± An Fan raised his hand and pushed the rune forward. However, he was stunned when he saw Fang Lang¡¯s de thunder smashed its way through five to sixyers of protection runes he assembled. The Champion¡¯s de stopped right in front of the rune. The thunderbolts on it dazzled like a thunder dragon from the sky. This was Fang Lang¡¯s sword! How did he manage to cast such a massive sword spell as a third-ss sword master? ¡°Fusion of spell mastery and sword mastery... the Sword Guild¡¯s swordcraft?¡± An Fan took a deep breath. However, wall-like runes formed instantly as hepleted his gestures. He pushed them forward and formed a massive air wave. The Champion¡¯s de was sent flying back. It was the first time that someone was able to withstand his de thunder. This was a minor forbidden spell, which would grow in power depending on his cultivation in spell mastery. Since Fang Lang was now a fifth-grade spell advisor, the power of the de thunder should be rather formidable. Nheless, An Fan was still able to block it. No wonder he was a genius cultivator that reached the peak of the lower fourth-ss realm. Among all of Fang Lang¡¯s attacks, the Minor Forbidden Spell: Sword Thunder was the third most powerful spell, with Xuanyuan Taihua¡¯s Instant Lotus de ced second and the Meta Sword Nurturing Spell first. Thetter two had the power to kill fourth-ss cultivators and they were Fang Lang¡¯s best shots, especially the Meta Sword Nurturing Spell where he would channel all his strength into the attack. Wen Ting spent ten years nurturing his sword and managed to kill the first prince, Li Liancheng who was a ninth-ss cultivator. Therefore, the Meta Sword Nurturing Spell was his best skill, which also came with the highest cost. Even though his spell was not as strong as Wen Ting, he would be temporarily weakened after casting it. Therefore, he needed to use it wisely. Fang Langnded on the ground after he kept the Champion¡¯s de in the scabbard. He followed behind Huang Ying. Huang Ying¡¯s white robe was covered in blood patches, but she held onto her sword and stood in front of Fang Lang, protecting him from the attacks. She shed her sword and sent out a vicious de energy that ripped through An Fan¡¯s rune. Explosions erupted instantly, Huang Ying hung onto her sword as she vomited blood. However, her eyes remained sharp! Fang Lang stood behind Huang Ying as he cast the Spirit Awl Spell at An Fan. With the help of his wooden staff, he could cast a spell almost instantly. The Spirit Awl Spell was casted before others could react. Even An Fan was slightly affected, the Five Phase Rune paused in its tracks. Huang Ying took the opportunity to strike the rune with her de energy. Fang Lang and her closed in 6 meters to An Fan. An Fan returned to his senses and quickly pushed his hand down. It was as if he moved an enormous mountain and hurled it towards Huang Ying and Fang Lang. Huang Ying clenched her jaws and swung her sword! Boom! The wave of impact was so strong that Huang Ying shuddered violently. Her palm slit open but she managed to split the mountain into half! Fang Lang focused his spiritual sense and the Frost Bow appeared in his hand. He drew the bow until the strings were taut. Suddenly, Fang Lang¡¯s expression changed. His consciousness had entered the Code and his senses were with the arrow. With the feeling inside his heart, he was able to channel a wisp of the Code¡¯s will into his arrow. An Fan felt a chill run down his spine as he floated within the revolving runes. Fang Lang aimed the arrow at him from afar. An Fan felt that he was subdued by an intimidating force. Swish! Fang Lang released his fingers and shot the arrow that consisted a wisp of the Code¡¯s pressure right at An Fan. An Fan shuddered. He gnashed his teeth to regain his senses. He was shocked, but his expression remained unchanged, slightly indifferent even. This was the battle between two champions. Huang Ying disappeared in An Fan¡¯s vision, all he could see was Fang Lang! Champion versus champion! He, An Fan... would not lose the battle! Not to mention that he was a realm beyond Fang Lang! Losing was not an option! An Fan put his hands together. Suddenly, his sleeves started fluttering, a talisman rose into the air and transformed into a strong fighter. The fighter roared forward and grabbed the ice arrow from Fang Lang. Even though the ice arrow had a strong pressure, the fighter still went for it because he was not aware of what it contained. However, Fang Lang¡¯s goal was just to interrupt An Fan from casting the rune! This was the first time Fang Lang experienced the wrath of a powerful spell master. No wonder the spell masters would always be targeted first in a group battle! Once the rune wasplete, the fate of the battle would be pretty much fixed. Huang Ying and Fang Lang inched another 6 meters closer to An Fan, making them only 10 meters apart from him. ... The surrounding crowd was fixated on the three of them. An Fan channeled all his strength as if he was a deity that had descended from heaven. He controlled the Five Phase Rune to suppress Huang Ying. Even after Fang Lang had joined in, they still failed to get the upper hand. However, one small difference was that Fang Lang¡¯s continuous attacks allowed Huang Ying to narrow their distance. Wen Ting sipped on his warm wolfberry tea, his eyes seemed slightly lost in a daze. He had told Fang Lang to stop hiding. He never thought that Fang Lang would provide such an outstanding performance in the ring of the resource battle, just like he did when he won the championship of the Imperial Examination. The young kid who had once stood in the practice grounds under the sunset, listening to his advice had fully grown into a ferocious tiger. The surroundings quietened as everyone was focused on the battle happening on the other side of the ring. Even the rowdy gamblers held their breaths in silence. Champion versus champion, a duel between kings! Who would be the winner? No one knows! ... Huang Ying shed through another rune. With the sword supporting her body, she gasped for air as blood dripped from her nose and mouth. She had reached her limits. She could no longer withstand An Fan¡¯s rune and clear the path for Fang Lang. Fang Lang gently tapped her shoulders and leaped past her. ¡°Leave it to us,¡± Fang Lang said earnestly. Huang Ying struggled to lift her head. She was smiling. An Fan smirked when he saw that Huang Ying had reached her limits. Without Huang Ying¡¯s sword intent realm to make way for Fang Lang, he would not be able to endure his Five Phase Rune! However, An Fan¡¯s expression darkened shortly after. On the other side of the ring, Ni Wen hadpleted her rune. Her blood was boiling inside her body, a faint golden glow rippled in her eyes. The rune formed above her head and was approaching An Fan ording to Fang Lang¡¯s strategy. All of a sudden, vines started growing from the ground and imprisoned An Fan! An Fan frowned. He raised his hand and the vines were instantly shredded. However, the golden ray in Ni Wen¡¯s eyes glowed and the vines continued to grow. ¡°Bloodline ability?¡± An Fan faltered. He knew about it as he was very knowledgeable. On the other side of the ring, Jiang Linglong and Geshu Yuehua rushed over after dealing with the remaining disciples of the Main Path Guild. Both of them dashed to Fang Lang¡¯s side and reced Huang Ying¡¯s role to clear the path for Fang Lang! Fang Lang used this window to charge forward, closing the distance between An Fan and him to only 3 meters! He raised his hand and flicked his fingers. Finger Flick Energy Wave? No! The moment he snapped his fingers, hundreds of eternal cycles were formed! Instant Lotus de! A surge of de energy in the form of a lotus spread from Fang Lang¡¯s body. With one push, every inch of the air exploded. The fighter formed by the talisman was also ripped apart by the lotus de. An Fan¡¯s expression darkened, his eyes were blinded by madness. He attacked with the Five Phase Rune. Dust and debris exploded around them the moment the Instant Lotus de and Five Phase Rune collided. An Fan was gasping for air. It was over! He stopped it! An Fan still had some lingering fear as Fang Lang had too many tricks up his sleeve. Besides that, his teammates had also provided him with the optimal conditions for his attacks. Nevertheless, it was finally over! A smile grew on An Fan¡¯s face. A sword emerged in his hand, de wave energy started emitting from his orifices! He looked at Fang Lang, who was masked by the dust. ¡®You didn¡¯t see thising, did you?¡¯ An Fan was not just a spell master, but he was also a sword master in the sword wave realm! After the dust settled, An Fan noticed that Fang Lang was not surprised when he saw him with a knife, as if he had long expected it. An Fan shivered. He felt as though Fang Lang¡¯s deep, dark eyes could see through him. He was astounded! He watched as Fang Lang¡¯s cultivation started falling ss after ss, and the Obsidian Sword he was holding started billowing de energy. What kind of sword was this? An Fan squinted, the blood in his entire body ran cold. It dawned on him. Huang Ying, Jiang Linglong and Geshu Yuehua making way for Fang Lang, Ni Wen¡¯s rune to trap him with the vines! It was all a plot to provide Fang Lang a chance to make this attack! This was Fang Lang¡¯s killer move! An Fan had no choice but to face it head on! However, An Fan did not have the courage to meet it with his sword! What a... Monster! Without any hesitation, An Fan recalled the cracked Five Phase Rune and shielded himself! The next moment, the Obsidian Sword left Fang Lang¡¯s hand and buried its tip into the rune. Crackling sound could be heard. The sword pierced through the fiveyers of runes! After breaking through thest rune, it went right into An Fan¡¯s body. The de energy rampaged his body, including his shoulders, abdomen... Suddenly, it exploded and created a bloody mist! He channeled his entire reserve of cultivation using the Nurturing Sword Spell in exchange of this killer move! Even though it was not as impressive as Wen Ting¡¯s, Fang Lang¡¯s sword was sufficient to win the battle between the champions! An Fan was sent flying into the air before he crashed onto the ground. He, An Fan, had... lost. He waspletely controlled by Fang Lang¡¯s strategy. Not only had he lost to Fang Lang, his defeat was also partly contributed by his useless teammates. If only Li Yuanzhen and the others could hold off Fang Lang for a while longer, he could finish off Huang Ying and lead the Main Path Guild to win this resource battle. Too bad... An Fan copsed. The Main Path Guild had lost! The crowd around the ring was in absolute silence as they stared in disbelief. Chapter 128 - Heartbroken For His Master

Chapter 128: Heartbroken For His Master

Snow drifted peacefully down the sky. Outside the Vermillion Bird Gate, amotion among the people and the gamblers started after a short moment of peace. Over thest few days of the tournament, the Main Path Guid disciples have performed exceptionally well. They had managed to crush all their enemies, only to be beaten by the Sword Guild in the final battle! Even though the Sword Guild managed to defeat them, An Fan was still extremely powerful and forced Fang Lang and the others to fight with all their might. However, since Li Yuanzhen and the other new disciples were utterly defeated, in the eyes of the people, it seemed as if the disciples of the Sword Guild annihted the disciples of the Main Path guild. The judges of the imperial court entered the court and administered medicinal pills to the Main Path Guild disciples to help them recover from their injuries. The judges also announced the end of the match, announcing the end of this exciting Qianlong Resource Battle. An Fan¡¯splexion was a little pale. The Main Path Guild disciples did not say a word. They hadpletely embarrassed themselves by losing this battle. This was especially true for Li Yuanzhen. His eyes wore a dazed look and he received a huge shock to his psyche. An Fan did not console Li Yuanzhen this time because he himself needed to be consoled. He was a cultivator of the fourth-ss, ninth-grade phantasm realm. Yet, he had been beaten by Fang Lang who was merely a third-ss sword-wave realm cultivator. This defeat was much harsher than the one Li Yuanzhen had suffered. However, An Fan¡¯s state of mind was pretty decent with all things considered. He looked intently at Fang Lang on the stage who appeared iparably weak. This battle would be imprinted upon his heart. This attack would be returned sooner orter. An Fan led Li Yuanzhen and the others away from the arena. The Resource Battle was over. They did not manage to win first ce. Apart from that, half of the resources that they had obtained would need to be given to the Sword Guild. They had been thoroughly humiliated. It could be said that the Main Path Guild, who was one of the ten great sects, had been forced to eat humble pie in this year¡¯s Resource Battle. However, there was nothing they could do apart from enduring this humiliation. As a genius, An Fan was very clear that since Nan Yehuo managed to obtain the Great Elixir Pill from the Main Path Guild and attacked the Emperor during the imperial meeting, An Fan could not and would not dare to pull any dirty tricks recklessly. He dared not cry foul because perhaps... The Main Path Guild had not been treated unjustly at all. He could only try other methods to defeat the Sword Guild. It was a shame that it failed. Hence, the Main Path Guild was defeated. Victory belonged to the Sword Guild. ... Donglu Demon Portal. Mount Dongling. Flurries of snow continued to fall in Changan. However, it waspletely lush and green in Mount Donglin in the far East corner. However, even though the area was full of greenery, the entirety of Mount Dongling was shrouded in a deadly silence. Donglu¡¯s Sword League was situated in Mount Dongling. The news that came from Changan City shook the entire Mount Dongling. It made the Donglu¡¯s Sword League break into an uproar. The sect leader of the Donglu¡¯s Sword League, Nan Yehuo, had striked out against the Emperor in Changan City. He hadmitted high treason and for his crime of attempting to murder the Emperor, he would be exiled. The elders of the Donglu¡¯s Sword League were instantly shaken when they heard the news. Countless disciples were in a state of great terror. A streak of de light crossed thousands of miles to arrive here from Changan. The white haired and white robed Chao Xiaojuannded at the foot of Mount Dongling. He looked towards the mountain entrance of the Donglu¡¯s Sword Guild and smiled wryly. As soon as Chao Xiaojian appeared, all the elders of the Donglu¡¯s Sword Guild appeared on Mount Dongling wielding their swords. They all looked extremely disconcerted but they did not beg for mercy. They merely raised their swords towards Chao Xiaojian. ¡°Chao Xioajian! Even though the Donglu¡¯s Sword League hasmitted a great sin, it should be the imperial courts whoe to judge and deal with our punishment. It is not up to you toe and sentence us!¡± shouted one of the elders who was a nine-ss sword master angrily. Chao Xiaojian continued to slowly walk towards the moss-covered stone staircase of the Donglu¡¯s Sword League, holding his green steel sword. He raised his head and turned to look in the direction of Changan City. ¡°The youngsters of the Sword Guild must be done by now, right? Now that they have gotten first ce in the Resource Battle, for the next three years, the new disciples of the Sword Guild will have plentiful resources.¡± ¡°Since they¡¯ve won first ce, I¡¯ll destroy an entire guild in celebration of their win.¡± Chao Xiaojian smiled brightly. With a wave of his arm, a golden decree shot out and floated in the sky. It was the Emperor¡¯s decree. As soon as they saw the decree, the elders of the Donglu¡¯s Sword League went deathly pale. They looked extremely ill as they froze on the spot in shock and horror. The Emperor had sent Chao Xiaojuan to sentence the Donglu¡¯s Sword League!? ¡°No! This crime waspletely done by Nan Yehuo. It has nothing to do with the Donglu¡¯s Sword League! We have been overseeing the Donglu Demon Portal, we¡¯ve been serving the Emperor!¡± One of the elders cried out. Chao Xiaojuan pursed his lips. ¡°If you want someone to me, you should me Nan Yehuo. He shouldn¡¯t have angered me.¡± ¡°As for the Donglu Demon Portal... It¡¯s just a small demon portal. I, Chao Xiaojian, will take responsibility for it,¡± said Chao Xiaojian lightly. He ascended the staircase step after step. The entirety of Mount Dongling was trembling. After that, Chao Xiaojian raised his arm and with an abrupt gesture, the multitude of clouds in the skies above Mount Dongling gathered. It seemed to transform into a giant sword with its de tip pointed towards the ground! With a sudden move by Chao Xiaojian, therge sword swung downwards! In an instant, it engulfed the whole of Mount Dongling. The waves of air rippled out in all directions. Chao Xiaojian¡¯s body shuddered as the faint sound of hisughter filled the air. Countless ghostly figures were dragged out of the skies and raced into Mount Dongling. On that day, Mount Donglin flowed with blood. The white-haired Sword Demon, Chao Xiaojian, had received the imperial decree and destroyed an entire sect. The Donglu¡¯s Sword League elders were not willing to sit and await death, hence they all fought to the very end. However, the end result was a sea of blood flowing down the steps of Mount Dongling. It was the destruction of an inner sect. As for the outer disciples of the Donglu¡¯s Sword League, Chao Xiaojian did not kill them. He merely disbanded them. On that day, the entire earth was shaken. The Donglu¡¯s Sword League was wiped out of the Tang Dynasty. The fearful name of the white-haired Sword Demon, Chao Xiaojian, spread far and wide across the world. ... Blood covered the ground and the stench of blood permeated the air. A flight swordnded on the peak of Mount Dongling. Chao Xiaojian sat on top of a limestone. His robes were stained red. As he stared up into the zing sun among the sea of clouds, his white hair gently rippled in the breeze. The ground surrounding him was littered with the corpses of the Donglu¡¯s Sword League elders. He stood up and stretched, then he picked up his sword as he walked towards the Donglu Demon Portal. He rushed into the demon portal, shocking the warriors inside. Chao Xiaojian had destroyed an entire guild under the orders of the Emperor and took over the Donglu¡¯s Sword Guild¡¯s resources for the year. However, in the same vein, the Sword Guild had inherited the task of defending the Donglu Demon Portal. This task had fallen upon Chao Xiaojian. Even though the Donglu Demon Portal would be a weak point for the short term, with Chao Xiaojian overseeing it, it would not be a huge problem. Chao Xiaojian took out his green steel sword that was covered in scratches and held it in front of the Donglu Demon Portal. He guarded the demon portal with a single sword. Inside the Donglu Demon Portal, the two shing forces continued to reverberate. A powerful aura lingered in the air. However, it did not dare to make any odd movements before it rushed back in retreat. Chao Xiaojian smiled. After that, he left Donglu Demon Portal. A trace of de energy gushed out of his lungs and shot him up into the clouds, turning into a stream of light that looked as though it would crush the earth with one strike. ... Chao Xiaojian returned to Changan City. He had received the news that Fang Lang and the others had won the Resource Battle. Chao Xiaojian smiled freely. Since today was the birthday celebration of the Emperor and the Minister of Rites, Zhou Yiyuan, was dead, Old Man Gao personally took over Zhou Yiyuan¡¯s unfinished jobs and organised a dinner banquet in the pce. Many warriors from the variousrge sects were invited to this banquet. The pce was filled with people and the atmosphere was lively. Everyone was chatting and drinking happily. Even though numerous things had happened in this year¡¯s Resource Battle, no one discussed these events at the banquet. The disciples of the Main Path Guid had left earlier with their leader. Hence, they were not present at the banquet. Fang Lang sat in front of a table, drinking wine and eating. He watched the dance and vocal performances while listening to the musical instruments y. He seemed to be enjoying himself. However, Fang Lang had toned down his behaviour at the banquetpared to his crazy arrogance at the arena. Fang Lang¡¯s mind was currently full of the things that his master had entrusted him with. He needed to retrieve the Withering Lotus Sword from the Meridian Guild. Head to the All-Seeing Buddha Sect for the Circle Lotus Sword and get the Reincarnating Lotus Sword from the Main Path Guild. Chao Xiaojian suddenly barged over, reeking of alcohol. He looked as drunk as a skunk. He had dragged Wen Ting along with him who continued to drink only wolfberry tea at the banquet. However, Fang Lang and Wen Ting were both aware that with Chao Xiaojian¡¯s cultivation, no wine on earth would be able to make him drunk. ¡°Lang¡¯zi, you must be thinking about how you¡¯re going to get all the swords, right? I knew that there was something fishy going on when you managed to get the Blooming Lotus Sword from the Sword Guild. At the time, my senior sister told me that the person who retrieved the sword would be Wen Ting. Hence, I¡¯ve been paying attention to this fellow the whole time. In the end, you appeared mid-way through.¡± Chao Xiaojian leaned against the table in a wanton and unrestrained manner. He took a sip of wine then said, ¡°Regarding this matter, it¡¯s time to head out to get the other three swords. I feel as though the situation in Changan City is not quite right. There are storms brewing. My senior sister should return quickly.¡± ¡°The only way to do so is to retrieve the other three swords and allow ¡®Life and Death to circle round¡¯. This will awaken the spiritual sense left behind by my senior sister and possibly bring her back,¡± said Chao Xiaojian as he smacked his lips together. ¡°Tomorrow, I¡¯ll bring you back to Luojiang City so that you can properly meet up with your father. After all, this time we¡¯ll be heading to three sects and it¡¯s uncertain if we¡¯ll return alive. Ultimately, in this world, there are many people who do not want my senior sister to return.¡± ¡°If you¡¯re afraid, you should remain in Luojiang City. If you¡¯re not,e along and experience the excitement as we head to the three top sects among the ten great sects.¡± Chao Xiaojian patted Fang Lang on the shoulder as he said, ¡°Little fellow, are you scared?¡± Fang Lang could not help but smile when he heard Chao Xiaojian¡¯s words. Of course, he was not afraid. If Xuanyuan Taihua returned to the Tang Dynasty, Fang Lang would have someone powerful that he could cling to. He would be someone who was difficult to mess with in the Tang Dynasty. In that case, Fang Lang would be able to fullymit himself to cultivation until he was able to bind to geniuses or even anyone that he desired. Hence, it was extremely beneficial for Fang Lang to retrieve all three swords to bring Xuanyuan Taihua back. ¡®Ding!¡¯ ¡®Mission task activated.¡¯ ¡®The road of cultivation is long. How can one not have someone to rely on? Go ahead and retrieve the three swords from the three sects. With each sword retrieved, you will receive a Silver Reward Egg. A Gold Reward Egg will be obtained when you¡¯ve managed to guide Xuanyuan Taihua back.¡¯ The System¡¯s prompt rang out in Fang Lang¡¯s mind. He swept his eye over it and the smile on his face brightened. He had already decided to embark on a journey to the three sects before this. Now that there were so many rewards to be gained, Fang Lang was even more motivated to go. However, Fang Lang understood that since the System had activated a mission, it meant that this task... would not be an easy one! Despite that, Fang Lang raised his wine cup and downed it. In response to Chao Xiaojian¡¯s question, he said, ¡°Scared? What¡¯s there to be scared of? My master left her hometown alone in order to travel to the realm of the demons. As her disciple, it¡¯s only expected for me to guide her back. It¡¯s an obligatory duty as her disciple.¡± Of course, he was not doing this for the rare Gold Reward Egg prize. He was doing this out of the heartbroken sensation he had for his master who had spent thest ten years drifting in a foreignnd. As soon as Chao Xiaojian heard his words, the drunken look in his eyes disappearedpletely. He looked deep into Fang Lang¡¯s eyes as aplicated look shed across his eyes. His senior sister had not made a mistake in epting this disciple. He turned out to be more reliable than Wen Ting. However, Chao Xiaojian did not utter the thoughts in his mind. Instead, he continued to toast and drank with Fang Lang throughout the night. ... Inside the pce, the night banquet continued in a grand and lively fashion. In contrast to the festivities of the banquet, it was extremely quiet and still within the Cold Pce of the Royal City. The sound of a traditional chinese instrument could faintly be heard from the other corner of the Royal City. Under the dim lighting of the oilmps, the figure of a person could be vaguely seen. The third prince, Li Liancheng, was not dressed in his finery. Instead, he wore in clothes and sat quietly on the futon. He calmly raised his head. A strand of hair hung over his forehead. He looked towards the lively part of the pce and almost seemed to be able to visualize the debauchery andvishness of the partying there. He gently stroked the small dagger in his hand. The sound of light footsteps rang out. A eunuch hung his head so that his face could not be clearly seen as he took tiny steps over. ¡°Your highness... everything is ready,¡± said the eunuch. Li Liancheng stopped stroking his dagger. His lips curved up gently as a crazy gleam filled his eyes. When he recalled the death of Li Tianlin whom he had hated with all his heart, his heart could not help but fill with terror and gloom. In his daze, he seemed to see his older brother¡¯s corpse being enveloped by the Tang Code. It was like watching an orange being juiced... He could not stop himself from shivering. He seemed to see the Tang Code above Fang Lang¡¯s head, shooting arrow after arrow to end up killing Nan Yehua. Li Liancheng¡¯s heart beat rapidly. He shut his eyes. A long time had passed before he slowly opened them once more and let out a huge sigh. ¡°Fang Lang...¡± As he uttered this name, aplicated gleam shed across Li Liancheng¡¯s eyes which turned into a killing intent. After he suppressed the intent to kill, Li Liancheng changed into the robes of an eunuch. He could not remain in the Cold Pce. ¡°Your highness. This is the strength talisman provided by the warriors of the Main Path Guild. If you activate it with your Blood Essence, you¡¯ll be able to disguise your identity as your highness.¡± ¡°The single-use space rune is also ready. The destination is the Western Region Demon Portal.¡± ¡°Very good.¡± Li Liancheng strode out of the Cold Pce dressed in eunuch robes. He turned his head back to look at the lively atmosphere inside the Royal Pce. He then turned and left with a swish of his robes. Inside the Cold Pce, the figure of the third prince remained sitted quietly on the futon, looking quietly at the lights under the clear moon-lit sky. Chapter 129 - Returning Home To Visit Family

Chapter 129: Returning Home To Visit Family

The next day, it was a clear, sunny day. It was a rare day in Changan City where it did not snow in thete winter. The banquet guests had not departed. However, it was time to put an end to the Emperor¡¯s birthday banquet. The Resource Battle had ended. All the disciples of the various sects that had congregated in Changan City were prepared to head back to their various sects and continue their cultivation. This Resource Battle had been an extremely huge shock for many of the new disciples. Many of the proud and arrogant ones among them finally understood that the resources that they had did note easy after they had experienced a terrible beating. They would certainly treasure the cultivation resources even more after this and work hard at their cultivation. Outside Changan City. The wind blew against the stubborn dead vegetation on both sides of the road, causing them to sway non-stop. The cold wind blew up one¡¯s sleeves, causing a biting chill. Fang Lang, Ni Wen, Liu Bubai were all from Luojiang City. Hence, Chao Xiaojian allowed them to all head back to Luojiang City together. It would be a chance for them to visit their families after having been away for a month. Jiang Linglong remained at the Martial Arts King Manor while Geshu Yuehua returned to the Sword Guild before everyone else. Chao Xiaojian picked up his sword, brought everyone in tow and turned into a stream of light that headed towards Luojiang City at high speed. Changan City shrank beneath their feet until it became a tiny point thenpletely disappeared from sight. Luojiang City. It had not snowed at Luojiang City at all. However, there had been multiple winter showers. It looked like an ink painting. The sword light tore through the sky and arrived in front of Luojiang City. The soldiers guarding the city in the city towers of Luojiang City were shocked. They quickly bowed in respect. As soldiers guarding the city, they had a discerning eye. Chao Xiaojian arrived on a flight sword that was not produced by argemercialpany. It was a sturdy steel sword. That was an unbelievably powerful feat! The city gates opened. Chao Xiaojian smiled and entered the city. ¡°Go back home, all of you. Spend quality time with your family. We¡¯ll head out tomorrow,¡± said Chao Xiaojian. Fang Lang, Ni Wen, Liu Bubai bowed with sped hands. After that, the three of them left and walked down the familiar main street in Luojiang City. Chao Xiaojian swung his hand as his white hair fluttered under the drizzle of rain. ¡°Wen Ting,e with me to another ce,¡± shouted Chao Xiaojian at Wen Ting who had nned on visiting Headmaster Cui. Wen Ting gulped down a mouthful of wolfberry tea in a slight daze. ... Ding Ding Ding! The sound of the steel hammer rang out unceasingly from the cksmith in Luojiang City. The furnace was zing as sparks flew out in all directions. A thick slurry of water sshed around, hissing as it turned into steam. An old man dressed in a thin robe held a steel hammer and was hammering non-stop. A couple strands of white hair hung over his forehead. Outside the cksmith¡¯s workshop, the wind and rain grew fiercer. The sound of the signboard pping in the wind rang out constantly. Thunder would asionally resound from behind the clouds. The sound of footsteps over the puddles quickly arrived outside the building. Two figures entered the building. The old man stopped hammering. After that, his wrinkled face contorted into a frown, ¡°I have nothing much to offer you as a host. Find a ce to sit by yourselves. I don¡¯t usually get such familiar customers in my shabby workshop.¡± Chao Xiaojian and Wen Ting looked at the old man and smiled with sped hands. ¡°Old Huang, you¡¯re too kind.¡± The old man stopped working and sat with them. He turned to look at Wen Ting and the rapier at his waist. The rapier that had previously behaved like a wild beast was now enclosed within its scabbard and was in a much calmer state. It carried less rage. The old man swept an eye over Wen Ting and noticed that not only did Wen Ting appear stronger, his essence and spirit were also much better than before. ¡°As expected of Xuanyuan Taihua...¡± sighed the old man with full emotions. ¡°She can make the weak into something extraordinary and fill Wen Ting with life even after his sword heart was destroyed. Everything was within expectations.¡± ¡°This is only to be expected of the Tang Dynasty First Sword over thest 200 years. Why have you bothe to see me today?¡± The old man took out a dirty cloth and wiped his hands before staggering back to his rocking chair. He sat down and asked calmly. ¡°Wen Ting, you little punk. You still owe me quite a sum of money. However, that little kid, Fang Lang paid for it on your behalf. Hence, your debt is settled.¡± Wen Ting smiled in embarrassment. He had allowed Fang Lang to take the Blooming Lotus Sword for a look, hence, the debt should have been settled... Chao Xiaojian found a chair to sit on. He looked at the old man and said, ¡°My senior sister appeared in the Youzhou Demon Portal. The barrier between the two realms was torn and we could see the Tang Dynasty from the demon realm. This was because that kid, Fang Lang, awakened the spiritual sense that my senior sister hid within the Blooming Lotus Sword.¡± Chao Xiaojian¡¯s words caused thenguid old man to slowly widen his eyes. There was a bright sparkle in his eyes. ¡°I¡¯ve said it before, how could Xuanyuan Taihua have passed on without any news? This is great news. However, what does this have to do with youing to see me?¡± said the old man mildly in a raspy voice. Wen Ting took a sip of wolfberry tea at the side. He had somewhat figured out what Chao Xiaojian¡¯s n was. It was true, there was no one under the heavens that was better suited than this old man before him to escort Fang Lang in his mission to retrieve the three swords. Wen Ting was astonished that Chao Xiaojian had included the old man in his n. However, would he be able to convince him? Wen Ting swallowed a mouthful of wolfberry tea and smiled. The storm continued to rage outside. Inside the building, the discussions continued. ... Fang family market street. Ever since Fang Lang became the champion, the reputation of the Fang family market street rose. Today, this market street was a bustle of activity with people flooding the street. The Fang family had produced a champion. This news had shocked the entirety of Luojiang City. Old Fang had also be a famous person in Luojiang City. The Fang family market street business had also grown in leaps and bounds. Fang Lang wore white robes with his scabbard on his back as he walked leisurely down the familiar streets. He did not head to the Fang family market street, instead he wandered down the streets of Luojiang City. asionally, he would stop to buy some snacks. Other times, he would assess some small items. Ever since he had entered this world, Fang Lang had devoted everything to his cultivation. Hecked certain understanding of the things from the outside world. As he walked, he arrived at the Fang family market street. When the people there saw Fang Lang, a couple of the staff who were familiar with him rubbed their eyes in disbelief. After that, they cleared their throats and yelled, ¡°The master is back!¡± ¡°The champion is back!¡± All of a sudden, the people in the market street seemed to have surged like boiling water. Old Fang was at the ounts office calcting the ounts. When he heard the uproar outside, he quickly put down the brush in his hand and walked out of the ounts room. He saw Fang Lang in the center of a group of people. A group of staff, a couple of the city folks, and also a couple of business friends were circled around Fang Lang, hounding him with questions. Fang Lang was not arrogant. He smiled as he responded and talked about a couple of interesting things. Fang Lang seemed to sense Old Fang and turned his head over. He instantly smiled and nodded. A smile appeared on Old Fang¡¯s face. He immediately called out one of his staff to go to the Fang family restaurant to book the entire ce and get them to prepare all their best delicacies! His son had returned home, as a father, his heart was full of joy! Old Fang pushed through the crowd and retrieved Fang Lang who was trapped within a circle of people. ¡°Young fellow, why didn¡¯t you tell me that you wereing home?¡± scolded Old Fang good-naturedly. ¡°The Resource Battle had ended. I suddenly got the chance toe home to visit my family. It was out of my predictions,¡± exined Fang Lang. The father-son duo strolled through the market street as they chatted. asionally, some merchants would ask Old Fang if his son was back. Old Fang would smile and nod as he replied. The two of them walked to the restaurant and as soon as they entered, the food was ready for them. Old Fang asked Fang Lang to have a seat at the table covered in food. He had not invited anyone else to join them. There were no guests joining them, just father and son sharing a meal together, savouring this rare opportunity to be reunited. It was said that cultivators had no home. Old Fang had thought that after Fang Lang entered the Sword Guild, he would hardly ever be able toe home every eight to ten years. ¡°Don¡¯t be worried if you encounter any difficulty in your cultivation, or any bottlenecks. Don¡¯t be frustrated. Come home more frequently and I¡¯ll drink wine with you. Perhaps you¡¯ll achieve some enlightenment soon after,¡± said Old Fang with a smile as he served Fang Lang with more and more food. Old Fang asked Fang Lang about his future ns. Fang Lang did not hide the truth from him. He told Old Fang that he had been epted by the Tang Dynasty¡¯s First Sword as her disciple. Old Fang was amazed when he heard that. Of course, he was more worried about Fang Lang¡¯s safety and urged him to be careful. ¡°If you really aren¡¯t capable or if it bes too dangerous,e back to Luojiang. I have nothing else apart from this business. However, it¡¯s expanded and is now quite a huge business. Why don¡¯t youe back and take over? There¡¯s eight market streets, five restaurants and also ten thousand acres of good farnd. You¡¯ll never have to worry about anything!¡± ¡°Our family can be considered one of Luojiang¡¯s richest families!¡± said Old Fang with a smile. Fang Lang could not help but smile when he heard these familiar words that tried to diminish the fighting spirit within him. Just as before, Old Fang was still his biggest stumbling block in his cultivation journey! ... The Western Region Demon Portal. The rune tform that had been delivered to the demon portal beforehand began to shine brightly. Ripples of energy shook through the air. A momentter, a figure dressed in eunuch¡¯s clothing appeared. In the demon portal, Asi Luoshan stood in his armor as he watched the figure walk off the tform. He slowly let out a sigh. ¡°Your highness.¡± The eunuch raised his head. It was the third prince, Li Liancheng who had used the strength talisman of the Main Path Guild to change his appearance. ¡°Uncle Luoshan.¡± When the third prince saw Asi Luoshan, his tense emotions finally rxed. Even though the third prince¡¯s mother was not a foreigner, she had a good rtionship with Asi Luoshan. This was why the third prince had received the backing of many foreigners. ¡°I¡¯ve already learnt of the events that happened in Changan.¡± Asi Luoshan said, ¡°Your highness, you have been plotted against yet the Emperor still punished you. I can¡¯t wrap my head around that. It¡¯s understandable that you feel wronged.¡± ¡°Fang Lang has hurt you numerous times. Despite this, the Emperor has never punished him. In fact, he ignored it. Why is this the case? That¡¯s because he managed to obtain the Blooming Lotus Sword. It seems that he might be able to retrieve the Withering Lotus, the Circling Lotus and the Reincarnating Lotus in order to guide First Sword Taihua back from the demon realm.¡± ¡°However, has the Emperor considered who would benefit the most when First Sword Taihua returns?¡± As the two of them walked in the demon realm, they chatted back and forth. Yellow sand drifted slowly in the air. The Western Region Demon Portal was an extremely harsh environment. Asi Luoshan in his armor, raised his arm and pointed in the direction of Changan. He said, ¡°Your highness, do you remember when chaos erupted in Changan, it created a huge uproar. However, that person never appeared. However, when I used Blood Essence at the Vermillion Bird Gate, that person appeared. When Nan Yehuo attempted to kill the Emperor, why didn¡¯t that person appear when such a huge thing urred?¡± Asi Luoshan¡¯s burly figure suddenly gave off a terrifying aura. The third prince had just removed the eunuch¡¯s robes. He did not expect that Asi Luoshan would discuss this secret with him. When he thought about it carefully, Li Liancheng narrowed his eyes. Asi Luoshan turned to look at the third prince with an extremely dark look in his eyes. The words that he said were shocking. It was as if a bolt of lightning had struck down from the heavens! ¡°Something... might have happened to the Emperor.¡± ¡°The reason that you feel wronged, your highness, is because the Emperor... is not the Emperor any more! He has not been the Emperor for a long time.¡± As soon as Li Liancheng heard those words, he felt his entire body shudder. It felt as though a chill was spreading across his body from his feet. ¡®Was it possible that the Emperor... isn¡¯t really the Emperor?¡¯ The look in Asi Luoshan¡¯s eyes was deep and imprable. ¡°The provincial governor system was personally approved by the Emperor ten years ago. However, this governor system has been rendered useless merely because of a word from Fang Lang. Why is that so?¡± ¡°Furthermore, the battle of the crown prince was initiated by the Emperor ten years ago. You and the first prince have fought for ten years. However, now the first prince had died tragically and you have been framed and then forced into the Cold Pce. The battle for the crown prince has be a joke! Why? Does the Tang Dynasty not need a crown prince?¡± ¡°That¡¯s because... the Emperor is no longer the Emperor.¡± Asi Luohan¡¯s words made the third prince feel as though he had uncovered a great secret. His entire body shook. ¡°General Luoshan, w-what¡¯s the best way to tackle this?¡± After careful thought, Li Liancheng found that it was extremely strange indeed. Over the past ten years, the Emperor had concealed his face. Over the past ten years, the Emperor never had many warm and close interactions with the princes... The so-called battle for the crown prince was truly a joke! Furthermore, when Fang Lang attacked Li Liancheng three times with his sword, the person that the Emperor admonished was him! Li Liancheng was now connecting all these dots together in his head! A shocking revtion shed upon him, just like a streak of lightning in the dark night! Asi Luohan took a deep breath in. His burly figure stood proud in the peak of the demon realm. His eyes shed with a unique light. A strong spiritual sense spread out. It was as if a giant rock had stirred up huge waves in the sea of consciousness in Li Liancheng¡¯s mind. He spoke solemnly, ¡°All the injustices that you have encountered were because of this, your highness. I cannot allow that fellow, Fang Lang, to attack you thrice more with his sword.¡± ¡°Furthermore, I need you to save the Emperor, your highness! In order to give the Tang Dynasty the truth that they deserve and to give you the justice that you deserve!¡± Chapter 130 - That Disciple Won’t Dare To Retrieve The Sword

Chapter 130: That Disciple Won¡¯t Dare To Retrieve The Sword

It waste at night. Thend was quiet. The winter rain that had been pouring down the whole day finally ceased. The bright moon shone, casting a silvery, clear light over the rain-soaked ck roof tiles. Due to Ni Wen¡¯s performance in the imperial examination, her family had moved into a new house. The oilmp flickered as Ni Wen and her mother sat together. Ni Wen¡¯s mother had especially ughtered a chicken and made chicken soup in order to strengthen her body. Ni Wen¡¯s mother kept asking her whether she found cultivation tiring. Ni Wen lowered her head and drank the soup. During the time she had spent in the Sword Guild, her personality had changed. She became much livelier. However, she reverted to her quiet self in her mother¡¯s presence. Her mother picked up a chicken thigh and ced it in her bowl. Then, shedled more soup for Ni Wen. As she got more soup for Ni Wen, she spoke hesitantly, ¡°Your father hase looking for you.¡± As soon as she spoke, Ni Wen¡¯s lowered head lifted abruptly. ... The night continued to deepen. Old Fang returned home and personally went into the kitchen to prepare all sorts of dishes. After Chao Xiaojian paid a visit to the old man at the cksmith, he and Wen Ting came to the Fang Manor to join them for dinner. Throughout the entire dinner, Old Fang did not stop toasting Chao Xiaojian, entreating him and Wen Ting to look after Fang Lang. However, Old Fang¡¯s alcohol tolerance was no match for Chao Xiaojian. After all, Chao Xiaojian had his cultivation and was known to drink a thousand cups without getting drunk. On the other hand, Old Fang became drunk very quickly. Fang Lang shook his head helplessly as he helped Old Fang back to his room and helped him to bed. The moonlight was cool and bright. Chao Xiaojian stood in the courtyard with his hands behind his back. Fang Lang walked out and was stunned when he saw Chao Xiaojian. He guessed that Chao Xiaojian must have something to tell him. ¡°The Meridian Guild, the All-Seeing Buddha Sect and the Main Path Guild. The three swords of my senior sister are located in these three sects. Which sect do you n on heading to first?¡± asked Chao Xiaojian as he looked at Fang Lang. ¡°The Main Path Guild is very dangerous. Nan Yehuo consumed a Great Elixir Pill of the Main Path Guild and attacked the Emperor. I don¡¯t believe that the Main Path Guild didn¡¯t have a hand in this incident.¡± Fang Lang was deep in thought. Which one should they head to first? After a long time, Fang Lang raised his head and looked at Chao Xiaojian with a smile. Then, he said, ¡°In that case... it should be the Main Path Guild.¡± Chao Xiaojian was extremely shocked by Fang Lang¡¯s choice. He raised his head and looked at Fang Lang. ¡°That¡¯s extremely dangerous!¡± ¡°Since it¡¯s dangerous, it should be our first destination. Our sect leader should have prepared something for us, otherwise we won¡¯t be able to easily advance to all three sects.¡± ¡°Since the sect leader is unable to personally go with me, it means that she must have prepared a trump card. Since there is a trump card, it would naturally be at the most dangerous location.¡± ¡°I¡¯ve picked the Main Path Guild for this reason. We¡¯ll take the opportunity to grab the sword and escape before the Main Path Guild manages to figure out what the trump card is,¡± said Fang Lang with a smile. When Chao Xiaojian heard his words, he could not help but shake his head as he was torn betweenughter and tears. Fang Lang was a bright boy. ¡°Little fellow... You¡¯re very interesting. However, you¡¯ve made quite a good argument in choosing the Main Path Guild as our first stop.¡± Chao Xiaojian agreed with Fang Lang¡¯s choice. As for being able to grab the sword and run, he might be worrying needlessly. ¡°However, you need not worry. The Main Path Guild is the first among the ten great sects. They won¡¯t disgrace themselves by attacking you.¡± ¡°Hence, you should be mostly safe when you visit the Main Path Guild. However, in order to avoid any idents, I¡¯ve invited a powerful warrior to protect you on your journey,¡± said Chao Xiaojian with a smile. ¡°Go then and get some sleep so that you¡¯ll wake up refreshed. We¡¯ll be leaving tomorrow. Hopefully, we¡¯ll be able to sessfully retrieve the Reincarnating Lotus Sword within the Main Path Mausoleum in the Main Path Guild.¡± ¡°Of course, you should treat this as a rare experience to enter the Main Path Mausoleum. Most people are not able to enter the Main Path Mausoleum.¡± After that, the two of them returned to their rooms. However, Fang Lang did not sleep when he returned to his room. Instead, he took out the cultivation resource from the System and switched to the Quintuple Binding Mode. He began to cultivate throughout the night without saying a word. The next day. It was a clear day and the bright winter sun shone down. It felt warm on their bodies. Old Fang was hungover. He appeared tired. In front of the Fang Manor, Chao Xiaojian, Wen Ting and Fang Lang gathered. Ni Wen and Liu Bubai joined them soon after. Liu Bubai was in high spirits. When he returned homest night, his parents were full of praise for him. There was color in his cheeks. His parents had called him the pride of the Liu family. Ni Wen also arrived. However, she came with her head lowered as she bit her lip. The clip-clop sound of horse hooves sounded out. A fancy horse carriage slowly appeared. The person driving the carriage was familiar, Zhao Wuji. Old Fang snapped out of his hangover as soon as he saw Zhao Wuji. He was no longer worried about whether Fang Lang would be safe or not. Old Fang was very assured of the might of Zhao Wuji. When Fang Lang saw Zhao Wuji, he raised his eyebrow. His gaze shifted sideways andnded upon the horse carriage. There was another figure inside the carriage. As the breeze lifted the curtain, he could see an old man dressed in in clothes inside it. ¡°Fang Lang, are you going to the Meridian Guild?¡± Just as Fang Lang was about to hop onto the horse carriage, Ni Wen spoke up and asked. Everyone¡¯s gaze turned towards her. No one expected Ni Wen to ask a question like this. ¡°Yes, we¡¯ll go to the Meridian Guild,¡± responded Fang Lang. The Withering Lotus Sword was in the Meridian Guild. Hence, Fang Lang would definitely need to drop by the Meridian Guild. ¡°T-then can I...e along?¡± asked Ni Wen, biting her lip. Chao Xiaojian and Wen Ting were both stunned when they heard her question. However, when they thought about the special characteristic and the bloodline ability that Ni Wen possessed, they seemed to reach an understanding. ¡°Old Huang, is that alright?¡± asked Chao Xiaojian. ¡°Why not? It won¡¯t cause any disruption to have an extra little one.¡± A faint voice rang out from inside the carriage. When he heard the familiar voice, Fang Lang¡¯s eyes lit up instantly. He sped his hands together. ¡°Senior, it¡¯s you!¡± It was that old man from the cksmith workshop. The Master with the surname Wei. He did not expect this was the master that Chao Xiaojian had invited to protect them on their journey. Inside the horse carriage, the old man nodded his head in Fang Lang¡¯s direction. The old man was very pleased with Fang Lang and his honest demeanor. Fang Lang and Ni Wen darted inside the horse carriage. Zhao Wuji drove the carriage. The carriage rapidly sped towards the outskirts of the city. Once they were out of the city, a rune under the carriage was activated and the horse carriage shot up into the sky, flying rapidly through the air. Chao Xiaojian picked up Liu Bubai and Wen Ting and flew in the direction of Mount Shu. ... In the Tang Dynasty, there was an extensive in. The in was a fertilend that spread over several thousand miles. It supported the livelihoods of countless people. On the border of the in, there was a tall mountain. It rose from the in and soared high into the skies, reaching the clouds. The cultivators under the foot of the mountain raised their heads to see white cranes flying between the mountain peaks. It looked like a fairy realm. This mountain that reached high into the clouds was the hearnd of the Main Path Guild-Mount Tongtian. There was a gate on top of Mount Tongtian. There was a terrace court, waterside sculptures, and columns. It was absolutely picturesque. An Fan and the other disciples returned to the Main Path Guild after losing in the Resource Battle. Li Yuanzhen hung his head. His spirits were troubled. The sect leader of the Main Path Guild, Zhao Longshi, had entered the demon portal to kill the powerful demons. Hence, the person in charge of the Main Path Guild had be Zhao Zhenshi, the vice leader. He was an old cultivator with a kind face. At that moment, the vice leader, Zhao Zhenshi gathered all the elders of the Main Path Guild at the Mountain Peak Conversation Hall. However, they were not discussing the matter of their disciples losing in the Resource Battle. Zhao Zhenshi sat at the head seat above everyone else. He said mildly, ¡°First Sword Taihua appeared at the Qianlong Resource Battle in the Youzhou Demon Portal. It sounds like she wishes to return and will need to collect all four lotus swords.¡± ¡°When First Sword Taihua fought against our sect leader all those years ago, she defeated him and ced the Reincarnating Lotus Sword in the Main Path Mausoleum. She said that in the future, someone would ascend the mountain to retrieve the sword and we should not impede them. If we did, disaster would befall us...¡± ¡°Today, it seems as though First Sword Taihua¡¯s disciple, the champion Fang Lang, will being to the Main Path Guild to retrieve the sword. What does everyone think about this?¡± As soon as he finished speaking, all the cultivators in the room sitting on wooden chairs wore a myriad of expressions. Some had their eyes wide open in shock. Others frowned deeply and some looked outraged while the rest shook their heads and sighed deeply. ¡°Xuanyuan Taihua ced her sword in the Main Path Mausoleum, the sacred ground of our guild. This humiliation is difficult to bear. How can we let her stick her sword whenever she wants and retrieve it whenever she likes? Will our Main Path Guild have any pride left if we let her do that!? Xuanyuan Taihua is not in the world of the Tang Dynasty. I will not endure this humiliation! That sword cannot be taken!¡± ¡°First Sword Taihua has left the human realm in order to cultivate and be the greatest in the world. Her power cannot be fully fathomed. Since she has left a message from all those years ago, perhaps she has another trick up her sleeve. If we don¡¯t allow her disciple to retrieve the sword, I fear that something strange will ur to the Reincarnating Lotus Sword and it¡¯ll end up destroying the Main Path Mausoleum. That would be an unbearable loss.¡± All the cultivators began to speak up, each giving their own opinions. Many people sighed sorrowfully. A single female First Sword wielded such power over them that they could not even raise their heads as the top guild in the Tang Dynasty. ¡°We really need to prevent anything from happening within the Reincarnating Lotus Sword. It is rumored that a strand of spiritual sense is contained within the Blooming Lotus Sword. That spiritual sense caused that woman to tear the barriers between the two realms and appear. There must definitely be some trick with the Reincarnating Lotus Sword!¡± ¡°If her disciple wishes to retrieve the sword, I fear that we won¡¯t be able to stop him.¡± ¡°There¡¯s no rush. The Meridian Guild, the All-Seeing Buddha Sect also have swords belonging to Xuanyuan Taihua. We¡¯ll see which sect Fang Lang decides to pick first and see how those guilds react to him before we decide.¡± ¡°After all, we are the top sect among the ten great sects. Why would he have the boldness toe to our great sect to retrieve a sword?¡± ¡°He wouldn¡¯t dare,¡± muttered many of the cultivators in conversation. ... At that same time, a horse carriage arrived among the sea of clouds with a frightful sound of thunder. The sound of horse hooves exploded through the clouds. Zhao Quji drove the horse carriage and arrived at the entrance of the Main Path Guild in the sky! Fang Lang drew open the curtain of the horse carriage and stepped out of the carriage. He stood up straight and ced his hands behind his back. His white robes fluttered as he overlooked the greatest sect among all the ten great sects¡ªMain Path Guild! Chapter 131 - A Single Person Versus Half The Guild

Chapter 131: A Single Person Versus Half The Guild

The Main Path Guild is reached through the summit of Mount Tongtian. Inside the main hall, many of the elders of the Main Path were in the middle of a meeting under the leadership of the vice leader, Zhao Zhenshi. They discussed how to deal with Fang Lang, who would soon approach the Main Path Guild to retrieve the sword. Their discussions were heated. Even though many people believed that it was possible to stop Fang Lang from retrieving the sword, most of the Main Path Guild warriors were still worried about the likelihood that Xuanyuan Taihua had booby-trapped the Reincarnating Lotus Sword. If they did not allow the sessor of the First Sword Taihua, it might give rise to an undesired oue. It might trigger the Reincarnating Lotus Sword to destroy everything in the Main Path Mausoleum! The Main Path Mausoleum was extremely important to the Main Path Guild. It was sacrednd for the Main Path Guild. If destroyed, it would be a crushing blow to the Main Path Guild. Hence, none of the elders were willing to take the risk. They decided to wait and see the situation after Fang Lang approached the Meridian Guild and the All-Seeing Buddha Sect. Through that, they would be able to figure out if there was a trap nted on the sword. After all, the Withering Lotus was located in the Dragon Meridian in the Meridian Guild. As for the Circling Lotus Sword, it was situated in the Ancient Buddha Secret Realm in the All-Seeing Buddha Sect. The two sects were unlikely to let Fang Lang retrieve the swords easily. Hence, the warriors of the Main Path Guild warriors could watch as the situation unfolded before they made their ns. All of a sudden, the great hall descended into a deathly silence. Zhao Zhenshi abruptly raised his head. Many of the elders seemed to pale slightly. A group of people walked out of the great hall and looked into the clouds above the skies of the Main Path Guild. They could vaguely sense an aura. In the next moment, Zhao Zhenshi looked extremely shocked. ¡°Fang Lang, that youngster... He¡¯s decided toe to our Main Guild first!?¡± ¡°Why didn¡¯t he choose the All-Seeing Buddha Sect or the Meridian Guild? Why did he choose the Main Path Guild as his first stop!? We¡¯re the top guild out of the ten great guilds in the Tang Dynasty. Does he think that we¡¯re not a match for the Meridian Guild or the All-Seeing Buddha Sect?¡± All the elders of the Main Path Guild wore stern and fierce expressions. They raised their heads to look up into the sky and could see an borate carriage floating past. A white-robed youth with a scabbard on his back stood on the carriage. Fang Lang crossed his hands behind his back and overlooked the Main Path Guild. A multitude of emotions seemed to swirl behind his eyes. The top guild in the Tang Dynasty. The First Guild in the world. The Main Path Guild. The Sword Guild had previously been the First Guild in the world. However, ever since First Sword Taihua disappeared, the title of First Guild had changed owners for the past ten years. Fang Lang stood among the swirling clouds as he observed the Main Path Guild from on high. It had to be said that the Main Path Guild was extremely beautiful and picturesque. It was like a fairy realm. Some countless towers and lofts appeared to be built among the cloud peaks. Fang Lang turned his head to look inside the horse carriage where Ni Wen and the cksmith old man were sitting quietly. ¡°Senior, do we really have to get down from here? We¡¯re here to retrieve a sword, not to cause a scene, right?¡± asked Fang Lang. A gentle breeze blew past, causing the curtain of the horse carriage to flutter. The old man smiled. ¡°Since you¡¯re here to retrieve the sword, it means that you¡¯re here to cause a scene. Are you still hoping that they¡¯ll receive you warmly?¡± ¡°As Taihua¡¯s disciple, you should demonstrate a certain attitude and aura. Don¡¯t embarrass Taihua. Besides that, the Main Path Guild isn¡¯t that great. What right do they have to be so arrogant? If you can¡¯t do it, I¡¯ll pick you up and run.¡± Fang Lang could not help but smile. On the side of the horse carriage, Zhao Wuji, who was driving the carriage, began to chuckle loudly. ¡°Little Lang, King Jiang has asked me to give you a piece of advice. When you enter the Main Path Guild, don¡¯t be afraid. The cultivators of the Main Path Guild bully the weak but fear the strong. If you give them a scare, they might run with their tails between their legs.¡± ¡®What advice was Martial Arts King Jiang giving him?¡¯ When Fang Lang heard that, he could not stop his brow from rising in confusion. Down below, on the square at the peak of Mount Tongtian, Zhao Zhenshi¡¯s robes blew in the wind. He raised his head and looked up, then began to shout fiercely. It was like thunder was bursting out of his tongue. ¡°Such impudence! How dare you encroach the skies of the Main Path Guild!?¡± As soon as he spoke, without waiting for Fang Lang to respond, he fired his spiritual sense, and the cloud energy in the sky seemed to be gathered up. All the clouds above the Main Path Guild seemed to turn into a gigantic rune. Zhao Zhenshi stood at the center of the rune, shining brightly like a Sky God. A terrifying sense of oppression spread out from the rune. At that moment, Fang Lang felt as though he could taste the vor of death! Inside the horse carriage, the cloud energy caused the curtains to flutter. The face of the old man could be partially seen. ¡°The Main Path Guild likes to use their power to oppress people. Now that they¡¯ve found out that you¡¯re here instead of heading first to the All-Seeing Buddha Sect or the Meridian Sect, they¡¯re hopping mad,¡± said the old man with a smile. ¡°Don¡¯t worry, before the Reincarnating Lotus Sword is retrieved, these people... won¡¯t dare to hurt you,¡± continued the old man. Fang Lang steeled his nerves and took a step out with his hands behind his back. In his lungs, de energy began to stir. The Blooming Lotus Sword that was covered in scratches was taken out of its scabbard to hover by Fang Lang¡¯s side. ¡°The new champion of the Imperial Examination, the little master of the Sword Guild, the disciple of Xuanyuan Taihua has speciallye to visit the Main Path Guild!¡± ¡°I¡¯m here to heed my master¡¯s orders ande to the Main Path Guild to retrieve the sword that my master has left here.¡± Fang Lang began to descend from a great height. The Blooming Lotus sword spun around his body! His voice was like an eagle cry in the skies. It reverberated through the skies above the Main Path Guild. He released all the sword wave within him, holding nothing back. At that moment, he looked like a de lord entering the world! Fang Lang appeared unafraid as he faced the oppressive force of the Main Path Guild forbidden rune activated by Zhao Zhenshi. He continued to descend on his sword at high speeds! His aura surged and collided with the sword wave around Fang Lang. It was like a furnace burning, sending off a flow of hotva into the air. ¡°Such insolence!¡± shouted Zhao Zhenshi angrily among the swirling cloud energy! However, Fang Lang ignored him and continued to descend rapidly. Hended on the square, among the cloud of dust that swirled up. In his white robes, Fang Lang smiled as he held his Blooming Lotus Sword that was covered in scratches. He had arrived at the Main Path Guild in such a showy and arrogant manner, attracting the attention of many people at the Main Path Guild. Li Yuanzhen, An Fan, and the other disciples who had returned to the sect all stepped out of their own cultivation houses. They looked in disbelief at the familiar figure that descended from the skies. Then, the entire Main Path Guild erupted into an uproar. That was too arrogant! Fang Lang had arrived at the Main Path Guild in such an arrogant fashion! Zhao Zhenshi and the elders of the sect had not attacked him yet. They looked at the fancy horse carriage floating in the sky with solemn and serious expressions. Inside the horse carriage, there was an extremely powerful aura. Chao Xiaojian had note, but it seemed like he had invited an extremely mighty person to protect Fang Lang. ¡°Young chap, you are extremely rude!¡± Zhao Zhenshi calmed down and looked down upon Fang Lang among the swirling cloud energy. Fang Lang sped his hands and asked, ¡°May I know who you are, senior?¡± ¡°I¡¯m the vice leader of the Main Path Guild, Zhao Zhenshi.¡± Zhao Zhenshi said, ¡°The sect leader entered the demon portal to kill powerful demon enemies. At the moment, the Main Path Guild is led by me. Don¡¯t you think you¡¯ve been too excessive by entering my guild in such an arrogant manner?¡± Fang Lang quickly sped his hands. ¡°My master is deep in the demon realm ughtering demons in order to preserve the peace of the Tang Dynasty. It is unknown if she is dead or alive. She had entreated me to retrieve the three swords, the Withering Lotus, the Circling Lotus and the Reincarnating Lotus as fast as I could.¡± ¡°I dare not dy in this task. In my haste, I hurried here as soon as the Resource Battle in Changan City ended. If I¡¯ve caused any offense, I hope that you can forgive me.¡± With a shake of his sleeve, Zhao Zhenshi wore a cold expression as he stood within the rune. He looked down on Fang Lang coldly and said indifferently, ¡°The Reincarnating Lotus is deep within a rock in the Main Path Mausoleum.¡± ¡°However, the Main Path Mausoleum is a sacred ce of our guild. It cannot be easily entered. Even the disciples of our guild will need to pass countless tests if they wish to enter the Main Path Mausoleum.¡± ¡°If you wish to enter the Main Path Mausoleum, you will need to undergo a test.¡± As soon as Fang Lang heard his words, he could not stop himself from narrowing his eyes. As Chao Xiaojian had said, not many people wanted First Sword Taihua to return. The Main Path Guild was included among them. However, it made sense. First Sword Taihua managed to suppress the Main Path Guild single-handedly. If she was around, the Main Path Guild would be relegated to be the second sect in the Tang Dynasty. Hence, there was a good reason that the Main Path Guild did not want Taihua to return. ¡°Of course, we¡¯ll stick to the rules,¡± said Fang Lang with a smile. Zhao Zhenshi raised his hand and made a gesture. Instantly, it sounded as if an ancient bell had been struck. The sound of the bell reverberated to every corner of Mount Tongtian. After that, the clouds seemed to surge as disciple after disciple of the Main Path Guild appeared on the clouds. The Main Path Guild was undeniably the strongest sect in the Tang Dynasty. The aura of each of their disciples was extremely powerful. Without considering any of those below the fourth-ss, there were many disciples in the upper fourth-ss realm, numbering in the hundreds. In the Sword Guild, the disciples who could advance to the fourth-ss were only the Earth Pavillion and the Heaven Pavillion disciples. Besides that, the numbers were extremely low. Zhao Zhenshi looked down at Fang Lang from on high. With a swish of his arm, he said, ¡°Outside the Main Path Mausoleum, there are the Thousand Cloud Stairs. If our disciples of the lower fourth-ss realm wish to enter the mausoleum, they have to be among the first ten disciples who make it up the Thousand Cloud Stairs.¡± ¡°Since you have decided to retrieve the Reincarnating Lotus Sword, you¡¯ll need to enter the top ten among the disciples going up the Thousand Cloud Stairs. If you can¡¯t get into the top ten... you should just head back to where you came from!¡± As soon as Zhao Zhenshi finished speaking, the entire Main Path Guild erupted in joyful cheers. Li Yuanzhen, An Fan, and the other disciples who had just arrived at the square all had a delighted light in their eyes. Based on the vice leader¡¯s words, the Main Path Mausoleum would open ahead of time because of Fang Lang. This meant that the disciples who were in the lower fourth-ss realm would be able to enter the Main Path Mausoleum ahead of time. The Main Path Mausoleum was the sacrednd of the Main Path Guild. Numerous spells and inscriptions left behind by many of the sect¡¯s powerful warriors were kept there. There was no better opportunity than this! The disciples did not care what Fang Lang¡¯s motive was foring here. Whether he retrieved the Reincarnating Lotus Sword had nothing to do with them. This was because that level was too high. It was the sh between the sect leader and the First Sword Taihua. What they were concerned with was whether they would be able to benefit. The opening of the Main Path Mausoleum was a boon to them. Due to this, the atmosphere at the square was extremely noisy and exuberant. Zhao Zhenshi stood within the rune and calmly looked at Fang Lang. He asked, ¡°Do you dare to take part?¡± ¡®So he was using the disciples of the lower fourth-realm to threaten me?¡¯ Fang Lang¡¯s cultivation was currently in the third-ss realm. His strongest was his spell mastery. Thanks to the Tang Code, he had reached the fifth-grade spell advisor state. However, when he ascended the Cloud Stairs, Fang Lang¡¯s truepetitor would be An Fan, who was a fourth-ss disciple. This meant that Fang Lang would need topete for the first ten spots with the numerous fourth-ss disciples of the Main Path Guild. It was basically Fang Lang versus half of the Main Path Guild. The difficulty and the pressure were extremely high. However, Fang Lang understood that his only option was to ept the challenge. Even if it was a third-ss realm, even if it was a third-ss ninth-grade, Fang Lang was not scared. After all, his spell mastery, sword mastery, and martial arts mastery had all entered the third-ss. The pressure caused by the fourth-ss realm was definitely huge! However, Fang Lang did not have a choice. Fang Lang¡¯s white robes fluttered. He wore a warm, friendly smile as he looked towards Zhao Zhenshi standing in the rune. ¡°Why would I be afraid to?¡± Zhao Zhenshi gently stroked his beard and waved his hand slowly. ¡°Please go ahead.¡± At the square, many disciples instantly charged like a surging river, rushing exuberantly towards the direction of the Main Path Mausoleum. Fang Lang also started to rush forward along with the flow of the Main Path Guild disciples. ... In the sky, among the swirling clouds, the old man sighed softly inside the horse carriage. ¡°The Thousand Cloud Stairs in front of the Main Path Mausoleum, a thousand disciples who could ascend the steps would have been able to enter the mausoleum.¡± ¡°Zhao Zhenshi is extremely bold. He chose to open the Main Path Mausoleum in advance. He knew that he would not be able to stop Fang Lang from retrieving the sword. However, by choosing to bring out so many of the Main Path Guild disciples to pressure Fang Lang. It was not a good idea on his part.¡± ¡°This is a fair fight. If Fang Lang manages to squeeze into the first ten disciples to make their way up the stairs. The criteria to refuse to allow him into the mausoleum is unfair.¡± Inside the horse carriage, Ni Wen¡¯s confident voice rang out, ¡°Fang Lang will definitely be able to get into the first ten.¡± ¡°You little one, you seem fully confident in him,¡± said the old man with a smile. ¡°Okay then, I¡¯ll wait here in the sky. It¡¯s not a big deal. Why don¡¯t you head down and watch the excitement? The Thousand Cloud Stairs in front of the Main Path Mausoleum has been said to conceal a rune in each step.¡± ¡°Hence, there¡¯ll be a thousand runes since there¡¯s a thousand steps. For spell mastery, it¡¯s an exceptional opportunity. It¡¯s a shame that you won¡¯t get a chance to climb it.¡± The old man shook his head. ¡°Old Zhao, why don¡¯t we head down?¡± Zhao Wuji, who was driving the carriage, began tough. ¡°Haha, okay then. Senior, Miss Ni Wen, sit tight.¡± After that, Zhao Wuji snapped the reins and the sound of horse hooves rang through the air as it dashed towards the square on Mount Tongtian. ¡°Insolence!¡± Zhao Zhenshi suddenly raised his head. ¡°If you wish to enter the sect, you need to ascend the mountain from the mountain gate.¡± ¡°Even if it were the Emperor or a general who wished to enter the Main Path Guild, they would need to enter through the mountain gate. What do you take the Main Path Guild for!?¡± ¡°Get lost!¡± As soon as Zhao Zhenshi finished speaking, within the Main Path Guild, four extremely powerful elders flew into the sky with their bodies glowing with spinning runes as their robes billowed. The four runes were filled with a destructive aura. The runes seemed to transform into strange and abnormal shapes. There were mountains, dragons, oceans, and tortoises roaring... The frightening aura spread and caused the horses drawing the carriage to buckle and tremble in terror. The four runes twisted and jostled in the air as they aimed for the descending horse carriage driven by Zhao Wuji! Down below, Fang Lang, who rushed to the Main Path Mausoleum along with the crowd, suddenly looked solemn and quickly looked up into the sky. Chapter 132 - I, Fang Lang, Never Fight Alone

Chapter 132: I, Fang Lang, Never Fight Alone

Zhao Zhenshi stood within the cloud energy of the rune as he stared fixedly at the descending horse carriage. He did not capture Fang Lang because Fang Lang was Xuanyuan Taihua¡¯s disciple. The Reincarnating Lotus Sword was still inside the Main Path Mausoleum. Fang Lang hade to retrieve the sword. If he harmed Fang Lang, he feared that he might trigger the wrath of the Reincarnating Lotus Sword. However, if anyone else apart from Fang Lang wished to storm into the Main Path Guild in such an arrogant manner, they would have to pay the price! The four elders rose into the air, emanating with a ferocious aura. It seemed to cause the mountain peaks to change colors from fear. Cloud energy surged as the sky andnd changed colors! These were four extremely powerful cultivators. The spell mastery levels about the fourth-ss realm were the fifth-ss, cursed-human realm; the sixth-ss, cursed-earth realm; the seventh-ss, cursed-heaven realm and the eighth-ss, forbidden-curse realm... These four elders of the Main Path Guild all belonged to the seventh-ss, cursed-heaven realm. The rune that they were using right now was the most powerful rune in the Main Path Guild, the Five Phase Rune! The Five Phase Rune was not anything like the paltry rune that An Fan had used. As soon as the rune was activated, there were strange urrences that seemed to destroy the earth! At that moment, all the disciples who were preparing to rush towards the Main Path Mausoleum stopped in their steps. Fang Lang looked up with a solemn expression. Fang Lang was not sure how strong the old man was. However, since Chao Xiaojian had rmended him, he must be pretty powerful. The horse carriage descended. The four elders floated at the four corners around the carriage. The four runes were like a seal in each of the four cardinal directions and seemed topletely crush the horse carriage. On the horse carriage, Zhao Wuji, who was a fifth-ss martial arts realm, could feel the blood in his entire body surge. It felt like a gigantic oppressive force that made him feel as though he could barely breathe! Zhao Zhenshi stared into the void with his hands behind his back as his robes billowed. He seemed to have heard the sound of loudughter from the horse carriage that was about to be destroyed. ¡°Hahahaha...¡± ¡°Now that Zhao Longshi isn¡¯t at the Main Path Guild, you¡¯ve be extremely bold haven¡¯t you, Zhao Zhenshi?¡± ¡°I¡¯ve been a cksmith for many years but I¡¯ve never made a strike. Has this worldpletely forgotten my great name!?¡± ¡°Taihua subdued the Main Path Guild on her own all those years ago, today... I, Huang Zhihe, will also experience that thrill.¡± As soon as his wordsnded, the curtain of the horse carriage was drawn to reveal a face covered in wrinkles like old ginger. There was a faint smile on his face as he slowly raised his hand. Instantly, a steel hammer appeared in that hand! A steel hammer that was covered in sword marks! Fang Lang raised his head to see the sight. His eyes were extremely bright. He could see that the steel hammer unleashed a seemingly endless supply of sword intent! The old man sat inside the horse carriage with a hand on his steel hammer. With a swing of his arm, that steel hammer was as sharp as a sword! The rune that had transformed into the strange image of a dragon crouching over the mountains was instantly hit by the steel hammer. Invisible waves of energy spread out in all directions in the form of ripples. A great wind was raised! It was like a divine de had carved through it from top to bottom! The Main Path Guild elder instantly went pale. He spat out a huge spurt of blood. His entire being appeared as though he had been struck by lightning as he fell back to the square. The green bricks rippled under his body, forming cracks and sunken patterns like blooming flowers. The old man gently bent his fingers together and that powerful sword intent sent the heavy hammer flying out once again. The four runes were met by four explosive hammer strikes! The four Main Path Guild elders sessively fell to the ground on the square. The pressure on Zhao Wuji lessened and he was able to safelynd the horse carriage on the square. The steel hammer disappeared. The curtain of the horse carriage fell and everything returned to its previous calm. The four elders wore baffled expressions. The depths of their eyes were filled with terror. When they saw the steel hammer covered in sword marks, they instantly knew their opponent¡¯s identity. Zhao Zhenshi stared fixedly at the horse carriage from his rune among the sea of clouds. ¡°The Hammer de Lord, Huang Zhihe. I never expected that Chao Xiaojian would be able to lure you into action. Weren¡¯t you defeated by Xuanyuan Taihua all those years ago? Why are you helping her?¡± asked Zhao Zhenshi. He knew that Huang Zhihe had held himself back. If he did not, the four elders of the seventh-ss, cursed-heaven realm might have been killed in one strike! The terror-inspiring name of the Hammer de Lord was not undeserved. This person used to wield a great sword and used it like a hammer. With his sword, he was one of the more powerful warriors under the heavens. The old man still remained on the list of wanted men at the Ministry of War until today. However, in reality, his name on the list was only nominal. He was not a criminal who hadmitted any heinous crime. Instead, he was on the wanted list because he had connections with the surviving evil members of the former dynasty. Of course, the imperial courts did not take this matter too seriously. They left it to fate with regards to whether they would capture him or not. If a ninth-ss warrior wished to capture him, they would need to spend a huge amount of effort and resources. The cost incurred was too much. Apart from that, Huang Zhihe had vanished from society. Hence, the higher powers did not pursue this matter. A thin, withered hand reached out from inside the horse carriage and drew open the curtain. Ni Wen helped the old man down from the carriage. Zhao Wuji calmly stood up. The old man, Huang Zhihe swept a nce at Zhao Zhenshi, who remained within the Cloud Sea Rune and said, ¡°You don¡¯t know sh*t about what I want to do.¡± Zhao Zhenshi, ¡°...¡± As he gazed at the four elders who had suffered a great shock when their runes were destroyed, Zhao Zhenshi understood that that old b*stard did not n to start a fight. ¡°Zhao Zhenshi, I would like to watch Fang Langpete with the disciple of your guild in the race to ascend the Thousand Cloud Stairs. Is that okay?¡± ¡°Don¡¯t refuse me. An old person like me can¡¯t handle shock. If I¡¯m rejected, I fear that I won¡¯t be able to stop myself from hammering down your sect!¡± ¡°Zhao Longshi isn¡¯t here. As the little Zhao, you might not be able to stop me.¡± The old man spoke these extremely ruthless words while he was supported by Ni Wen, looking so weak that a gust of wind might blow him away. Zhao Zhenshi red at the old b*stard Huang. Finally, after a long time, he snarled coldly with a swish of his sleeve, ¡°Go ahead and watch it since you want to. However, you won¡¯t be allowed to enter the Main Path Mausoleum. If not... today will be the end of you, you old b*stard!¡± ¡°You little Zhao, you¡¯re pretty arrogant. Fine, I¡¯m just a weak old man. What ill intentions could I have? All I want to do is to watch the show. I just want to see Fang Lang retrieve Taihua¡¯s sword,¡± said Huang Zhihe with a smile. Zhao Zhenshi stroked his beard. ¡°You¡¯ll have to wait and see if that young fellow manages to defeat the many disciples of my guild on the Thousand Cloud Stairs before you can see that.¡± ¡°If he can¡¯t even qualify to enter the Main Path Mausoleum, even if Taihua came herself, she wouldn¡¯t be able to do anything about it.¡± In the distance, Fang Lang saw the old man had defeated the four powerful Main Path Guild elders with a single hammer attack. He let out a sigh of relief. As far as Fang Lang could see, this senior was extremely formidable. However, he was still up against the top guild in the Tang Dynasty. The Main Path Guild. Even with the threat of First Sword Taihua before them, if the Main Path Guild decided to go to war, it would be extremely terrible. Since Ni Wen and Huang Zhihe were alright, Fang Lang continued to rush ahead with the crowd of Main Path Guild disciples in the direction of the ancient-looking stone steps. An Fan and Li Yuanzhen suddenly appeared beside Fang Lang. ¡°I never expected that we would meet again so soon,¡± said An Fan with a smile as he looked at Fang Lang. At the Resource Battle, Fang Lang¡¯s ns sessfully allowed him to injure An Fan. This was something that An Fan never expected to happen. Li Yuanzhen stared at Fang Lang. He wore aplicated expression. He had fallen into a slump because Fang Lang had beaten him. ¡°Your arrival has allowed the early opening of the Main Path Mausoleum. For this, we¡¯re grateful. However, you have not a shred of hope in this battle ascending the Thousand Cloud Stairs.¡± An Fan smiled and chatted with Fang Lang breezily like the spring winds. As they conversed, they arrived at the sacrednd of the Main Path Guild. They had reached the foot of the Main Path Mausoleum. As they raised their eyes upwards, they could see the mountain peak concealed among the clouds. The mountain summit was magnificent and matchless. It was enveloped by endless rays of sunlight, emitting a unique aura. At the foot of the mountainy a massive arched gateway with the words ¡®Main Path Mausoleum¡¯ escribed on it. Passing through the arched gateway, one would be able to see the green stone staircase that spanned over a thousand kilometers that could be faintly seen through the clouds as it went straight to the summit of the mountain. The disciples of the Main Path Guild dressed in blue robes huddled tightly together as they assembled before the arched gateway. The crowd was extremely exuberant. It was a celebration for the Main Path Guild disciples each time the Main Path Mausoleum was opened. This was because all the disciples of the lower fourth-ss realm of the Main Path Guild all anticipated the opening of the Main Path Mausoleum. Even An Fan, a genius who was half a step from the fifth-ss was the same. Zhao Zhenshi walked over. Ni Wen supported Huang Zhihe and stopped a distance away and observed quietly. The elders of the Main Path Guild appeared one after another, staring at the staircase and the mountain peak where the Main Path Mausoleum sat hidden behind the mist of clouds. Zhao Zhenshi raised his hand to call over about a dozen disciples. An Fan was included among them. These disciples were of a cultivation level simr to An Fan. They were all fourth-ss, ninth-grade disciples of the Main Path Guild. Zhao Zhenshi had a deep look in his eyes, tinged with a huge amount of expectation. ¡°You must all be aware of the reason for the opening of the Main Path Mausoleum this time, right?¡± ¡°Fang Lang is currently merely a third-ss. You have all cultivated in the sect for many years. In this ascension of the stairs, rush to grab the top ten spots at your top speed.¡± ¡°You all are at an advantagepared to Fang Lang! In this ascension, Fang Lang is up against half of the Main Path Guild. If he loses, it doesn¡¯t matter. However, if he wins, you will all be huge jokes!¡± The Main Path Guild disciples began tough. They were all peak fourth-ss disciples. How could they possibly lose to Fang Lang? ¡°Go! Make sure you crush this brat for me!¡± instructed Zhao Zhenshi sternly. The disciples dare not smile at this moment. Instead, they merely sped their hands and bowed. The second-ss, third-ss, and fourth-ss disciples stood on the emptynd in front of the arched gateway. They eagerly anticipated the moment of ascending the stairs. In his white robes with his scabbard on his back, Fang Lang looked extremely eye-catching and distinct as he stood among them. An Fan came to stand beside Fang Lang and looked intently at him. There was no trace of a smile on An Fan¡¯s face. ¡°In the Resource Battle, you used tricks to beat me. However, this time in the ascension of the stairs, I¡¯ll make you understand the sheer gap between our abilities. After all, a third-ss... is still merely a third-ss.¡± In the distance, Zhao Zhenshi pinched a spell talisman and suddenly tossed it up. The talisman exploded. In an instant, the clouds and mist seemed to be torn open like a curtain. ¡°The mountain is open! Ascend the mountain!¡± As soon as he finished speaking, An Fan tore his gaze away from Fang Lang and strode out, climbing up that thousand kilometers of green stone stairs as his blue robes billowed. The thousand disciples of the Main Path Guild all started moving at the same time. It was like the skies connecting to a river stream, causing a shockingly huge wave! Fang Lang was a dot of white among the sea of blue. Li Yuanzhen turned his head and stared at Fang Lang, who was several disciples away from him. Each defeat had deeply crushed him. However, in this ascension of the staircase, it was a test of one¡¯s understanding of runes. This was his strong suit. He would not lose to Fang Lang again! Fang Lang was a sword cultivator. He would not know any sh*t about runes! A sense of boldness arose in Li Yuanzhen¡¯s heart. With that, he rushed ahead and climbed the stairs. ... ¡®System, activate the Quintuple Binding State!¡¯ ¡®Ding. The binding state switch isplete. Happy cultivating!¡¯ Fang Lang swapped into binding partner state and ced his hands behind his back. Then, in his white robes, he stepped onto the first step of the cloud stairs. Instantly, he felt the activation of a rune. The stone steps were covered in moss and dust. If one took a careful look, one would be able to see deep lines that looked like gaps under the dense moss. These lines crisscrossed to form a profound rune. The scene before his eyes changed. Aplicated rune crisscrossed in his mind to form a shape. The lines of the rune wereplicated and ever-changing. Fang Lang needed to find the error in the rune in order to be able to ascend to the next step. Fang Lang¡¯s spiritual sense spread out and enveloped the rune. Thus, even though he did not have a deep understanding of runes, his spiritual sense was not weak. Very quickly, through the investigation of his spiritual sense, he discovered the error in the rune. He raised his hand and used this spiritual sense as a pen and added a stroke to the rune. Boom! The rune was deactivated. A faint, barely detectable strand of spiritual sense rolled into Fang Lang¡¯s consciousness, making his spiritual sense stronger. Ascending the cloud stairs was like a lucky chance. There was a great benefit to this race. Fang Lang felt ted. The second moss-covered stone step appeared before his eyes. When he stepped onto the second step and looked up ahead, his expression ttened. This was because he saw that the second step was packed with at least five hundred other disciples. Further up ahead, the third and even the fourth steps were full of disciples standing there quietly. Fang Lang noticed An Fan. An Fan looked calm and peaceful as he stood on the fourth step. Beside him were several other Main Path Guild disciples of the fourth-ss realm. Apart from that, below An Fan on the third step, Li Yuanzhen stood with a slight frown on his face as he tried to solve the rune. How could he keep up with this!? Even though Fang Lang¡¯s spell mastery was not weak, he had not studied runes extensively. He feared that even after activating the binding partner state and solving the runes faster than ordinary disciples, it would not be enoughpared to true geniuses. In the distance, Zhao Zhenshi stroked his beard. There were a couple of Main Path Guild elders around him. When he saw that Fang Lang had only stepped onto the second step, he could not help but break into a triumphant smile. Fang Lang had been too arrogant! Did he really think that it would be so easy to ascend the Thousand Cloud Stairs? He even dared topete for the top spots with the genius disciples of the Main Path Guild, who had specialized in studying runes. Even though Fang Lang minors in spell mastery, his main cultivation was still sword mastery. How could a sword disciple know much about runes? With the speed at which Fang Lang was solving runes, it was wishful thinking for him to have hopes of being among the top ten to reach the summit. Zhao Zhenshi let out a sigh. He mocked himself internally for cing so much weight on Fang Lang¡¯s abilities. He was actually worried that Fang Lang might not be able to ce among the top ten. Even if Fang Lang¡¯s speed was a little faster than most typical disciples, it would be considered lucky if he continued at this rate if he managed to be among the top hundred. On the other side, when he saw Fang Lang¡¯s speed, Zhao Wuji held a hand over his eyes as though he could not bear to continue watching. Ni Wen pursed her lips and clenched her fists tightly. Old Huang shook his head. ¡°Zhao Zhenshi is a sly old fox. He managed to force Fang Lang to retreat without spilling any blood, preventing him from retrieving the sword. This fits with the Main Path Guild¡¯s intentions.¡± Fang Lang was a sword disciple after all. Ascending the Thousand Cloud Stairs and solving runes would be difficult for him. Time slowly passed by. Upon the mossy stone path, Fang Lang stopped to crack the code. There seemed to be five phantoms floating around him, looking for the error in the rune. The rune was solved at the 82nd step. He once again absorbed a sliver of spiritual sense. Fang Lang could sense his spiritual sense growing stronger. However, as he looked ahead, An Fan had already arrived at the 150th step. Li Yuanzhen had also reached the 100th step... The gap between them was increasing! Fang Lang knew that it could not continue in this manner. His speed at solving runes was decent, but he was ced in the upper-mid region whenpared with the Main Path Guild disciples. He definitely had no chance of cing within the top ten! ¡®What should I do!?¡¯ Fang Lang frowned. It seemed like he would have to work several times harder! The speed that he could solve runes at on his own was too slow. Since that was the case... ¡°System, activate the Double Cultivation Card!¡± ¡°Double Cultivation partner... Ni Wen!¡± said Fang Lang. ¡®Ding! The Double Cultivation Card has been activated. Happy cultivating!¡¯ Buzz buzz buzz... As the Double Cultivation Card was activated, a blurry figure seemed to appear beside Fang Lang. That figure looked like Ni Wen. Of course, the surrounding people could not see it. Fang Lang was the only one who could see the figure. Fang Lang did not spend a lot of time studying runes. However, this was not the case for Ni Wen. In the Sword Guild, in order to study swordcraft, she had studied numerous runes. Besides that, Ni Wen had the bloodline ability-Spirit Eyes. Hence, her speed in solving runes was even faster! ¡®I, Fang Lang, never fight alone! Let¡¯s charge ahead, girl!¡¯ Chapter 133 - Li Yuanzhen in Tears After Receiving a Blow

Chapter 133: Li Yuanzhen in Tears After Receiving a Blow

Changan. A luxurious horse carriage was parked before the Martial Arts King Manor. Two graceful figures walked out of the manor. Jiang Linglong and Princess Pei Shi entered the opulent horse carriage together. Since their driver, Zhou Wuji, had been loaned to Fang Lang by Jiang Linglong, their current driver was a martial arts master of the fourth-ss realm. The wheels of the horse carriage began to spin as it drove along the limestone streets, sending dried leaves flying into the air. It headed towards the Royal City through the Vermillion Bird Gate. Once they entered the Royal City, Jiang Linglong wore a veil as she got down from the fancy horse carriage. She held Princess Pei Shi¡¯s arm as they both walked into the quiet and secluded rear pce. After a while, they arrived at the pce. Princess Pei Shi patted Jiang Linglong¡¯s hand and said with a smile, ¡°Ling¡¯er, you should go. I¡¯ll meet the imperial consorts. You should learn sword arts from your aunt. You haven¡¯t mastered the Four Seasons Form yet. Little Fang has be much stronger nowadays. If you don¡¯t work harder, you might be left behind.¡± Princess Pei Shi had seen through Jiang Linglong¡¯s heart with one nce. This little one entered the pce with her today not because she wanted to visit the imperial consorts in the rear pce with her mother. It was because she wanted to learn sword arts. Jiang Linglong¡¯s Four Seasons Form was not passed on to her by the Martial Arts King Jiang. Instead, it had been taught to her by that person in the pce. Jiang Linglong¡¯s star-like eyes instantly turned into crescent moons. After that, she bid farewell to Princess Pei Shi and headed towards a side hall of the royal pce. Very quickly, she arrived at the courtyard within the royal pce. Outside the courtyard, there was no eunuch, nor were there any guards. However, there was a terrifying aura emanating from the area despite no one appearing to be around. Jiang Linglong stood quietly outside the courtyard. ¡°Aunt, Ling¡¯er seeks an audience with you,¡± called out Jiang Linglong quietly. After that, a force of energy that was like a gentle breeze surged and the door leading into the courtyard opened by itself. ¡°Come in.¡± Jiang Linglong stepped into the courtyard. Inside the courtyard, it was like entering a different world. There was a small pond inside and the waters were an azure blue as the waves reflected the light. A corner of the pool was dotted with lotus flowers and leaves. A glimpse of a lotus root could be seen among them. There were all sorts of strange birds flying in the sky above the pond. Even though it was a winter¡¯s day, this ce gave off the feeling of a cool summer¡¯s day. Beside the pond, there was a bamboo house. Outside the bamboo house, two people sat across from each other. There was a teapot filled with hot water beside them. Thenguid aroma of tea lingered in the air. One of the people there was the person who taught Jiang Linglong the Four Seasons Form. It was her aunt, Princess Pei Shi¡¯s sister¡ªConsort Pei. Her name was Pei Ruonan.[1] She inherited the looks of the Pei Family, she was extremely beautiful and her figure was well proportioned. She sat in front of the bamboo house and it looked just like a scene of a painting. Jiang Linglong was stunned when she saw Pei Ruonan. This was because a fairly slim person sat next to Pei Ruonan. The person coughed softly non-stop and asionally covered her mouth with a handkerchief. Jiang Linglong quickly bowed. ¡°Fifth princess.¡± The fifth princess¡¯splexion was extremely pale. She smiled and gently nodded. ¡°Ling¡¯er, there¡¯s no need to be so formal.¡± Pei Rounan turned to Jiang Linglong with a smile and said, ¡°Ling¡¯er, your mother has already told me the reason that you¡¯vee. The Sword Guild is pretty good. However, if Xuanyuan Taihua was still here, perhaps she could even teach you a couple of things. Today, Chao Xiaojian, that old fool is the only one left. He doesn¡¯t understand your sword style.¡± ¡°I¡¯ve heard about Fang Lang, this new champion. That talented evildoer. In a short amount of time, his cultivation has surpassed yours. If you don¡¯t wish the gap to increase between you two, you will need to work harder from now on.¡± ¡°I¡¯ve heard that this boy, Fang Lang, has gone to the Main Path Guild to retrieve a sword. If this boy can really retrieve the swords that Xuanyuan Taihua has left behind, his cultivation would increase beyond imagination. You¡¯ll need to work harder, little one.¡± ¡°Over the next few days, you should cultivate in my bamboo forest. See if you¡¯ll be able to gain an understanding of the sword intent behind the Four Seasons Form.¡± Jiang Linglong bowed and sped her hand. ¡°Thank you, aunt.¡± ... The Main Path Guild. Outside the Main Path Mausoleum. The Thousand Cloud Stairs. Fang Lang used the Double Cultivation Card and a phantom of Ni Wen materialized beside him. It looked solid and possessed Ni Wen¡¯s understanding of runes. Besides that, after it solved a rune, the understanding of runes would be passed onto Fang Lang. This was the strength of the Double Cultivation Card! With two people solving runes together, their speed in ascending the steps drastically increased! Ni Wen¡¯s understanding of runes was pretty strong. Apart from that, her specialty was spell mastery. With her help, Fang Lang was emboldened. As a result, Fang Lang¡¯s speed at ascending the Thousand Cloud Stairs increased. The disciples who had maintained the same speed at solving runes with him were now left in the dust by him. Fang Lang was closing the distance between him and Li Yuanzhen! On the stone steps, Li Yuanzhen solved a rune question. He wiped the sweat off his forehead then turned his head around. When he saw Fang Lang, who had caught up to him, his pupils constricted and goosebumps appeared all over his skin! ¡®That is impossible! How could he be so quick!?¡¯ As one ascended the Thousand Cloud Stairs, the higher one got, the slower one should be. How could Fang Lang chase up to him!? Li Yuanzhen felt a chill spread across his body, starting from his feet. Fang Lang had nearly turned into the dark shadow hanging over his heart. Losing to him dramatically in the imperial exam and then suffering a simr defeat at the Resource Battle, he had nned to avenge his previous humiliations. However, he was still defeated in an instant! Losing to him twice was like having two heavy hammers viciously pressed upon his heart. Crushing him under, he spat out blood and felt so unbearable that he could hardly breathe. He had even begun to doubt his own natural talent. This time, the opening of the Main Path Mausoleum and the Thousand Cloud Stairs. Li Yuanzhen knew that he would have no hope of being among the top ten who reached the summit and be able to enter the Main Path Mausoleum to be enlightened. However, he felt that Fang Lang should be unable to do so as well. After all, Fang Lang was not a cultivator who specialized in spell mastery. He merely skimmed through spell mastery. Li Yuanzhen was the one who had truly specialized in it! Furthermore, Li Yuanzhen thought that he would be able to suppress Fang Lang, or at the very least, not lose to him! However, as he could sense Fang Lang drawing closer and closing the distance between them, Li Yuanzhen¡¯s calm heart had begun to tremble. It was like there was a vicious tiger behind his back that drew closer step by step. Once it was close to him, it would bear open its great mouth and swallow him whole! Li Yuanzhen¡¯s forehead was covered in a cold sweat. He forced himself to calm down. He continued to solve runes and ascend the Thousand Cloud Stairs. However, since his thoughts were disturbed, his speed at solving runes slowed down considerably. When Li Yuanzhen reached the 180th step, Fang Lang arrived at the 120th step. When Li Yuanzhen reached the 200th step, Fang Lang arrived at the 160th step. When Li Yuanzhen reached the 210th step, Fang Lang was at the 190th step. Fang Lang was like a ghost, silently drawing closer! The cold sweat on Li Yuanzhen¡¯s began to increase. It was like a huge dark shadow had enveloped his heart, causing him to feel limitless dread and hopelessness. The feeling of continuously losing and the fear that was buried deep within his heart was now crawling out like a poisonous snake to roar at him! Li Yuanzhen began to pant heavily as he forced himself to continue solving runes. When he solved another rune and took a step up the stone step, a gentle breeze blew past, a person dressed in white robes suddenly appeared next to him without him noticing. Li Yuanzhen turned his head and was startled by the figure that had appeared suddenly. It was like the evil ghost in a nightmare that drew closer bit by bit, revealing its sharp ws and teeth at the final moment! Li Yuanzhen felt as though something had... shattered within his heart! ¡°Y-you¡¯re... you¡¯re an evil demon!¡± Li Yuanzhen clutched his head and began to sob loudly. His tears streamed down unceasingly. He could not defeat him one-on-one, nor could he beat him in a group battle. Even at his specialty, which was runes, he was still being beaten... ¡®What was the point of cultivation!?¡¯ Li Yuanzhen was in tears. He knelt down on the cloud stairs and sobbed loudly. He sounded like a child who had their candy stolen from them. A child who was covered in dirt, crying sorrowfully, crying bitterly. Fang Lang looked at the sobbing Li Yuanzhen in shock. The friendly smile on his face froze. ¡°What now? So I can¡¯t even smile? I have such an infectious and warm smile, why are you crying!?¡± Fang Lang stroked his face and looked around to see the gaze on many curious eyes. He awkwardly waved his hand. After that, Fang Lang continued to step ahead, solving runes and ascending up the steps, moving ahead of Li Yuanzhen. ... At the foot of the mountain, the area before the gated arc was dead silent. Everyone looked up at Li Yuanzhen, who was crouched on the mountain path crying in a daze. Their eyes were also fixed upon Fang Lang, who had squeezed into the top fifty disciples and surpassed Li Yuanzhen. In an instant, everyone¡¯s expression turned into ones full of disbelief. Zhao Zhenshi wore a dark expression. The elders of the Main Path Guild looked extremely solemn. ¡°Li Yuanzhe... The son of the right administrator, Li Puyi. He¡¯s naturally talented and has a peerless core. This attitude of his... is uneptable. It¡¯s such a shame.¡± Li Zhenshi shook his head. From Li Yuanzhen¡¯s appearance, he could see that this spell mastery genius was crying and suffering a breakdown because Fang Lang had beaten him. This performance was extremely disappointing! He had hoped that Li Yuanzhen might have been able to make it into the top ten and enter the Main Path Mausoleum. In that manner, he would be able to obtain great learning. However... Numerous sighs could be heard from the surrounding elders. It was clear that Li Yuanzhen¡¯s performance had caused them great disappointment. On the other side, the old man, Huang Zhihe, smiled as Ni Wen was supported him. His wrinkled face creased up as he smiled. ¡°Li Puyi¡¯s son might have suffered a great blow. It¡¯s extremely pitiful.¡± ¡°However, the road of cultivation is such. You can¡¯t expect cultivation to be an easy and pleasant thing. In order to reach the peak on the road of cultivation, one must step over countless corpses and bones!¡± ¡°Just like at the beginning, Xuanyuan Taihua travelled alone. She was peerless and many geniuses of that generation underwent breakdowns after they were beaten by her. However, true geniuses would possess extremely powerful resilience. Even if they lost, they would not give up and would be motivated to push harder in order to strive ahead. Even if they could only vaguely catch a hint of a shadow, they would never give up.¡± ¡°That¡¯s what a true genius is like.¡± ¡°If you copse because you¡¯ve suffered a loss, that¡¯s not being a genius. That¡¯s merely an ordinary person who has a little talent,¡± said Huang Zhihe. ¡°The world of cultivation belongs to the geniuses. Ordinary folks... can¡¯t make it far.¡± Huang Zhihe looked towards Ni Wen. His deep eyes seemed a little sorry. ¡°Little one, you must feel that the gap between your ability and Fang Lang¡¯s has grown, right? However, I admire you because you¡¯ve never given up. Even if you suffer greater setbacks, you will continue to chase behind him quietly.¡± ¡°Just like me back then.¡± ¡°Little one, are you studying swordcraft? I¡¯ve studied this in the past. You should cultivate with me from now on. I¡¯ll do my best to help you chase up to Fang Lang.¡± When Ni Wen heard his words, an expression of disbelieving joy appeared on her features. Huang Zhihe stroked his beard. The wrinkles on his face that were like withered roots bunched up as he said with a smile, ¡°Chao Xiaojian is an impertinant fool. He doesn¡¯t know two cents about swordcraft.¡± ¡°Thank you so much, Senior Huang.¡± Ni Wen rushed to bow and thank him. Zhao Wuji could not help but cover his mouth with his hand and cough non-stop. ¡°Cough... How can you still call him senior... ahem...¡± When Ni Wen heard his words, she was stunned. In the next moment, she turned to Huang Zhihe and did a ny degrees bow. ¡°Thank you, Master.¡± Thisdy was intelligent and acute! Huang Zhihe began to chuckle happily. In the distance, Zhao Zhenshi¡¯s expression was cold. ¡°What is heughing about? Fang Lang has just made it into the top 50 disciples.¡± ¡°If he wishes to enter the Main Path Mausoleum to retrieve the Reincarnating Lotus Sword, this type of level is grossly insufficient.¡± ¡°If he does not make it to the top ten, he won¡¯t meet the requirements to retrieve the sword.¡± Huang Zhihe swept a nce towards Zhao Zhenshi. ¡°Little Zhao, Fang Lang is a realistic person. Watch him and see for yourself.¡± ¡°Hmpt! For the Thousand Cloud Stairs, the first five-hundred steps test the ability to solve runes. The next 500 steps are a test of runes that attack the spiritual sense. Thetter 500 steps are much more difficult and will slowly increase the distance,¡± snarled one of the Main Path Guild elders coldly. The surrounding atmosphere went quiet. No one spoke. Everyone merely raised their heads and stared intently at the Thousand Cloud Stairs, watching the many blue-robed figures climbing the stairs non-stop, along with the single dot of white. ... The 500th step was a pit. The first 500 steps tested the ability to solve runes. The next 500 steps werepletely different. As Fang Lang stepped onto the five 500th step, the phantom of Ni Wen that had materialized beside him because of the Double Cultivation Card suddenly disappeared. After that, all the concepts and knowledge regarding runes flooded into his brain. This was the strength of the Double Cultivation Card. The Thousand Cloud Stairs had managed to help Fang Lang boost the areas on spell mastery and runes that he hadcked in. When Fang Lang stepped onto the 500th step, the scene before his eyes abruptly changed. The rune patterns on the mossy steps seemed toe alive and turn into aplete rune. A ripple of spiritual sense seemed to transform the surrounding environment into a crazy, vicious seaposed of 1,000 needles and 10,000 leaves! Fang Lang stood on the stone step. As the winds rose, his white robes billowed widely in the wind. The runes that had been activated radiated with terrifying offensive power, like it was about to unleash terrible destruction on Fang Lang¡¯s body and mind! This was the difficulty of thetter 500 steps, the difficulty that would continue to rise! The runes were no longer meant to be solved by the people climbing the stairs. The runes havee alive to perform spiritual sense attacks and affect the surrounding environment. This change would naturally cause a spiritual attack on the disciples that were ascending the stairs! Fang Lang stopped in his tracks. He paused on top of the 500th step. Before Fang Lang¡¯s eyes, a sharp wind saber was formed out of spiritual sense, which was now aimed at his head. Fang Lang¡¯s scalp tensed up at the sight of it. However, a momentter, his eyes lit up. ¡®This was a fight!?¡¯ The first 500 steps were a test to uncover the missing part of the runes. Fang Lang was not gifted in this area. However, the next 500 steps were a test of fighting ability! Fang Lang was particrly gifted in this area! Fang Lang¡¯s spiritual sense came from absorbing the broken pieces of the Tang Code¡¯s Blood Arrow. It contained the powerful, tenacious oppressive and offensive power of the Tang Code! The moment to turn the tables might begin from the 500th step! Boom! A powerful gust of wind blew past and transformed into a saber that swung towards Fang Lang¡¯s head. The spiritual sense in Fang Lang¡¯s head that was condensed into Tears of God in his consciousness froze. After that, Fang Lang raised his hand and a bow appeared. A bow that was created from spiritual sense! He squeezed his fingers and drew his bow! Arrows formed from spiritual sense shot out into the sky! The arrows sped out at high speeds, looking like a roaring enraged blood-colored dragon! Bang! The wind saber shattered into pieces before Fang Lang. It represented the appearance of the 500th step¡¯s rune. Crack! It shattered like a mirror! Fang Lang¡¯s white robes billowed as he stepped onto the next step, holding his bow. ... After 500 steps, the number of Main Path disciples who could continue ascending the steps had be few in number, so few that they could be counted on one hand. An Fan had reached the 899th step. He ced his hands behind his back as his azure blue robes fluttered. He looked extremely cool. Even though he had lost to Fang Lang in the group battle, it did not hugely impact him. After all, he was like a demon king. A Sword Guild disciple like Fang Lang was merely a soldier who had defeated the demon king with his teammates. He did not fear defeat. He would maintain a lofty, arrogant demeanor even in the face of a loss! The rune condensed into a form. It seemed like there was a hurricane stirring before his eyes. An Fan¡¯s spiritual sense stirred within him and the rune instantly changed form, turning into a brick wall right before his eyes. In the face of the hurricane, the wall did not crumble. Hence, An Fan was shielded from it. The 900th step! An Fan¡¯s lips were upturned. Now... where was Fang Lang right now? Had he arrived at the 500th step? Confident of his victory as he stood on the 900th step, An Fan turned his head back to look at the stone steps below the clouds. He wore a smile on his face when he saw Fang Lang on the 500th step who had his eyes closed. ¡°Oh... He¡¯s reached the 500th step. That¡¯s befitting of the new champion of this year¡¯s Imperial Examination. His performance in a field that isn¡¯t his specialty is still extremely impressive.¡± ¡°However... that¡¯s all he¡¯s managed so far.¡± At that moment, Fang Lang had only arrived at the 500th step. It would be practically impossible for him to chase up to be among the top ten. This was because the difficulty of the runes on the next 500 steps would rise drastically. It would be extremely draining on one¡¯s spiritual sense. If one was not strong enough, they would bepletely crushed into oblivion by the runes! All of a sudden, An Fan saw Fang Lang move. After that, the smile on his face began to disappear bit by bit. This was because he saw Fang Lang conjure a bow on the cloud stairs. In a single breath¡¯s time, he managed to crack the rune on the 502nd rune. Fang Lang¡¯s movement became faster and faster. He had been walking up the steps before. However, he was now running up the cloud stairs with his white robes billowing around him! As he ran, he did not stop shooting arrows! A single arrow destroyed a rune; he managed to advance to the next step with a single arrow! He seemed to cut through the runes like a hot knife through butter, skyrocketing up the steps like a white dragon! [1] ÅáÈôÄÐ Pei Ruonan, the literal meaning of Ruonan is ¡®like a man¡¯, which might be a cheeky choice of words by the author for Jiang Linglong¡¯s aunt who fights with a sword. Chapter 134 - Isn’t He Heartbroken

Chapter 134: Isn¡¯t He Heartbroken

The sky was an azure blue expanse, dotted withnguid white clouds. The clouds hung low like flowing water, gently caressing the ancient moss-covered stone steps. It was like a beautiful watercolor painting. As one after another, the Main Path Guild disciples in blue robes seem to dot across the watercolor painting, giving it a little pop of color. At that moment, heaven and earth were plunged into a state of tranquility. At the foot of the mountain, by the gated memorial arch, a couple of the upper fourth-ss disciples and the elders of the Main Path Guild were staring at the figures on the cloud stairs. Their pupils shrank! After 500 steps, the difficulty of ascending the cloud steps would increase in difficulty by leaps and bounds. No one could have imagined that such a shocking scene that struck a blow to their psyche would ur before their eyes. By making it to the 500th step, Fang Lang had surpassed everyone¡¯s expectations. However, no one could have predicted that as a cultivator whose main specialty was sword mastery, Fang Lang would be able to perform so well in spell mastery. Even among the numerous Main Path Guild disciples, being able to ascend to the 500th step of the Thousand Cloud Stairs would give them the name of a top genius. Who could have known that after the 500th step, Fang Lang¡¯s true genius would begin to show. At that moment, he was like a furious dragon who had appeared out of the deep, dashing towards the Main Path Guild Disciples with bared teeth! At the foot of the mountain, everyone was speechless. Even Zhao Zhenshi was staring intently at the scene. Even Huang Zhihe, who came with Fang Lang, widened his eyes which betrayed the stir of emotions in his heart. ¡°This boy... is taking a different approach, using force to break through the runes, ascending the mountain with sheer power!¡± ¡°It¡¯s like he¡¯s swinging a butcher¡¯s knife, slicing through the mountain to create a new path,¡± said Huang Zhihe as he took a deep breath in. Zhao Wuji, who stood beside him, raised an eyebrow, ¡°Is it really that easy?¡± In the distance, Zhao Zhenshi¡¯s ear quivered slightly when he heard those words. He shot a look at Zhao Wuji and began tough, ¡°Haha, easy?¡± ¡°He was such a stupid martial arts disciple!¡± ¡°This method of using brute force to break through the rune has been seen before. Each time the Main Path Mausoleum opens, there will be a fellow who does not know his own strength that wishes to use force to break the runes.¡± ¡°Ascending the steps is like a war. It is an extremely vicious battle between spiritual senses. If you wield a sword, the runes of the stone steps will respond by drawing an even more powerful sword!¡± ¡°Each time, there will be plenty of disciples whose spiritual sense suffers great damage requiring half-a-year before they recoverpletely... 500 cloud steps. 500 runes. The Five Phase Rune is the prototype of this rune.¡± ¡°Every hundred steps would have the five phases as rune attributes. How could he have sufficient spiritual sense to sustain his rune breaking if he used force to do so?¡± ¡°He would be able to ascend a hundred steps at the most through using force. After that, the spiritual attack of the runes will have a hard fight with one¡¯s consciousness. Since hecks spiritual sense to protect his consciousness, in the end... he will end up with his spiritual sense battered. His consciousness might even end uppletely crushed!¡± said Zhao Zhenshi. ¡°When the timees, this fellow will understand how stupid his actions are.¡± Huang Zhihe¡¯s expression faltered. To one side, Ni Wen wore an anxious and worried expression as she looked towards the white robe on the cloud stairs. Zhao Zhenshi did not continue speaking. However, his eyes were not as calm as they seemed to be. Everything he said was true. Numerous disciples had attempted to use force to break through the runes. In the end, they were injured because they depleted their spiritual sense and could no longer withstand the counterattack. However, even those disciples were not as quick as Fang Lang when they ascended the stairs. The figure running up the mountain path was practically... a monster! ¡°The spiritual sense of this boy has such power to break through the runes!¡± ¡°His spiritual sense is solid and sturdy. His spell mastery is extraordinary. It must be at least earth-level. Besides that, his spiritual sense attack spell is pretty strong!¡± ¡°This kid... could be a mighty sess in the field of spell mastery!¡± Zhao Zhenshi¡¯s eyes seemed to notice something unusual. It was no wonder that Xuanyuan Taihua had epted him as a disciple. The unusual qualities about Fang Lang were his strong suits. The disciple that Xuanyuan Taihua had epted was a top genius! ¡°With this speed, he will definitely be able to be among the first ten to ascend to the mountain peak. With his power, he had managed to defeat the disciples of half our sect. How could this happen? This willpletely humiliate our guild!¡± Zhao Zhenshi exhaled deeply. His heart was worried and troubled. However, he did not know what to say. ¡°However, the only good news is that this kid shouldn¡¯t be able to hold out for much longer. He¡¯s using his spiritual sense in such a wanton, reckless manner. There wille a point when it will dry up. When that happens, he will be faced with the counter-attack of the runes.¡± Zhao Zhenshi stroked his beard as his eyes shed. He could only pin his hopes upon this happening. If not, it would be extremely humiliating to lose, even though he had sent out disciples amounting to half the guild to suppress him. ... An Fan was in shock when he saw Fang Lang running up the mountain. He shivered as a feeling of shock and astonishment appeared in the depths of his heart. He could vaguely feel the same feelings that Li Yuanzhen had felt. It was like a vicious tiger was soundlessly running towards him behind his back and was about to swallow him whole! ¡°Fang Lang is using spiritual sense to attack the runes in order to break through them. He won¡¯t be able to hold out for much longer. His spiritual sense will definitely run out at some point. When that happens, he will only be able to resist with his consciousness and mind! He won¡¯t be able tost for long.¡± An Fan took a deep breath in. He then turned around with a swish of his robes and continued to ascend the mountain with a serious expression. He needed to stay calm! He was at the 900th step. There were only 100 steps left. At the moment, he was currently in first ce. Being able to enter the Main Path Mausoleum was a certainty waiting to happen. The Thousand Cloud Stairs was shrouded in clouds and mist. It looked like a fairy realm. However, rushing footsteps could be heard echoing along the cloud stairs. After 500 steps, many of the Main Path Guild disciples turned their heads back in disbelief. They could see a white-robed figure holding a bow, running across the ancient, moss-covered steps so fast it seemed like he was flying! At that moment, there were about 50 Main Path Guild disciples ahead of him. They were all geniuses of the fourth-ss realm with a powerful spiritual sense. However, they would not dare to act the way Fang Lang was right now! The 50th disciple felt his hairs stand on end as cold sweat appeared on his forehead. He quickly began to focus his attention to resist the pressureing from the rune on his step! When he sessfully withstood the attack and pressure of the rune, he noticed Fang Lang ran past him, bending his fingers and shooting arrows. He shot out formless spiritual sense arrows which shattered through the runes like it was shattering through a mirror. That disciple stood in a daze on the moss-covered stone step. He began to doubt his existence! That was a... third-ss disciple!? As he watched Fang Lang¡¯s figure continue running, he felt a chill spread from the bottom of his feet. Did this fellow have unlimited spiritual sense!? Fang Lang had activated the Spirit Eyes and switched into Binding Partner Mode as he ran full steam ahead up those stairs. Of course, Fang Lang did feel tired. The higher he went, the more tired he felt. The oppressive force came from the spiritual sense and also the tiredness of his physical body. However, Fang Lang¡¯s lungs were filled with a burst of energy and this energy sustained him as he ascended without ceasing! Spirit Eyes could only be maintained for a limited period. Fang Lang needed to reach the peak as quickly as he could! Time began to pass by slowly. Everyone looked at Fang Lang in a trance, waiting for the moment that he would copse. However, he never reached the point of copsing as he surpassed disciple after disciple that were ascending the mountain. Number 20, number 19, number 18... Fang Lang slowly drew closer to the top ten! The top ten disciples of the Main Path Guild seemed like dogs whose tails were on fire as they began to rush frantically, putting their all into climbing up the mountain! It was like a rabid dog was snapping behind their butts! ¡°What is this monster!? How can he be so quick!?¡± ¡°He¡¯s only a third-ss and a sword disciple. How can his spiritual sense... be so strong! He must have cultivated in spell mastery. He might have at least reached the level of an earth-level spell mastery practice method!¡± ¡°We can¡¯t lose! We carry the pride and honor of the Main Path Guild. We can¡¯t lose to this person!¡± The disciples were filled with crazed fervor. However, Fang Lang was even crazier! He chased up to number 11. Above him, there were ten more Main Path Guild disciples of the fourth-ss realm. They could see Fang Lang drawing closer and felt the approaching threat. All of them were in a state of utmost anxiety! Fang Lang panted like a dragon as his sweat rained down like rain. He was not having an easy time doing this like everyone thought he was. If it were not for the fact that his physical body had the endurance of a blood-bending realm master, he might have copsed a long time ago and fallen straight down to the foot of the mountain! The effect of the Spirit Eyes disappeared! Fang Lang began to slow down. He started to lose the spiritual sense that he had stored up. However, he immediately used what was left of the Meditation Card that he squeezed out of Old Jiang! He slowly countered number ten, number nine, number eight... Right in front of the despairing eyes of the Main Path Guild disciples of the fourth-ss realm, Fang Lang continuously surpassed them! An Fan felt the threat and could hear the frustrated, angry roarsing from behind him! It wasing! He wasing! An Fan felt goosebumps erupt all over his body as his hair stood on end. It was like an incubus was chasing behind him. Monster! He was a monster! An Fan calmed his nerves and looked at the mountain summit that was near. ON the peak of the mountainy the entrance to the Main Path Mausoleum. He needed... to stay calm! Fang Lang rushed over, panting like a dragon. An Fan¡¯s forehead was covered in sweat. His hair was a little mussed. However, he looked much cooler than the usual Fang Lang. However, he never imagined that Fang Lang would be able to catch up with him with the power of Fang Lang¡¯s third-ss realm! An Fan turned back to look at Fang Lang. He could see that Fang Lang¡¯s eyes were bloodshot. His sweat dripped like rain. Every muscle and cell on his body seemed to tremble. ¡°I will not lose to you!¡± An Fan gritted his teeth. He was a fourth-ss phantasm realm spell cultivator. His spiritual sense was much stronger than Fang Lang¡¯s. This was his advantage! This seemed to be the recurrence of the battle between the two Imperial Examination champions. At this moment, An Fan¡¯s spiritual sense was used up. Even if he could safely resist the rune attacks and arrive at the final peak... With his speed, Fang Lang would be able to catch up with him, he might even... surpass him! An Fan steeled himself. He bit through his lip and a thick, pungent taste of blood filled his lips! He... needed to be calm! He could not lose! He had been using the mountain ascending stance that uses his spiritual sense to protect his consciousness and resist the spiritual sense attack of the runes. However, he then swapped to attack the runes with his spiritual sense, increasing the speed that he was breaking through the runes! Even though this would expend more spiritual sense, An Fan did not care about that. He was losing to Fang Lang¡¯s spiritual sense... Victory was no longer guaranteed! When Fang Lang saw that An Fan had suddenly sped up drastically, he was stunned! He seemed to understand that An Fan had swapped his method of ascending the steps. Fang Lang felt a surge of determination! He used the Spell Awlbined with the bow formed out of spiritual sense, and his speed increased rapidly! The Main Path Guild disciples below them looked at Fang Lang and An Fan who were battling at the mountain top. In an instant, everyone went silent. At the foot of the mountain, Zhao Zhenshi shook his head and sighed. Many Main Path Guild elders focused their eyes on the sight. Some of the elders hung their heads sadly. ¡°How foolish!¡± ¡°Fang Lang¡¯s spiritual sense is very odd. It¡¯s strong and enduring. His spell mastery appears to be no lower than an earth-level. The rate of recovery of his spiritual sense seems to maintain a bnced state. This might be the reason that Fang Lang is able to break through these runes in this manner. An Fan is not being sensible enough.¡± ¡°Argh...¡± ... The sound of sighs reverberated at the foot of the mountain. The situation at the top of the mountain yed out exactly as the elders below had predicted. Fang Lang and An Fan were fighting neck-and-neck after thepetition of life and death ended. In the end... An Fan was stuck at the tenth step. He could no longer continue. He stood in the same spot. His spiritual sense waspletely depleted and he needed to stop to recover. If he continued to attack forcefully, he would no longer have any spiritual sense to protect himself. The rune attack would then be able to attack his consciousness and spirit directly. He would be unable to endure and might even fall to the foot of the mountain! Even though An Fan wanted topete against Fang Lang, he did not want to lose his spot to enter the Main Path Mausoleum. He was fearful... He believed that Fang Lang was at the end of his limits as well and should need to stop to rest too. However, the sound of footsteps rang out. An Fan looked on in a daze as Fang Lang surpassed him. Fang Lang managed to do so with his blood-shot eyes, shivering body and paleplexion. There was barely any ripple of spiritual sense on his body. An Fan looked at him dumbly as the figure in white ascended up the mountain, step by step. With each step he took, that youth left a huge puddle of sweat on the stone step. How could this be!? There was no trace of spiritual sense activity on Fang Lang. That meant that Fang Lang was using his consciousness and his spirit to resist the attack of the runes. Did he not feel pain!? The pain experienced by the spirit should be the worst possible pain! Was it worth experiencing such pain in order to ascend the final few steps!? An Fan closed his eyes. In his mind, he could see Fang Lang¡¯s fighting spirit. His unyielding and upromising fighting spirit. That sort of genuine drive that would not give up even until the final drop of spiritual sense was used up! This kid... was not merely a genius. He was a genius that strived with all his might! This was the first time that An Fan experienced the despair and feeling of helplessness that Li Yuanzhen felt. How could he possibly surpass his opponent when his opponent was like that!? Fang Lang resisted attack after attack from the rune. Every cell in his body was trembling. His spirit was in extreme, indescribable pain. Despite this, he did not rx. If he gave up, he would bepletely crushed and fall to the bottom of the mountain. If that happened, he would lose the qualification to retrieve the sword. Besides that, he would also lose in the fight for victory in this cultivation battle. His surroundings had been altered by the runes, transforming into storms,ndslides, tsunamis. It was like there were thousands of needles piercing through Fang Lang¡¯s spirit and physical body, causing it to be covered in thousands of holes! However, a verse of poetry rang out in Fang Lang¡¯s mind. ¡®May I one day surmount the highest of peaks, where I could gather a sight of all mountains thereid.¡¯ This time, he did not want to lose. Hence, he chose to allow his body to be battered and covered in wounds. He desired to reach the mountain top... to see the scenery! ng! With a final step, he arrived at the top of the Thousand Cloud Stairs. Fang Lang took out the Blooming Lotus Sword covered in scratches from his scabbard and stuck it into the ground, using it to support himself so he would not copse to the ground. Fang Lang stood at the entrance of the Main Path Mausoleum. He vaguely felt as though he could see through time and space. He could see a spotless sword within the depths of the Main Path Mausoleum, stuck in a stone tablet. As though it could sense Fang Lang¡¯s gaze upon it, the sword began to vibrate gently, emitting a clear sword cry that rang out in the mausoleum. At that moment, the entire Main Path Guild echoed with the sound of the sword¡¯s cry. Fang Lang closed his eyes and exhaled deeply. He did not continue to look into the depths of the Main Path Mausoleum. He continued to hold his sword, turned around with his head lowered and looked at all the blue-robed disciples on the Thousand Cloud Stairs. He looked like a king who had risen from obscurity as he overlooked all the corpses pile up below his throne. At that moment, the entire mountain, top and bottom, was deathly silent. Chapter 135 - The Blade Energy in the Stone Tablet

Chapter 135: The de Energy in the Stone Tablet

Trantor: EndlessFantasy Trantion Editor: EndlessFantasy Trantion The whole ce was silent. At the foot of the mountain, numerous pairs of eyes as sharp as sabers shot through the mist of clouds andnded upon the youth standing at the top of the Thousand Cloud Stairs. The youth was quietly standing in white robes as he held his sword. That youth was drenched in sweat. Despite that, as he held his sword and looked at the scene at the foot of the mountain, he seemed like a king overseeing his territory. At that moment, everyone was frozen on the spot. Even An Fan who was the closest person to the peak of the Thousand Cloud Stairs, could only lift his head slightly and look at the youth ahead of him. His cultivation was no match for that youth, nor was his fighting spirit as strong as his. At this moment, that youth seemed to dazzle as bright as the glow of a thousand lights. A single youth had defeated more than half the disciples of the Main Path Guild! The youth shone like the brightest star in the sky! At the foot of the mountain, Zhao Zhenshi took a deep breath. He wore an expression of utmost regret. The worst possible oue had happened. That youth had managed to beat the many fourth-ss geniuses of the Main Path Guild, such as An Fan to be the first person to reach the Main Path Mausoleum! Zhao Zhenshi was extremely disappointed in the Main Path Guild disciples! He was furious at their shameful performance! However, there was no point in being disappointed. Fang Lang had reached the Main Path Mausoleum. He knew that there was a chance that this might ur. However, his original n was to use the rules to get rid of Fang Lang. He never expected that Fang Lang would be able to trod all over the rules. Even more, he stepped over the heads of all the Main Path Guild disciples. Of course, Zhao Zhenshi saw a terrifying tenacity within Fang Lang. This youth was not like a genius. That was because many geniuses would not have the tenacity to withstand such overwhelming pressures and hurdles like this. At the foot of the mountain, many of the Main Path Guild elders looked sickly green. After all, the disciples that they had trained had be like floorboards as Fang Lang stepped all over them. ¡°This kid... how is it possible that he has an endless supply of spiritual sense? Even an earth-level spell master would not be able to maintain such a wanton use of spiritual sense like this kid!¡± ¡°He must have cheated! He definitely cheated!¡± ¡°This kid must have cheated in some unknown manner!¡± ... Several of the Main Path Guild elders began to shout sternly. As soon as they spoke out, the sound ofughter rang out. Huang Zhihe, whom Ni Wen was supporting, wasughing heartily without caring to hold himself back. ¡°Cheating?¡± ¡°If you have the ability to, go ahead and get your disciples to cheat as well.¡± ¡°After all, if he was able to ascend to the Main Path Mausoleum by cheating, then it¡¯s the fault of the Main Path Guild for not managing the situation well. Why are you guys such sore losers? Is he cheating just because he managed to beat your disciples?¡± ¡°Fang Lang is Xuanyuan Taihua¡¯s disciple. Is it really that odd for him to defeat your disciples? Xuanyuan Taihua managed to single-handedly defeat your entire guild. Isn¡¯t it understandable for her disciple to defeat all the disciples of your guild?¡± There was a mocking tone in Huang Zhihe¡¯s elderly voice. The surrounding Main Path Guild elders¡¯ faces instantly turned scarlet. Zhao Zhenshi¡¯s expression hardened and he did not speak. After all, Huang Zhihe was right. Even if Fang Lang really did cheat, it was still an impressive feat for him to ascend to the Main Path Mausoleum by cheating. Zhao Zhenshi stared intently at the peak of the cloud stairs, gazing at the white-robed youth among the clouds. ¡°It won¡¯t be that easy for him to retrieve the sword.¡± ¡°The disciples of my Main Path Guild are not people who can¡¯t take a loss. This is a rare opportunity for the Main Path Mausoleum to be opened. That means that this is your opportunity to enter the Main Path Mausoleum and take your chance on good luck.¡± ¡°Xuanyuan Taihua has left a sword in our guild. That sword is waiting for a pre-destined person. Why don¡¯t you go ahead and try to retrieve the sword. If you¡¯re able to retrieve the sword, perhaps Xuanyuan Taihua will return. After all, she wouldn¡¯t say anything even if she was fearful,¡± said Zhao Zhenshi. As the blue-robed disciples on the mountain heard Zhao Zhenshi¡¯s words, they all sped their fists in acknowledgment. However, their eyes shone brightly, as though they could understand the hidden meaning in Zhao Zhenshi¡¯s words. Of course, they would not be able to get the sword if they tried to retrieve it. Hence, his implicit meaning was... He wanted them to stop Fang Lang from retrieving the sword!? An Fan¡¯s sparkle in his eyes withdrew. He exhaled deeply. His spiritual sense had slowly replenished. He continued to climb up the steps. Upon the cloud steps, the disciples who had been frozen in ce also began to continue ascending the steps. At the foot of the mountain, all the disciples who had advanced to the upper fourth-realms swiftly set out to climb the mountain. Their speed as they climbed up the mountain was exceedingly fast. It was not long before they reached the peak of the cloud stairs and stepped into the Main Path Mausoleum. Just as vice leader Zhao Zhenshi had said, the reason these disciples had entered the Main Path Mausoleum was to prevent Fang Lang from retrieving the sword. The sword that Xuanyuan Taihua had stuck inside the sacred ce of the Main Path Guild, making the entire guild feel as though they had a sword stuck in their throats. The disciples were about to stop the person who hade to retrieve this sword, ensuring that he would not be able to seed. Their previous humiliation would require a huge amount of manpower in order to protect it. It sounded a little ironic so to speak, ¡®to protect their humiliation¡¯. At the foot of the mountain, Zhao Zhenshi made no moves. Neither did any of the elders. Ni Wen and Huang Zhihe stood still as well. Finally, Huang Zhihe and Zhao Zhenshi expressed their spiritual sense. As they shed, the scent of gunpowder could be smelled in the air. ... Fang Lang sat cross-legged at the entrance of the Main Path Mausoleum. He was in no rush to enter it. He merely took out the cultivation resource provided by the System. He started to cultivate spirit crystals. Now that his spiritual sense wasrgely depleted, he was now in a really good position to absorb spirit crystals and restore his condition. As time slowly flew by, the cloud patterns changed in the sky. asionally a cloud would drift past, bringing a cool breeze. Groups of blue-robed disciples gathered in twos and threes around Fang Lang, eyeing him from afar. An Fan arrived at the entrance of the mausoleum, looking at Fang Lang with aplicated expression. They did not head to look at all the stone tablets left behind by the past great warriors of the Main Path Guild. Instead, they stared fixedly at the outsider who had managed to defeat the disciples of their guild! They wanted to stop Fang Lang from retrieving the sword. Fang Lang got up and swept his gaze around him. Everyone who could enter the Main Path Mausoleum was at least a fourth-ss realm and above. Apart from the first ten disciples who made it up the cloud stairs, everyone else was an upper fourth-ss realm Main Path Guild disciple. Hence, Fang Lang, with his third-ss cultivation realm, was totally out of step with these disciples. If these disciples ganged upon him. Fang Lang feared that he would be killed in a massive brawl before he had the chance to attack. Despite this, Fang Lang was very calm. In his eyes, it was as though he did not see the Main Path Guild disciples. There were no blue robes in his sight. He lifted his eyes to look at the forest in the distance where there was a quaint, ancient limestone path. Unlike the Thousand Cloud Stairs, this ancient path was covered in crisscrossing marks. It was not carved with runes. It was covered in moss and was about two meters long. Bamboo trees grew on both sides of the path. As the wind blew among them, a soft rustling sound could be heard. Under the gaze of all the surrounding Main Path Guild disciples, Fang Lang returned the Blooming Lotus Sword to its scabbard. With a swing of his white robes, he began to walk on the limestone steps. Behind him, dozens of Main Path Guild disciples followed, making rustling sounds as they walked. They did not head to look at the stone tablets, nor did they explore or seek teaching. Instead, they had all fixed their gaze upon Fang Lang. It was quiet on the ancient path. As Fang Lang walked, he felt as though he was walking alone. Very quickly, he arrived at the side of the stone path and saw the bamboo grove. There was a hut inside the bamboo grove. Inside the hut, there was a stone tablet. The eaves of the hut spread out like branches, blocking the tablet from view. It seemed like neither rain nor snow would be able to fall upon this stone tablet. It was drizzling on the mountain and the raindrops were as fine as silk as theynded on Fang Lang¡¯s shoulders. The limestone path became a little wet and shiny under the rain. The rain also made it quite slippery. Now that he had entered the Main Path Guild, Fang Lang felt a little calmer. He walked to stand before the stone table in the hut. This was the first stone tablet in the Main Path Mausoleum. It was the stone tablet of the founder of the Main Path Guild. The surface of the tablet was iparably smooth. It was impossible to know how many people have touched it before. Despite this, the scratches on the tablet remained. Fang Lang stood in front of the stone tablet. His surroundings were quiet and tranquil. The drizzle of rain continued to fall among the bamboo grove as the leaves rustled like a wave. The soft sound of birds chirping could be heard. His gaze fell on the stone tablet. There were no words of tribute on the stone tablet nor were there any inscriptions of poetry. The only thing on the stone tablet was messy scratch marks left behind by the tablet owner as a gift for theter generations. It seemed like the wordless scratch marks carried the exnation of the tablet owner towards spell mastery. If he could solve the problem of the tablet, he would be able to tear away the hazy fog and see the essence left behind in the stone tablet. He might even be able to receive the instructions and teachings in the stone tablet! The present that the predecessor had left behind! Fang Lang reached his hand out and pressed it on the stone tablet. Behind him, all of the Main Path Guild disciples stuck out their heads curiously. They had not expected Fang Lang to attempt to solve a tablet mystery in the Main Path Guild sacrednd instead of heading to retrieve the sword. ¡°Will he be able to solve the tablet mystery?¡± ¡°This has been left behind by the founder of the Main Path Guild. It contains endless wonders. After all these years, the people who had been able to solve the tablet mystery and obtain the gift have been extremely few in number. In the entirety of the Main Path Guild, there are only a couple of people who have managed this.¡± ¡°The people who can solve the tablet mystery have all be powerful spell masters that were all at least of the forbidden-curse realm!¡± Behind Fang Lang, a group of Main Path Guild disciples crowded together. They were here to follow Zhao Zhenshi¡¯s orders to stop Fang Lang from retrieving the sword. However, since Fang Lang did not head to withdraw the sword, they curiously watched Fang Lang attempt to solve the tablet mystery. Fang Lang closed his eyes. He could sense a pulling force from within the stone tablet. An immeasurably profound and mysterious rune pattern appeared before Fang Lang. This was the topic of the stone tablet mystery. Even after climbing the first 500 steps of the Thousand Cloud Stairs and receiving all the experience from solving the rune with the Double Cultivation Card, all Fang Lang felt when he saw the rune pattern was a headacheing on. He could not understand this topic that the person hade up with. However, Fang Lang did not release his hand. This was because he could sense a strand of de energy. The de energy contained a hint of sword intent. This hint of sword intent caused the Innate Sword Intent Seeds in his spinning energy center to jump slightly. ¡°de energy, sword intent?¡± Fang Lang was stunned. A touch of disbelief and shock appeared in his heart. This was the Main Path Guild. The stone tablet that he was viewing was the final resting ce of the past sword masters of the Main Path Guild. Each one of them was sword masters. How could there be sword intent here!? Fang Lang was deep in thought. The disciples surrounding him cocked their eyebrows and wore mocking expressions. They could see that Fang Lang had not made a move for a long time. ¡°He has not managed to trigger any response from the stone tablet. This kid might have studied a little spell mastery but this tablet mystery must be as difficult as ascending into the heavens for him to solve.¡± ¡°Why is he still wasting time here? Why doesn¡¯t he head straight to grab the sword?¡± ¡°Is he nning to make us lower our guard and then sneakily head to retrieve the sword!?¡± The blue-robed Main Path Guild disciples ced their hands behind them and calmly watched Fang Lang. An Fan frowned. He felt as though the situation was not as simple as it seemed. Time went slowly by. The cool breeze gently blew past unceasingly. Fang Lang stood there for a day and a night. He seemed to be in a different world and waspletely immersed in that mystical world. The Main Path Guild disciples around him grew bored and tired of waiting for him. Many of them ran off to enlighten themselves through other stone tablets. Of course, a couple of disciples, including An Fan continued to stare intently at Fang Lang. However, they did not disturb Fang Lang in his process of solving the tablet mystery. This was because the disciples of the Main Path Guild had a strong sense of respect for the people who were solving tablets. This was also a sign of respect for the Main Path Guild predecessor, who was buried under the stone tablet. The fine drizzle of rain continued to fall, washing over the earth. However, the hut of the stone tablet shielded them from the rain. Fang Lang¡¯s palm was still pressed against the smooth surface of the tablet. He managed to catch that strand of de energy. There was sword intent in the de energy that seemed to have a spirit hiding underneath that rune. Fang Lang used an extremely strong pulling force to draw the de energy that was hiding behind the rune. ¡°Come,e over here.¡± Fang Lang waved his hand like he was attempting to draw a small animal to him. The de energy started to move cautiously towards him. Suddenly, that trace of de energy instantly sped up and zoomed around in an imitation of the rune patterns! After it had finished copying the entire rune, it speedily flew out towards Fang Lang, like a swallow returning to its nest! Whoosh! As soon as Fang Lang touched the de energy, the tablet mystery seemed to present itself absolutely clear to him in his mind! Boom! Suddenly, Fang Lang felt the stone tablet began to move. After that, an iparably pure spiritual sense energy surged out of the stone tablet! It was like a gush of water shot out of a whale as it rolled out and engulfed Fang Lang! Amid his daze, Fang Lang seemed to gain an understanding... The de energy drew near. This de energy had something to do with the Reincarnating Lotus Sword! Fang Lang could not help but feel shocked. This de energy might have been prepared for the person who came to retrieve the sword. In other words, if he did not obtain this de energy, he would not be able to retrieve the sword! ... There was an inexplicable silence inside the Main Path Mausoleum. The people who were studying stone tablets were engrossed in their studies. The ones that were keeping an eye on Fang Lang watched him like a hawk. It was like time had frozen still. Over thest day and night, Fang Lang appeared as though he had transformed into a statue as he stood there, not even moving a muscle, causing many disciples to lose their patience a long time ago. At the moment, An Fan was the only one left who was still watching Fang Lang. Even An Fan¡¯s determination had begun to waver. Was it possible that Fang Lang was merely pretending to be a fool? He rubbed his tired and sore eyes. All of a sudden, An Fan¡¯s movements froze. He felt a burst of water vapor and a gust of cold wind. The winds had started blowing. In the bamboo grove, the bamboo leaves were fluttering because of the winds. The rustling of the winds made a sound that seemed like the ocean waves had appeared in the bamboo grove all of a sudden! An Fan quickly raised his head and stared at Fang Lang. He was met by the sight of Fang Lang seemingly to meld to be one body with the first stone tablet of the Main Path Guild! An Fan narrowed his eyes. He then saw the patterns on that stone tablet seem to fill with a mercury-like spiritual sense. After that, a pure and boundless energy shot straight out of the stone tablet! ¡°This...¡± ¡°H-he¡¯s... solved it!?¡± ¡°That¡¯s impossible!¡± An Fan was shocked out of his mind. However, the image before his eyes looked real. This was because the spiritual sense that was gushing out of the stone tablet was truly the pure spiritual sense that the predecessor left behind. It was a gift for the person who managed to solve the tablet mystery, to help that person cleanse themselves of the impurities on their body! An Fan was not the only one who was surprised. All the Main Path Guild disciples who were attempting to solve tablet mysteries were all spooked and quickly rushed over! They stared with mouth agape at Fang Lang who was caught within the shower of spiritual sense. Fang Lang took out a spirit crystal and began to absorb the spirit crystals in the midst of the spiritual sense shower, cultivating at the same time! Burst after burst of de energy shot out. Fang Lang¡¯s physical body was being cleansed by spiritual sense, washing away the lead dust. All 360 orifices on his body glowed with light. The de energy condensed and seeped into his orifices! Fang Lang began to achieve a breakthrough thanks to the gift from this stone tablet. His sword mastery advanced into the fifth-grade, sword-wave realm! This was only his sword mastery. Fang Lang¡¯s spiritual sense strengthened and fortified unceasingly under the spiritual sense shower. After climbing the Thousand Cloud Stairs, the depleted stores of his spiritual sense were instantly filled to the brim! Sixth-grade spell advisor, seventh-grade spell advisor... His spell mastery increased by two grades! Fang Lang¡¯s entire body was covered in bright spots that glowed light stars. Each bright spot contained an extremely powerful and boundless amount of spiritual sense and man! This was the embryonic phantasm form! The ripples gradually calmed down. Fang Lang opened his eyes. The gift from the stone tablet had been extremely advantageous to Fang Lang. It was no wonder that Chao Xiaojian had said that it might be a stroke of good luck awaiting him at the Main Path Mausoleum when he retrieved the sword. Fang Lang frowned. Perhaps he had been too careless towards this opportunity. This was because he suddenly discovered a terrible secret. Was it only this stone tablet with de energy hidden underneath or... was all the stone tablets in the guild full of concealed de energy!? He needed to investigate this secret. Perhaps it might have a connection with retrieving the sword. He took a step back and gently shook out his sleeve as he bowed in the direction of the stone tablet. After that, he turned around to step back on the limestone path, his white robes swaying around him as he walked towards another stone tablet among the rain and the sound of bamboo leaves rustling. After Fang Lang left quietly, An Fan¡¯s eyes were full of disbelief. He stepped in front of the stone tablet and shakily stretched out his arm. Spiritual sense gushed out. Instantly, the scene before his eyes changed. Aplicated and beautifully intricate rune pattern appeared. It was soplex that it caused his head to ache! An Fan stared dumbly at the rune. It was a rune topic that seemed as unreal as a dream. It was like a saber that shed viciously across An Fan¡¯s self-respect and pride, destroying itpletely. That fellow had managed to solve such a difficult problem, one that was so hard it made his hair stand on end!? After a long time... An Fan¡¯s spiritual sense retreated. He seemed to have lost his wit. His cultivation... was it all in vain!? Chapter 136 - Three Hundred and Sixty Stone Tablets to Nurture a Single Sword

Chapter 136: Three Hundred and Sixty Stone Tablets to Nurture a Single Sword

Trantor: EndlessFantasy Trantion Editor: EndlessFantasy Trantion A gentle breeze blew past. Inside the Main Path Guild, everyone was astounded. People who could enter the Main Path Mausoleum were all geniuses and could all be considered a group of elite practitioners. However, even the disciples did not have the bravery to say that they could solve the stone tablet mystery left behind by the first leader of the guild. Thus, the Main Path Guild founder was a distinguished predecessor who left behind a supreme foundation! Over the centuries, the Main Path Guild disciples who had solved the stone tablet of the guild founder could be counted on one hand. Each one of them was extremely illustrious and well-renowned. For example, the current sect leader¡ªZhao Longshi and the First Pride of the younger generation under 30 years old¡ªXu Qingyang. Apart from this, there was an extremely special person. This person managed to enter the Main Path Guild ten years ago and defeated the sect leader ¡ªZhao Longshi, when he was at his prime! It was the First Sword¡ªXuanyuan Taihua. Xuanyuan Taihua was the only one who managed to ascend to the Main Path Mausoleum with the identity of a sword disciple. Besides that, she managed to solve the tablet mystery of the first guild leader. Today, another sword disciple had managed to ascend the mountain and solve the tablet mystery of the first guild leader! The disciples all woreplicated expressions as they looked at the youth walking along the steps in the breeze. They all felt as though they were looking at the legend of this generation! An Fan looked at the tablet mystery of the first guild leader. Unfortunately, based on theplexity of the rune, there was no possibility of solving this tablet mystery with his level of learning and current standard. However, Fang Lang had managed to solve this tablet mystery after spending one day and one night on it! The First Pride of the younger generation of the Main Path Guild, the champion of the Imperial Examination in Wen Ting¡¯s year¡ªXu Qingyang had spent seven days and seven nights before the stone tablet of the first guild leader. However, he did not sleep nor rest over those seven days and nights before he could solve the tablet mystery. Did this mean that Fang Lang was more powerful than Senior Xu Qingyang!? The disciples of the Main Path Guild followed behind Fang Lang. They did not make a sound. Instead, they quietly observed him. They no longer mocked Fang Lang for not knowing his strength. This was because Fang Lang had taken practical action, giving them a massive p in the face. The breeze blew through the bamboo grove as the gentle drizzle continued to fall. The stone path on the mountain came to a bend. In his white robes, Fang Lang came to stand in front of the second stone tablet under a hut. He frowned, deep in thought, then stretched out his hand. Whether or not Fang Lang¡¯s guess was right, this stone tablet would be able to give him an answer. ... The Main Path Guild disciples, elders, and vice leader Zhao Zhenshi were all gathered in front of the gated arch at the foot of the mountain. The Main Path Mausoleum possessed an extremely powerful force that isted it from the spiritual probing of outsiders. Hence, neither Zhao Zhenshi nor Huang Zhihe would have any way of knowing what was going on inside the Main Path Mausoleum. The thing that astonished Zhao Zhenshi and the elders were that a full day and full night had passed but Fang Lang had still not retrieved the sword. So even though they had sent their disciples to prevent and try to dy him, Fang Lang should have retrieved the sword by now. Did this mean that... Fang Lang was not able to retrieve the Reincarnating Lotus Sword? After all, Xuanyuan Taihua¡¯s plunged the sword into a stone tablet in the Main Path Mausoleum. As soon as it was withdrawn, it would definitely trigger a huge change. Warriors such as Zhao Zhenshi and Huang Zhihe could definitely be able to sense the change. Zhao Zhenshi stroked his beard and narrowed his eyes until they were as thin as a sword edge. ¡°I think that we can say that Fang Lang must be trying to solve the tablet mysteries in the Main Path Mausoleum.¡± ¡°However, based on his performance at the first 500 steps of the Thousand Cloud Stairs, it¡¯s a fool¡¯s errand for him to even attempt solving the tablet mystery.¡± ¡°The time limit for entering the Main Path Mausoleum is seven days. If Fang Lang is not able to retrieve the sword within seven days, you can¡¯t me me for showing him the door,¡± said Zhao Zhenshi with a slight smile. Ni Wen, Huang Zhihe and Zhao Wuji were all sitting on the ground to one side. Ni Wen took out some food packs and brought out some delicious snacks for Huang Zhihe to taste. Huang Zhihe was eating a glutinous rice cake when he heard Zhao Zhenshi¡¯s words. He could not help but smile and say, ¡°What¡¯s the rush? There¡¯s still six more days left.¡± A Main Path Guild elder stroked his beard and smiled. ¡°Six days is not considered a lot of time nor is it a short amount of time. If this kid does not know the limits of his own strength and is too engrossed in trying to solve the tablet mysteries, six days will pass in the blink of an eye.¡± Huang Zhihe frowned. It was true. This elder¡¯s words made a lot of sense. Ni Wen and Zhao Wuji could not help but raise their heads and look towards the Main Path Mausoleum on the mountain summit shrouded in mist. All of a sudden, the atmosphere at the foot of the mountain changed. Both Zhao Zhenshi and Huang Zhihe raised their heads. They saw a blue-robed Main Path Guild disciple walkout from the Main Path Mausoleum and return to the foot of the mountain. ¡°What¡¯s going on?¡± asked Zhao Zhenshi. That blue-robed disciple¡¯s eyes were still filled with a sense of shock. ¡°Vice leader, Fang Lang entered the Main Path Mausoleum. He spent a full day and night in front of the first stone tablet of the guild...¡± ¡°He was sessful in solving the tablet mystery and received the gift of the first sect leader!¡± The blue-robed disciple¡¯s words were like a boom of thunder that exploded next to everyone¡¯s ears. The atmosphere at the foot of the mountain instantly became extremely tense. ¡°That¡¯s impossible!¡± ¡°He¡¯s a sword disciple. How could he have solved the difficult rune problem left behind by the first sect leader!!?¡± All the elders eximed in voices full of disbelief. ¡°Don¡¯t forget, Xuanyuan Taihua is a sword master... Didn¡¯t she also manage to solve your tablet mystery?¡± How was that possible!? Were theyparing Fang Lang to... Xuanyuan Taihua? Zhao Zhenshi¡¯splexion was ashen. He was extremely shocked and felt horrible inside. After all, the gift of the Main Path Guild founder had been received by an outsider instead of a Main Path disciple! This was absolutely... atrocious! ¡°It¡¯s impossible... How could the boy solve the difficult question left behind by the first sect leader?¡± muttered Zhao Zhenshi. Even he had failed to solve it! Based on Fang Lang¡¯s performance on the first 500 steps of the Thousand Cloud Stairs, he could not possibly solve it sessfully! ... Naturally, Fang Lang was unaware of the shock that erupted at the foot of the mountain. His hand made contact with the second stone tablet below the eaves of the hut, which spread out in all directions, protecting him from the drizzle. As soon as his fingers touched the mirror-like surface of the tablet, it seemed to trigger multiple ripples, like waves on a pond¡¯s surface. Another difficult rune question appeared. However, this stone tablet was left behind by one of the great spell masters of the Main Path Guild that was of the eighth-ss, forbidden-curse realm. The tablet mystery that he had left behind was much simpler than the tablet mystery of the first sect leader. Of course, to Fang Lang, this was still an impossibly difficult rune to solve. The type that made him feel dizzy as soon as he saw it. It was like going from an international-level olympiad question to a national-level olympiad question. To Fang Lang, there was no difference between the two. However, Fang Lang¡¯s eyes lit up all the same. He could also sense a hint of de energy and a trace of sword intent. The de energy approached! Out of the blue, the de energy began to flow out from the depths of the stone tablet. Bit by bit, it traced over the solution to the rune pattern. Whoosh! de energy and sword intent gushed into his body. The tablet mystery had been solved! An uproar broke out outside the hut. When they saw the pure spiritual sense bursting out of the tablet, the disciples of the Main Guild could hardly believe their eyes. Fang Lang stood in the downpour of spiritual sense and took out spirit crystals. His cultivation slowly increased. The main point was that Fang Lang seemed to solve this tablet mystery... much fasterpared to the previous one, which took him a full day and night! One of the Main Path Guild disciples had previously tried to solve this tablet mystery but he made no headway. To see Fang Lang solve it so quickly, he felt extremely crushed and defeated! ¡°Is he... a genius!?¡± That Main Path Guild disciple¡¯s eyes were filled with shock and disbelief. He cradled his head as his lips quivered. All they felt was an iparable sense of pressure and oppression to be in the ancient path of the mausoleum with a genius like this! An Fan waspletely dispirited. However, he was not the only one. All the disciples had lost their wits. The rain continued to pour down upon the stone tablet. Time passed slowly by. Fang Lang held the Blooming Lotus Sword and began to walk off. A crowd of disciples who looked like they had lost their souls followed behind him. As the more time passed, the more shocked they became. This was because Fang Lang continued to solve tablet mysteries one after another. Besides that, his speed at solving these tablet mysteries became faster and faster. The stone tablet of the first sect leader was the only one that took up a lot of time. Fang Lang was now able to solve ordinary tablet mysteries extremely easily. This feat caused all the Main Path Guild disciples to be awestruck. It was like they were face-to-face with a god! The gap between them was... far too wide. So wide that one would not be able to see the end of that distance! Each time Fang Lang stepped away from a stone tablet, they could see a warm smile on his face. It was unbelievable. He must be ridiculously happy now. Was this the happiness of a genius? Of course, the happiness of solving the tablet mysteries was not something that ordinary people like them would be able to understand! In reality, Fang Lang was extremely happy. It was the happiness of discovering a huge secret. Of course, he did not know how to solve tablet mysteries. However, he had someone helping him! His master must have left behind this de energy. Perhaps, his master had predicted that he woulde to the Main Path Mausoleum. Hence, she had left behind a secret weapon to help him, who had no idea how to solve tablet mysteries, to solve them with the help of the de energy inside the stone tablets. This was not solving the tablet mysteries. He was solving the runes by copying the model answer! Of course, Fang Lang would be able to do this much! The thing that surprised Fang Lang more was the discovery of Xuanyuan Taihua¡¯s terrifying boldness and strategic nning. His master Xuanyuan Taihua was nurturing a sword! She had borrowed the gifts left behind by the founder of the Main Path Guild for his disciples to nurture her sword! She had used 360 stone tablets to nurture a single sword! The sword that she had nurtured was the Reincarnating Lotus Sword that she stuck into a stone tablet here! If Fang Lang hoped to retrieve the sword, he needed first to solve the tablet mystery and absorb all the de energy within the tablet. The de energy was the crux to being able to retrieve the sword! When Fang Lang discovered this secret, all he felt was a sense of overbearing power. His master... was extremely ruthless! Fang Lang was speechless due to the carefree manner of his master in nurturing her sword. If this was exposed, he feared that as the person retrieving the sword... he would have his legs cut off by the warriors of the Main Path Guild! Fang Lang now felt a little hesitant about retrieving the sword. Would he be able to leave if he took the sword? The sound of the winds, the sound of the rain and the sound of footsteps... The sound of the bamboo leaves was like the sound of the ocean waves, ringing through every corner of the Main Path Mausoleum. There were three-hundred and sixty-one stone tablets in the mausoleum. One of them was an unfinished tablet. Xuanyuan Taihua¡¯s sword was stuck in the deepest corner of the mausoleum, on the unfinished tablet. Over six days, An Fan and the others had quietly followed behind Fang Lang as he solved tablet mysteries unceasingly. They watched as the happy smile he wore never left his face. Their faces were frozen stiff. The feelings of joy and sorrow experienced among humans were different. As Fang Lang solved the tablet mysteries, he received gifts after gifts which provided many advantages. His cultivation level increased non-stop. His sword mastery had reached the sixth-grade, sword-wave realm. His spell mastery was at the eighth-grade spell advisor level. His phantasm form was nearlyplete. Fang Lang¡¯s martial arts mastery slowly rose to the fourth-grade, blood-bending realm. As he walked, the aura upon Fang Lang¡¯s body gradually strengthened. However, Fang Lang grew more worried as he went on. When he arrived at the final stone tablet, the rainfall had be much heavier. The rain was beating down on the limestone path, sending sshes of water in all directions. The world appeared blurry when seen through a curtain of bead-like rain droplets. Fang Lang raised his head. He could see the unfinished stone tablet in the depths of the Main Path Mausoleum with the Reincarnating Lotus Sword stuck in it. It looked like a proud lotus flower growing on the side of a cliff, with a stubborn will to survive and thrive. Many of the Main Path Guild disciples¡¯ disciples came to their senses and their eyes swiveled to look at the Reincarnating Lotus Sword. Then, they suddenly recalled Zhao Zhenshi¡¯s instructions. They needed to stop Fang Lang from getting the sword! Astir of emotion shed in An Fan¡¯s eyes. He looked at his fellow disciples and said, ¡°Today is the sixth day. The Main Path Guild has determined that the Main Path Mausoleum can only be kept open for seven days. Once the seven days are up, everyone inside will need to be chased out.¡± ¡°Fang Lang has managed to solve all the stone tablets within six days. However, he doesn¡¯t have much time left to retrieve the sword!¡± ¡°Hence, we should all take turns and try to retrieve the sword. We might be able to use up all the time he has left to grab the sword. As soon as the time is up, he won¡¯t be able to me the Main Path Guild if he¡¯s unable to retrieve the sword!¡± ... At the foot of the mountain stood Zhao Zhenshi covered in fine drops of sweat. Fang Lang had solved all the tablet mysteries of the mausoleum in six days... This kid was messing with his heart rate once again! If he had not cheated, then it meant that this kid was a top genius in the world. He might even be a peerless genius that could surpass the levels of the ninth-ss spell mastery realm! ¡°However, he had spent six days solving the tablet mysteries. He does not have much time left to retrieve the sword. As soon as the sky darkens, I will personally kick him out even if he hasn¡¯t attempted to withdraw the sword!¡± ¡°He¡¯s a freak of nature!¡± Zhao Zhenshi felt a sense of pressure. It was as if he was looking at a second Xuanyuan Taihua. In the distance, Huang Zhihe frowned. He was aware of Zhao Zhenshi¡¯s motive. A worried expression appeared on his wrinkled face. ¡°Sigh... This kid, Fang Lang. He¡¯s been too busy solving tablet mysteries...¡± ¡°I hope he has not forgotten the real reason for our visit to the Main Path Guild!¡± ... The breeze began to stir, blowing through the stone tablet hut as a drizzle continued to fall in the night sky. Fang Lang stared at the queue before the unfinished stone tablet with the Reincarnating Lotus Sword in shock and disbelief on the narrow limestone path. He instantly understood the aim of these Main Path Guild disciples! A blue-robed disciple standing in front of the unfinished stone tablet ced his hands behind his back and said, ¡°This stone tablet was left behind by the sect leader at the time. However, before it could be finished, he was killed with one blow by First Sword Taihua.¡± ¡°Today, I¡¯m waiting for my turn to attempt retrieving this sword in order to right the injustices suffered by our sect leader!¡± As soon as the disciple finished speaking, he turned around and stormed off towards the stone tablet as Fang Lang looked on with a frown. Fang Lang hung his hands by his side and stood quietly in the rain. That Main Path Guild disciple drew closer to the unfinished stone tablet. He was almost there and stretched out his hand to withdraw the sword. However, even though he used all his might, the sword did not budge at all! Boom! A powerful sense of sword intent shot out and sent that disciple flying into the air. Just as Fang Lang was about to step forward, another disciple immediately stepped into the hut and prepared to withdraw the sword. But, after a long and hard struggle, that disciple failed as well. The third, the fourth... Each time Fang Lang started to move, a Main Path Guild disciple would step into the hut and try to retrieve the sword. As he watched the sea of blue before him, Fang Lang knew what the disciples were thinking. They were stalling for time so that he would run out of time before he could retrieve the sword. However, each time they failed, the Reincarnating Lotus Sword would send out a st of sword intent that sent the disciple flying into the air. Dozens of Main Path Guild disciples wasted a significant amount of time. An Fan was thest Main Path Guild disciple. He entered the stone tablet hut and attempted to withdraw the sword. However, he could sense an iparable sense of heaviness, asrge as an entire world hidden within the Reincarnating Lotus Sword. It seemed as though there was no way this sword could be retrieved. This made An Fan feel extremely shocked. How would anyone be able to withdraw a sword like this? He did not believe that Fang Lang would be able to withdraw this sword without breaking a sweat! An Fan walked out of the hut. By then, the sky was dark as ink. He red fixedly at Fang Lang. Fang Lang walked by, closely passing An Fan. The drizzle continued to fall. It was close to the seventh day. There was not much time left. Would 15 minutes be sufficient time for Fang Lang to withdraw the sword that was as heavy as a mountain!? At the foot of the mountain, a rune began to float around Zhao Zhenshi¡¯s body. Huang Zhihe gripped his hammer and narrowed his eyes. He nned to stop Zhao Zhenshi and help Fang Lang buy a little more time. His breathing stopped. Everyone seemed to hear the sound of sand falling through an hourss as time passed by. Inside the Main Path Mausoleum. The clear breeze blew through the bamboo leaves, causing them to rustle. There was not much time left for Fang Lang. He walked up to stand before the stone tablet and looked upon the Reincarnating Lotus Sword that looked extremely ordinary. This sword... was extremely tricky. Fang Lang hesitated. He was not concerned about how long it would take him to retrieve the sword. Rather, he was busy figuring out if he wanted to retrieve this sword or not. He let out a long sigh. In the end, Fang Lang stretched out his hand and gripped the hilt of the Reincarnating Lotus sword. His energy center exploded with all the de energy he had absorbed from the 360 stone tablets in the Main Path Mausoleum! Instantly, all the sounds within the mausoleum¡ªthe sound of the wind, rain and bamboo leaves... disappeared! It was like everything was plunged into the dead silence that happened before something terrifying was about to awaken! Chapter 137 - The Sound of Shattering Fills the Entire Mausoleum

Chapter 137: The Sound of Shattering Fills the Entire Mausoleum

Many people did not want Xuanyuan Taihua to return. This was especially true for the Main Path Guild. This was because Xuanyuan Taihua¡¯s return would destabilize the Main Path Guild¡¯s status as the First Guild of the Tang Dynasty. Besides that, the embarrassing scene that was happening was also directly rted to her undesired return. Even if everyone in the Main Path Guild did not want First Sword Taihua to return, the sword that she stuck in a stone tablet in the Main Path Mausoleum was like something stuck in their throat. The initial n was for Fang Lang to quickly withdraw the sword. In the end, they needed to stop Fang Lang from retrieving the sword. When one thought about it, it was almostical. They could not help butugh. As time slowly passed, seven days were up almost without anyone noticing. At the foot of the mountain, Zhao Zhenshi and the others continued to look up into the night sky. They seemed almost able to sense the passing of time. As soon as the time was up, Zhao Zhenshi would immediately stop Fang Lang and chase him out of the Main Path Mausoleum so that he would no longer be able to retrieve the sword. At the foot of the mountain, the atmosphere seemed to be tense. Huang Zhihe, who Ni Wen was supporting, narrowed his eyes. The aura over his body rippled slowly. He nned to fight to buy Fang Lang sometime to withdraw the sword. The sky was pitch ck. The Thousand Cloud Stairs were shrouded in darkness. On the peak of the mountain, there seemed to be dark clouds that hid everything from sight. ... In the depths of the Main Path Mausoleum, it waspletely silent before the unfinished stone tablet. The blue-robed Main Path Guild disciples were crowded together on the narrow mountain path. Their eyes were filled with disbelief and shock as they stared at the youth holding onto the hilt of the Reincarnating Lotus Sword. The Reincarnating Lotus Sword had a mysterious power. They had all attempted to withdraw the sword but no one was able to do so. This was because the sword was as heavy as the entire world. It was impossible to move. Hence, the disciples were all curious to know Fang Lang would be able to retrieve it. What was it about Fang Lang that distinguished him from them? Even though Fang Lang was a sword disciple, many Main Path Guild disciples also studied sword mastery. For example, An Fan was a third-ss sword disciple. When they touched the sword hilt, it felt like they were faced with a vast world. It was exactly like when they faced the stone tablet left behind by the first sect leader of the guild. If they wished to obtain the gift, they had to solve the tablet mystery. Due to this, they believe that even if Fang Lang could withdraw the sword, he would be unable to do so in such a short amount of time. However, they soon discovered that they were wrong. In front of the unfinished stone tablet, Fang Lang held the hilt of the Reincarnating Lotus Sword. The sound of the sword¡¯s cry tore through the silence of the mausoleum. Then, the Reincarnating Lotus Sword that was plunged into the unfinished stone tablet was slowly withdrawn. Time seemed to slip past just like the sand in an hourss. As the sword was drawn from the tablet, it seemed like the fallen grains of sand were slowly returning to the top of the hourss. This sword seemed to have rewind time. Everyone was stunned. As Fang Lang withdrew the sword, it seemed as though countless years had passed all in that one moment! As the person withdrawing the sword, Fang Lang felt the effect most powerfully. The de energy that he had collected from 360 stone tablets was like a volcano that had been dormant for thousands of years, only to erupt suddenly as it was awakened! The 360 gusts of de energy surged out of Fang Lang¡¯s energy center and streamed into the Reincarnating Lotus Sword. It was like a lost soul returning to its body! Boom Boom Boom! Fang Lang sensed the ground moving. It seemed like everything in the world was shifting. A mysterious sword intent formed an image in Fang Lang¡¯s consciousness! ... Fang Lang slowly drew the Reincarnating Lotus Sword from the unfinished stone tablet. As soon as the sword tip of the Reincarnating Lotus Sword left the unfinished stone tablet, sounds of spark could be heard. It sounded like the sound of beans popping in the frying pan, ringing out non-stop. In the Main Path Mausoleum, cracks appeared on every stone tablet. It was like a single sword had instantly sliced through all 360 stone tablets! ... An illusion. The Reincarnating Lotus Sword was showing him an illusion! However, as Fang Lang recalled the scene of countless stone tablets covered in cracks, he felt like his heart was breaking inside. If he withdrew the sword, it would destroy the entire mausoleum. If this continued, would Fang Lang be able to walk out of the Main Path Mausoleum safely? Xuanyuan Taihua had used 360 stone tablets to nurture the Reincarnating Lotus Sword. This was chopping off the foundational root of the Main Path Guild. However, Fang Lang was past the point of no return. He had to retrieve the sword. There was no other way. Swish! The sword was withdrawn from the unfinished stone tablet, like a mighty tree being plucked out of the earth in one go! Numerous tree roots were torn apart! Each of those roots was connected to a stone tablet in the Main Path Mausoleum! A clear sound rang out as Fang Lang removed the Reincarnating Lotus Sword with both his hands. He pointed the sharp sword tip towards the sky. Outside the stone tablet hut, the blue-robed Main Path Guild disciples looked at Fang Lang withdrawing the sword with ease in absolute shock! Fang Lang retrieved the Reincarnating Lotus Sword, which seemed as heavy as though it contained an entire universe as easily as if it were merely stuck in loose soil. The gap between their strength was huge! Instantly, a bright light filled the ce. At that moment, the Reincarnating Lotus Sword shone as bright as the brightest star in the universe. Its glow shone over the entire earth! The entire summit of the mountain was enveloped in this brilliant light. At the foot of the mountain, they could see that the mountain peak was shining so brightly that the entire night scene was lit up! The Main Path Guild disciples in the hut could sense a threatening feeling that seemed like the end of days was upon them. It was like the entire Main Path Mausoleum was about to be destroyed. Fang Lang¡¯s forehead was covered in a cold sweat. He could see a sword intent swirling from within the Reincarnating Lotus Sword. This sword intent spread across the entire mausoleum like a cool breeze. This was the sword intent of the Reincarnating Lotus Sword. Fang Lang could vaguely see a phantom appear behind him. It was the phantom of Xuanyuan Taihua. With a curve of her fingers, the Reincarnating Lotus Sword trembled slightly. It was like time had reversed as the sword intent returned to the Reincarnating Lotus Sword. All the cracks, all the copsing structures, the destruction of the mausoleum all came to a halt in an instant as the sword intent seemed to reverse time. This sword had caused time to rewind. Everything returned to its original state. The only sounds that could be heard were the rainfall and bamboo leaves swaying in the breeze. The Reincarnating Lotus Sword returned to looking extremely ordinary as it hid everything extraordinary about it. However, the fighting power contained within it made Fang Lang¡¯s heart race. The icy-cold rain beat down on Fang Lang¡¯s skin, causing him to shiver. He swept his eyes over his surroundings. Everything was perfect. None of the stone tablets were destroyed because he withdrew the sword. Was it all merely an illusion? However, Fang Lang felt as though... things were not as they seemed! He stared at the Reincarnating Lotus Sword in his hand. It looked very ordinary. The difference between the Blooming Lotus Sword and the Reincarnating Lotus Sword was that the Reincarnating Lotus was covered in tiny cracks that looked like carvings. However, Fang Lang could now see a mercury-like substance slowly fill up these cracks starting from the sword hilt. It was like sand that represented time flowing down an hourss. It was like a... countdown! Fang Lang¡¯s eyes froze. Goosebumps appeared all over his skin. He needed to leave the Main Path Guild as quickly as possible. As long as he could run fast enough, he would not be the cause of the destruction of the mausoleum. Fang Lang kept the Reincarnating Lotus Sword in his scabbard. He maintained an indifferent expression, looking as calm as water as he stepped out of the hut of the unfinished stone tablet. An Fan and the group of Main Path Guild disciples all looked stunned. They felt as though they had just witnessed something terrifying. However, in an instant, that huge terror disappeared. ¡°The sword has been retrieved. Even if there¡¯s anything else to say, I should make my leave now and head to the next destination.¡± Fang Lang maintained a calm and collected expression as he sped his hands towards the Main Path Guild disciples. After that, he maderge strides and rushed quickly down the stone steps, leaving the mausoleum in a hurry. On the narrow mountain path, An Fan and the other disciples stood under the hazy night sky wearingplicated expressions as they stared at the unfinished stone tablet. ... The breeze blew, causing the bamboo leaves to rustle non-stop. At the foot of the mountain, Zhao Zhenshi frowned and looked up. ording to his calctions, seven days were up. It was like the final grain of sand in the hourss has dropped. Zhao Zhenshi¡¯s eyes narrowed as his robes fluttered gently. After that, his body shot up into the sky and ascended the cloud steps. It was a demonstration of top-ss Qinggong[1]. It only took him three steps to ascend the Thousand Cloud Stairs! However, as he was about to enter the Main Path Mausoleum to chase Fang Lang out, he noticed Fang Lang¡¯s figure darted out of the mausoleum entrance. The cool breeze and the drizzle continued into the night. Fang Lang was dressed in white robes and had his scabbard on his back. In the night sky, he stood out. Zhao Zhenshi did not expect Fang Lang to make his way out of the Main Path Mausoleum now. He stared intently at Fang Lang. Then, his gaze shifted tond upon the scabbard on his back. He saw the familiar hilt of the Reincarnating Lotus Sword! That sword had been stuck in the unfinished stone tablet for over ten years. There was no way that Zhao Zhenshi could be mistaken! ¡°You¡¯ve retrieved the sword?¡± asked Zhao Zhenshi. Had Fang Lang really managed to retrieve the sword that had been lodged in the Main Path Guild like a fishbone in the throat for over ten years in less than 15 minutes? Was this all set up by Xuanyuan Taihua? Only the person fated to do so would be able to withdraw the sword? Was this all part of Xuanyuan Taihua¡¯s n? Zhao Zhenshi stared at Fang Lang. An inexplicable fire surged inside him. How could the great Main Path Guild be tampered with by Xuanyuan Taihua like this? ¡°Yes, I¡¯ve retrieved the sword,¡± answered Fang Lang. Zhao Zhenshi looked straight at Fang Lang. The cool wind caused their robes to billow in the wind. The sword that had been stuck in the Main Path Guild for over ten years had been retrieved by the youth before him. It was like he was predestined to retrieve the sword. Zhao Zhenshi stared intently at Fang Lang. He was currently going through an internal conflict. The sect leader Zhao Longshi was not around. Should he let Fang Lang take the Reincarnating Lotus Sword and leave the Main Path Guild? At this moment, he was not far from Fang Lang. If he acted, Fang Lang would definitely be unable to escape. He¡¯d be able to suppress Fang Lang¡¯s power and capture him! Fang Lang looked at Zhao Zhenshi and worked to keep his heart rate steady. The two of them stared at each other. Their gaze was like two dragons behind the clouds, tearing through the mists and were now roaring at each other. Zhao Zhenshi broke off from the gaze first. He looked towards the Main Path Mausoleum which was shrouded in clouds as though he was trying to see if there were any negative effects on the mausoleum after the sword had been withdrawn. ¡°Xuanyuan Taihua has left her sword in the sacrednd of the Main Path Guild for many years. However, we¡¯ve been unable to discover her reasons for doing so. Tell me, why did she do it?¡± asked Zhao Zhenshi. Fang Lang smiled. ¡°As her disciple, how could I know the reasons for my master¡¯s actions?¡± ¡°I only know that my master has instructed me toe and retrieve the sword. That¡¯s why I¡¯m here.¡± Zhao Zhenshi remained silent for a long time. He then moved slightly to the side. Fang Lang bowed and said, ¡°Thank you very much, Senior.¡± After that, he strode out of the Main Path Mausoleum area and headed down the cloud stairs in front of all the Main Path Guild disciples at the foot of the mountain. Zhao Zhenshi did not follow Fang Lang. He instead turned to look at the many disciples that walked out of the Main Path Mausoleum. He looked towards An Fan who acted as the leader and asked, ¡°Are there any strange changes to the Main Path Mausoleum on the inside?¡± An Fan bowed and shook his head. ¡°There¡¯s no strange changes to the Main Path Mausoleum on the inside. Everything is fine, except that... the sword has been taken.¡± Zhao Zhenshi was shocked. Was it possible that Xuanyuan Taihua had not done anything the whole time that the sword was stuck in the Main Path Mausoleum? That was impossible! Zhao Zhenshi frowned. Fang Lang arrived at the bottom of the mountain. The Main Path Guild disciples looked at him withplicated gazes. This was the youth who managed to defeat more than half of the disciples of the Main Path Guild, causing the entire guild to quake! Ni Wen supported Huang Zhihe and looked towards Fang Lang, who was walking over through the crowd. Huang Zhihe was beaming from ear to ear. Fang Lang also wore a smile as he walked towards them. ¡°Let¡¯s hurry up and leave,¡± said Fang Lang in a low voice with a smile on his face. Huang Zhihe was stunned. His face that looked like an ancient tree bark quivered. His eyes turned towards Zhao Wuji. Zhao Wuji understood right away. He summoned the horse carriage and Ni Wen helped Huang Zhihe into the horse carriage. Fang Lang mbered into the carriage calmly. ¡°Drive!¡± Zhao Wuiji did not hesitate. He quickly snapped the reins. The horse carriage did not immediately fly into the skies. The wheels turned and slowly moved forward on the ancient limestone steps. At the top of the Thousand Cloud Stairs. Zhao Zhenshi put his hands behind his back as he watched the horse carriage slowly drive out of the Main Path Guild mountain entrance. Even though it was driving down stairs, it seemed to travel smoothly as though it were driving on level ground. All of a sudden, Zhao Zhenshi said, ¡°It¡¯ste now. Why don¡¯t you stay at the Main Path Guild. Allow us to show you hospitality as hosts.¡± Huang Zhihe¡¯sughter rang out from the horse carriage. ¡°There¡¯s no need for that.¡± Zhao Zhenshi frowned. He felt uneasy. He should not have let Fang Lang leave so easily after retrieving the sword. Furthermore, Fang Lang and the others seemed to be in a rush, as though there was a problem. The third time Zhao Zhenshi turned his head and he looked into the Main Path Mausoleum. He walked into the mausoleum then continued to the stone steps. Very quickly, he arrived at the first stone tablet. He looked at the stone tablet left behind by the first sect leader and reached out his hand to gently touch it. Creak! As soon as he touched it, a pair of eyes seemed to open within the smooth surface of the stone tablet. A trace of sword intent was overwhelmed by the realization of terror. Zhao Zhenshi¡¯s spiritual sense subconsciously trembled. After that, the sound of something cracking rang out in the hut apanied by the sound of the breeze and the bamboo leaves. The stone tablet fell apart. The cracks traveled from top to bottom and stopped where Zhao Zhenshi¡¯s hand rested. Zhao Zhenshi quickly withdrew his hand as though he had touched something scalding hot. It was not me! Zhao Zhenshi¡¯s eyes shed with disbelief. After that, he ran frantically out of the hut, looking up at the Main Path Mausoleum in the night sky. Crack, crack, crack... Across the horizon, cracks began to appear on all the stone tablets under the huts. It was like all he could see were shattered stone tablets! Zhao Zhenshi panicked! Did all this happen because he touched the first sect leader¡¯s stone tablet? No! Every muscle on Zhao Zhenshi¡¯s body was trembling. He took a step out, seemingly shrinking the earth as he left the Main Path Mausoleum in an instant. His eyes were filled with madness and anger. He red down at the horse carriage below the mountain, driving leisurely out of the Main Path Guild entrance. ¡°Please stay where you are!¡± His voice exploded and reverberated among the mountains. That horse carriage that had been driving slowly instantly sped up drastically as soon as it heard Zhao Zhenshi¡¯s words, driving at high speeds towards the exit of the mountains. [1] ÇṦ Qinggong. Also known as Lightness spell. Chapter 138 - The Disaster After Removing the Sword

Chapter 138: The Disaster After Removing the Sword

Trantor: EndlessFantasy Trantion Editor: EndlessFantasy Trantion Zhao Zhenshi narrowed his eyes instantly when he saw a carriage flying across the sky! He was furious! The events happening in the Main Path Mausoleum shed across his eyes. He could see all the stone tablets started to crack and he could feel the fading essence of the spiritual sense. The abundant resources that were reserved for the Main Path Guild disciples were being taken by the sword! Zhao Zhenshi shuddered in fear. A chill ran down his spine and spread to his entire body. He was not a fool. The moment the stone tablet cracked, he knew that it was because Fang Lang had removed the Reincarnating Lotus Sword. This must be Xuanyuan Taihua¡¯s n all along by nting the sword in the Main Path Mausoleum! This sword had been absorbing all the essence and inheritance that the ancestors left for the disciples of the Main Path Guild! It had absorbed a thousand years of worth of reserve! Zhao Zhenshi was furious. ¡°You want to leave? Leave the sword behind!¡± he bellowed. He would never let Fang Lang leave with the Reincarnating Lotus Sword. Since the sect leader, Zhao Longshi was absent. He was left in charge of the Main Path Guild. No one had seen thising. The Main Path Guild experienced such a major upheaval under his control? He would be the one bearing all the responsibility! Zhao Zhenshi even suspected that the sect leader might have foreseen this and made up excuses to leave so that he would take the me! He refused to take the fall for this! Zhao Zhenshi rotated both his arms to roll up the bulky sleeves and raised his hand in a swift movement. An overbearing surge of spiritual sense poured out between his eyebrows, like a hurricane that ravaged the entire Main Path Guild! Boom! The runes at the base of Mount Tongtian were activated one after another, gathering into a brilliant light that shot from the ground and lit up the night sky. Main Path Guild¡¯s great shield rune! This was a top-grade rune, a protection rune at the level of a forbidden spell! Zhao Zhenshi¡¯s robe billowed in the air and his eyes burned brightly as he stood on the top of the Thousand Cloud Stairs. ¡°Where are the other Main Path Guild disciples? Cast the rune!¡± Zhao Zhenshi yelled. His thunderous voice ripped through the night sky. All the disciples of the Main Path Guild sobered up. ¡®What happened?¡¯ ¡®Is the vice leader going to fight Fang Lang because he felt humiliated?¡¯ ¡®Is this because Fang Lang removed the Reincarnating Lotus Sword and he wants to stop them from leaving?¡¯ However, the disciples did not ponder for long. After all, the vice leader had given the orders and as disciples, they would need to execute it. At the base of the mountain, the blue-robed disciples sat down cross-legged, gesturing both hands as spiritual sense expelled between their eyebrows. A swarm of spiritual senses charged towards the sky like fireworks, where they exploded and merged, weaving into a massive with Zhao Zhenshi¡¯s light veil. The entire Mount Tongtian was enveloped by a veil of light shaped like a dome! The horses neighed and sped up. Fang Lang and the others inside the carriage had their backs pressed into the seats due to the eleration. Huang Zhihe looked at Fang Lang with a serious expression. What¡¯s going on?¡± It puzzled Huang Zhihe since Fang Lang removed the sword within the given rules. No matter how angry Zhao Zhenshi felt, he should not have overreacted. He even used the Mountain Shield Forbidden Spell Rune. Fang Lang checked the Reincarnating Lotus Sword and noticed that the crack was only sealed by half. He frowned and thought, ¡®It shouldn¡¯t be. How did Zhao Zhenshi notice them in the Main Path Mausoleum?¡¯ He slowly let out a breath and told Huang Zhihe about the Reincarnating Lotus Sword¡¯s influence on the Main Path Mausoleum. Huang Zhihe¡¯s face started twitching and flushed red when he heard Fang Lang. After a long pause, he eximed, ¡°Incredible! Only Taihua has such audacity to pull this off!¡± Huang Zhihe raised his hand, and a steel hammer appeared from his palm. His eyes were deep and dark as his croaky voice echoed inside the carriage. ¡°The first five great sects of the Tang Dynasty were formed more than a thousand years ago. All five sects are incredibly strong and powerful. Before the Tang Dynasty, the world was split into eight dynasties. Each dynasty would have a sect in power that controls the rights of the people, which caused a lot of conflicts. You also know that the sects belong in the world while the Imperial Court is a temple. Nothing good will evere out of it by mixing them together. Later on, the Emperor started an uprising that conquered the eight dynasties and standardized all of the sects. ¡°However, he still doesn¡¯t have a n to sort the great sects like Main Path Guild, Meridian Guild and All-Seeing Buddha Sect. He also dare not act rashly as there might be someone that had transcended the ninth-grade and entered the transcendental realm! Do you know why Xuanyuan Taihua was able to rise in power? That¡¯s because she had the support of the Emperor, which gave the Sword Guild the honor of being the First Guild in the world.¡± Huang Zhihe exined. Fang Lang narrowed his eyes, ¡°How is it rted to the Reincarnating Lotus Sword being lodged in the Main Path Guild by master?¡± Huang Zhihe shook his head and answered, ¡°I¡¯m not too sure about that, but... it seems like it¡¯s a ploy to test the presence of a ninth-grade transcendence in the Main Path Guild.¡± Huang Zhihe rubbed on the steel hammer in his hand. Fang Lang stared at the Reincarnating Lotus Sword lying across his thighs as he fell into deep thought. Perhaps, the source of energy from the 360 stone tablets that the Reincarnating Lotus Sword absorbed was rted to the Main Path Guild¡¯s transcendence? Was it possible that the reason Zhao Zhenshi discovered them was that the dormant transcendental presence in the Main Path Mausoleum had awoken and notified him? Boom! The carriage halted suddenly and fell onto the mountain road. Zhao Wuji¡¯s voice sounded from outside the coach, ¡°The path is blocked. The Main Path Guild activated the Mountain Shield Rune and we can¡¯t get past it.¡± ... In Mount Donglin of the Donglu¡¯s Sword League, Chao Xiaojian stood in front of the demon portal entrance. Both his hands were on his back, his white robe fluttered in the air. He looked at the direction of the Main Path Guild and saw a bright light gleaming in the night sky, piercing through theyers of rain clouds above it. ¡°Main Path Guild¡¯s Mountain Shield Rune... Fang Lang must¡¯ve removed the sword sessfully. Why did the sect leader nt the Reincarnating Sword in the Main Path Mausoleum? Perhaps we¡¯ll know by tonight.¡± Chao Xiaojian let out a breath gradually. He raised his hand and the green steel sword that was standing on the peak of Mount Donglin flew into his hand at an incredible speed. He took a step forward and his entire body was circting in de energy. Suddenly, he charged into the sea of clouds like a white dragon. ... Changan was covered in darkness as the night deepened. Inside a deserted courtyard of the Martial Art King Manor, Princess Pei Shi opened the doors with a red sandalwood food container in her arms. Under the twinkling starlight, a muscr figure was sitting in the middle of the courtyard, his hair disheveled. Princess Pei Shi walked towards him slowly, ¡°Dear.¡± Martial Arts King Jiang turned to nce at Princess Pei Shi, his wavering eyes gradually softened. The couple stared at each other in silence. Princess Pei Shi took out the steaming dishes from the food container and a bottle of wine. ¡°Ling¡¯er went to learn sword fighting with her sister. She won¡¯t being back until she has mastered the Four Seasons Form. Pei Liao is investigating the third prince¡¯s escape from the Cold Pce. It was rumored that the third prince escaped to the western region to join Asi Luoshan¡¯s army. Asi Luoshan¡¯s army is growing stronger and they¡¯reing to us in full force,¡± Princess Pei Shi stated. ¡°You don¡¯t need to worry about this as long as I¡¯m here,¡± Martial Arts king Jiang said slowly with a dignified tone. Princess Pei Shi chuckled and sat down beside him. She lifted her hand to touch him but she stopped mid-way as she felt the vast distance between them. ¡°Little Fang went to the Main Path Guild to retrieve the sword Taihua left there. It had been decades since she left it there. Being the person she is, I don¡¯t think she left it there as a souvenir, don¡¯t you think?¡± Princess Pei Shi asked. Martial Arts King Jiang gulped a mouthful of alcohol without answering. His gaze deepened as he looked towards the direction of the Main Path Guild. ... The carriage stopped on the limestone path. Zhao Zhenshi watched them from the top of the Thousand Cloud Stairs. Suddenly, he raised his hand swiftly. Endless cloud energy started to emerge beneath the carriage and transformed into the palm of a deity that upheaved the entire carriage from the ground. The entire Main Path Guild seemed to be enveloped by cloud energy as if it took the form of a deity that was overlooking the carriage. ¡°Fang Lang, you may leave if you return the Reincarnating Lotus Sword!¡± Zhao Zhenshi said. His voice echoed through the valley and reached into their souls. ¡°The Reincarnating Lotus Swordpletely absorbed a thousand years of experience from the Main Path Guild. How dare you leave with it!¡± Right after Zhao Zhenshi finished speaking, he flipped his palm around and the cloud that was holding the carriage overturned and started crushing them to the ground. There was a scoff from the inside of the coach. The next moment, a de light shot up to the sky and sliced the cloud into half! The carriage started soaring upwards. Zhao Wuji maneuvered the coach so that it was hovering in the air. Inside the carriage, Huang Zhihe stood at the end of the carriage with a steel hammer in his hand. As heughed, he tossed the hammer into the air and it exploded instantly like fireworks. The sparks from the explosion contained countless small des that were infused with de energy. Hammer of Ten Thousand Hidden des! ¡°Ni Wen, let¡¯s see how much you can understand from this move of mine.¡± A smile formed on Huang Zhihe¡¯s wrinkly face. He waved his hand and both his palms started moving in a circr motion as if he was stirring water in a tank to create whirlpools. The 10,000 des from the hammer formed a rune and created a massive hammer out of de energy in the air! Zhao Zhenshi stood within the clouds. His robe fluttered in the wind and stuck tightly to his body. He red at the de energy hammer and shrieked, ¡°Old Huang! You¡¯re seeking your own demise!¡± ¡°Xuanyuan Taihua¡¯s sword robbed the Main Path Guild of a thousand years worth of reserve! I won¡¯t allow him to take it away! If you try to stop me, you¡¯ll be dering war with the Main Path Guild and I will kill you! You¡¯re not rted to the Sword Guild, why should you die for Fang Lang?¡± Zhao Zhenshi bellowed. Countless blue-robed disciples behind him yelled and changed their gestures, feeding the energy around Zhao Zhenshi. Huang Zhihe burst outughing, ¡°You know nothing! Hit it!¡± He refused to waste any more words on this. He made a w gesture with his hand and raked the air. The hammer recoiled backward and pounded on the dome of light! Boom! Hammer de Lord, de Hammer! The de hammer formed by countless small swords plummeted on the dome of light. The dome of light shook violently for a few seconds before it shattered into pieces! The impact was as strong as a giant rock thrown into a restingke. Inside the carriage, Fang Langid the Reincarnating Lotus Sword on his thigh. He frowned as he stared at it. However, he was not paying much attention to the battle outside because he discovered a faint heartbeat inside the sword. Fang Lang raised his head and looked towards the Main Path Mausoleum. The heartbeat of the Reincarnating Lotus Sword seemed to be originating from the Main Path Mausoleum. In a daze, Fang Lang could feel a pair of eyes in the Main Path Mausoleum staring at him through space and time. Chapter 139 - The Sword Intent of the Reincarnating Sword

Chapter 139: The Sword Intent of the Reincarnating Sword

The bamboo forest rustled loudly in the Main Path Guild¡¯s forest as if it was billowing in the strong wind. The night sky was not dark as there was a brilliant light shining on the peak of Mount Tongtian like a zing sun that chased the darkness away. A deafening explosion erupted in the Main Path Guild. The Mountain Shield Rune cast by all of the disciples of Main Path Guild was destroyed instantly by a giant hammer! The explosion was so strong that it sent a shock wave that spanned dozens of miles. The de hammer smashed through the Mountain Shield Forbidden Spell Rune. Even though it was just a protection rune, it was an extremely powerful rune to be considered as a forbidden spell. While in the air, Huang Zhihe stood on the carriage. The countless des returned to him after smashing the Mountain Shield Rune, where they gathered and reformed into the hammer-shaped formation above his head. The des were like tens of thousands of bees gathered in a swarm. This was the Hammer de Lord¡¯s de Hammer! Zhao Zhenshi stood in the rune on the peak of the misty Mount Tongtian, and his robe billowed in the wind. ¡°How dare you, Old Huang. Since you¡¯re so stubborn, so be it!¡± Zhao Zhenshi said coldly. The Reincarnating Lotus Sword that Fang Lang removed had absorbed a thousand years¡¯ worth of reserve from the Main Path Mausoleum. If he let Fang Lang escape, the Main Path Guild would lose their reputation forever. More importantly, Zhao Zhenshi felt a sense of anger rising from the deepest end of the inside the Main Path Mausoleum. Zhao Zhenshi felt a little emotional. He vaguely recalled his conversation with the sect leader, Zhao Longshi. In reality, the Main Path Guild was the one who instigated the first prince to probe the Emperor. As the world¡¯s strongest sect that had been around for thousands of years, why should the Main Path Guild bow before the Tang Dynasty? However, the Tang Dynasty was filled with geniuses, with the Emperor excluded. Just look at the incredible female de lord, Xuanyuan Taihua, who emerged two centuries ago after being promoted by the Emperor. She alone was able to outshine all the other sects. How many cultivators in the Tang Dynasty actually achieved transcendence? Thus far, there were only two of them¡ªthe Emperor and Xuanyuan Taihua. These two were able to overshadow all the sects. Therefore, the Sword Guild was able to ascend to be the greatest sect in the Tang Dynasty. That night, Zhao Longshi and Zhao Zhenshi had mentioned that the five greatest sects in the Tang Dynasty¡ªMain Path guild, Meridian Guild, All-seeing Buddha Sect, Karma Society and Immortal Martial Association had a history of more than a thousand years. These five sects had a hidden ancestor that had attained transcendence. However, these ancestors would not expose themselves because the Tang Dynasty was ruled by the Emperor and the Code, making them undefeatable. This was also why the ten great sects had fallen. They even needed to operate under the Imperial Court! Just moments ago, Zhao Zhenshi felt an ancient sense in the Main Path Mausoleum as though a pair of centuries-old eyes had opened at that moment! This ancient sense was also the reason Zhao Zhenshi realized what happened in the Main Path Mausoleum. Zhao Zhenshi was exhrated. He envisaged something major happening tonight. He must stop Fang Lang from leaving with the Reincarnating Lotus Sword. Excluding the fact that the Reincarnating Lotus Sword had absorbed a thousand years¡¯ worth of reserve from the Main Path Guild, the sword was not any other ordinary weapon. It could be considered a magical weapon. If he could control this magical weapon, maybe... he would have a chance to reach transcendence! Zhao Zhenshi was envious! ¡°Huang Zhihe, you have no idea what Fang Lang had awakened when he removed the sword!¡± Zhao Zhenshi leaped into the sky and traveled on clouds. Under his feet, the rune kept expanding from each point that he stepped on. Thousands of the Main Path Guild disciples were seated on the wide ins of Mount Tongtian cross-legged as they cast the rune. Inside the carriage, Huang Zhihe¡¯s expression darkened slightly. Zhao Zhenshi raised both his palms and ferocious dragons suddenly surrounded him. ¡°Where are you, elders of the Main Path Guild?¡± Shortly after, a massive wave of energy emerged above Mount Tongtian. All the elders of the Main Path Guild flew across the sky, and their robes billowed in the winds. The Main Path Guild had decided to go on full force shamelessly without any reservations! Nevertheless, anyone would do the same since the Reincarnating Lotus Sword Fang Lang removed had robbed the Main Path Mausoleum from a thousand years of cultivation. ¡°Go!¡± Huang Zhihe did not want to continue fighting. Xuanyuan Taihua could fight the entire sect by herself, but this was out of his caliber. Huang Zhihe tapped gently with his finger de and the night sky lit up instantly. The 10,000 small des from the de hammer charged towards Zhao Zhenshi and several ninth-grade elders like a tornado. Zhao Wuji whipped the horse and sped up the carriage towards the exit to escape from the Main Path Guild. The horses neighed loudly and a rune appeared under their hooves. They then stepped on it and rode into the air. Zhao Zhenshi rose in the air like a deity. He aimed all five fingers towards the carriage and said, ¡°How dare you cast runes in my Main Path Guild.¡± Then, he clenched all five fingers into a fist. An invisible spiritual sense shot at them like an arrow and shattered the rune under the hooves of the horses! The coach started plummeting rapidly. Zhao Wuji immediately leaped out and used his vital energy to hoist the carriage up before setting it on the ground gently. However, all movements stopped after that. Five elders of the Main Path Guild had surrounded the carriage. Huang Zhihe stood on top of the carriage with a serious expression. With the Mountain Shield Forbidden Spell Rune, it was as if Zhao Zhenshi had a magical weapon in hand that was no less than him. ¡°This is going to be tough. Why is Chao Xiaojian not here yet?¡± Huang Zhihe¡¯s face twitched. In this situation, he might not be able to withstand the attacks alone. If he had to... he would definitely be asking for a raise! ... Ni Wen looked slightly worried in the carriage. She nced at Fang Lang but he had his eyes shut as if he was in deep thought. The Reincarnating Lotus Sword was lying t on his thigh. The situation out there was extremely dangerous. However, Fang Lang did not seem to be affected by the surroundings. It was as though his soul had been sucked into the sword. There was a hazy world inside the sword. Fang Lang saw a graceful yet familiar figure standing on top of a bloomed lotus. She was holding a de skill in her hand like a flower-picking Buddha. A sea of de energy surrounded the lotus, massive waves of de energy swept across the sea asionally, making others feel insignificant. ¡°Master?¡± Fang Lang asked. His voice echoed through the sea of de energy. ¡°Disciple Lang,¡± the beautiful figure on the lotus answered. Fang Lang was thrilled when he heard her reply. He was right. The lotus held a thread of Xuanyuan Taihua¡¯s consciousness. Fang Lang had expected this since he had encountered it inside the Blooming Lotus Sword. It only made sense if the Reincarnating Lotus Sword had it too. Perhaps, the remaining Withering Lotus Sword and Circling Lotus Sword also hold the consciousness of Xuanyuan Taihua! Huang Zhihe told Fang Lang that the three swords in the Main Path Guild, All-Seeing Buddha Sect and Meridian Guild might be a tool to test the presence of a cultivator in the transcendental realm. Their mission was to expose the hidden beings in the dark. However, Fang Lang thought there might be a bigger purpose for the Withering Lotus, Circling Lotus and Reincarnating Lotus. Ever since the Blooming Lotus Sword sliced through the Code, Fang Lang thought that maybe they were all part of the preparation for the Code as well. Exposing hidden transcended beings was just a coincidence. Fang Lang stepped onto the lotus. The graceful figure raised a finger to tap on Fang Lang¡¯s forehead between his brows. ¡°Disciple Lang, focus on the sword intent of the Reincarnating Lotus Sword. This is the only way you can wield this sword. If you could understand the sword intent, you would ovee this crisis unharmed,¡± the figure said smilingly. Fang Lang was speechless. Was this the master¡¯s way of teaching him? He felt a little unsettling. At the same time, Fang Lang remembered a mission given by the System that sent him to remove the sword. If he seeded in withdrawing the sword, he would receive a Silver Reward Egg. If he managed to remove all three swords and help Xuanyuan Taihua return, he might be able to get a Gold Reward Egg! However, Fang Lang still had yet to receive any Silver Reward Egg after removing the Reincarnating Lotus Sword. What does this mean? It meant that Fang Lang had notpletely removed the sword. By removing the sword, it did not mean pulling the sword out of the broken tablet. Instead, he needed to understand the sword intent of the Reincarnating Lotus sword and earn the right to control it. When Fang Lang thought of this, he had no choice but to focus on understanding the sword intent of the Reincarnating Lotus Sword. This might be their only way out. ¡°System, activate Enlightenment Card!¡± Fang Lang said seriously. This was thest Enlightenment Card in his inventory. He decided to use it without any hesitation under such circumstances. He sat crossed-legged in the lotus. After Xuanyuan Taihua¡¯s tip, Fang Lang¡¯s consciousness started spinning. ... When Fang Lang opened his eyes, he found himself in a shabby shed. The Reincarnating Sword was still on his thighs. Fang Lang looked around his surroundings. This ce seemed to be isted from the rest of the world. There was only a shed, surrounded by bamboo forests, where the bamboo leaves rustled in the breeze like waves. There was a stream in front of the shed. The whole world was silent. Fang Lang remained quiet as he held onto the sword. He was trying to understand the sword intent of the Reincarnating Lotus Sword, but he did not know how. Even after activating the System¡¯s Enlightenment Card, Fang Lang had no clue or direction to start with. How should he be enlightened? He sat cross-legged inside the shed as he listened to the sounds from the bamboo forests, flowing streams and the gentle breeze. It was all so serene that Fang Lang hoped to stay in that moment forever. ¡®A shed built in the human world, yet isted from the hustle and bustle.¡¯ Time stopped as Fang Lang narrowed his eyes... An image appeared in his mind. This was the same shback he experienced when he reached out to grab the Reincarnating Lotus Sword inside the Main Path Mausoleum. Back then, he saw countless stone tablets cracked the moment he removed the sword. However, a massive surge of energy poured out of the Reincarnating Lotus Sword like an invisible hand that swept across those tablets that sealed the cracks. ¡°Back in time... travelling back in time...¡± Was this the Reincarnating Lotus Sword¡¯s sword intent? Time... The eternal cycle of life, death, rebirth... Perhaps each sword had its own sword intent? With the Enlightenment Card¡¯s effect, Fang Lang fell into deep thought. However, he had not experienced any sword intent from the Blooming Lotus Sword. The sword intent of the Reincarnating Lotus Sword is time. How should he conceptualize the sword intent of time? Fang Lang stood up with his hand on the handle of the Reincarnating Lotus Sword as he pondered for a long time. The gentle breeze made the stream ripple. The moment Fang Lang reopened his eyes, a ferocious de force shot out from his body and he pulled out the Reincarnating Sword that was nted in the ground in one swift motion! Fang Lang frowned. In order to understand the sword intent of time, he needed to capture time itself. But, how was he going to do that? Fang Lang scanned around. He tried to walk out of the shed to look for more clues. However, Fang Lang found himself walking back to the shed as if he was imprisoned here. He could not leave this ce. After exiting the shed, no matter how long he traveled, he would always return to the front of the shed as it was an endless cycle. Fang Lang sat down worriedly. After pondering for a long time, he stood up. He started practicing sword fighting, revising all the techniques that he learned from his cultivation. Sword Draw Technique, Spirit Step, Finger Flick Energy Wave... These techniques brought Fang Lang to the top, allowing him to excel in the Imperial examination. Sword Thunder, Lotus de... Fang Lang whirled the sword and practiced in front of the shed. Time continued to move around Fang Lang. He practiced during the day and rested at night. Fang Lang continued to practice his sword, and slowly... Fang Lang could sense the taste of time. He started to age and his skin wrinkled as he lost energy and vitality. He used his body to bear the psed time. He managed to capture time using his body as a vessel. The aging of his body was the realistic reflection of time. Fang Lang had gotten older, but he noticed that his sword seemed to be more matured after he captured time and stored it in his body. He tried to weld time into the sword intent. He was still practicing sword fighting. Sword Draw Technique, Spirit Step, Finger Flick Energy Wave... His sword techniques were getting better after repeating them day by day, year after year. 20 years, 50 years, 70 years, 100 years... Until one day, he could no longer wield the sword anymore. He had absorbed too much time. Fang Lang¡¯s eyes turned murky. He stabbed the Reincarnating Lotus Sword back into the ground. Fang Lang sat cross-legged and his head lowered beside the Reincarnating Lotus Sword. The sounds of the wind, rain and bamboo forests seemed to fade gradually. Fang Lang was about to hibernate in time. All of a sudden, Fang Lang opened his eyes in the middle of the silent world. He noticed a ray of light and struggled to stand on his feet. He grabbed onto the Reincarnating Lotus Sword and gathered all of his remaining energy and hurled his sword onest time in the tug-of-war with time. After wielding the sword, the wrinkles on his face started to disappear. It was as if time-traveled backward, returning the strength to his body. Fang Lang struck the sword once more... It was as if he sliced through the body that acted as the vessel of time. He was no longer old, and his hunchback reverted to its usual upright position. Another strike. His younger self was wielding the sword under the brilliant sun as if he had never left. ... ¡®Ding! Congrattions host for retrieving the Reincarnating Lotus Sword. Silver Reward Egg awarded into the inventory. Please check.¡¯ The notification rang inside Fang Lang¡¯s mind. Fang Lang was still sitting cross-legged where he ignored the notification. His eyes remained shut. The sword intent seed in his energy center cyclone started to sprout and bloom into a flower¡ªSword Intent Flower. In the sea of de energy, a gorgeous white figure on the serene lotus smiled proudly. ... Huang Zhihe¡¯s robe billowed in the air as countless small des flew his body into the sky, where he battled with Zhao Zhenshi within theyer of clouds. On the other side, the five elders of the Main Path Guild surrounded the carriage on the path at the base of the mountain. Zhao Wuji stood above the carriage with a serious expression. His vital energy as a fifth-ss martial arts master was on full force like a ring of fire burning brightly in the night sky. However, the energy hit on the five elders was like a gentle breeze. The five elders lifted their hands and rune discs appeared between their palms. A ray of light shot out from the rune discs and intertwined together. The five-colored mana channeled into the rune and formed a five-sided cage that trapped the carriage inside. Zhao Wuji roared furiously. As a fifth-ss martial arts master in the god-tier energy refinement realm, he roared like a vicious tiger. The intimidating sound wave mmed onto the cage formed by the rune but it remained unharmed! The cage started to shrink, thickening the atmosphere inside it. The pressure was so intense as though it was about to crush the coach and trap Fang Lang, Ni Wen and Zhao Wuji in it! When everyone thought that the three of them had nowhere else to escape, a gentle breeze flipped open the curtains of the carriage, revealing Fang Lang, who was sitting quietly inside. They saw the Reincarnating Lotus Sword hovering above Fang Lang thighs. When Fang Lang opened his eyes, the tip of the sword turned around and aimed towards the cage! Outside the carriage, the five elders frowned. They watched as Fang Lang raised his hand and flicked on the Reincarnating Lotus Sword. Instantly, the Reincarnating Lotus Sword vibrated slightly before it shot out with thousand years worth of Main Path Guild¡¯s reserve contained inside and mmed onto the cage made by the runes cast by the five elders. Chapter 140 - The Main Path Guild’s Transcendental Presence

Chapter 140: The Main Path Guild¡¯s Transcendental Presence

The Reincarnating Lotus Sword had absorbed a thousand years¡¯ worth of reserve from the Main Path Guild. By immersing in the spiritual sense from the 360 stone tablets inside the Main Path Mausoleum, any ordinary sword could be transfigured into a magical weapon. In fact, Fang Lang was aware that the energy harbored inside the Reincarnating Lotus Sword was immense. Unfortunately, Fang Lang was not able to control it. The Reincarnating Lotus Sword could be considered the most powerful weapon in the Tang Dynasty. With the assistance of the Enlightenment Card, a century had passed in a fleeting moment and he finally understood the time sword intent inside the Reincarnating Lotus Sword. The sword intent seed inside his energy center finally bloomed, realizing the sword intent in the third-ss realm. The entire world fell silent before an explosion erupted. The Reincarnating Lotus Sword soared like a ferocious dragon, breaking free from the coach. The five elders of the Main Path Guild who supported the rune were stunned by the scene before them! The next second, all of their faces twisted into a hideous expression! Ding! The Reincarnating Lotus Sword mmed into one of the sides of the rune cage. Immense sword intent erupted again and again like giant waves that kept hitting on the same spot. Breaking it by hitting on its weak point! The tip of the de pierced through the rune cage by an inch. The rune cage was at its breaking point. Inside the cage, the white-robed young man opened his eyes. As his robe billowed, Fang Lang charged out from the cage like a white steed. Fang Lang was exuding de energy from his entire body as he punched on the handle of the Reincarnating Lotus Sword that was facing the five elders. That was thest straw that broke the camel¡¯s back! The five elders from the Main Path Guild watched in disbelief as the sword pierced through the Five Phase Rune. The explosion echoed through the surroundings. The five elders flew backward gently with astonishment on their faces. Beside the carriage, Zhao Wuji was sweating profusely as he stared at Fang Lang alight from the carriage. Fang Lang¡¯s white robe fluttered gracefully. Both his hands were resting by his sides. The Reincarnating Lotus Sword was hovering quietly at the height of his shoulders. Fang Lang was just in the third-ss realm. How did he manage to break free from the rune cage cast by the five elders from the Main Path Guild? To be an elder in the Main Path Guild, one would need to reach at least a seven-ss cursed-heaven realm. A third-ss tore through a seven-ss rune cage? This was just unreal! However, Zhao Wuji was no fool. He quickly understood that the Reincarnating Lotus Sword ripped through the rune, not Fang Lang! The five elders that dispersed like a dandelion stared at the Reincarnating Lotus Sword warily from afar. Fang Lang did not threaten them but they were definitely intimidated by the Reincarnating Lotus Sword. ¡°There is a spiritual sense in the sword, but its power is too overwhelming.¡± ¡°This is a magical weapon! A third-ss cultivator managed to destroy our rune just by controlling the sword!¡± ¡°This sword had been in the Main Path Mausoleum for decades. It must¡¯ve absorbed a whole lot of the mausoleum¡¯s spiritual sense. This sword is much more powerful than the Blooming Lotus Sword! Be careful everyone!¡± The five elders were on high alert. ¡®The reputation of a man depends on his own deeds.¡¯ All of them also witnessed what happened in the Main Path Mausoleum. The Reincarnating Lotus Sword had absorbed a thousand years¡¯ worth of reserve and almost turned into a magical creature! In the roaring clouds in the night sky, Zhao Zhenshi and Huang Zhihe were in the middle of an intense battle. This was a fight between two ninth-ss cultivators. It was as if the world had fallen into a state of chaos. However, Zhao Zhenshi still controlled the Mountain Shield Forbidden Spell Rune. Huang Zhihe was overpowered by him the entire time. Even though the Hammer de Lord was ferocious, Huang Zhihe was no longer young. From theyers of clouds, Zhao Zhenshi¡¯s expression darkened when he saw the Reincarnating Lotus Sword defeat the five elders that were sent to capture Fang Lang. Within the sea of clouds, Huang Zhihe bellowed withughter with his head held high. Countless des gathered behind him and took the form of a giant hammer. He was pleasantly surprised when Fang Lang managed to fend off the five elders unharmed. Huang Zhihe was a great cksmith. He had an eye for these things. He knew that Fang Lang had not understood the sword intent of the Reincarnating Lotus Sword. That was the reason why he could wield the sword clumsily. Fang Lang was unable to control the sword fully because he could not truly understand the depth of the sword intent as his cultivation was still too shallow. ¡°Xuanyuan Taihua is brilliant. The material of the Reincarnating Lotus Sword is rather ordinary but after being nurtured in the Main Path Mausoleum after a thousand years, it was considered as one of the top ten swords in the Tang Dynasty! This is truly a magical weapon!¡± Huang Zhihe was delighted, but he was also in awe. He was thoroughly impressed by Xuanyuan Taihua. Even though he was a great cksmith, he did not have the audacity to nurture the sword with a thousand years worth of reserve from an ancient sect! Of course, there was a hint of worry deep inside Huang Zhihe¡¯s eyes. They should not linger around and fight. Instead, they should leave as soon as possible. However, it was easy for Huang Zhihe to leave by himself, but it would be tricky to bring along Fang Lang, Ni Wen and Zhao Wuji. ¡°Fortunately Zhao Longshi isn¡¯t here. Otherwise, it would be impossible for them to escape. I shall try my best.¡± Huang Zhihe let out a sigh. His hair billowed in the air as his palms stirred in a circr motion once again. The next moment, countless de energy gathered into a hammer that charged towards Zhao Zhenshi. In the face of Huang Zhihe, Zhao Zhenshi dared not let his guard down. Huang Zhihe was a top-grade ninth-ss cultivator. He could even match with their sect leader Zhao Longshi. Zhao Zhenshi was slightly weaker than him. The reason he was able to hold him off was because of the forbidden spell rune. He could only depend on the elders to deal with Fang Lang. Zhao Zhenshi refused to believe that a mere third-ss could escape from the blockade formed by all the strong cultivators in the Main Path Guild just with a sword. No matter how strong the Reincarnating Lotus Sword, ultimately, it was just a sword! ... The Reincarnating Lotus Sword hovered around Fang Lang. His white robe was like a shining star in the night sky. The five elders hovered in the air as they looked over Fang Lang. Fang Lang turned around to look at Zhao Wuji. ¡°Uncle Zhao, take Ni Wen with you,¡± Fang Lang said. Zhao Wuji¡¯s expression changed slightly. He wanted to stay and help but after considering his fifth-ss cultivation, he knew that it was not enough to fight against the Main Path Guild. In the carriage, Ni Wen was speechless. If Zhao Wuji could not be of help, what could she do as a second-grade cultivator? ¡°I¡¯ll catch up with you guys with Old Huang,¡± Fang Lang continued. Zhao Wuji nodded his head and reined in the horses. The wheels started rolling and sped off Mount Tongtian¡¯s stone path. The five elders did not chase after the coach. Their goal was Fang Lang and the Reincarnating Sword that he was holding. ¡°The sword is just an object. Capture Fang Lang and everything will be solved!¡± One of the elders yelled. After that, the five elders spaced out and tried to corner Fang Lang from all directions. They were wary of the Reincarnating Lotus Sword, not Fang Lang. After all, Fang Lang was still rather weak. The five elders lunged at Fang Lang with a high-speed spinning rune in front of their bodies. The five of them left five different colored trails in the night sky! Fang Lang stood with his head lowered. He retrieved all the spirit crystals from the System¡¯s cultivation resources. His body was absorbing all the spiritual energy supplied by the crystals. The 360 orifices in his body were glowing! However, at that moment, his body was like an endless ck hole thatswallowedg all the spiritual energy. This was because in the Main Path Mausoleum, the de energy that Fang Lang absorbed from the 360 stone tablets was opening all of his orifices. Fang Lang¡¯s cultivation was growing significantly in the process of absorption of spiritual energy. Fang Lang knew that this upgrade would not help much in his current situation, but any form of help would be beneficial. Fang Lang¡¯s sword mastery advanced so much that he reached the eighth-grade sword wave realm. He was a step away from the ninth-grade sword wave. At that moment, the five elders closed in on him together with all of the five runes as though they were trying to extrude the earth. The Reincarnating Lotus Sword that was hovering quietly beside Fang Lang darted out. The sword collided with one of the elder¡¯s runes and instantly smashed it into pieces! However, in the next moment, the scene turned blurry as if they traveled back in time. The Reincarnating Lotus Sword returned to its original position and charged towards another elder! The five runes all shattered into pieces and the five elders had no choice but to retreat. They were dumbfounded. ¡®There¡¯s something weird about this sword!¡¯ ¡°A sword intent that involves the time realm?¡± One of the elders noticed something and his face twitched as hemented in shock. ¡°Taihua de Lord¡¯s most terrifying attack was the Instant Lotus de and Instant Finger Flick, where thousands of eternal cycles were inflicted in an instant. These attacks seem to involve a sword intent in the time dimension. We¡¯ve never thought that the Reincarnating Lotus Sword also harbors a sword intent of such!¡± The few elders were troubled by the situation. With the Reincarnating Lotus Sword protecting Fang Lang, it was impossible for them to reach him! That sword was like a monstrous beast guarding Fang Lang. Above the sea of clouds, Zhao Zhenshi nced at the five elders and roared, ¡°Useless!¡± All five of the seven-ss cultivators were defeated by a third-ss cultivator. If word got out, they would be the joke of the century! Fang Lang opened his eyes slowly. He had exhausted all the spirit crystals in the System when he reached the eighth-grade sword wave realm. Unfortunately, it was not enough for Fang Lang to reach the ninth-level. If he did, he could activate the Grade-Rush Card to try to break through the fourth-ss sword intent realm. If he reached the fourth-ss sword intent realm, Fang Lang¡¯s half-baked Sword Nurturing Spell might work! However, Fang Lang was also troubled by the five elders. After all, the Reincarnating Lotus Sword was not under his control. The sword intent that he triggered had activated the sword¡¯s automated host-protection ability. Furthermore, Fang Lang also predicted that the Reincarnating Lotus Sword protected him because the five elders¡¯ cultivation was too strong. If they were Main Path Guild¡¯s disciples in the fourth-ss realm or five-ss realm, it might not attack them. ... The sea of clouds billowed in the dark sky like a tidal bore. The sea of clouds was split into half as if a white python was slithering through it. de energy circted Chao Xiaojian¡¯s body as if he was an undefeatable de lord. He soared forward and Mount Tongtian of the Main Path Guild entered his vision. The moment Chao Xiaojian appeared, Zhao Zhenshi¡¯s face dropped. He raised his head and met eyes with Chao Xiaojian, who roared past thousands of miles on his sword! This white-haired Chao Xiaojian had just eliminated the entire Donglu Sword League! Even the Main Path Guild was wary of him! Chao Xiaojian and Huang Zhihe were the two greatest cultivators in sword mastery. If he wanted to leave with Fang Lang, the Main Path Guild might not be able to stop him from leaving, especially in the absence of Zhao Longshi. Chao Xiaojian hovered in the sky. He did not interfere with the fight between Zhao Zhenshi and Huang Zhihe. He took a step forward and started plummeting like a meteor. He traveled at an extreme speed. The five elders who surrounded Fang Lang felt a chill run down their spine. The next moment, Chao Xiaojiannded on his toes silently. A wave of energy spread from his body. ¡°Stopping people from leaving because he removed a sword? Is this the principle of the Main Path Guild? I¡¯ve mentioned that I will kill anyone whoid hands on Fang Lang!¡± Chao Xiaojian said coldly. He pped his palm onto the ground. Instantly, a surge of de energy erupted from the ground and charged towards the five elders. Bang! The five elders fused their runes into one hurriedly to withstand the attack. However, a sword came crashing down and shattered the rune. The five elders were sent flying and vomited blood. Chao Xiaojian was unbothered by the fact that he had defeated five elders from the Main Path Guild in one move as if this was amon event. He nced briefly at Zhao Zhenshi and Huang Zhihe, who were fighting in the air and calcted the possibility for Huang Zhihe to get himself out of the battle. Then, he turned his head to look at Fang Lang, who the Reincarnating Lotus Sword was protecting. The Reincarnating Lotus Sword was floating quietly. Chao Xiaojian¡¯s eyes wavered emotionally. This was his senior¡¯s sword. He could sense her breath inside the sword. After that, Chao Xiaojian leaped up without hesitation, tossed out a stream of de energy to wrap Fang Lang with it and tried to leave the Main Path Guild with him. The five injured elders did not dare to stop him. Chao Xiaojian could kill them easily if he wanted. Therefore, they could only watch Chao Xiaojian leave together with Fang Lang and the Reincarnating Lotus Sword. However, the moment Chao Xiaojian hoisted Fang Lang off the ground, and the world fell silent. A long sigh echoed through the entire Main Path Guild. Then, a mighty energy shot out from the Main Path Mausoleum as if an ancient dragon with an indestructible pressure had awoken. Chao Xiaojian and Huang Zhihe were stunned. The transcendental presence of the Main Path Guild was still alive! Chapter 141 - So, That’s All There Is To Transcendence

Chapter 141: So, That¡¯s All There Is To Transcendence

An ancient sigh seemed to cross thousands of years. It ripped through the dimension of time and resonated in everybody¡¯s ears, which made it seem so surreal. Chao Xiaojian, who was trying to rescue Fang Lang, halted his movements abruptly. He stared at the direction of the Main Path Mausoleum with a serious expression. There was a mighty spiritual sense, or rather a divine sense that emerged from the Main Path Mausoleum. It was as if transformed into a sticky substance that took the form of a human. The mist that veiled the Main Path Guild had dissipated, revealing the dark sky. A faint footstep was heard within the mausoleum. Fang Lang felt relieved when Chao Xiaojian arrived. However, the tide turned again before he could take a breath. There was an old man hiding in the Main Path Guild after all. Huang Zhihe had mentioned to him that one of the reasons the Reincarnating Lotus Sword was nted in the Main Path Guild was to test the presence of a transcendental being! Now that the Reincarnating Lotus Sword was about to leave the Main Path Guild along with a thousand years of reserve, he could not hold it in anymore and had decided toe to light! Zhao Zhenshi, who was fighting with Huang Zhihe in the sky rejoiced. Without Zhao Longshi, it would be difficult for him to stop Chao Xiaojian and Huang Zhihe from leaving. ¡°Wee back to the world, Ancestor!¡± Zhao Zhenshi greeted the figure loudly. At that moment, all of the disciples from the Main Path Guild, including Zhao Zhenshi himself, were astounded. They felt a dignified presence enveloped the entire world. Ancestor? The Ancestor of the Main Path Guild? The disciples of the Main Path Guild never knew that there was an ancestral-level cultivator in their sect. The energy of his spiritual sense alone was more overbearing than their sect leader, Zhao Longshi! Who knew the Main Path Guild harbored such a powerful being! Its presence was so strong, like an awoken dragon from the ancient times that rampaged the world. It rose from the deep end of the Main Path Mausoleum and covered the entire Mount Tongtian until it seeped into every corner of the Main Path Guild. All of the disciples were in awe. Everyone was staring at the billowing cloud energy from the Main Path Guild. They saw a thin figure standing on top of the Thousand Cloud Stairs like a celestial being overlooking the earth. Sigh. Another ancient sigh echoed through everybody¡¯s heart as if it had witnessed the vicissitudes of the world. ¡°You may go, just leave the sword behind. I won¡¯t let the sword that the girl nted back then take away a thousand years worth of reserve from the Main Path Guild. I forbid it. From now onwards, this sword belongs to the Main Path Guild.¡± An ancient voice sounded above the Main Path Mausoleum. Chao Xiaojian frowned. His loose locks fluttered in the wind. The green steel sword hovered before him. His expression was stern and wary. The Main Path Guild¡¯s Ancestor, the transcendental presence truly existed! Chao Xiaojian, Xuanyuan Taihua and the others were just specting about the presence of a transcendental realm in these ancient sects. After all, it was extremely difficult to transcend. Even Chao Xiaojian, with a starry core and cultivated for more than six decades, had yet to stumble upon the path towards transcendence! There were nine-sses in cultivation, transcendence was the tenth. However, how many were able to attain transcendence in the whole Tang Dynasty? There were only two transcendental beings so far that ruled the world for almost two centuries. One was the Emperor of the Tang Dynasty, and the other was the sect leader of the Sword Guild, Xuanyuan Taihua. However, the two of them had suspected that ancient transcendental beings were hidden within the old sects such as the Main Path Guild, Karma Society, All-Seeing Buddha Sect and the Meridian Guild. And... they were right! Chao Xiaojian frowned as their spection was proven to be true. This was not a good sign for the Tang Dynasty. In other words, the current situation of the Tang Dynasty was the reason these ancient beings dared to expose themselves. ¡°The sword belongs to our sect leader. When did it be the Main Path Guild¡¯s property? It¡¯s only natural for her disciple toe and retrieve it. The Main Path Guild hade to the Sword Guild and begged us to remove the Reincarnating Lotus Sword, now that we did, you try to stop us instead? Pull yourself together,¡± Chao Xiaojian said casually. The entire world fell silent after he spoke. The White-Haired Sword Demon was still as arrogant. Since the Reincarnating Lotus Sword had been removed, Chao Xiaojian would not let the Main Path Guild take it back. Within the sea of clouds, Zhao Zhenshi yelled furiously, ¡°Please help us, Ancestor!¡± However, right after Zhao Zhenshi finished shouting, Huang Zhihe sent the giant hammer made by countless flight swords his way. ¡°How dare you get distracted in the middle of our battle. Take this!¡± Zhao Zhenshi shuddered. He quickly manipted the rune and stackedyers of cloud energy to form a barrier. The impact was so strong that it created giant waves as if an enormous rock was thrown into ake. Zhao Zhenshi flew backward from the sea of clouds, dragging a long trail before him. Huang Zhihe stood above the clouds with the hammer in his hand as he stared at the old man who walked out of the Main Path Mausoleum. ¡°Huang Zhihe?¡± The old man¡¯s robe billowed in the wind as he stood at the mountain peak and looked at Huang Zhihe calmly. ¡°When I met you back in the Wei Dynasty, you were just a kid. In the blink of an eye, the Wei Dynasty had fallen... And you, you¡¯ve aged so much. Without transcendence, you¡¯ll be nobody,¡± the old man sighed. Huang Zhihe squinted his eyes and astonishment shed in his eyes, ¡°It¡¯s you! The first sect leader of the Main Path Guild... Zhao Taifeng!¡± In a daze, Huang Zhihe recalled meeting Zhao Taifeng in the pce of the Wei Dynasty when he was young. It was rumoured that his existence was almost god-like and he maintained his immortality through rebirth, living one life cycle to the next for thousands of years. The first sect leader had been alive since the birth of the Main Path Guild! It was said that he had fallen and moved on from earth two centuries ago when the Tang Dynasty conquered the eight dynasties. Who would have thought that he was still alive! Huang Zhihe took a deep breath. He felt the immense pressure facing someone as legendary as him. One¡¯s hand would tremble just at the thought of the presence of a transcendental realm! He tossed the hammer in his hand and it exploded in the air into countless swords. Huang Zhihe shouted, ¡°Chao Xiaojian, take Fang Lang with you. I¡¯ll hold them back as long as I can.¡± This would be the only way out. How strong would a person from the transcendental realm be? Just look at how the Emperor conquered the eight dynasties and Xuanyuan Taihua, the female de lord who overpowered all the great sects in the Tang Dynasty. Huang Zhihe had no choice but to stay and hold them off. He might not even get out of this alive. The wind was blowing strongly at the mountain peak. The old man was observing peacefully, ¡°The Tang Dynasty still reigns over the world. The Emperor remains powerful with the Code under his control and will be the ruler of this world. I would rather stay dormant instead of fighting. If you all hand the sword over, I will let all of you go unharmed.¡± Zhao Taifeng was indeed wary of the Emperor and the female de lord who left the Reincarnating Lotus Sword. He did not want to make things ugly but he certainly would not let them take the Reincarnating Lotus Sword. Huang Zhihe burst outughing! He pushed down both of his palms at once, the countless flight swords behind him tore through the cloud energy, endless sparks flew across the sky, lighting up the dark night like a meteor shower! ¡°Stop him,¡± the old man standing on the peak said calmly. He nced briefly at Huang Zhihe¡¯s meteor shower of flight swords as though it was a harmless spring rain. After he ordered Zhao Zhenshi, he raised his hand and flicked his fingers. A spiritual sense engulfed Zhao Zhenshi¡¯s body as if it was a hurricane and his spiritual sense started to boil. He felt that something inside his body was about to explode. His eyes were blinded with madness. His robe was fluttering in the air as he raised the Mountain Shield Rune and transformed it into a barrier above him to stop the countless flight swords sent by Huang Zhihe. Boom! Boom! Boom! The surface of the barrier exploded continuously, sending waves of energy but Zhao Zhenshi managed to block them all. Huang Zhihe¡¯s face darkened. He could feel the wrath and eminence of the transcendental realm! On the other side, Chao Xiaojian heard Huang Zhihe¡¯s words. The moment he saw Huang Zhihe attacked, he tapped his toes on the ground and a huge crack emerged within the earth and continued to grow along the mountain path of the Main Path Guild! Chao Xiaojian used this window of opportunity to escape with Fang Lang. They were so fast that they left a white ray of light in the middle of the night sky. Fang Lang grabbed onto the Reincarnating Lotus Sword¡¯s handle. It was as if he stopped breathing. The presence of a transcendental realm! A presence that was equivalent to his master, Xuanyuan Taihua! ¡°Let¡¯s go!¡± Chao Xiaojian said sternly. He hoisted Fang Lang and prepared to lift off. ¡°I¡¯ve told you to surrender the sword. If you insist, you shall stay behind with the sword then,¡± the first sect leader, Zhao Taifeng said from the mountaintop. After that, he slowly raised his palm and aimed at Chao Xiaojian and Fang Lang. Then, he curved all five of his fingers slightly. Suddenly, Chao Xiaojian, who was running away with Fang Lang in his arms, felt the earth rumbling. The ground started to shake, the mountain path shattered, mud and rubble stirred up from the ground like earth dragons, moving like an ancient tree whipping its branches! In the end, a terrifyinglyrge muddy palm rose from the ground! With the green steel sword in hand, Chao Xiaojian dragged Fang Lang with him as he soared towards the sky, leaving a white line that cut through the dust. However, the giant palm was heading in their direction! The world was turned upside down within the palm as if it had triggered the energy of the entire world. This was the power of a cultivator from the transcendental realm! All the disciples of the Main Path Guild watched in awe. Only the divine could wield such power! This must be how Taihua de Lord challenged the entire Main Path Guild by herself ten years ago. Waves of energy billowed from the cracks of the ground. The dust storm whirled into the sky like earth dragons. Chao Xiaojian kept pulling Fang Lang to avoid the palm made out of mud! The five fingers of the giant palm were like five mountains that pierced through the clouds! There was a rune on each finger, giving out a unique mana flux that made Chao Xiaojian shudder. Fang Lang held tightly onto the Reincarnating Lotus Sword as Chao Xiaojian dragged him. Strong winds kept blowing on his face. They were in an extremely dangerous situation. Fang Lang never thought that they would end up in such danger with Chao Xiaojian¡¯s assistance! Nevertheless, Fang Lang felt a blur in his vision as he was holding the sword. The next moment, his soul was pulled by the Reincarnating Lotus Sword¡¯s energy. He drifted off into the world of de energy once more, saw the blooming lotus and the beautiful figure on top of the flower. Fang Lang sat cross-legged. A flower bloomed within his energy center cyclone. It was the sword intent flower resulting from his enlightenment on the sword intent of the Reincarnating Lotus Sword. Fang Lang was very much aware of the danger thaty ahead of him. ¡°Don¡¯t worry. Take a seat and feel the sword intent. There¡¯s no need to panic. I¡¯m here,¡± the figure on the lotus spoke. Her voice was very calm. It was as if she had foreseen the appearance of the Main Path Guild¡¯s ancestor. Fang Lang was stunned. His anxious heart was soothed instantly, calming his nerves. His heart started to ripple gently. Then, the sword intent energy poured from his body and gathered in the palm of the gorgeous figure and gradually bloomed into a sword intent flower. ¡°Feel the eminence of the time sword intent. Time... is the most powerful force in this world,¡± she exined. ... Chao Xiaojian halted in his tracks. With one look, he was able to notice the change in Fang Lang. Unique energy exuded from Fang Lang¡¯s body, simr to his senior, their sect leader. Chao Xiaojian¡¯s eyes lit up immediately. Senior... Chao Xiaojian smirked and nced at the giant palm that rose from the ground. The fingers looked like five moving mountains that were closing towards them. He stopped running! ¡°Today, I, Chao Xiaojian, will be fighting against the transcendental realm!¡± Chao Xiaojian flicked his fingers, a small sword flew out and he started circling Fang Lang to protect his body. Chao Xiaojian grabbed the green steel sword and dived down rapidly. Chao Xiaojian tossed his sword out in a swift motion, and the body of the green steel sword was buried into the palm. The next moment, Chao Xiaojian channeled a continuous surge of sword intent. Then, he shook the handle of the sword and made the entire mud palm vibrate! sh! Chao Xiaojian pulled out his sword and started waving it in the air. Countless sword shadows emerged above the inverted green steel sword! The de energy started spreading from the middle of the palm to a hundred meters and split the giant palm into two halves! In front of the Main Path Mausoleum, the old man who had just awoken from two centuries of slumber was unfazed. He was not too surprised that Chao Xiaojian sliced the palm in a single move. With one hand resting on his back, the old man raised the other hand slowly and curled his fingers before giving a gentle knock. The two halves of the mud palm shattered and transformed into two ferocious earth dragons that rose from the dust. The outline of the scales on the dragon¡¯s body could be clearly visible! The two earth dragons charged towards Chao Xiaojian. It was as if their bodies tore through the space dimension and left invisible cracks. Chao Xiaojian waved his sword. The green steel sword immediately duplicated and formed two whole swords. He gestured the finger des on both hands and flung outwards. Two de rays dived down like a waterfall. Then, the two brilliant rays charged towards the dragons. The old man¡¯s ancient robe billowed in the air. He turned his fingers and maneuvered the earth dragon to avoid the rays. However... Just when the earth dragons started to move, the two flying de rays started to flicker. After a few flickers, it appeared right in front of the dragon and stabbed right into their heads! It impaled itself into the dragon¡¯s head all the way through its tail! The two dragons disintegratedpletely! Chao Xiaojian hovered in the air, and his white robe fluttered in the wind. The two swords were still flickering and vibrating as they returned to his sides and surrounded him as if they were able to move freely between space! It seemed like... space sword intent! On the mountain peak, the old man¡¯s eyes wavered. That was the first time he seemed genuinely shocked. Chao Xiaojian¡¯s torso was exposed in the air as he ced both hands on his back. He hovered in the air with two swords in his hand. It was as if he was shining brilliantly against the dark sky! Chao Xiaojian¡¯s arrogant voice echoed through the mountains, ¡°So much for transcendence...¡± Chapter 142 - Lotus Flower Blooming Within The Eyes

Chapter 142: Lotus Flower Blooming Within The Eyes

The dark clouds umted in the night sky made the atmosphere suffocatingly tense as if the looming clouds over the earth were about to destroy an entire city. The two swords hovered on both sides of Chao Xiaojian. He had both hands on his back, his white robe billowed in the air, looking as unruly as ever. It was as if the whole world was silent to pay homage to Chao Xiaojian for fighting off the transcendental cultivator¡¯s attack in one move. All of the disciples on the wide ins of Mount Tongtian were dumbfounded. Chao Xiaojian obliterated the two earth dragons with one wave of his sword. He destroyed the ancestor¡¯s attack from the transcendental realm! They were like celestial beings fighting in a battle! The old man smiled casually on the mountaintop. ¡°Fighting the transcendental realm with a ninth-ss cultivation. You¡¯re ambitious and brave. I¡¯ll give you that.¡± He did not recognize Chao Xiaojian since a lot had changed in two centuries. He thought that Chao Xiaojian must be someone new that was born within these two centuries while he was away. However, unless the Emperor and the female de lord came in person, it would not be an issue for the old man. Only a cultivator of the same realm can threaten or kill those in the transcendental realm! Only a transcendental being could acquire the truth and witness the eminence of this world. The old man looked at Chao Xiaojian calmly. His divine sense seeped out of him like a stream of flowing water, causing the space around him to ripple. The old man raised his hand and formed a rune instantly. He tightened his grip. Suddenly, a thunder dragon could be faintly discerned behind the thick dark clouds in the night sky. The old man lifted his palm and his energy started expanding. A ruthless lightning bolt struck the peak of Main Path Guild and exploded into a brilliant white light in a thunderous roar. When the light faded, the old man was holding a thunderbolt spear covered in electrifying sparks. The old man stared calmly at Chao Xiaojian, who was hovering above the night sky. Then, he arched his back and hurled the thunderbolt spear forward. ... In the Imperial City, Changan. The streets of Changan were drenched from a sudden downpour in the winter. The rain droplets that hit the moat of Changan City formed ripples as if it was boiling. Inside the city, the wheels of the carriage rolled across the puddles on the street, sttering water along its path. A convoy of carriages carrying all the imperial officials headed towards the pce like hundreds of streams merging into the sea. The carriages stopped before the Vermilion Bird Gate and the curtains of the carriage were lifted up. Imperial officials dressed neatly in uniform received the oil-paper umbres from the coachmen and opened them to shelter themselves from the rain with its shiny surface. The opened oil-paper umbres looked like flowering quinces blooming in the rain. In the long hallway before the Taiji Pce, the old eunuch stood before the vermilion carved wooden door that was sealed shut. Old Man Gao was unfazed by the assembling officials. ¡°Old Man Gao, we need to see the Emperor!¡± ¡°The third prince went against your orders and escaped the Cold Pce. He joined Asi Luoshan¡¯s army and they departed from the Western Demon Portal and are currently heading towards thend of the Tang Dynasty! This is treachery!¡± ¡°With the third prince¡¯s alliance, Asi Luoshan¡¯s army had already conquered several cities and they¡¯re marching straight towards Changan!¡± ¡°Asi Luoshan boasted that he will restore bnce to the Tang Dynasty. He also said that the Emperor has changed. He had caused quite a stir among themon folk.¡± ¡°We hope that His Majesty will make a public announcement to calm the public.¡± ... The imperial officials spoke one after another. Their voices filled the front of the Taiji Pce and even drowned out the pouring rain from the outside! Old Man Gao remained silent. The horsetail whisk hung vertically from his arms as he raised his head and looked at the rainy sky. Suddenly, his eyes narrowed. The veil of rain seemed to be ripped apart by a terrifying force. The rain droplets exploded into a blurry mist. Then, the deep chime of an ancient bell sounded from the deep end of the pce, which triggered a cascade of chimes from the ancient temples outside Changan City. The bbering officials fell silent. They turned their heads very slowly as if they were being strangled by someone and stared at the sky above the pce with widened eyes. ¡°Bong...¡± The sound of an ancient bell echoed for eight to nine breaths before it gradually faded into the earth. The Code had been dormant since the resource battle started to rise above the pce. The imperial officials shuddered in fear. ¡°Something triggered the Code. Did someone vite the Code?¡± One of them asked. ¡°The ringing of the Codested for eight to nine breaths. Either a royal member has been hurt, or... a transcendental force has emerged without permission from the Code!¡± The officials could feel a chill run down their spines. Asi Luoshan¡¯s army was nearing the borders. Now another cultivator from the transcendental realm had appeared and triggered the code. All these were signs of chaos. There seemed to be an impending war ahead of the Tang Dynasty after two centuries of peace. Old Man Gao let out a long sigh, his eyes deepened. As expected, an imperial censor kneeled before the Taiji Pce and kowtowed. ¡°The Code has risen. It had been two centuries since a transcendental being emerged. Your majesty, we beg you to bring along the Code and capture the criminal!¡± The other imperial censors and officials followed suit and begged. The rumor that Asi Luoshan instigated spread like wildfire and finally, it was able to shake the people¡¯s faith. Even the imperial officials started to waver. They needed the Emperor to do something to soothe their worries. However, as they were kneeling down, an eunuch announced, ¡°Empress Pei has arrived! The fifth princess has arrived!¡± His sharp voice pierced through the rain and the officials¡¯ plea. Everyone halted their movements. They turned around and saw ady dressed in a magnificent robe with a phoenix crown on her head walked in. Beside her were a frail-looking fifth princess who was coughing and the second prince with a foolish smile on his face. Thedy stood there in an aloof manner as she stared at the hovering Code. After a long pause, she said, ¡°The Emperor does not need to use the Code to capture someone as unworthy as him.¡± The officials fell silent. Only the surrounding noises of the breeze and rain could be heard. ... Even the night sky could not chase away the tension in the atmosphere caused by the looming clouds. The heavy clouds were so oppressive that it was difficult to breathe. Chao Xiaojian tilted his head in the air and checked on Fang Lang, who was hovering in the air from afar with the Reincarnating Lotus Sword in his hand. The energy in Fang Lang was growing steadily like a ferocious lion gradually opening its eyes from its slumber. The sea of clouds was roaring above the sky. Zhao Zhenshi¡¯s strength was greatly enhanced with the support from the divine sense of their first sect leader. He had received enlightenment on several hindrances that he faced previously while controlling the Mountain Shield Rune. Huang Zhihe who had the upper hand in the battle with Zhao Zhenshi had reached a stalemate! Chao Xiaojian tore his gaze from Fang Lang and frowned. The old man hurled the thunderbolt spear from the peak of Mount Tongtian into the air, tearing through the night sky, sending aftershocks that ripped through space. It was charging towards Chao Xiaojian at an incredible speed like a meteor. Chao Xiaojian slowly raised his hand and knocked gently. Then, the two swords merged into one andnded in his hand. He tossed it at the direction of the iing thunderbolt spear. The moment the sword and spear collided, massive energy erupted from the st. Chao Xiaojian¡¯s body was pushed back almost 30 meters, leaving a white trail before him! ¡°Young man, you need to respect the energy,¡± the old man said from the mountain peak. With a clench of his fist, the dispersed energy from the thunderbolt directed their aim towards Chao Xiaojian like 10,000 arrows beingunched at once as if they were going to pierce through every inch of his body. Chao Xiaojian channeled a surge of de energy in his chest and gently knocked with his curved fingers. The green steel sword vibrated slightly. Then, the sword started circling his body at an extreme speed. Every time it flickered, it was able to block a strike of the thunderbolt. Chao Xiaojian grabbed onto the sword, leaving only a corner of his sleeve billowing in the sky. His body had disappeared. He was sprinting through space with the sword in hand. He lifted the sword and aimed it at the old man on top of the mountain from a distance. ¡°Old man, do you dare to take on one of my attacks?¡± Chao Xiaojian shouted as he sprinted. The old man ced a hand on his back and smiled, ¡°If it¡¯s not because of the Code¡¯s suppression, the transcendent energy at full capacity would definitely kill you.¡± Chao Xiaojian was unfazed when he heard him. He waved his sword and his body started to flicker continuously! After flickering several times, he appeared right in front of the old man. On the other side, Zhao Zhenshi, who was in the middle of the battle with Huang Zhihe appeared within the sea of clouds. He scoffed when he heard Chao Xiaojian ignorantly threatened the ancestor. Then, he nced at the five elders of the Main Path Guild who were idly spectating the battle. He narrowed his eyes and yelled, ¡°What are you guys waiting for? Capture Fang Lang and retrieve the Reincarnating Lotus Sword!¡± At that instance, the silence was interrupted by Huang Zhihe. He bellowed, ¡°Shameless fool!¡± Chao Xiaojian, within a 30-meter radius from Zhao Taifeng faltered when he heard Zhao Zhenshi¡¯s words. He was about to turn around to assist Fang Lang, but the old man chuckled. He took a step and left the Main Path Mausoleum for the first time. A spiritual sense as brilliant as starlight emerged from within the Main Path Mausoleum like a roaring sea or a pounding waterfall. Boom! The old man¡¯s robe billowed in the wind as he raised his arms. Endless spiritual sense energy started pouring out and froze the dimensions of space and time! Chao Xiaojian felt as though his body had been stuck in a mud swamp. He was trapped, unable to move and the space sword intent had been suppressed. An enormous figure of a taoist priest made out of spiritual sense stood above the peak of the Main Path Guild and trapped Chao Xiaojian within his palms. Chao Xiaojian did not stand a chance to escape and assist Fang Lang! ... Swoosh! Swoosh! Swoosh! The five elders of the Main Path Guild finally snapped out of a daze. Runes appeared around them and darted towards Fang Lang, who hovered in the air. Each elder controlled a phase of the rune and transformed the Five Phase Rune into a five-sided cage that wasing straight towards Fang Lang! They blocked all corners around Fang Lang. On the fields of Mount Tongtian, An Fan, Li Yuanzhen and the other disciples looked conflicted. They knew that it was over for Fang Lang when they saw the five elders cornered him. After all, Fang Lang¡¯s cultivation was only a third-ss sword world realm. It would be impossible to defeat five elders with the cultivation of a seventh-ss cursed-heaven realm! A genius might be able to fight a battle beyond their realm, but a third-ss versus a seventh-ss was just too ambitious. Even Xuanyuan Taihua would not be able to pull it off. The runes cast by the five elders were closing into Fang Lang. They were snickering. If Chao Xiaojian had not interfered, they would have captured and imprisoned Fang Lang earlier on. At that instance, Chao Xiaojian was still trapped by the ancestor. Fang Lang¡¯s fate was sealed. ¡°Surrender, kid,¡± one of the elders said. The emergence of the Main Path Guild¡¯s transcendental ancestor meant that the Main Path Guild would be experiencing a revolutionary change. They might be able to reim their glory back in the day when the eight dynasties were in chaos, break free from the shackles of the Imperial Court. They might even overrule the Imperial Court! They knew about Fang Lang¡¯s identity¡ªXuanyuan Taihua¡¯s disciple, young fellow master of the Sword Guild, the grand champion of the Imperial Examination! They would probably treat him better if the ancestor was not around. However, Fang Lang¡¯s achievements were nothing inparison to their ancestor. The Main Path Guild would certainly rise up once again with the support of a transcendental cultivator! The revolving runes of gold, wood, water, fire and earth formed the Five Phase Rune, engraved with mysterious and profound patterns. It sealed off all possible routes, making it impossible for Fang Lang to escape. Boom! The five elders stretched out their palms and the five runes kept shrinking around Fang Lang, extracting the energy from the world within as though it was about to confine him in an inch of space. However, a gentle breeze blew towards them and Fang Lang who was trapped within the rune, slowly opened his eyes. From the deep end of his eyes, there was a lotus blooming in his pupil. Lotus Flower Blooming Within The Eyes! There was a surge of de energy. The vibrating Reincarnating Lotus Sword in Fang Lang¡¯s hand quietened down. The moment Fang Lang reopened his eyes, Zhao Taifeng¡¯s expression faltered. Fang Lang curved his fingers and gently tapped on the Reincarnating Lotus Sword. The sword that had absorbed the Main Path Guild¡¯s thousand years of reserveunched out like a shooting star. The five elders of the Main Path Guild shuddered. They looked down and noticed de energy rising beneath their feet and bloomed into a lotus! Five lotus flower de energy hovered below the five elders¡¯ feet. Then, Fang Lang, with lotus in his eyes, curled all five of his slender fingers. The screams of the five elders echoed through the earth as the de energy beneath them engulfed them. They were killed instantly! The world fell silent. Five blood-red de energy lotuses were blooming in the quiet night sky like confetti. Fang Lang smiled at Zhao Taifeng who was standing above the mountain peak with the Reincarnating Lotus Sword in hand. ¡°Old man, had your fun bullying a ninth-ss cultivator from the transcendental realm?¡± Chapter 143 - Transcendence, who isn’t?

Chapter 143: Transcendence, who isn¡¯t?

The world was filled with a calm and peaceful noise, with traces ofziness and confidence. Confidence that stemmed from deep within the heart of a top-ss cultivator. Fang Lang was confident too but it was not as intense as this since he had yet to mature into a great cultivator. Therefore, Fang Lang was not the one talking at this moment! As he spoke, the five elders of the Main Path Guild were grinded into a mist of blood within the lotus flower de energy. It was as if the world had fallen into a deadly silence. The pungent scent of blood permeated the air as the night breeze spread them out. The old man standing above Mount Tongtian narrowed his eyes. The five seventh-ss elders were killed without any chance to fight back. He made it seem so effortless as if he had just crushed five ants. All of the disciples of the Main Path Guild were overwhelmed by the impact of the attack. However, it was nothing to Zhao Taifeng, the man who had entered the transcendental realm. The only thing that bothered him was Fang Lang¡¯s altering aura. It reminded Zhao Taifeng of that girl from the past. The girl who could rule the world with a sword in her hand. There was no need for him to trap Chao Xiaojian with his divine sense from trying to render assistance to Fang Lang. The old man stared at Fang Lang, who was holding the Reincarnating Lotus Sword as his white-robed billowed in the air and a reflection of a blooming lotus within his eyes. He could vaguely recognize the gorgeous figure behind Fang Lang, who was staring at him in an aloof manner. ¡°Xuanyuan Taihua,¡± the old man muttered. Even though he was dormant for a few hundred years, his spiritual sense felt it when Xuanyuan Taihua came to the Main Path Guild and defeated Zhao Longshi in a single move and stabbed the sword in the Main Path Mausoleum. It was an insult for someone else to stab a sword in the sacred ce of the sect. He was about to expose himself but his instincts as a transcendental being made him suppress his impulse and chose to stay dormant. He knew that if he did emerge, he might die. Not because of Xuanyuan Taihua but the Code in the Imperial City of the Tang Dynasty that hung above everybody¡¯s heads. The old man¡¯s eyes flickered. Was this... another ploy by Xuanyuan Taihua and the Emperor? The uncertainties of a cultivator from the transcendental realm made them a threat to the dynasty. The chaos among the eight dynasties was caused by transcendental beings. In order for the Emperor of the Tang Dynasty to unite the world, he had to conquer the other dynasties. It was rumored that the Emperor had the Code in hand and murdered several transcendental cultivators! Zhao Taifeng had chosen to stay hidden andy dormant for hundreds of years but it turned out that the Emperor was still after them. The old man¡¯s expression darkened as his robe fluttered in the wind. The young man traveled through space with the sword in his hand as if he was a deity descending from heaven. On the other hand, without the old man¡¯s divine sense suppressing Chao Xiaojian, he broke free and stared at Fang Lang in a fanatic manner. ¡°He borrowed his senior¡¯s energy through space? She must¡¯ve left an indelible imprint of her soul in the Reincarnating Lotus Sword!¡± Chao Xiaojian was exhrated. Also, the words ¡®bullying a ninth-ss cultivator from the transcendental realm¡¯ sounded exactly like his senior trying to avenge him! That familiar feeling had returned. Fang Lang was right. If they could retrieve all three swords¡ªWithering Lotus, Reincarnating Lotus and Round Lotus, they might be able to summon the sect leader to return from the demon realm! ¡°Main Path Guild!¡± Chao Xiaojian held the green steel sword with a ball of fire burning in his eyes. The transcendental realm was truly formidable. Chao Xiaojian, who had just dabbled into the space sword intent, was no match to Zhao Taifeng. Zhao Taifeng transcended by attaining immortality through reincarnation. The sea of clouds was roaring at a distance. Zhao Zhenshi and Huang Zhihe had stopped fighting. Huang Zhihe was hovering in the sky on his sword. His wrinkled face sparked in excitement. He stared at Fang Lang with aplicated expression. A gorgeous figure in a dress whiter than pure snow appeared in his mind. He let out a dragged sigh. Zhao Zhenshi was petrified. He had sent the five elders to capture Fang Lang, thinking that it would not be an issue without Huang Zhihe and Chao Xiaojian¡¯s protecting Fang Lang. He certainly did not expect things to turn out this way. Five seventh-ss elders were gone just like that! Zhao Zhenshi was still haunted by it. If he was to go after Fang Lang himself... Would he end up with the same fate as the other five elders and vanish into thin air? Fang Lang could not have possessed such power. Fang Lang was just a young man with a third-ss realm. He should not be able to cast an attack at that caliber. It was obvious that Xuanyuan Taihua was behind the killing of the five elders. The female de lord who defeated the sect leader of the Main Path Guild, Zhao Longshi. Back then, Xuanyuan Taihua came personally to the Main Path Guild and defeated Zhao Longshi, leaving her sword in their sacred ce as a mark of humiliation for decades. Was she going to insult the Main Path Guild once again without being present at all? The Main Path Guild today was not as vulnerable as before since their first leader had emerged, an incredible cultivator from the transcendental realm. Zhao Zhenshi¡¯s confidence grew with the Main Path Guild¡¯s fortune. He refused to believe that Xuanyuan Taihua could upheave the Main Path Guild without being present. ¡°Ancestor!¡± Zhao Zhenshi cried out loudly as he hovered above the Mountain Shield Forbidden Spell Rune. ¡°He killed five elders of our sect. You can¡¯t let him leave. Do you wish to let the Main Path Guild relive the humiliation that Xuanyuan Taihua inflicted on us decades ago? Please stop him!¡± Zhao Zhenshi¡¯s plea ripped through the silent night. His voice was like a storm that swept across the entire Mount Tongtian. Huang Zhihe and Chao Xiaojian¡¯s expressions darkened when they realized Zhao Zhenshi refused to give up! ¡°You talk too much!¡± Chao Xiaojian scoffed. The green steel sword vibrated slightly around him and it shot out the next moment, leaving a ck line across hundreds of meters through space towards Zhao Zhenshi! A chill ran down Zhao Zhenshi¡¯s spine. He could sense death the moment he saw Chao Xiaojianunch the attack. After all, Chao Xiaojian was a man mad enough to wield his sword against a transcendental being! He was a powerful cultivator and could kill without hesitation, wiping out the entire Donglu Sword League alone. The folks named him White-Haired Sword Demon for a reason! Zhao Zhenshi yelled loudly as he cast the rune. It roared loudly in the night sky. Clouds of mist gathered around Zhao Zhenshi and formed a giantke of cloud energy! Chao Xiaojian had a serious look on his face. His white hair fluttered in the air. ¡°Even though I can¡¯t fight with the old man from the transcendental realm, I still can take you out, Zhao Zhenshi.¡± In one flick, the green steel sword started to shake violently and countless de energy erupted from the sword and formed a giant sword shadow. The sword was so massive as if it could pierce through the atmosphere! Then, it shed downwards and sliced the cloud energyke that was shielding Zhao Zhenshi in half! It created a tremendous windstorm, with frightening air currents booming out from both halves. Chao Xiaojian was not able to inflict any damage on Zhao Taifeng from the transcendental realm but he definitely could defeat a ninth-ss Zhao Zhenshi who needed the forbidden spell rune as his crutch! sh! His sword came down like a brilliant sun that shone brightly, like a meteor that lighted up the night sky. The moment he shed through the Mountain Shield Rune, he also damaged Zhao Zhenshi¡¯s spiritual sense. Zhao Zhenshi¡¯s face turned pale and he vomited blood. Chao Xiaojian hovered in the air and exhaled a murky breath. The utilization of the space sword intent had significantly improved his cultivation. Even Huang Zhihe, who was watching from afar, narrowed his eyes as he was utterly impressed by him. No wonder Chao Xiaojian was able to take on the Sword Guild after Xuanyuan Taihua left. In a different battle on the other side, Zhao Taifeng was standing on the mountain peak with his hands on his back. The expression on his face was very stern. Zhao Zhenshi asked him to fight but Zhao Taifeng had his reservations. It was not easy to reach transcendence. It was even harder to be reborn and live through another thousand years. The longer a person had lived, the more they treasured life. The old man¡¯s robe billowed in the wind. He ignored Zhao Zhenshi¡¯s plea and turned around to stare at the sky with brooding eyes. There seemed to be a pair of eyes gradually opening behind him. The Eye of Wisdom! This was a supernatural skill that could only be acquired by a cultivator from the transcendental realm! The eye enabled them to see as far as 10,000 miles. The old man saw the floating Code above Changan City. The shimmering golden Code looked like it was covered in ayer of golden blood. He could vaguely see a pair of eyes inside the Code. The moment their eyes met, Zhao Taifeng shuddered and the Eye of Wisdom behind him exploded instantly! Fang Lang, who had a lotus flower blooming within his eyes, stopped in his tracks with the Reincarnating Lotus Sword in hand. Suddenly, Zhao Taifeng burst outughing at the peak of the mountain until he was out of breath. ¡°I saw it! No wonder when I exhibit the strength of transcendence, the Code didn¡¯te to take my life. Neither did I sense any impending doom!¡± Zhao Taifeng snickered. ¡°I still remember 200 years ago, the Emperor tore through the sky with the Code in hand. He sat high up on the throne and oppressed the transcendence. If any one fought back, he would use the Code against them. No transcendental being could withstand the Code, they would always end up in a bloody mush and their divine sense withered. However, things have changed.¡± Zhao Taifeng¡¯s gaze deepened. He stared at Fang Lang and continued, ¡°Perhaps, the Emperor thought that a thread of your divine sense and the Reincarnating Lotus Sword that absorbed a thousand years worth of the Main Path Guild¡¯s reserve would be sufficient to take me down?¡± The old man¡¯s voice was not loud but his words exploded in the sky like a thunderous roar, echoing through every corner of the world. Then, his divine sense that he used to entrap Chao Xiaojian started to spread like a surging sea. The aura of the old man on top of the mountain peak began to thicken, like dark storm clouds looming over the sky. The aura of the old man was peaceful and calm, vast and profound like the bright sun hanging above the sky. Suddenly, the sky started to alter between light and dark. The old man climbed the cloud stairs. Strong winds started sting, stirring up sand and rocks from the ground, spinning them like secret weapons. However, the old man remained as calm as ever. His robe and hair did not move a single inch. Chao Xiaojian, who had just defeated Zhao Zhenshi, looked worried. The atmosphere was so thick that it was barely breathable. They were all astounded. How could a single person release such a tremendous aura that could alter the weather? Chao Xiaojian was fixated on Zhao Taifeng. His aura was different from when he fought him before. It was as though he had removed all the shackles and restraints and transcended form the world! This was transcendence! A single move of transcendence could trigger major changes in the world. Fang Lang stood opposite of the old man quietly with the lotus flower blooming in his eyes. Inparison with the old man¡¯s earth-rattling aura, he seemed like floating duckweed that was facing a giant wave. Inside his consciousness, Fang Lang sat cross-legged. He could see the battle going on outside clearly when he looked up. The thousand years of Main Path Guild¡¯s reserve that the Reincarnating Lotus Sword had absorbed was channeled into Fang Lang¡¯s body at that moment like a gxy of mist surrounding him. Fang Lang¡¯s cultivation was instantly elevated. At this moment, Fang Lang was under the control of the Reincarnating Lotus Sword, not the other way round. However, Fang Lang could feel the tremendous power in front of him. A power that could challenge the heavens! If it was someone else in Fang Lang¡¯s ce, their mind and soul would have been all over the ce with the sudden impact of the power as forceful as this. However, Fang Lang could easily adapt to the abrupt change since he had been using the Power Loan Card quite often. Nevertheless, the old man who had floated off the Main Path Mausoleum and climbed the cloud stairs should not be underestimated. ¡°Disciple Lang, look carefully and learn about the time sword intent.¡± a soothing voice sounded in Fang Lang¡¯s mind. Then, in the night sky, Fang Lang, who had been trapped by Zhao Taifeng¡¯s transcendental force, started moving. He raised the Reincarnating Lotus Sword and a strong surge of energy was discharged from the de. Fang Lang, who was hovering in mid-air, tossed the sword towards the old man. The Reincarnating Lotus Sword shot out at an instance after Fang Lang gently knocked on the handle of the sword with his fingers in a lotus flower-picking gesture. Zhao Taifeng¡¯s expression darkened as he hovered in the air. ¡°Young girl, you¡¯re still as wild as before. If you were toe personally, I might be intimidated but how dare you unt your wings when you¡¯re merely a wisp of divine sense hiding within the sword! You shall pay for disrespecting the transcendence!¡± Zhao Taifeng¡¯s divine sense started churning. Then, he clenched his fist in the air. Hundreds of floating runes rose behind him and channeled their energy into his fists like countless rockets firing into it. The collective energy was sufficient to shatter the sky. Buzz... Everyone¡¯s vision was filled with a blinding light. A giant made up of several hundred runes stood upright like a celestial being. It hurled an earth-shattering punch! In the night sky, the Reincarnating Lotus Sword flew out at a moderate pace after Fang Lang tapped on it gently, aiming towards the fist from the giant made up of runes. The distance between the two gradually diminished... Suddenly, the sword and fist collided. An overwhelming sword intent exuded from the Reincarnating Lotus Sword and swept across the sky. Then, Zhao Taifeng¡¯s fist started to retract as if time was moving in reverse... Several hundred runes also went back to their initial stage before the attack the moment the sword shes with the fist. They had travelled back in time before Zhao Taifeng hurled the punch. However, the Reincarnating Lotus Sword picked up speed and left a zing white trail across the night sky. Before Zhao Taifeng punched with the fist, the sword was shot in his direction, aiming to impale his heart. Zhao Taifeng opened the giant fist and grabbed the razor-sharp de of the Reincarnating Lotus Sword. The de energy cut through Zhao Taifeng¡¯s palm. Blood flowed down the de. Fang Lang, with the lotus flower in his eyes, hovered in the air as his white robe fluttered, said calmly, ¡°Transcendence, who isn¡¯t?¡± Then, he curled all five slender fingers and clenched them into a fist. The Reincarnating Lotus Sword in Zhao Taifeng¡¯s palm started spinning at an incredible speed. His palm instantly exploded, blood and flesh sprayed across the sky like a blood lotus blooming in the night. Chapter 144 - The Bad-Tempered Xuanyuan Taihua

Chapter 144: The Bad-Tempered Xuanyuan Taihua

There was a blood-red lotus flower blooming in the night sky. It was extremely eye-catching and beautiful to look at. It was like fireworks that were set off in Changan City on the Emperor¡¯s birthday celebration. The earth instantly became dead silent. This was a contention to transcend the realm of warriors. It was a tentative exchange. The end result was one that no one could have expected. No one expected the ending to be this destructive. The old man, Zhao Taifeng, was terrifyingly powerful. His might was so powerful that it could change the weather. That old man, who lived for thousands of years, was the true most powerful warrior in the two worlds, overlooking everything in the human realm. Despite his powerful existence, his arm had been blown away by a single sword attack. The blood-red lotus flower bloomed in the sky. Zhao Taifeng¡¯s hair billowed around him as he narrowed his eyes. His robes were stained with blood. The Reincarnating Lotus Sword gently vibrated and emitted a clear sword¡¯s cry among the pieces of flesh that exploded from the arm. It no longer spun around. A gust of sword intent was released and time seemed to return to the previous second as it hurtled back to Zhao Taifeng¡¯s chest! Zhao Taifeng felt a chill! This sword intent... waspletely different from Chao Xiaojian¡¯s unimpressive space sword intent. This was the time sword intent that truly transcended the realms of warriors. It was a sword that could affect time! It seemed like it was about to stab him to death in the sky. ¡°What a ruthless kid!¡± Zhao Taifeng wore an expression of utmost sternness. However, he was not flustered despite losing an arm to a st. Zhao Taifeng¡¯s other arm swung in front of him as he faced the incredibly powerful time sword intent. He disyed the ability of a warrior who has transcended the realms and instantly activated a rune. In an instant, the hundreds of runes that he was about to send shooting out behind him were now stacked up ahead of him. A single sh of a sword caused hundreds of runes to explode! Zhao Taifeng¡¯s body flew backward in the sky. The old man who maintained the upper hand like he was ascending into the heavens was now sent flying back to the mountain peak with a single sword attack. Gusts of strong winds crashed into the peak of the Main Path Mausoleum unceasingly like mighty waves. de light tore through the sky as the Reincarnating Lotus Sword floated around Fang Lang. The world was deathly quiet. A rapid-fire exchange that was this quick and powerful managed to suppress Zhao Taifeng, who had the power to cause the skies to change, with a single sword attack! Everyone was shocked. All they could do was focus their gaze fearfully at the two figures in the skies. Chao Xiaojian¡¯s expression was full of emotion and respect. He managed to see his senior sister, the sect leader¡¯s peerless sword technique. She truly deserved the title of the Tang Dynasty¡¯s First Sword. So what if he was a realm transcending warrior? He was being beaten up all the same! So what if she was not truly here? He was still being defeated by a single sword! Huang Zhihe was full of praise and gratitude to this woman. This woman was worthy of being admired. How could anyone fail to adore and admire her? The Reincarnating Lotus Sword was not stained by the slightest trace of blood as it returned to Fang Lang¡¯s side soundlessly, circling around his body. A lotus flower blossomed in Fang Lang¡¯s eye. The mysterious phantom behind him seemed to berger and more miraculous. There wasplete silence in the Main Path Guild. Zhao Zhenshi, who had spat blood after being stabbed by Chao Xiaojian, looked extremely terrified. How could this be!? How could the elder of his family be so weak!? Was Zhao Taifeng really a realm transcending warrior!? Zhao Zhenshi was full of doubt and uncertainty. However, Zhao Zhenshi quickly banished all his doubts from his mind. This was because muscles and sinew were continually forming on Zhao Taifeng¡¯s arm as he stood on the mountain peak where he returned to. In the end, it was a perfectly healthy arm. His severed arm had regenerated! This miraculous arm was beyond the realm of ordinary humans. Zhao Zhenshi was stunned as a feeling of awe and respect rose in his heart. He could not say that his own ancestor was weak. He should instead say that Xuanyuan Taihua... was too powerful! ¡°What an impressive girl. You¡¯ve merely cultivated for 200 years, yet you have managed to achieve this level.¡± ¡°Your mastery of the time sword intent isparable to the demon tribe king in the world of the demons that controls the power of time!¡± Zhao Taifeng took a deep breath in. He felt a little sense of fear. He knew that Xuanyuan Taihua was trapped in the demon world with no way of returning. She needed to retrieve the remaining three swords before she could return. At that moment, a powerful drive arose inside Zhao Taifeng¡¯s heart. He must retrieve the Reincarnating Lotus Sword so that Xuanyuan Taihua would not be able to return to the Tang Dynasty! Zhao Taifeng turned his head to look in the direction of Changan. The Tang Code seemed ready to jump into action. However, it did not give him a terrifying sense of threat. Zhao Taifeng was not an idiot. He seemed to realize something. Xuanyuan Taihua might have attacked so powerfully because she was hiding something! ¡°Even though you¡¯re exceptionally gifted. However, since you¡¯re not truly here, I fear that it¡¯s impossible for you to defeat me!¡± ¡°I promise you, if you leave your sword here, this youth will be allowed to leave. The Main Path Guild will not stop him.¡± Zhao Taifeng raised his head as his white hair billowed non-stop in the wind. He stared fixed at Fang Lang, who was floating in the air as he spoke. Of course, he was speaking to Xuanyuan Taihua, who was behind Fang Lang. ¡°You won¡¯t be able to kill me. However, I acknowledge your power... Leave your sword. This is myst concession.¡± As soon as he finished speaking, the expressions of Chao Xiaojian and Huang Zhihe faltered slightly. This was because Zhao Taifeng was saying this even after he experienced Xuanyuan Taihua¡¯s might. This must mean that Zhao Taifeng was certain that he would win. Both of them were aware that this was still home ground for the Main Path Guild. Perhaps they had a secret trump card. In the sky, the mysterious figure behind Fang Lang overlooked Mount Tongtian from above. A faint voice reverberated in the skies. ¡°Leave my sword? Why don¡¯t you give it a try... you old fellow?¡± Xuanyuan Taihua¡¯s voice rang out clearly in the night sky. It made the atmosphere which had just started to calm down to be tense once again. The Reincarnating Lotus Sword floated in the sky, glowing with a limitless brilliance. It was like the zing sun in the sky, eye-catching and glorious! The sword that had been covered in dust for over ten years in the Main Path Mausoleum was now shining brightly. ¡°What¡¯s the need for this, girl? Your sword has absorbed the Dao aggregates of the Main Path Guild that goes back several millennia. You must have a reason for this. There¡¯s no way that you¡¯re going to give up everything just to fight to the death with an old fellow like me.¡± ¡°Hence, leave the sword at the Main Path Guild. When you return, you can retrieve the sword from here. When the timees, I will hand it to you without a fight.¡± ¡°If you don¡¯t agree and insist on fighting across the realm... I¡¯m afraid that if you wish to kill me, you¡¯ll need toe here in person,¡± Zhao Taifeng said coolly. His deep eyes seemed to see through everything. After a long time, he slowly stood up. In the distance, Zhao Zhenshi, who was covered in blood, could feel a shiver spread across his body. After that, his body suddenly felt empty and hollow. Zhao Taifeng had taken over the Mountain Shield Forbidden Spell Rune. All the disciples of the Main Path Guild seated on therge square were all shocked. After a while, they could sense an extremely powerful figure appear in their minds. It was like a divine spirit who ruled the heavens. ... In his consciousness, Fang Lang looked at the mysterious figure sitting across him with an expression of the utmost seriousness. ¡°Master, this old man is like a rock in the toilet. He¡¯s smelly and stubborn. He¡¯s not an easy opponent,¡± said Fang Lang. ¡°Your description is very fitting. Old fellows are like this,¡± said Xuanyuan Taihua with a smile. So he wanted her to leave her sword in the Main Path Guild and return to get it in person. He clearly knew that she could only return once she retrieved all three swords, for him to say that Zhao Taifeng revealed that he did not want to hand over the Reincarnating Lotus Sword to prevent her from returning. ¡°However, this old man might not dare to fully unveil his realm transcending power because he¡¯s still slightly fearful of the Tang Code in the sky.¡± ¡°If he really fought with all his might, he fears that the Emperor will kill him with the Tang Code.¡± ¡°Then should we just fight him?¡± asked Fang Lang through gritted teeth. Xuanyuan Taihua¡¯s phantom shook her head. ¡°Why should we fight him? It¡¯s true we can¡¯t use up all the Dao aggregates that the Reincarnating Lotus Sword has absorbed in this one match. Hence, we should leave. However, the old man is being arrogant that I can hardly look past it... Even if we leave, I need to give him a good beating.¡± As soon as Fang Lang heard her words, he was speechless. His master... seemed to be in a bad mood. However, this bad-tempered Xuanyuan Taihua seemed more human, causing Fang Lang to feel less in awe of her. ¡°Disciple Fang, do you understand the time sword intent yet?¡± asked Xuanyuan Taihua. Fang Lang rubbed his head. ¡°No. I don¡¯t understand.¡± Xuanyuan Taihua smiled. ¡°It¡¯s alright that you don¡¯t understand. However, remember this attack and slowly gain an understanding. In this manner you¡¯ll increase your understanding of time sword intent.¡± Fang Lang nodded his head as though he understood. ... Mount Tongtian covered an area spanning dozens of miles. It waspletely shrouded in a thick mist. Zhao Taifeng stood at the peak of the mountain. He had taken over the control of the rune from Zhao Zhenshi, causing the Mountain Shield Rune to appear even more mystical. He stared intently at Fang Lang, who was floating mid-air with an extremely cold expression. Chao Xiaojian and Huang Zhihe flew rapidly to Fang Lang¡¯s side as the thick mist that was formed from the Mountain Shield Rune transformed into an even thicker protective wall of clouds. It enveloped all three of them within it. ¡°Senior sister. What do we do now?¡± asked Chao Xiaojian with a solemn expression. Huang Zhihe turned to look at Fang Lang instead and said, ¡°How about we step out of this?¡± Fang Lang gripped the Reincarnating Lotus Sword. He sent a message to Chao Xiaojian and Huang Zhihe through a ripple of his divine sense. Their eyes slowly lit up. Chao Xiaojian chuckled, ¡°As befitting of my senior sister. That¡¯s her style.¡± Chao Xiaojian knew that he had worked hard to earn his title of the White-Haired Sword Demon. However, it was still all due to his senior sister¡¯s sound teaching that helped him achieve this. Boom! Theughter stopped. Chao Xiaojian tapped his green steel sword. A gust of de energy surged out from his lungs and rushed towards the rune behind him. Huang Zhihe roared fiercely and countless flying des transformed into a giant hammer that sped towards the huge rune behind him. At the peak of the mountain, Zhao Taifeng instantly understood Xuanyuan Taihua¡¯s decision. He sighed. ¡°It seems that you people are unwilling to leave this sword behind!¡± In the next instant, Zhao Taifeng raised his hand. A powerful divine energy began to spread out like waves of water in all directions. After that... The sea of clouds surged as pirs of clouds rose one after another, converging and interweaving in the sky before finally transforming into a cloud palm that covered the entire world. The palm was extremely enormous and was formed from the Mountain Shield Rune of the entire Main Path Guild. Even though it looked extremely fine, it was stronger and sturdier than the mountain itself. Its power was absolutely frightening! The dark night seemed to struggle to cover the brightness of the white clouds. At that moment, the darkness seemed to retreat and it looked as though dawn was approaching! In Zhao Taifeng¡¯s hand, the forbidden Mountain Shield Rune was about to truly explode with a terrifying might. This waspletely different from the Mountain Shield Rune when it was under Zhao Zhenshi¡¯s control! At that moment, Chao Xiaojian¡¯s sword that was headed towards the mountain entrance suddenly quivered. It suddenly turned towards Fang Lang as it leaped through the air, traversing a huge distance. It was like a pencil-straight white line as it shot through the air with a terrifying attacking stance, heading towards the many disciples on the mountain peak! It looked like it was heading to destroy the great rune! Zhao Taifeng was shocked. Zhao Zhenshi and the many elders of the Main Path Guild were also shocked! He was not escaping!? In fact, he was evenunching a counterattack!? However, Zhao Taifeng¡¯s expression was as cold as ice. ¡°Stop him.¡± The Mountain Shield Rune was formed out of the energy of the many disciples. As soon as the disciples were injured, the Mountain Shield Rune would be destroyed! This would mean that they would have no chance of stopping Fang Lang and keeping the Reincarnating Lotus Sword. ¡°Everyone, attack together!¡± Zhao Zhenshi felt a chill inside him and shouted fiercely. He dare not act alone. He would not be able to stop Chao Xiaojian¡¯s attack on his own! At the peak of the mountain, gust after gust of energy rose. The Main Path Guild elders had joined forces as they linked their hands with Zhao Zhenshi to block Chao Xiaojian¡¯s attack! However, Chao Xiaojian¡¯s sword leaped with a sh of light and disappeared before their eyes. It was as though it had burrowed into space and passed them tond on the square at the top of the mountain. The sword continued to head in the direction of the many disciples sitting cross-legged on the square. ¡°Useless things!¡± Zhao Taifeng saw what happened and his expression changed instantly. How could so many people fail just to stop Chao Xiaojian!? However, space sword intent was extremely mysterious and mighty. It was extremely difficult to deal with. These disciples were the foundation of the Main Path Guild. Zhao Taifeng could not let these disciples get hurt. Not merely because if the disciples were injured, the Mountain Shield Rune would be destroyed. ¡°Ancestor, there¡¯s no need for you to bother with Chao Xiaojian. I will deal with him.¡± A faint voice rang out from the mountain peak. Zhao Taifeng stopped mid-attack suddenly as a smile appeared on his face. He turned around as he controlled the enormous cloud palm, sending it towards Fang Lang. Chao Xiaojian¡¯s sword abruptly quivered when it saw the ripple of the rune before it. After that, the space rune appeared in the air. A hand appeared from within the space rune. With a push from that hand, a mighty wall of energy seemed to roll out! Chao Xiaojian¡¯s sword caused thousands of holes to appear on that wall of energy. Countless flows of energy spread out in all directions. However, it was unable to disrupt the formation of the Main Path Guild disciples. Within the rune, an old man riding on a crane appeared. He wore a faint smile as he looked at Chao Xiaojian. Three demon realm warrior heads were dripping with fresh blood hanging on the crane that the man was riding. ¡°Zhao Longshi!¡± Chao Xiaojian inhaled deeply. The look in his eyes became serious. Zhao Longshi¡¯s appearance would boost the spirits of the entire Main Path Guild. On the other side, Huang Zhihe was also soaring on his flight sword in the direction of the mountain peak. He made a gesture as countless steel swords condensed above his head. After that, it transformed into a gigantic sword hammer that sped towards the Main Path Guild mountain square. Zhao Zhenshi and the numerous Main Path Guild elders sent out a rune that enveloped the entire square. The rune resisted this hammer attack! A terrifying energy spread across like a mighty wave rolling out in all directions. Zhao Taifeng controlled the cloud palm and smacked it towards Fang Lang. However, he had just started moving when the Reincarnating Lotus Sword trembled and sword intent gushed out. Time began to flow backward. After that, the giant palm moved towards him and returned to its position a second ago. Fang Lang wielded his sword and stepped out in the air! His speed increased rapidly because the boundless Dao aggregates within the Reincarnating Lotus Sword continuously provided a powerful supply of energy! Zhao Taifeng¡¯s expression changed instantly! He never imagined that Xuanyuan Taihua would leave her sword in the Main Path Guild to absorb its thousand year Dao aggregates in order to achieve this attack! However, he saw the mysterious figure behind Fang Lang make a gesture with both palms. With a turn, the Reincarnating Lotus Sword shot out. It seemed to turn into a line in the palm as it sliced through the space! It appeared before Zhao Taifeng in an instant! Zhao Taifeng¡¯s hair fluttered. The strong threat made him unable to continue suppressing his cultivation. Hepletely unleashed his realm transcending aura without holding back. As he was unleashing his realm transcending aura... Changan City. In the sky above Taiji Pce. All of a sudden, a mighty figure appeared whose face could not be seen clearly. However, that terrifying energy that seemed to spread across the air caused the skies to change. The Tang Code trembled slightly as a blood-colored arrow slowly materialized, aiming directly at Zhao Taifeng. The peak of Mount Tongtian. If Zhao Taifeng wanted to use his realm transcending cultivation, he would be shot by the Tang Code arrow. He could not help but recall the realm transcending warrior whose physical body waspletely crushed under the punishment of the Tang Code over 200 years ago. In an instant, a sense of terror emerged in Zhao Taifeng¡¯s heart! How could there still be the existence of realm transcendence in Changan City? Was it possible that... nothing had happened to the Tang Emperor yet?! Zhao Taifeng¡¯s actions froze from the shock he received due to the Tang Code in Changan City. A sense of de energy blew across his face. Time sword intent flowed over him like flowing water causing Zhao Taifeng¡¯s consciousness to stop at that moment a second before. His resistance to the Reincarnating Lotus Sword faltered for a moment. After that, the Reincarnating Lotus Sword shot over in a pencil-straight line. In an instant, it plunged into Zhao Taifeng¡¯s chest with a shocking amount of force. The force lifted Zhao Taifeng¡¯s body and pinned the realm transcending warrior to the ground. Fang Lang wore a cold look as he sped his hands together and crossed his fingers. He tore them apart and the Reincarnating Lotus Sword rotated and carved out a huge hole in Zhao Taifeng¡¯s chest! The entire Main Path Guild was plunged into a daze! Even Zhao Longshi and Zhao Zhenshi looked shocked! Swoosh! The Reincarnating Lotus Sword did not continue attacking after it had carved a hole in Zhao Taifeng. ¡°That was great!¡± ¡°Retreat!¡± A clear voice rang out. After that, Fang Lang, who held the Reincarnating Sword, ran out of energy and plunged straight down to the earth! Chao Xiaojian and Huang Zhihe were shocked! They took the chance as the Main Path Guild warriors were still stuck in fear and terror to rush up into the skies without hesitation. They picked up Fang Lang who waspletely devoid of energy and flew straight out of the Main Path Guild at rapid speeds! How exciting it was to execute deceit then escape right after! Chapter 145 - Fang Lang’s Sword, the Sword That Kills

Chapter 145: Fang Lang¡¯s Sword, the Sword That Kills

It was a rainy night in Changan City. The downpour was heavy. However, the skies above Changan City were filled with a sense of suppression that seemed like a sea that seemed ready to explode at any moment. The Tang Code radiated with a bright light. If anyone raised their heads towards it, they would be able to see the figure that appeared behind the Tang Code. The huge and imposing figure seemed to be overseeing the entire world from above. A blood-colored arrow floated above the Tang Code and contained an iparably frightening amount of energy. Everywhere the arrowhead pointed seemed to explode. It was like the Sky God was in a rage. The thunder and lightning hidden behind the clouds were drawn out, tearing through the dark earth. The officials knelt before Taiji Pce withdrew their gaze as the sense of oppression grew stronger. They glimpsed into Taiji Pce as their awe and reverence grew. The storm continued to rage. Water covered the long corridor in front of Taiji Pce as the winds caused the luxurious dress of Empress Pei to flutter. The fifth princess covered her nose and lips with a silk handkerchief that was pping wildly in the wind. Old Man Gao wore a serious expression. He dusted his arm as his gaze seemed to grow colder as he looked at the imperial officers kneeling. It waspletely silent before the pce. After a long time, Empress Pei, who was beautiful, elegant, poised, possessed a peerless disposition and the aura of a warrior finally smiled. Her eyes seemed to see through the endless rain to the mountain peak of the Main Path Guild and saw Zhao Taifeng. Zhao Taifeng, who was pinned to the ground by a sword, had a hole carved out of his chest. The sound of herughter lingered. ¡°I¡¯ve said before that someone would crack down on him. Careless people such as those...¡± ¡°That¡¯s not all.¡± ¡°As far as that traitor, Li Liancheng, someone will deal with him. I have more important things to attend to.¡± As soon as Empress Pei finished speaking, she did not bother to see the response of the pce officials. Even though this sentiment was not for her to express, the officials should hopefully be more cautious since she had spoken up. Empress Pei turned to leave with the fifth princess and the second prince followed behind her. They left with eunuchs leading the way and disappeared among the pces. The power of the Tang Code floating about Changan City began to fade away quickly. The phantom of the Tang Emperor also disappeared. However, the terrifying power that remained upon everyone¡¯s heart continued to make everyone feel tearful and full of terror. The heavy rain continued non-stop, washing away the filth of the world. The courtiers and imperial censors stood up. Empress Pei¡¯s words continued to linger in their minds. They exchanged looks and then all turned their eyes towards Taiji Pce. Deep within the pce, there seemed to be a pair of aloof and remote eyes paying close attention to them. It was as if everything that urred on earth was entirely in its control. The pce officials all bowed and quickly took their leave. Before the Vermillion Bird Gate, the wheels of the horse carriages began to move after being drenched by the heavy rainfall for a long time. The wheels sshed through the puddles on the limestone path as they drove out of the Royal City. ... It waspletely silent before the Main Path Mausoleum. The realm transcending ancestor Zhao Taifeng, who just entered the world, was pinned down to the mountain peak with a single attack and had his physical body torn apart. This was an absolutely terrifying sight for everyone to see. The entire Main Path Mausoleum seemed to be shrouded in deste air. The dawn sky started to lighten. The stars appeared to dim. The first rays of the morning sun seemed to leap out of the horizon and illuminate the entire earth. ¡°Give chase.¡± The sect leader Zhao Longshi was very calm. He merely frowned slightly and gave his order as he looked towards Chao Xiaojian and Huang Zhihe, who escaped with Fang Lang in tow. On the top of the mountain, Zhao Taifeng, who was pinned to the ground, quickly recovered. His flesh speedily reformed. His torn and shredded chest waspletely filled up as his flesh quivered. This scene caused countless Main Path Guild disciples to cry out. This regeneration technique was like a divine immortal technique, causing everyone to feel extremely shocked. Zhao Taifeng¡¯s eyes were extremely fierce and cold. Apart from that, there was also a trace of fear and shock. Xuanyuan Taohua¡¯s decision certainly exceeded his expectations. She used the Reincarnating Lotus Sword to absorb the thousand year Dao aggregates of the Main Path Guild but did not mind spending most of it on a single attack on him. When this wasbined with his fear of the person controlling the Tang Code in Changan City, Zhao Taifeng was forced to endure this attack. Boom! Zhao Taifeng adjusted out the long sleeves of his robes and put his hands behind his back. He took a step out but that incredibly imposing figure and the Tang Code appeared in his consciousness once again. His figure that was about to rush out of the Main Path Guild came to an abrupt halt. ¡°If you give chase, your life will be in danger.¡± This was the prompt given to him by the realm transcending divine sense. Zhao Taifeng trusted this prompt wholeheartedly. Back then, he entered a self-imposed deep slumber for two hundred years because of this prompt and managed to escape the killing spree of realm transcending warriors by the Tang emperor with the Tang Code/ Hence, he decided not to give chase. His gaze turned,nding upon Zhao Longshi, Zhao Zhenshi and the other Main Path Guild warriors. ¡°You guys should chase after them. Those who are higher than the fourth-ss realm should not attack Fang Lang. He has the Reincarnating Lotus sword. The Reincarnating Lotus Sword contains the thousand year Dao aggregates. The power of these Dao aggregates are sufficient for Xuanyuan Taihua to provide enough energy to use the ability of the sword!¡± ¡°However, Xuanyuan Taihua¡¯s divine sense will only be triggered when Fang Lang encounters a powerful threat that he is unable to counter.¡± ¡°You guys should stop Chao Xiaojian and Huang Zhihe. As for Fang Lang... leave him for the disciples of the lower fourth-ss realm. The attack of the lower fourth-ss realm disciples will not trigger Xuanyuan Taihua¡¯s divine sense in the Reincarnating Lotus Sword.¡± Zhao Taifeng¡¯s robes billowed as he stared at the three people who were speeding off into the distance, avoiding the Mountain Shield Rune. He said, ¡°I have a premonition that the turning of tables in the Tang Dynasty... is about to start.¡± Zhao Taifeng¡¯s words stunned all the warriors of the Main Path Guild. Zhao Longshi seemed to understand and rode out on his crane. Zhao Zhenshi and many other elders of the guild began to craft rune patterns under their feet. Zhao Taifeng stared fixedly at Chao Xiaojian and the others in the distance. He raised his hand and instantly formed a rune. He quickly sent it out. The rune contained divine sense. As the divine sense spun around, a massive rune enveloped all the cultivators in the Main Path Guild instantly. In a sh, all the Main Path Guild warriors appeared a hundred miles away. The Main Path Guild mountain summit abruptly became empty. Zhao Taifeng¡¯splexion was slightly pale. He had expended a huge amount of energy by casting that forbidden Body Relocation Spell. However, he did not mind because it would be worth it if it meant that they could retrieve the Reincarnating Lotus Sword. He turned to look in the direction of Changan City. His eyes darkened immeasurably. The longer he lived, the more he valued his life. Even though Zhao Taifeng could vaguely sense that the person in Changan seemed a little odd, he did not dare to gamble his life on that. ¡°If something strange has really happened to him, it will not stay hidden for long. There wille a day when it is exposed.¡± Zhao Taifeng ced his hands behind his back. His torn robes whistled in the wind. A thick fog suddenly appeared over the entire Main Path Mausoleum. There was a faint spiritual sense force that surged like a wave. It flowed into Zhao Taifeng¡¯s body and replenished his energy. ... Zhao Longshi was riding on his crane¡¯s back when he narrowed his eyes. Was this a technique of a realm transcending warrior? He had shifted them by over a hundred miles in an instant. It was a god-like technique! Transcendence... could allow one to travel across the world freely. It was truly admirable. ¡°Chase them!¡± However, it did not overly astound him. Zhao Longshi called out softly to bring everyone else back to their senses. The rays of the morning sun appeared, tearing through the dark night sky. The three demon warrior heads hung on the back of the crane swung gently and crashed against each other, sounding like the dull ring of a bronze bell. Zhao Longshi raised his head and looked towards Chao Xiaojian, who was flying rapidly towards them and Huang Zhihe, who carried Fang Lang. As the current sect leader of the Main Path Guild, Zhao Longshi was a matchless genius in his youth. Even though Xuanyuan Taihua defeated him, no one could deny that he was extremely powerful! Zhao Longshi sped his hands together. A powerful spiritual sense rolled out, rippling out like waves. On earth, tree after tree was ripped out of the ground, shooting into the sky at Chao Xiaojian and the others like arrows. By then, Fang Lang had gained control over his own body. Chao Xiaojian still carried him as they flew at high speeds. When they saw the Main Path Guild warriors appear out of the blue in front of them, their expressions faltered. Chao Xiaojian¡¯s eyes froze. They managed to break out of the Forest Shield Spell and rush out of there. However, Zhao Longshi and the others somehow chased ahead to appear before them. ¡°The first sect leader of the Main Path Guild, Zhao Taifeng, has mastered the Body Relocation Spell. It¡¯s a top level forbidden rune. Only realm transcending spell masters can grasp this technique.¡± Huang Zhihe said this quickly since he knew little about Zhao Taifeng¡¯s background. Chao Xiaojian swung his sword out and a mighty de energy gushed out, slicing through the trees that were shooting into the sky like arrows. Pieces of wood flew out in all directions. To the side, countless steel swords transformed into a huge hammer, and Huang Zhihe suddenly swung it. Zhao Zhenshi and the numerous Main Path Guild elders acted to stop Huang Zhihe. The bright rays of the morning sun were overshadowed by the brilliant exchanges between these two leveled cultivators! Fang Lang¡¯s face was bright red as he was caught in the midst of this fight! This terrifying wave of disturbance seemed about to tear him apart. He hid the Reincarnating Lotus Sword in his scabbard. After his master, Xuanyuan Taihua attacked Zhao Taifeng, and the sword went still. At that moment, Fang Lang did not have the protection of Xuanyuan Taihua. He was like a tiny raft that was about to be torn apart by the huge sea waves at any moment since he was caught in a battle between two ninth-grade warriors. Zhao Longshi was pretty strong. Even Chao Xiaojian did not have the confidence that victory was at hand. Hence, Chao Xiaojian was giving 120% of his energy as he faced Zhao Longshi. On the other hand, Huang Zhihe found it extremely difficult to escape from the clutches of Zhao Zhenshi and a huge group of elders surrounding him. ¡°Chao Xiaojian. This can all end if you make Fang Lang return the Reincarnating Lotus Sword. In addition to that, Fang Lang will need to spend ten years in the Main Path Guild to repent for his sins,¡± said Zhao Longshi as he rode on his red-crowned crane, looking refined like an immortal. ¡°Eat sh*t Main Path Guild!¡± cursed Chao Xiaojian. ¡°Fang Lang is this year¡¯s Imperial Examination¡¯s champion. Is the Main Path Guild trying to go against the imperial courts by doing this!?¡± ¡°This matter has nothing to do with the imperial courts. This is a matter between the Main Path Guild and the Sword Guild. It¡¯s a straightforward fight between cultivators... If the Tang Emperor has a different opinion about this, I¡¯m willing to take the punishment for it. However, Fang Lang will still need to repent in the Main Path Guild. This is what Founder Taifeng has ordered.¡± Zhao Longshi said all this in an indifferent manner. A rune began to spread across the sky with a flick of his fingers, heading towards Fang Lang like a massive. Chao Xiaojian frowned. He released a gust of de energy with a flick of his fingers. The de energy swirled around Fang Lang and sent him flying off into the distance. Fang Lang carried Xuanyuan Taihua¡¯s Reincarnating Sword. When it was necessary, his senior sister¡¯s divine sense would appear and protect Fang Lang. Hence, Chao Xiaojian was not worried about Fang Lang¡¯s safety. He sent Fang Lang away so that he could focus. His green steel sword swirled around his body rang out with a soft sword cry as it flew directly at Zhao Longshi. Zhao Longshi did not face it head-on. He dodged the attack as his gaze deepened. He sat slightly angled on his red-crowned crane and looked intently at Chao Xiaojian. He then shouted loudly, ¡°Listen to my orders, Main Path Guild disciples!¡± ¡°Fang Lang has the Reincarnating Lotus Sword. Disciples who are above the fourth-ss realm cannot attack him in order to avoid triggering the divine sense of Xuanyuan Taihua contained within the sword. Disciples of the lower fourth-ss realm can give chase and attack him! Make sure you capture Fang Lang!¡± As soon as Zhao Longshi¡¯s words rang out, the numerous blue-robed Main Path Guild disciples swiftly sped their hands in acknowledgment in the forest below. ¡°Yes!¡± An Fan, Li Yuanzhen and the other disciples¡¯ eyes were filled with aplicated light. However, Zhao Longshi had given the order. They did not hesitate. As they moved, they turned into a blue streak that dashed into the forest, chasing after Fang Lang. In the sky, Chao Xiaojian and Huang Zhihe¡¯s expression¡¯s faltered when they heard Zhao Longshi¡¯s words. They did not think about this fact. If Fang Lang was ganged up, he might really be taken back to the Main Path Guild. Hence, the two of them began to attack more powerfully. However, Zhao Longshi, Zhao Zhenshi and the others did not fight hard. They merely used their superior numbers to block Chao Xiaojian and Huang Zhihe. ... There woulde a time when Chao Xiaojian¡¯s de energy would run out. Fang Lang fell into the dense forest like a meteor. His body fell in ce, maintaining a steady position. However, as soon as hended, a surge of noise could be heard from the surrounding sea of bamboo. After that, Fang Lang examined his surroundings. Among the dense bamboo grove, numerous blue-robed Main Path Guild disciples gentlynded on the ground, stepping over the fallen leaves. They encircled Fang Lang, surrounding himpletely. Fang Lang swept an eye over them. His expression froze. The leader of the group was a disciple who was of the fourth-ss realm. There were around seven to eight third-ss realm disciples surrounding him. This was clearly a group of Main Path Guild disciples. Fang Lang felt his heart sink. He heard Zhao Longshi¡¯s words and understood the intentions of the Main Path Guild. They nned to use disciples of the lower cultivation levels to capture Fang Lang. Without being able to trigger the divine sense of Xuanyuan Taihua in the sword, Fang Lang would definitely struggle to escape since he was facing close to a thousand Main Path Guild disciples alone. Even though they were all disciples under the fourth-ss realm, if Fang Lang began to fight back, even more disciples would rush over to trap him. Since Fang Lang was just one person, the only end result was his capture! ¡°The sect leader¡¯s orders are that it doesn¡¯t matter if he¡¯s alive or dead! As long as we retrieve the Reincarnating Lotus Sword!¡± said the fourth-ss phantasm realm disciple. After that, he took out a spell talisman and crushed it. A signal rose to the skies. When the surrounding disciples saw the signal talisman, they would all rush over. This fourth-ss disciple stared intently at Fang Lang, wearing an evil smile. ¡°Fang Lang, you really are a gifted powerhouse. You managed to defeat so many of the Main Path Guild disciples to be the first one up the Thousand Cloud Stairs. However, you¡¯re only a third-ss realm. There¡¯s a power gap here!¡± ¡°Be good and let us capture you without putting up a fight!¡± As soon as that phantasm realm disciple finished speaking, his expression changed! That was because Fang Lang was running directly at him even though he was surrounded. It seems as though he had decided to make a break for it! As Fang Lang ran, he retrieved a sword from his scabbard. A loud sound of thunder boomed out. The Champion¡¯s de transformed into a de of Sword Thunder. It sped towards the surrounding third-ss disciples like a thunder dragon. Instantly, it disrupted the disciples who were forming a rune! Fang Lang rushed towards the fourth-ss disciple, who was smiling evilly. With a heavy step crushing down, Qi waves ripple out in all directions, agitating the fallen leaves to flutter unceasingly. The Obsidian Sword glittered in the glow of the morning sun before Fang Lang¡¯s power started to drop rapidly! In the end, it turned into an ordinary sword. It looked absolutely in as it moved slowly. It was the Meta Sword Nurturing Spell! A typical fourth-ss disciple would not be able to stop Fang Lang¡¯s attack as a ninth-grade, sword-wave realm! The evil smile on the face of the fourth-ss disciple did not fade away before he noticed the spiritual energy wall before him was destroyed instantly with just one swing of the sword! Fang Langnded and approached him with no hint of emotion on his face. The Obsidian Sword broke through the disciple¡¯s shield rune and pressed against his neck. The disciple opened his mouth as though he were about to say something. In the distance, An Fan¡¯s blue robes billowed as he jumped out of the morning sun in the horizon, stepping towards them among the bamboo grove. When he saw Fang Lang¡¯s action, he paled and quickly spoke up, ¡°Stop!¡± Fang Lang¡¯s white robes billowed as he looked towards An Fan. An Fan walked towards him among the sea of bamboo along with another genius disciple of the fourth-ss realm that Fang Lang had seen previously on the Thousand Cloud Stairs. Fang Lang¡¯s expression did not change. Fang Lang gripped the Obsidian Sword and plunged the sword forcefully into the Main Path Guild disciple¡¯s neck as sword wave gushed out. Bloodshot up into the sky. Droplets of blood sttered onto Fang Lang¡¯s white robe, adding a sense of deste harshness to his appearance. Fang Lang¡¯s Sword, the Sword That Kills. The severed head spun as it flew across the sky, still wearing the evil smile that had not faded before it crashed heavily down on the ground. Chapter 146 - Fang Lang Has Offered Us Too Much

Chapter 146: Fang Lang Has Offered Us Too Much

It becamepletely silent in the bamboo grove. The jade-green bamboo rustled gently as the cool morning breeze blew past, it sounded like the waves in a fresh spring. The pungent scent of blood shattered the peace of the early morning and destroyed the freshness of the morning air in the bamboo grove. A perfectly fine headnded on the ground, making a dull thud. It was covered in dried leaves. This fourth-ss realm disciple may not be a top level genius but he was likely to advance to the realms above fourth-ss and be a backbone force of the Main Path Guild. However, this disciple was killed by Fang Lang on the spot! In the bamboo grove, An Fan and a couple of genius fourth-ss realm disciples looked extremely horrified. When Xuanyuan Taihua¡¯s divine sense surged out, none of the Main Path Guild disciples lost their lives. Yet now... in the process of capturing Fang Lang, a fourth-ss realm disciple was now dead! ¡°Fang Lang!¡± An Fan¡¯s eyes shed with rage. He had been beaten time after time by Fang Lang. This made his heart fill with a nameless raging fire. Fang Lang gripped the Obsidian Sword and swept an eye over An Fan and the other disciples that had raced over. He could not help but smirk. Stop? How could he stop? The order that the Main Path Guild gave these disciples was to get the Reincarnating Lotus Sword from Fang Lang and bring it back, it did not matter if he died in the process. If Fang Lang showed mercy and spared them, who would be merciful to him? Would An Fan spare him? Fang Lang knew the dangers and how ruthless the path of cultivation was from the first moment he faced Lin Yun. He would not show mercy or be soft-hearted, neither did he have any right to be merciful or soft-hearted. This was especially true since he was being hunted by the Main Path Guild! He took off the space ring on the finger of the dead fourth-ss realm disciple. Fang Lang used a Spirit Awl to smash through the lock of the space ring then removed a spirit crystal from it. The red space ring on Fang Lang¡¯s left hand rippled and a fiery-red streak of fire instantly shot out. At the moment, Fang Lang hadpletely exhausted his spirit crystals. Even the spirit crystals given by Old Fang had been used up when he suddenly achieved a breakthrough. Hence, at the moment, Fang Lang could only seize the spirit crystals from the space ring of the other party. This fourth-ss realm disciple was not considered wealthy. There were only eighteen low-grade spirit crystals in his space ring. He was merely an ordinary disciple. He was not a genius disciple like An Fan. His family was not as well-off. However, this was not a huge problem as these spirit crystals were enough to sustain Fang Lang in his getaway. ¡°Stay where you are!¡± An Fan and the other blue-robed Main Path Guild disciples continually drew closer to Fang Lang. They looked as though they wanted to tear him apart. They could only re at Fang Lang as he activated his flight sword, cast a rune and transformed into a fiery-red light that shot up into the sky. Fang Lang increased the distance between them and sped off into the distance. Fang Lang hunched down on the Jade Pavillion¡¯s Meteor Flight Sword as he overlooked the Main Path Guild disciples and An Fan in the sea of bamboo below him. His face was calm. Despite having killed a fourth-ss realm disciple, Fang Lang¡¯s heart was not troubled in the least. After all, this was not his first time killing. The Main Path Guild did not send any cultivators of the high-ss realms to capture him. This was because they feared the Reincarnating Lotus Sword in Fang Lang¡¯s scabbard and the divine sense of his master, which was hidden within the sword. However, Fang Lang was happy about this. When that divine sense was triggered, even a realm transcending warrior like Zhao Taifeng had a hole ripped into his chest! At the moment, the Reincarnating Lotus Sword still contained over half of the Dao aggregates absorbed from the Main Path Guild. This also meant that it could stillunch an attack strong enough to puncture a realm transcending warrior. Hence, who would dare to risk triggering it? The only thing that distinguished Fang Lang from the other cultivators was that he had many methods. Hence, Fang Lang managed to remain as rxed as a fish leaping through the wide ocean even though there were close to a thousand Main Path Guild disciples hunting him. He rode on the Meteor Flight Sword as a fiery-red sword brilliance streaked across the sky, speeding off into the distance in no time. Disciple after disciple of the Main Path Guildnded on the ground. It was a deathly silence. An Fan looked at the dead, headless disciple next to him and could not help but clench his fists. The third-ss disciples around him were silent. A look of terror appeared in their eyes. Fang Lang... was too vicious! He killed a fourth-ss disciple at will. If third-ss disciples like them continued to give chase, they might meet their end as well. ¡°Chase him! Continue to chase him down!¡± ¡°Don¡¯t face him alone. When you get to him, immediately surround and close in on him as a group!¡± ¡°He won¡¯t be able to get too far away! It¡¯s a cultivator¡¯s issue so use cultivator methods to solve it!¡± ¡°Apart from that, put up a bounty in the nearest city. Offer a reward to the cultivators to hunt down Fang Lang.¡± ¡°He should be out of spirit crystals. Otherwise, he would not have chosen to snatch spirit crystals in order to activate his flight sword...¡± An Fan wore a cold expression. He took out a fancy flight sword and sped into the skies. At that moment, countless other fancy flight swords shot up into the skies, congregating together to form teams before they chased after Fang Lang. ... Fang Lang sat down on the flight sword. The flight sword was enveloped within a silencing spell, causing it to appear exceptionally quiet. The spirit crystal that came from the space ring that he snatched from the dead Main Path Guild discipley beside him. There were not many spirit crystals but it might just be enough to maintain the flight sword. Fang Lang frowned. He could sense the Main Path Guild disciples chasing him behind him. An Fan was the head of the group on his extravagant flight sword, which was faster than his Meteor Flight Sword! The distance between them was decreasing. This situation could not continue! He switched into the Quintuple Binding Mode on the flight sword. Five phantoms appeared beside him. Fang Lang attempted to break through to the fourth-ss, sword-intent realm on the flight sword. Since Fang Lang had already achieved an understanding of time sword intent, advancing into the sword-intent realm was merely a question of umtion. Besides that, Fang Lang still had a Grade-Rush Card. It was not impossible for him to achieve a breakthrough in a short amount of time! It was a shame. Fang Lang opened his eyes soon after. His brow was tightly furrowed. There was a problem that he had overlooked. Even with the help of the Grade-Rush Card, if he wished to advance to the fourth-ss, sword-intent realm, he would still require spiritual energy. Without the help of spirit crystals, he would not have enough spiritual energy and be easily defeated. At that moment, he was in an extremely dangerous situation. If he lost or encountered a group attack, things would not bode well for Fang Lang! Fang Lang focused his mind and the System panel appeared before him. ... Host: Fang Lang Cultivation: Ninth-grade, sword-wave (Third-ss sword master) Level: Level 7 Experience: 400,000/500,000 Core: 36 (White) Modified Core: 66 (Purple) Cultivation Resource: 100,000 gold coin (use limited to cultivation events) Inventory: Grade-Rush Card x1, Grade-Rush Card Fragment x3, Silver Reward Egg x1 Equipment: Instant Casting Staff Binding Partner: Spell: Ni Wen (70%) Sword: Jiang Linglong (70%), Liu Bubai (70%), Wen Ting (70%) Martial Arts: Wei Sheng (70%) Empty: (70%) ... Fang Lang swept a nce across the System panel and frowned. He used up all his spirit crystals in his cultivation resource at the Main Path Mausoleum. However, he had notpletely spent the gold coins. If he spent these gold coins, he would be able to meet the level-up criteria of the System and receive new spirit crystals! With the new spirit crystals provided by the System, Fang Lang¡¯s chances of advancing into the fourth-ss, sword-intent realm would drastically increase! Of course, the Reward Egg that he obtained earlier caught his attention. ¡°System, smash the Reward Egg!¡± said Fang Lang without hesitation. With Fang Lang¡¯s proficient flight sword driving skills, An Fan and the other disciples would not be able to catch up with him that quickly despite the difference in the quality of their flight swords. Hence, he was safe for now on his flight sword. The Silver Reward Egg appeared and was smashed by Fang Lang in one blow. Instantly, a colorful, bright light shone in all directions. After that, the System prompt appeared. ¡®Ding! Congrattions, you have obtained 2 5x Amplification Cards, 2 Enlightenment Card, 2 Enchantment Card and 2 Power Stripping Card.¡¯ He had obtained another Silver Reward Egg. This was the third Silver Reward Egg that Fang Lang received up to this point. Fang Lang noticed another rule. Each time he smashed an Egg, he would obtain a new card. This time, without exception, he obtained a new card. The Power Stripping Card. Fang Lang was a little disappointed that he did not obtain a Power Loan Card. If he received a Power Loan Card and could loan Wen Ting¡¯s Power, it would be so much easier to turn the situation around. After all, Wen Ting was a powerful character who nurtured a single sword for ten years and managed to fatally injure a ninth-ss warrior with a single stab! Even though Fang Lang had mastered the Meta Sword Nurturing Spell by borrowing Wen Ting¡¯s power, he would be able to unleash the true Sword Nurturing Spell. ¡®Power Stripping Card can be used for a specified target. After use, the target¡¯s offense, cultivation level, speed, spiritual energy and other aspects will be weakened by 50%.¡¯ Fang Lang stared at the introduction of this card. Even though it was not as powerful as the Power Loan Card, it was still extremely ruthless. If Fang Lang used it effectively, he might achieve a spectacr result. ¡°However, for the moment... it would be best if I am able to level up in the system.¡± Fang Lang was deep in thought. Behind him, An Fan and the other Main Path Guild disciple chased after him on their flight swords. Fang Lang gathered his senses. He narrowed his eyes and retrieved a talisman. It was the Spell Talisman: Flight Sword Crossover Turbo Charge talisman that he had used previously. Boom! In an instant, it drew on the spiritual energy from countless low-grade spirit crystals. A stream of fire instantly shot out and transformed into a streak of fiery-red light, tearing through the sky. Right before An Fan and the others, Fang Lang managed to increase the gap between them. In the sky, Fang Lang could see city walls appear below him. Fang Lang did not continue to escape. He controlled his flight sword and drove it down towards the city walls. He hade up with a method to level up the System. ... Linjiang City. It was a city with a long and enduring history. As he approached the ancient city walls, he was now more than 800 kilometers from the Main Path Guild. Even though the Main Path Guild was extremely powerful, their influence did not extend all the way here. Fang Langnded in front of the city walls and put away his Meteor Flight Sword. He then walked directly towards the city walls. The city guards saw Fang Lang in his blood-stained white robes and instantly was on guard. ¡°I am Fang Lang, the champion of this year¡¯s Imperial Examination.¡± Fang Lang took out the Champion¡¯s de and presented it to the head of the gate guards. This head guard was a fourth-ss martial arts master. His eye for these things was exceptional. He could recognize the Champion¡¯s de and the sword presented by the Tang Emperor. This was sufficient to prove Fang Lang¡¯s identity. ¡°Champion, please proceed,¡± said the head of the gate guards respectfully as he returned the sword to Fang Lang and stepped aside. Fang Lang sped his hands and made a slight bow in response before he strode into the city. Fang Lang had not been in the city for long before numerous other streaks of lightnded in front of the city walls. An Fan and the other Main Path Guild disciples had caught up with him. ¡°Fang Lang has chosen to enter the city. It seems like he¡¯s out of spirit crystals! He must be nning to enter the city to purchase some spirit crystals.¡± ¡°However, isn¡¯t entering the city like walking into a trap?¡± One of the genius disciples began tough mockingly. An Fan¡¯s eyes lit up. If Fang Lang had continued flying, they would have struggled to keep up. However, now that he had chosen to enter the city, there was a sense that he was walking straight into the trap, allowing himself to be caught. The expression of themander of the city guards did not change when he saw the disciples of the Main Path Guild. A light of interest shed across his eyes when he recalled Fang Lang, who looked to be in a rush in his blood-stained white robes. As an imperial court officer, he was not in awe of the Main Path Guild disciples. He merely checked them, then allowed them to enter the city. However, thismander understood that the little city would not be peaceful for much longer when he saw the aggressive demeanor of An Fan and the others as they entered the city. Fang Lang knew that An Fan and the others had entered the city. He was also aware that entering the city might not be the best decision for him. He could be easily cornered and captured. However, Fang Lang¡¯s aim in entering the city was simple. He was here to spend money. Fang Lang walked rapidly towards the main street of Linjiang Street and quickly found the sub-branch of the Jade Pavilion. When he saw the store, Fang Lang could not help but let out a sigh. If Linjiang City did not have a branch of the Jade Pavilion, he would be truly stuck. Fortunately, the Jade Pavilion was a sect that was founded on business, so it had countless branches. Fang Lang did not hesitate and stepped inside the door of the Jade Pavilion store that was covered in exquisite carpets. The manager of the Linjiang City Jade Pavilion branch was a middle-aged man. A strange look appeared in his eyes when he saw Fang Lang in those blood-stained white robes. Fang Lang did not waste any words. He waved his red-colored space ring and summoned his Meteor Flight Sword. The manager recognized it right away as a flight sword of the Jade Pavilion. The smile on his face became much warmer. He even personally invited the owner of the branch toe and meet Fang Lang. ¡°Champion Fang! I didn¡¯t expect it to be you, here at my little store!¡± The owner of this branch of the Jade Pavilion was a woman. She could not be considered a beauty but like Manager Yu of the Luojiang City branch, she had an air of maturity and charm. The surname of this branch owner was Wu. When Owner Wu saw Fang Lang, a strange light shed across her eyes. The Jade Pavilion was not closed off to news. Owner Wu had heard all about the things that happened at the Main Path guild. She was already aware of the news about Fang Lang entering the Main Path Guild in order to withdraw the Reincarnating Lotus Sword left by Xuanyaun Taihua. Owner Wu never imagined that Fang Lang, who was being hunted by the Main Path Guild, would end up in the small store of the Jade Pavilion in Linjiang City. ¡°Owner Wu, I¡¯m hoping to make a huge purchase... Are you going to do business with me or not?¡± Fang Lang sounded extremely cool and collected. Even though his robes were covered in the pungent stench of blood, he continued to speak calmly with Owner Wu. When Owner Wu heard his words, she smiled. ¡°Please continue, Champion Fang. Sect Leader Su instructed us to give you a 20% discount on any purchase that you make!¡± ¡°A discount!? I don¡¯t need a discount!¡± As soon as Fang Lang heard her words, he frowned. ¡®A discount!? Your family is the one that needs a discount!¡¯ Owner Wu was shocked. This was the first time that she encountered a person who did not want a special discount. He was not ying by the rules! ¡°I wonder what you¡¯re nning to purchase?¡± Fang Lang narrowed his eyes and turned to look in the direction of the sound of footsteps outside the Jade Pavilion. ¡°The Meteor Flight Sword costs 5,000 gold coins each right? Prepare 20 for me,¡± said Fang Lang. His clear voice reverberated in the room. The entire Jade Pavilion store descended intoplete silence. 20 flight swords!? That would cost... 100,000 gold coins! Of course, 100,000 gold coins were not considered much for the Jade Pavillion. However... Why on earth would he need 20 Meteor Flight Swords? Why would a single person buy so many flight swords? Would it not be better to buy a single flight sword that was worth 100,000 gold coins? However, Owner Wu did not care about these things. Her eyes sparkled. This was truly a big business transaction. ¡°Champion Fang, at the moment, the Linjiang City branch does not have so many Meteor Flight Swords. Would you be able to wait for some time?¡± asked Owner Wu, looking a little ufortable. ¡°How long would I need to wait?¡± ¡°Half a day should be enough.¡± ¡°Okay. But let¡¯s make the transaction now. Allow me to pay now.¡± ¡°Huh?¡± Owner Wu felt that Fang Lang seemed differentpared to most customers. ¡°In that case, can you prepare a private room for me, Owner Wu? One where I won¡¯t be disturbed... Furthermore, some unsavory characters mighte to trouble me. I hope that you can maintain a peaceful environment for me, Owner Wu. ¡°Oh, I still have a type of Flight Sword Turbo Charge rune that can be traded. It only depends on your sincerity, Owner Wu,¡± said Fang Lang as he shook out his blood-stained white robes. Owner Wu¡¯s eyes sparkled. When she heard themotion outside, she instantly understood Fang Lang¡¯s intentions. She did not n to get involved in this issue. However, when she recalled Sect Leader Su¡¯s instructions, she understood the meaning of the Flight Sword Turbo Charge rune that Fang Lang mentioned. Owner Wu did not hesitate and chose to agree. Fang Lang quickly conducted the business transaction with Owner Wu. 100,000 gold coins were transferred straight into Owner Wu¡¯s space ring. Owner Wu ordered the middle-aged manager to show Fang Lang to the private room. On the other side, Owner Wu got up and walked to the entrance. Outside the Jade Pavilion, An Fan and the other genius Main Path Guild disciples had rushed over. An Fan stepped forward and faced Owner Wu with a refined and easygoing smile. However, Owner Wu merely stared at An Fan and the others with an indifferent look. She raised her hand and gestured for them to leave. The smile on An Fan¡¯s face instantly froze. ¡°Is the Jade Pavilion... getting involved in the business of the Main Path Guild?¡± said An Fan coldly as he frowned. ¡°I have no choice. Fang Lang has offered us too much...¡± Owner Wu sighed. After that, she swiftly shut the door. A loud m rang out. An Fan and the other genius disciples of the Main Path Guild were left standing outside the door, looking exceptionally furious. Chapter 147 - The Birth of Two Sword Intents! Evolving to the Fourth-Class Realm!

Chapter 147: The Birth of Two Sword Intents! Evolving to the Fourth-ss Realm!

He was being refused entry!? An Fan turned ashen as he stared at the tightly shut entrance of the Jade Pavilion. A fire of rage began to surge inside him. All around him, the various fourth-ss Main Path Guild disciples all looked extremely angry. ¡°They¡¯re merely a sub-branch of the Jade Pavilion...¡± muttered one of the disciples, venting his anger. An Fan did not lose his ability to think rationally and stormed into the store. Even though it was a sub-branch, to be designated as a branch owner by the Jade Pavilion meant that Owner Wu¡¯s cultivation was higher than the fourth-ss realm. If they forced their way into the store, they might not be able to gain any advantage. ¡°Whatever amount Fang Lang hase up with... we¡¯ll offer you even more!¡± called out An Fan as he knocked politely on the door. Owner Wu¡¯s responded coolly from inside the store, ¡°You won¡¯t be able to afford that much.¡± The flight sword rune that Fang Lang possessed was not something that An Fan would be able to give her. Her words were extremely forting and direct. Her words were extremely sharp and nearly caused An Fan to lose control of himself! He swiftly flung his sleeve as his eyes burned with an angry fire. ¡°Surround every corner of the Jade Pavilion in a blockade and keep a close eye on Fang Lang. I doubt he¡¯ll spend his whole life hiding in the Jade Pavilion!¡± ¡°After all, it¡¯s impossible for the Jade Pavilion to cease trading for a lifetime!¡± As soon as he finished speaking, An Fan left with a swish of his sleeves. It was definitely a good solution to surround the Jade Pavilion. Even though they wished to capture Fang Lang quickly, he was hiding inside the Jade Pavilion they had no other option. Each branch of the Jade Pavilion was equipped with extremely powerful defensive runes. If they forced their way in, the oue might be difficult to bear. It would be better to blockade the Jade Pavilion and wait for Fang Lang to exit the building. Fang Lang would be unable to get away! After a while, a strong wind began to surge in the small Linjiang City. Disciple after disciple of the Main Path Guild rushed over and entered Linjiang City. Close to a thousand Main Path Guild disciples, all below the fourth-ss realm arrived in the city. The influx of people caused the winds to start in the small city. The local government in Linjiang City was not very powerful. When faced with this situation, they could only send news of this to Changan City. ... The news that Fang Lang was besieged inside the Jade Pavilion of Linjiang City spread like wildfire. The news that the new Imperial Examination champion Fang Lang was instructed by his master to head to the Main Path Guild to retrieve the Reincarnating Lotus Sword had already garnered much attention. The battle that broke out at the Main Path Guild also attracted the attention of many. Even though many warriors were far away from the action, they used various methods to observe the Main Path Guild from afar. Hence, when the first sect leader of the Main Path Guild, Zhao Taifeng, appeared, an uproar broke out across the world. He was a realm transcending warrior, the most powerful being in the Tang Dynasty. Despite his presence, Fang Lang still managed to escape because the Reincarnating Lotus Sword contained Xuanyuan Taihua¡¯s divine sense which helped him get away. At that moment, the Main Path Guild had sent out all their disciples under the fourth-ss realm to hunt Fang Lang. This had caused an uproar. All the various guilds paid close attention to this situation. Hence, as soon as the news that Fang Lang was besieged in Linjiang City broke out, a couple of second-ss and third-ss guild disciples rushed over to watch the excitement. ... Mount Shu. At the same time all this was happening, a flight sword tore through the sky andnded in the Sword Guild. The ancient bell in the Sword Guild rang out once again. Many of the Sword Guild disciples drew out their swords without hesitation as they gathered on the great za of the Sword Guild. Wen Ting held a sk. His rapier was hung at his waist. His scarred, elderly face wore a grim expression as a killing intent emanated from him. Fang Lang entered the Main Path Guild in order to retrieve the sword. However, in the process, he was being hunted by the Main Path Guild disciples. This news caused a huge uproar when it reached the Sword Guild. The Sword Guild foundation was not like the Main Path Guild. However, it was previously the First Guild in the world as well. How could they sit by and do nothing when Fang Lang was being bullied in this manner!? ¡°The Main Path Guild is such a bully. How dare they bully a disciple of our Sword Guild!?¡± ¡°Fang Lang entered the Main Path Guild to retrieve a sword. That sword belongs to our guild! How dare the Main Path Guild try to snatch the Reincarnating Lotus Sword and n to drag Fang Lang back to their guild to repent his actions!?¡± ¡°They are truly despicable! Our Sword Guild will not be able to tolerate such insult! The Main Path Guild are such terrible bullies!¡± ¡°Since the Main Path Guild has called this incident a cultivators¡¯ vendetta, we should solve it using the cultivators¡¯ way!¡± All of the Sword Guild disciples wore cold expressions. Even though the Sword Guild was ranked number ten among all the Tang Dynasty sects, the entire sect was extremely united. They were extremely unsettled by this situation. Fang Lang entered the Sword Guild and had practiced sword arts on the great za of Mount Shu. He was a Sword Guild disciple. Hence, everyone was enraged to hear the news that Fang Lang was besieged in Linjiang City. The disciples of the various pavilions in the Sword Guild brandished their swords under the lead of the many elders, rushed towards Linjiang City. de light tore through the skies, making it look like a river of de energy rolling across the clouds! A group of swords left Mount Shu, rming all the warriors who lived in the Sword Guild area! Many of the warriors knew what these Sword Guild disciples were nning to do. The Main Path Guild announced that this was a cultivators¡¯ vendetta. Hence, the Sword Guild nned to solve this issue the cultivators¡¯ way. ... Linjiang City. Owner Wu sat in the courtyard of the Jade Pavilion. She frowned. She had ryed the news that Fang Lang needed 20 Meteor Flight Swords even though she had no idea what Fang Lang nned to do with them. Since Fang Lang had already paid, she needed to find a way to fulfill this order. She requested the supply from all the Jade Pavilion branches in the neighboring cities and was able to obtain the stock that she required. It was not difficult to obtain 20 Meteor Flight Swords. The middle-aged manager stood quietly to one side and bowed respectfully to Owner Wu. ¡°Owner, are we really going to offend the Main Path Guild because of Fang Lang?¡± ¡°The Main Path Guild disciples below the fourth-ss realm are currently gathered in Linjiang City. They havepletely barricaded our store so that nothing can get in or out. This is putting a lot of pressure on us.¡± Owner Wu shot the middle-aged manager a death stare and shook her head. ¡°What are you scared of?¡± ¡°The Jade Pavilion Guild has always ced our customers first, especially valuable customers like Fang Lang. Fang Lang is inside our store so we¡¯ll need to protect him. If he leaves the Jade Pavilion, we¡¯ll naturally not get involved.¡± ¡°However, the news has spread like wildfire. Do you think that the Sword Guild will let this slide so easily?¡± ¡°I¡¯m guessing that the warriors of the Sword Guild are on their way here. The dispute between the Sword Guild and the Main Path Guild may reach a culmination point on the outskirts of Linjiang City,¡± said Owner Wu. ¡°However, this has nothing to do with us. As long as Fang Lang is inside our store, we¡¯ll have to ensure his safety.¡± As soon as the middle-aged manager heard her words, he sped his hands and said, ¡°I see.¡± Owner Wu¡¯s eyes shone brightly as she looked at the entrance door that was tightly shut. She was highly anticipating seeing Fang Lang¡¯s method to turn the tables. Now that the situation hade to this, Fang Lang would find it difficult to leave Linjiang City. This was because in terms of overall strength, the Sword Guild was much weaker than the Main Path Guild. Even if the warriors of the Sword Guild came to help, the Main Path Guild warriors would stop the Sword Guild warriors outside the city, preventing them from getting into the city to help Fang Lang. This was the reason that staying inside the Jade Pavilion was not a solution for Fang Lang. After all, he would not be able to remain hidden inside the Jade Pavilion forever. Fang Lang was not a disciple of the Jade Pavilion. Hence, the Jade Pavilion would not fight to the death just to protect Fang Lang. In the end, Fang Lang would still need to face the genius Main Path Guild disciples in Linjiang City. ... The Jade Pavilion prepared a quiet room for Fang Lang. It was very peaceful and calm there. A silencing spell was ced on the room so it seemed like a separate ce from the outside world. After Fang Lang and Owner Wu finished the transaction, the System prompt rang in Fang Lang¡¯s consciousness unexpectedly. ¡®Ding! The experience is maxed out. System level up.¡¯ ¡®Congrattions, you havepleted a purchase rted to cultivation and obtained the Green Reward Egg.¡¯ There was a ripple of emotion in Fang Lang¡¯s eyes. He could not help but smile. ¡®Ding! Friendly reminder. The System will undergo an upgrade. The upgrade process will not affect the System functions.¡¯ Another System prompt appeared, causing Fang Lang to feel a little surprised. His eyes froze. Fang Lang attempted to mobilize the System panel but found that he could not do so. Fang Lang¡¯s heart lurched. He switched into the Quintuple Binding Mode. Thankfully, the five phantoms appeared and Fang Lang could sense his cultivation speed increase drastically! The System¡¯s cultivation resource was not affected either. After the System upgrade, the cultivation resource was refreshed. The extent of the upgrade on the cultivation resource was astounding. He now had 200,000 gold coins, a high-grade spirit crystal, 50 mid-grade spirit crystals, and 1,000 low-grade spirit crystals. The total value was 1,000,000 gold coins. This was a massive fortune. Fang Lang had never seen this much wealth in his life before. Even if all the Fang family assets were sold, it might note close to this amount. ¡°System, smash the egg.¡± Since he hadpleted a purchase rted to cultivation, he received a Reward Egg. Of course, Fang Lang would choose to smash the egg in the moment of his greatest need. The Green Reward Egg did not bring as much joy as the Silver Reward Egg had since the amount of reward was extremely small. However, having something beats having nothing for Fang Lang. In the midst of the bright lights, the System prompt appeared. ¡®Ding! Congrattions, you have obtained the 3x Speed Card.¡¯ Fang Lang furrowed his brows. He was not overjoyed to have obtained this new card. He kept it in the inventory then took out the spirit crystals. He focused his mind and prepared for the intense match that would being up. The key to him flipping the situation would be evolving to the fourth-ss realm. In the Main Path Guild, Fang Lang was able to gain an understanding of time sword intent through the help of Xuanyuan Taihua. He had the foundation to achieve a breakthrough. Hence, Fang Lang was extremely confident that he would be able to evolve. Other people might be filled with fear towards attempting to evolve. However, Fang Lang was different. Even though he was currently evolving at high speeds, Fang Lang was not worried about the oue if he failed to evolve! His mind kicked into action. The high-grade spirit crystal appeared in his palm. The quality of the high-grade spirit crystal was excellent. It was extremely valuable and was produced in extremely low numbers since the imperial courtspletely controlled production. Only the great sects could get their hands on such a resource. With the help of the System, Fang Lang was able to easily obtain a high-grade spirit crystal. He gripped the spirit crystal in one hand and activated the Quintuple Binding Mode. The spiritual energy in the spirit crystal surged frenziedly into Fang Lang¡¯s body as though it had found an outlet. It flowed unceasingly into his body, spreading across all Fang Lang¡¯s vital organs and limbs. Fang Lang did not immediately choose to use the Grade-Rush Card to speed up his breakthrough. After all, he was currently in an environment that could be considered safe. It was unlikely that the Main Path Guild disciples would force their way into the private room prepared by the Jade Pavilion. Fang Lang could guess what An Fan and the others¡¯ next move was. They must be stationed outside the Jade Pavilion, waiting for him to exit the store to pounce on him and attack. Fang Lang even guessed that there must be runes ced on each exit of the Jade Pavilion. Apart from that, there would also be numerous talismans hidden there. As soon as Fang Lang stepped out of the Jade Pavilion, he would be faced with the attacks and explosions of the various runes! However, Fang Lang was not worried because being worried would not help him. His current mission was to evolve urgently and advance from the third-ss realm to the fourth-ss realm. Even though Fang Lang could achieve this with the Meta Sword Nurturing Spell, it was extremely exhausting. It would also not be able to hurt a fourth-ss, ninth-grade phantasm realm genius like An Fan. Hence, the power of a third-ss realm seemed insufficient to Fang Lang. He needed the power of a fourth-ss. With the power of a fourth-ssbined with time sword intent, the Meta Sword Nurturing Spell and the ten thousand de skill, Fang Lang would possess the power that could defeat a peak fourth-ss realm cultivator. After all, with the Sword Nurturing Spell, Wen Ting was able to defeat a ninth-ss cultivator as a fourth-ss. The Meta Sword Nurturing Spell lessened the side effects but its power was also weakened. However, it should be no issue to kill a fourth-ss, nine-grade disciple. Whoosh. Fang Lang activated ten thousand de skill. His energy center instantly became like a ravenous beast. It was like a ck hole and absorbed the spiritual energy in the high-grade spirit crystal unceasingly. The quality of the high-grade spirit crystal was unsurpassed. A single high-grade spirit crystal equaled ten mid-grade spirit crystals. Apart from that, the pureness of the spiritual energy also helped with the cultivation efficacy that far exceeded the property of ten mid-grade spirit crystals. As his energy center filled with spiritual energy, Fang Lang quickly propelled the condition of his body to its peak. All of a sudden, Fang Lang opened his eyes in the room. ¡®System, use the Grade-Rush Card!¡¯ ¡®Ding! The Grade-Rush Card has been activated. Happy Cultivating.¡¯ As the Grade-Rush Card was activated, Fang Lang, who was stuck at the bottleneck of the fourth-ss, ninth-grade sword-wave realm, now felt more rxed and at ease. Fang Lang¡¯s body suddenly glowed with a bright light. All 360 acupuncture points on his body were filled with hidden sword wave. Each bolt of sword wave struggled out at that moment. On Fang Lang¡¯s back, a phantom of a flower began to appear. Countless sword waves spurted out of his acupuncture point and poured towards the flower, filling it up. The flower gradually became more solid and life-like. The phantom of the flower was actually the time sword intent formed after the Innate Sword Intent Seed blossomed. The flower formed from the sword wave would be stained by time sword intent. Even if Fang Lang¡¯s time sword intent was not strong, it would not be too far from being able to truly turn back time. Fang Lang¡¯s current sword intent had a special effect. It was able to slow down his opponents. As the Grade-Rush Card broke Fang Lang¡¯s cultivation shackles, a boundless absorbing force exploded in his vessels. A single high-grade spirit crystal that equaled ten mid-grade spirit crystals instantly surged into Fang Lang¡¯s body. In his spinning energy center, that sword intent flower glowed extremely brightly. Next to that sword intent flower, gradually... another sword phantom began to form. This was the mark of a fourth-grade, sword-intent realm¡ªthe Virtual Sword. The power ssification of the sword intent realm was calcted based on the number of swords. The swords referred to the Virtual Swords, which were formed from sword intent. A person who just advanced to the sword intent realm will have a single Virtual Sword. A first-grade peak will have ten Virtual Swords. A ninth-grade sword intent cultivator will have 100 Virtual Swords! That was the ssification of power in the sword intent realm. Even though the Virtual Sword does not have any offensive power, since it contained sword intent, it would greatly increase the attacking power when ced on a weapon. Fang Lang sat as the high-grade crystal in his hand slowly dimmed. The spiritual energy inside it was almostpletely drained. In his spinning energy center, more and more Virtual Swords began to appear beside the time sword intent flower. In the end, he ended up with nine Virtual Swords. This was enough to show how high the quality of time sword intent was! Just as Fang Lang assumed that everything had ended, he suddenly realized that inside his energy center, as the ten thousand sword skill continued to work, another sword intent flower slowly began to blossom! The ten thousand sword intent of the ten thousand sword skill! The sword intent flower bloomed once again! Fang Lang did not expect that he would gain an understanding of another sword intent! Chapter 148 - The Art of Explosion, the Killing Begins

Chapter 148: The Art of Explosion, the Killing Begins

It was so quiet within the private room that even the sound of a needle dropping could be heard. However, Fang Lang¡¯s emotions were not as calm as the environment around him. Everyone knew that a sword disciple would only be able to gain an understanding of one sword intent. A person like Fang Lang, who had two flowers blooming inside his energy center and two intents was extremely rare. Fang Lang never encountered a situation like this before. Throughout his time in the academy, none of his mentors ever mentioned this. This was because very few people had two different sword intents in their energy center. Fang Lang¡¯s situation could be called a special urrence or a unique exception! At that moment, as Fang Lang¡¯s spiritual sense seeped into his spinning energy center, it flowed across these two sword intents continuously. If it were not for the spiritual sense sweeping over the sword intent, it might suddenly explode. Fang Lang would end up dying from the explosion of his energy center! If it were not Fang Lang but someone else, they might not be able to control two types of sword intent. However, Fang Lang was different. After all, Fang Lang had the Quintuple Binding Mode. Once he was used to multi-tasking, he carefully coaxed it and the ten thousand sword intent flower in his energy center began to sway. Fang Lang¡¯s raging Qi energy slowly steadied. Fang Lang¡¯s spiritual sense inward vision allowed him to see the two sword intent flowers quietly floating. However, the time sword intent flower appeared slightlyrger. However, the ten thousand sword intent could not be considered weak. Inside the extremely quiet room, Fang Lang opened his eyes. In an instant, Fang Lang¡¯s white robes began to billow on their own without any wind. There were the phantoms of sword intent flowers in the depths of each of his eyes. The fourth-ss, sword-intent realm was frightening but not dangerous. It wasplete! ... A day passed by in an instant. The atmosphere in Linjiang City became more and more grave and heavy. It felt like a thick, sticky swamp that made anyone who stepped into it feel as though they were struggling to breathe. It was the same inside and outside the city. Inside Linjiang City, the Jade Pavilion waspletely barricaded by the Main Path Guild disciples. An Fan and a couple of other fourth-ss genius disciples were sitting on tables next to the windows, eating and drinking wine. Their eyes were fixed on the tightly shut door of the Jade Pavilion. ¡°A full day has passed. Fang Lang has been hiding in the Jade Pavilion for a full day now. Is he really nning to spend his whole life hiding inside there?¡± said a disciple with an extremely serious expression as he downed the wine in his cup. An Fan shook his head and swirled the wine in his cup as he said coolly, ¡°The Jade Pavilion is a business sect. It¡¯s not a refuge center. Hence, there¡¯s no way that Fang Lang will be able to hide there for an eternity.¡± ¡°He still needs to head to the All-Seeing Buddha Sect and the Meridian Guild to retrieve the other two swords. Hence, he will definitelye out of the Jade Pavilion. However, I can¡¯t imagine what trick Fang Lang is going to use to break through our barricade.¡± ¡°As far as I can tell, hiding in the Jade Pavilion was not a good decision. Is he nning to suddenly achieve a breakthrough into the fourth-ss, sword-wave realm in the Jade Pavilion? Even if we didn¡¯t consider the fact that he had only evolved into the third-ss not long ago, if he manages to breakthrough to the fourth-ss realm, he¡¯ll only be a first-grade sword-intent realm. That¡¯s not enough to tear through our barricade.¡± An Fan¡¯s deduction was extremely logical. Even if An Fan imagined himself trying to break out of the barricade, when faced with the all-epassing trap set by the Main Path Guild disciples, the only oue he could foresee was death from being overpowered and surrounded. During the period of a day that Fang Lang spent hiding inside the Jade Pavilion, An Fan and the other disciples set more and more runes outside the building. An Fan did not continue to speak. He stared intently at the Jade Pavilion. He dared not underestimate Fang Lang. This youth has demonstrated an overwhelming number of miraculous feats ever since the Imperial Examination. In the Resource Battle, An Fan lost to Fang Lang as well. Hence, more than anyone else, An Fan understood how fearsome Fang Lang was. He would not let his guard down at all. Now as everyone thought that Fang Lang waspletely trapped, An Fan felt that Fang Lang might have a solution that would catch everyone by surprise! ... Outside the city, the atmosphere became tenser, as though a fight was about to break out. Themander of Linjiang City shut the city gates. The city guards stood on the city tower, wearing extremely stony and grim expressions. Outside the city, a powerful aura surged into the sky. It seemed to stir up the clouds in the sky. The Main Path Guild disciples swiftly rushed over. When they learned that Fang Lang was besieged inside the Jade Pavilion, they naturally rushed over. This was because they needed to upy the advantageous territory in order to capture Fang Lang. The Main Path Guild elders who attained the high cultivation realms also learned that the Sword Guild disciples from all four pavilions were headed over. When the timees, there might be a sh outside Linjiang City. A huge battle might break out. When that happens, someone might be able to benefit from the messy situation and someone from the Sword Guild might be able to save Fang Lang. Hence, the elders of the Main Path Guild immediately cast aplex Barricade Rune outside Linjiang City, cing Linjiang City under aplete lockdown. Even if the Sword Guild warriors rushed over, Fang Lang would be unable to slip out of Linjiang City easily and be brought away by the Sword Guild. Outside the city, the Sword Guild disciples wore extremely grim expressions. It was terrifyingly austere and steely. Wen Ting arrived as well. His hand was already ced on the rapier at his waist. When he saw the barricaded city walls, he did not say a word. Instead, he rushed straight towards the Main Path Guild warriors with his sword. Outside the city, a battle instantly broke out. A sh broke out between the Sword Guild disciples and the Main Path Guild disciples! The waves from a frightening battle engulfed the skies close to Linjiang City. The clouds were agitated as the sky filled with rain clouds and rain began to pour down. That was caused by the fierce battle between Chao Xiaojian, Zhao Longshi and the others. It seemed as though they were also aware of Fang Lang¡¯s situation because the battle was moving in the direction of Linjiang City. At that moment, no one was paying attention to the great battle between these two top-level warriors. This was because the battle between Chao Xiaojian and Zhao Longshi had gradually heated up to a white-hot pitch level. No one would be able to help in this battle. Everyone was more curious to know how Fang Lang, who was trapped inside Linjiang City, would turn the situation around. ... Inside the Jade Pavilion, the eyes of the middle-aged manager who guarded at the door silently suddenly flickered. After that, he noticed the door to the private room that had been closed for an entire day finally opened. Fang Lang, who had changed into some clean white robes, walked out slowly from the room. His aura hovered around his body. A sharp sword intent surged out of Fang Lang¡¯s body. The air seemed to wrap around him. It was like there was a great sun shining with radiant light. The middle-aged manager was shocked. He felt as though a massive change had urred in Fang Lang. ¡°Mr. Fang... have... have you evolved?¡± The middle-aged manager took a deep breath in. He never imagined that Fang Lang would actuallyplete his breakthrough in the private room and advance to the fourth-ss, sword-intent realm! Fang Lang turned to look at him. The two sword intent flowers in the depths of his eyes made the manager, whose cultivation was of the third-ss realm, feel a huge sense of terror and oppression. The middle-aged manager knew that Fang Lang had recently taken part in the Imperial Examination a month ago. At the time, Fang Lang was merely a second-ss disciple. So little time had passed yet Fang Lang managed to step into the fourth-ss realm! It was a short period of a month! So this was the Imperial Examination champion!? This was the most promising top warrior in the Tang Dynasty!? Fang Lang raised his head slightly and asked with a smile, ¡°What is the situation like outside?¡± The middle-aged manager lowered his head respectfully and sped his hands as he answered, ¡°The Main Path Guild disciples under the fourth-ss realm with An Fan as their leader have buried various runes at all the exits of the store. If you leave, you¡¯ll definitely be attacked by the runes.¡± ¡°Besides that, outside Linjiang City, the warriors of your guild havee to help. At the moment, they are fighting with the Main Path Guild warriors. The Main Path Guild warriors have ced a Barricade Rune outside Linjiang City in order to stop you from escaping. Hence, for the moment, the Sword Guild warriors are unable to break through the barricade and enter the city to save you.¡± The description of the middle-aged manager caused Fang Lang to frown slightly. If this were so, he waspletely trapped! However, Fang Lang feltforted to know that the Sword Guild warriors hade to rescue him. In the distance, the sound of footsteps rang out. Owner Wu heard the news that Fang Lang had stepped out of the room and quickly appeared. ¡°Mr. Fang, you¡¯ve finallye out of the room,¡± said Owner Wu with a smile on her face. She handed him a space ring and said, ¡°The 20 Meteor Flight Swords that you wanted are all here.¡± ¡°I wonder what you¡¯re nning to do with so many Meteor Flight Swords?¡± asked Owner Wu curiously. Fang Lang received the ring with a smile but did not give his reasons. Fang Lang then took out a Meteor Flight Sword. In front of Owner Wu and the middle-aged manager, his spiritual sense gushed out and surged into the rune pattern of the flight sword... Right before Owner Wu and the middle-age manager¡¯s shocked eyes, he used the Flight Sword Crossover Turbo Charge Rune and inscribed it in a reversed manner on the flight sword rune pattern, changing the pattern of the flight sword! Owner Wu and the middle-aged manager did not understand Fang Lang¡¯s intentions. However, since Owner Wu¡¯s cultivation was strong, she could faintly sense that after Fang Lang changed the flight sword rune, it seemed to be extremely unstable. ¡°Owner Wu. I still have another huge business to discuss with you. I wonder if you might be interested?¡± Fang Lang continued changing the flight sword runes as he spoke to Owner Wu. Owner Wu wore a strange expression on her face. She was trying to guess what Fang Lang might ask of her next. Fang Lang took out 200,000 gold coins. The stack of gold coins was extremely eye-catching. ¡°It¡¯s alright if you don¡¯t have Meteor Flight Swords. You can give me other flight swords that are the same price as the Meteor Flight Sword. Give me 40 in total,¡± said Fang Lang. Owner Wu managed to keep herposure. However, the middle-aged manager waspletely speechless. The rich were extremely overbearing and imposing! However, Owner Wu would never turn down a business opportunity, especially one that was worth 200,000 gold coins! Owner Wu agreed right away. After that, she turned around and headed for the storeroom to retrieve all the flight swords. ¡®Ding! Congrattions, you have made a purchase rted to cultivation. You have obtained the random reward¡ª2x Endurance Card.¡¯ ¡®After use, the 2x Endurance Card will slow down the expenditure of your resilience, patience, stamina and spiritual sense by a factor of two! Your cultivation willst longer!¡¯ After the transaction waspleted, the System prompt rang out once again. An extremely odd card appeared. Fang Lang did not study it for too long before he kept it away in the inventory. There was a chance to obtain a reward each time the System was upgraded by a level and also when a purchase rted to cultivation was made. This card was exceptionally useful to Fang Lang. The sun shone in the sky. Fang Lang¡¯s spiritual sense continuously rippled out. He spent half a day altering the runes on the flight swords that Owner Wu had brought out. Even though Fang Lang possessed the Spirit Eyes skill, he still felt the exhaustion of his spiritual sense. Beads of sweat appeared on his forehead. Owner Wu and the middle-aged manager had no idea what Fang Lang was up to. All they could do was watch him work quietly. After he finished everything, Fang Lang kept all the flight swords in the space ring. He then stood up with his scabbard on his back. With a shrug of his white robes, he sped his hands and bowed towards Owner Wu. ¡°Thank you, Owner Wu for your care over these two days. I hope we meet again in the future,¡± said Fang Lang with a smile. Owner Wu was stunned. ¡°Are you nning on leaving Mr. Fang? At the moment, Linjiang City is overrun with Main Path Guild disciples... I fear that you¡¯ll be in great danger as soon as you walk out of the store.¡± Fang Lang took out a Meteor Flight Sword and a spirit crystal. He turned his head to look at the main entrance of the Jade Pavilion with a slight upward curve on his lips. ¡°I¡¯ll have to face them no matter what. Besides... some vendettas need to be settled once and for all.¡± As soon as he finished speaking, Fang Lang turned and walked towards the entrance. Owner Wu¡¯s mouth was agape. She did not know what to say. The middle-aged manager beside her wore a dumbstruck expression. He thought that Fang Lang would choose to remain hiding. In the end... he decided to deal with the vendetta as soon as he evolved. There were close to a thousand Main Path Guild disciples outside. Among them, there were close to a hundred fourth-ss realm disciples. Among those, An Fan was a genius disciple of the peak fourth-ss phantasm realm... Fang Lang should have chosen to remain in hiding and wait for the Sword Guild warriors to storm into the city, right!? Owner Wu and the middle-aged manager followed behind Fang Lang. They saw Fang Lang close his eyes when he arrived at the entrance. After that, he opened the tightly-sealed door of the Jade Pavilion. The long-missed sunlight streamed down from outside the doors, illuminating the white-robed figure and making him look as though he were glowing with golden light. ... Fang Lang closed his eyes. Numerous scenes appeared in his mind. He thought about Lin Yun, who he killed in Luojiang City, Lin Muzhe, who he killed in Youzhou Demon Portal and many others... This was not his first time killing someone. He did not fear killing people. Now that he stepped on the road of cultivation, his body was not his own. Killing was an unavoidable part of cultivation. Since that was the case... Fang Lang slowly opened his eyes. The emotion in his eyes slowly faded and became extremely stony and forbidding. It was time to kill! ... The Jade Pavilion was situated across from a restaurant. As soon as the doors of the Jade Pavilion opened, the entire restaurant went quiet in an instant. On the street, the numerous disciples that kept a close eye on the Jade Pavilion in hiding went into high alert. A bright light shone out of their eyes! An Fan¡¯s concentration kicked into action from his position next to the window. He swiftly mmed down his wine cup, sending wine sshing everywhere. ¡°The... the door is open!¡± All the blue-robed, fourth-ss realm disciples swiftly gathered in front of the window. Their eyes sparkled with light as they stared at the open doors of the Jade Pavilion. Under the glow of the sunlight, a white-robed figure walked out. ¡°It¡¯s Fang Lang!¡± ¡°Is he reallying out on his own!?¡± ¡°How would he dare to!? He¡¯spletely trapped! Unless he ns to walk straight into a trap!?¡± Amotion broke out among the Main Path Guild disciples. An Fan stared at Fang Lang in his snow-white robes. He sensed a different aura from Fang Lang. A faint tearing Qi energy was interspersed with a sharp Qi activity! ¡°He¡¯s advanced to the fourth-ss! He¡¯s achieved a breakthrough into the fourth-ss, sword-intent!¡± An Fan inhaled sharply! That was fast! That was too fast! Fang Lang had actually managed to advance to the fourth-ss, sword-intent realm in that amount of time!? It was terrifying! A strong sense of fear and horror appeared in An Fan¡¯s heart! Under the sunlight, Fang Lang raised his head. Naturally, he noticed An Fan sitting by the window of the restaurant. A warm smile appeared on Fang Lang¡¯s face. After that, he took a step out. ¡°Activate the runes!¡± shouted An Fan from the upper level of the restaurant. One after another, the Main Path Guild disciples swiftly formed a seal. The runes suddenly fluctuated violently. Fang Lang took a step out and noticed the various runes on the ground glowing with light! A scary ripple of energy reverberated in every corner of the many streets and alleys. It was enough to make anyone¡¯s heart palpitate! Fang Lang smiled. He grabbed the Meteor Flight Sword and stuffed a spirit crystal into it. He then activated the Meteor Flight Sword. The runes on the flight sword glowed brightly and flew towards the restaurant under Fang Lang¡¯s control! In the restaurant, An Fan¡¯s expression faltered. He sped his hands to form a seal and a spiritual energy barrier appeared before him. The Meteor Flight Sword crashed into the barrier and exploded with a terrifying st! Boom!!! The normal crossover turbocharge increased the speed in the direction of the flow. However, the reverse action would cause the rune to break down and explode! The force of the explosion rippled out. The spiritual energy barrier before An Fan was sted apart. What... what was this!? He caused an explosion with a flight sword!? As Fang Lang strode out of the Jade Pavilion, he continuously took out flight swords with the runes that he had altered and filled with spiritual sense. He activated the flight swords and sent them out in all directions as though he was throwing bombs. He threw them at the Main Path Guild disciples non-stop! The Main Path Guild disciples did not have the chance to activate the runes that they prepared. Before they couldunch an explosive attack on Fang Lang, Fang Lang had thrown explosives at them first! Inside the Jade Pavilion, Owner Wu and the middle-aged manager looked on in a daze. They inhaled sharply. He was making the flight sword explode in order to face his enemy. He was burning money every second! Woosh woosh woosh! 20 unsteady flight swords crashed into the restaurant and the Main Path Guild disciples in all directions, exploding non-stop. The sparks, dust and debris created by the explosion shot into the sky. Dust and ash filled the air! 100,000 gold coins burst into mes in an instant! Explosives... was an art! The Main Path Guild disciples were plunged into a state of panic. Within the billowing clouds of dust, a white-robed figure appeared in front of the restaurant. The Obsidian Sword was drawn. The fourth-ss, phantasm realm Main Path Guild disciple who was in charge of guarding the restaurant narrowed his eyes. With a swing of his sword, Fang Lang sent his head flying. A spell disciple allowed a sword disciple to get close. The end result could not be described with words. The head soared high into the skies and spun one before it crashed to the ground with a dull thud. Fresh blood sttered all over the door and walls of the restaurant, forming a blood-colored rose pattern. Fang Lang held the Obsidian Sword by his side. The sword tip dripped with blood as he slowly stepped into the restaurant. Chapter 149 - Don’t Run, Continue Chasing Me

Chapter 149: Don¡¯t Run, Continue Chasing Me

Boom boom boom! The sound of explosions instantly shattered the peace and quiet in Linjiang CIty. Clouds of dust and smoke filled the streets, spiraling up to the sky. It was like the sandstorms that happened in the desert. The acrid stench of smoke lingered in the air made the situation appear more bleak and deste. Inside the Jade Pavilion, Owner Wu and the middle-aged manager next to her wore expressions of utmost disbelief and shock. Their shock was tinged with tears ofughter. This was because Fang Lang¡¯s action was a shock to them. They never imagined that Fang Lang would use flight swords for this purpose! He used the flight swords as weapons! He changed the runes on the flight swords, causing two different runes within the flight sword to trigger an explosion as the swords were flying. This produced a terrifying destructive power and Fang Lang was using this destructive power to turn the tables! Thispletely exceeded the boundaries of Owner Wu¡¯s imagination. She thought that Fang Lang bought so many flight swords because he nned to resell them at a profit or give them to others. She never imagined that Fang Lang... would do such a thing! It seems that he did not understand a thing about flight swords at all! The Meteor Flight Sword cost 5,000 gold coins each. This meant that each explosion equaled to burning 5,000 gold coins! Even if 5,000 gold coins did not seem like a lot of money to them, it was still a huge shock to see 5,000 gold coins vanish instantly. All the explosions were money burning away! What a big spender! Is there anyone in the world who was a bigger spender than Fang Lang!? ording to the Tang Dynasty currency system, 5,000 gold coins were an amount of money that poor families might never be able to earn in their whole lifetime! Hence, everyone in the Jade Pavilion was speechless, including Owner Wu. This was because the explosion of flight swords allowed Fang Lang to start the fight. However, no one expected or could have predicted that he could use the explosion of flight swords to break the deadlock! The numerous runes that the Main Path Guild disciples had prepared outside the Jade Pavilion were rendered useless, like decorations. They were unable to activate the runes because Fang Lang sent 20 flight sword explosions in their direction. This allowed Fang Lang to step out on a killing mission in front of the restaurant! Everyone saw Fang Lang send the head of the Main Path Guild phantasm realm disciple flying with one swing of his sword. It was such a ruthless move that everyone in the Jade Pavilion went silent. ... ¡®System... activate the 3x Speed Card. Activate the 2x Endurance Card and switch into Quintuple Binding Mode!¡¯ Fang Lang held his sword. The sword tip was pointed to the ground, constantly dripping with fresh blood. Fang Lang silently muttered in his head, activating the various enhancements. ¡®Ding. The switch isplete. Happy cultivating.¡¯ The System prompt rang out then went quiet. Fang Lang could clearly feel the changes in his body. His surroundings seemed to quiet down. The only sound that he could hear was the sound of his breath. The 3x Speed Card and the 2x Endurance Card. These two cards were cards that he had just obtained. They might not be the best cards for that moment in time. In fact, the best card would be the Power Loan Card. With a single Power Loan card, all his problems could be solved. However, in a bind, it could be a supplementary card. There were many Main Path Guild disciples on the first floor of the restaurant. They all wore expressions of utmost horror. ¡°Seize him!¡± Most of the Main Path Guild disciples were spell disciples. What spell disciples feared the most was getting into close contact with an opponent. As soon as they were in close contact, the weak physical body of the spell disciple and their less than ster fighting technique would be enough to ensure their quick death! Hence, as soon as Fang Lang stepped into the restaurant, all the Main Path Guild disciples¡¯plexions paled. However, there were a couple of sword mastery disciples among them. They were forced to steel their nerves and rush out to stop Fang Lang, in order to buy some time for the disciples behind them to construct and craft their runes. Fang Lang¡¯s eyes gradually became stony. It was not his first rodeo killing people. He was not someone who dare not kill. However, this time, he had no other choice. The Main Path Guild¡¯s orders were to retrieve the Reincarnating Lotus Sword. It did not matter if Fang Lang was dead or alive. There was a price to pay when war was waged. There was also a price to pay when killing people. However, since the Main Path Guild was determined to kill him, naturally... Fang Lang would have to fight back and kill them. ughter them until they began to fear him! Swoosh! There were a lot of people gathered on the first floor of the restaurant. There were the genius disciples of the Main Path Guild as well as many of the cultivators that they had hired. After all, a huge proportion of the Main Path Guild disciples were spell disciples. They might dabble in some sword mastery and martial arts but their main specialty was spell mastery. The physical bodies of spell disciples were weak. Hence, they needed to employ some cultivators to protect them. When Fang Lang killed the Main Path Guild disciples outside the restaurant and stepped inside, the hired cultivators swiftly took out their swords and sabers. The disciples behind the cultivators focused on casting runes! When faced against such runes, Fang Lang took out a flight sword from within the space ring and activated it with a spirit crystal. The spirit crystal shot out towards the disciples in the distance that were crafting runes. Boom! An explosion urred. The power of the flight sword continued to ripple out continuously, spreading out to every corner of the restaurant. The spiritual energy barrier in front of the spell disciples instantly shattered. The shock waves rippled out, disrupting their rune crafting. Some of them were knocked out from the impact of the explosion. Fang Lang took another step, a Spirit Step! Instantly, multiple phantoms spread out from where Fang Lang stood. Fang Lang felt as light as a feather. The scene around him changed in an instant. Fang Lang drew closer to a cultivator who swung a sword towards him. He unleashed his ten thousand de intent. The second-ss sword master level cultivator saw a sh before his eyes, then countless sword mirages caused his vision to blur. After that, he realized that his head was flying across the sky. The expression on his face was one of dazed shock. Fang Lang dashed into the crowd of people. A single white robe rushing into the midst of all the blue robes. He moved like a bullet. With the help of the 3x Speed Card, Fang Lang¡¯s speed was incredibly fast! The cultivators who stepped forward to stop him were all experienced old folk. However, Fang Lang, who had entered the fourth-ss realm and possessed two sword intents was more terrifying in terms of his offensive power! The Obsidian Sword swung down and even Qi flow was sliced apart by its attack. Fang Lang¡¯s white robes billowed. The Obsidian Sword was like a dragon. It plunged into the chest of a cultivator and cut the person in half! Blood spurted out and sttered all over the faces of the disciples behind, causing the disciples to go deathly pale! It was too fast! Fang Lang¡¯s movements were so fast that there was no way they could keep up! ¡°Is the rune ready yet!?¡± ¡°Use the rune to blow him up!¡± ¡°We¡¯re no match for him! Take it! Take it away!¡± ... Inside the restaurant, the cultivators who were tasked with stopping Fang Lang were scared out of their wits! As for the Main Path Guild disciples behind the cultivators, their faces were full of fear and terror! There was no one who did not fear death, especially these Main Path Guild disciples. Their days were numbered. Neither were they willing to die under Fang Lang¡¯s hand. Of course, Fang Lang would not be merciful. Being merciful to one¡¯s opponents equaled being cruel to oneself. From the moment Fang Lang killed Lin Yun and Lin Muzhe, he had never shown an enemy mercy. It did not matter if the person was the third prince or even the first prince, Fang Lang would dare to raise his sword against them. What more against these Main Path Guild disciples. Fang Lang trained in three disciplines at the same time. Hence, he was quite aplished in sword mastery, spell mastery and martial arts. At that moment, his killing intent surged. His firepower waspletely unleashed. He showcased all his various techniques and skills. Fang Lang rushed toward the group of cultivators. Since all the cultivators above the fourth-ss realm were fearful of triggering Xuanyuan Taihua¡¯s divine sense within the Reincarnating Lotus Sword, they deliberately sent only cultivators below the fourth-ss realm to kill Fang Lang. Previously, Fang Lang was merely a third-ss. If he was surrounded and caught in a trap, he would have died without a doubt. However, Fang Lang had advanced to the fourth-ss. An earth-shaking change had urred! Fang Lang turned his head to avoid a machete. The Obsidian Sword in his hand swept to the side and the jet-ck sword body was covered in blood. A head flew into the sky, falling crisply to the ground. Fang Lang¡¯s ten thousand sword intent rippled out. After that, he raised his hand and called out softly. He imitated the sword technique of his master, the Instant Lotus de! An immeasurable amount of de energy spread out! A single de energy lotus flower bloomed in the center. About a dozen cultivators closest to Fang Lang were instantly sliced into pieces. Blood and flesh flew in all directions! The cultivators were all extremely dangerous characters. At that moment, they saw red! Buzz... In the distance, the Main Path Guild disciples finished casting the rune! After that, various runes of all types flew towards Fang Lang. Fang Lang became like a ghost and avoided the attack of the runes. The surrounding cultivators charged ahead in a crazed manner. The first floor of the restaurant descended into a messy battle. Fang Lang took a step out. The Spirit Step and de energy made a depression in a cultivator¡¯s chest. In the midst of dishes flying around, Fang Lang turned and struck out his hand. With his hand, he caught hold of a cultivator¡¯s neck and twisted swiftly. A clear sound rang out as his spine shattered! Fang Lang coolly kicked the dead body of that cultivator aside, turning over a couple of people. The restaurant shook. Tree branches wrapped around Fang Lang like snakes. Fang Lang swept an eye over it then summoned a flight sword from the space ring. He activated it and sent it flying toward those Main Path Guild disciples. Bang! An explosion rang out in the restaurant. Themand over the rune instantly copsed. As for Fang Lang, he took this opportunity to continue killing his foes. Fang Lang hooked his foot on the corpse-covered ground and a falchion flew up. With a spin of his body like a top, the Obsidian Sword in his hand sliced through several cultivators. His feet were perched on the falchion flying through the air. He stood firmly on the end of the falchion! The falchion was like an enraged dragon roaring. As it roared, it tore through the air and sliced through the airstream! A Main Path Guild disciple who just regained consciousness from the flight sword explosion suddenly looked stunned. The spiritual energy barrier, in tatters after the flight sword explosion, was suddenly torn apart. The falchion that Fang Lang kicked over pierced his heart. The powerful force of the impact sent him flying back. The falchion tore through his body and plunged into the throat of a fourth-ss spell disciple that was in the midst of casting a rune! In the blink of an eye, Fang Lang was surrounded by corpses! The cultivators that were hired to protect the Main Path Guild disciplesy all over the ground. A pungent stench of blood filled every corner of the restaurant. The restaurant owner and his staff cowered in a corner looking absolutely terrified. They trembled in terror behind the counter. ¡°Kill him! Stop him!¡± ¡°You¡¯re going to be dead meat when our rune isplete!¡± ¡°He¡¯s just one person!¡± The cultivators began to roar. Vital energy surged within them as de energy swirled around some of them while others shouted angrily! However, Fang Lang remained extremely calm and collected. His figure blurred into multiple illusions as the Obsidian Sword in his hand danced in the air non-stop. The Champion¡¯s de seemed to turn into a thunder snake. Each bite of the de would draw bright red blood! Many of the defense lines formed by the cultivators quickly turned into a path of blood thanks to Fang Lang! The pile of bodies stacked up high on the path of blood! Arge number of the cultivators were of the second or third-ss realm. How would they be able to stop Fang Lang!? The Sword Thunder formed from the Champion¡¯s de was held by Fang Lang. Fang Lang drew both swords in his hands and began to fight. It looked like a storm was raging around him! With each swing of his sword, a head was sent flying! As his feetnded on the ground, the floor of the restaurant instantly exploded. Fang Lang rushed ahead and threw the Champion¡¯s de. The Sword Thunder was like a raging dragon as it plunged into a blue-robed disciple and pinned him to the wall. The killing rune being cast by numerous Main Path Guild disciples working together was finallyplete! mes shot out as a fire dragon appeared from the rune, looking lifelike. It roared as it raced toward Fang Lang! Everything around them instantly turned ck as charcoal! A couple of the cultivators were burnt to a crisp, victims of the rune attack. Fang Lang rushed away with both swords in hand. His movements were too quick. Fang Lang¡¯s movements were so agile thanks to thebination of the 3x Speed Card and the Spirit Steps that ordinary runes would struggle to catch him! The cultivators that the Main Path Guild had spent huge amounts of gold on were scared witless... Many of the cultivators turned around and ran for their lives. After all, they would not be able to stop Fang Lang! Fang Lang had entered the zone of the Main Path Guild disciples. This was an absolute nightmare for the disciples who specialized in spell mastery! If it were amon sword disciple, the disciples had nothing to fear. However, Fang Lang was not amon sword disciple! He was a sword disciple who possessed a uniquely amazing spell¡ªthe Spirit Awl! Flight Sword explosives and the Spirit Awl spell both possed unique points as they can cause a spell disciple to experience a short period of vertigo. This temporary dizziness was fatal for spell disciples who had weak physical bodies. Before they coulde back to their senses, the Obsidian Sword had already swept past a neck, sending that disciple¡¯s head flying! This was Fang Lang¡¯s battle strategy based on flight swords! At the moment, it could be called a roaring sess! Fang Lang¡¯s two des continued to dance in the air apanied by a relentless volley of flight swords and Spirit Awls causing explosions. The defense formed from the cultivators hired by the Main Path Guild was easily cut through. The group of spell disciples was like a group ofmbs waiting to be ughtered. The protection rune was cut through as if it was paper under Fang Lang¡¯s top-grade sword intent bolstered by de energy. ... In the restaurant, everyone went white! Fang Lang was about to kill them! Unexpectedly, he started killing right away as soon as he stepped out of the Jade Pavilion. He did not choose to escape from the trap, nor did he choose to run away. Instead, he rushed straight to the restaurant on a killing rampage! The main thing that confounded the Main Path Guild disciples was the explosions caused by the self-destructive flight swords! They have never seen such a move! Besides that, the destructive force of the self-exploding flight swords was more powerful than the killing runes cast by peak third-ss spell disciples! A wave of energy rolled over. An Fan looked extremely horrified. The second floor of the restaurant was a wreck. Dishes of food were scattered all over the floor. The tables were smashed to pieces. It was a devastating wreckage caused by the explosions! The most important point was the strong stench of blood that filled the air! Pitiful cries apanied by the sound of explosions rang out without ceasing from the first floor of the restaurant! Behind each anguished cry was the wretched death of a Main Path Guild disciple! ¡°D*mn it!¡± ¡°Fang Lang... He¡¯s gone mad!¡± ¡°He¡¯s achieved a sudden breakthrough into the fourth-ss realm, not the fifth-ss realm. Why is he so bold!¡± An Fan gritted his teeth. Fang Lang¡¯s actions filled him with shock as well as intense rage! ¡°Go! Go and capture Fang Lang!¡± ¡°Since Fang Lang delivered himself on a silver tter, let us fulfill his death wish!¡± The genius fourth-ss disciples all wore grim and determined expressions as the intent to kill filled their eyes! This was followed by the sound of frantic footsteps. An Fan and the others headed downstairs. They could see the situation on the first floor from the stairs. On that narrow staircase, An Fan and the other disciples narrowed their eyes in utter disbelief! They were met by the sight of Fang Lang holding a disciple by the neck as his Obsidian Sword slowly slid out of that disciple¡¯s heart. At that moment, even An Fan felt as though his heart was being squeezed tightly by arge hand. He thought about that moment in the Youzhou Demon Portal when Fang Lang made it rain demon hearts! The eyes of countless Main Path Guild disciples were filled with terror. Subconsciously, their feet started to retreat back up the stairs. Fang Lang did not have the help of Xuanyuan Taihua¡¯s divine sense. How did he achieve this!? The pungent smell of blood assaulted the senses as corpses covered the ground. The scene before the Main Path Guild disciples was a river of blood! It was like the scene of a nightmare! It was like a heavy mallet crushing heavily down on their chests! Among the mountain of dead bodies and the sea of blood, Fang Lang seemed to hear movementing from the second floor and turned towards the stairs. He saw An Fan and the familiar faces of the other Main Path Guild disciples and watched them retreat back up the stairs. Fang Lang swung off the blood on his Obsidian Sword and carried it. He cocked his head and smiled warmly. ¡°Don¡¯t run. Continue chasing me.¡± Chapter 150 - Not Sparing Even a Single Person

Chapter 150: Not Sparing Even a Single Person

It was dead silent! The pungent smell of blood assaulted the senses as it wafted over the noses of all the genius Main Path Guild disciples stepping down from the second floor. It made them feel the uncontroble urge to vomit. It was a horrible sight to see their fellow disciples beheaded or stabbed in the heart. An Fan¡¯s eyes were bloodshot! It was filled with sorrow and rage. He never expected that the situation would turn out this way. Fang Lang was clearly cornered by them in the Jade Pavilion. However, as soon as Fang Lang stepped out of the store, he did not choose to run away. Instead, he attacked the restaurant! He went on a killing rampage andpletely ughtered all the Main Path Guild disciples on the first floor of the restaurant. ¡°He just advanced to the fourth-ss, sword intent realm. Why does he have this level of offensive power!?¡± ¡°How ruthless! He¡¯s truly vicious!¡± ¡°Fang Lang! Be d*mned! The Main Path Guild will not spare you!¡± ... At the foot of the stairs, the Main Path Guild disciples were frozen to the spot. They would have never predicted that result! Fang Lang¡¯s viciousness far exceeded their expectations! He was a fish trapped in a but he had be a vicious crocodile that was baring its teeth at them! He killed many of the Main Path Guild disciples easily as though he was crushing dead weeds. An Fan was filled with terror and even more disbelief. Even though he could not make sense of the scene before him, it made him understand that there was no possibility of retreat! They must defeat Fang Lang! An Fan looked towards the cultivator beside him who wore a bamboo hat and was equipped with a steel sword. This was a cultivator that he hired at a high price. He was a fourth-ss realm sword cultivator. At that moment, the cultivator did not seem fazed even when faced by a mountain of dead bodies on the first floor of the restaurant that consisted of countless cultivators and Main Path Guild disciples. However, this was a normal scene for a cultivator¡¯s vendetta battle for this cultivator. In fact, he had seen other cultivator¡¯s vendetta fights that were more gruesome than this. ¡°Help me stop Fang Lang,¡± said An Fan in an extremely serious tone to the sword cultivator. This was a top-level cultivator. Hence, An Fan trusted in his abilities. The person did not say a word. His body instantlyunched out like a missile as the steel sword in his hand instantly shed out. As soon as the cultivator stepped out, An Fan and the disciples around him swiftly began to cast a rune. An Fan was extremely quick at casting runes. In an instant, he was surrounded by five runes. Each rune possessed a terrifying killing ability! Fang Lang¡¯s warm smile gradually waned. He stared at An Fan. An Fan was extremely powerful. He was the strongest disciple among all the Main Path Guild disciples under the fourth-ss realm. An Fan did not dare to act carelessly. As for the cultivator with the bamboo hat that An Fan hired at a high price, as he brandished his steel sword and rushed towards Fang Lang, only then did Fang Lang turn his gaze towards him. A sword master. The cultivator was also a sword master. He did not belong to a sect so he was counted among the rogue cultivators. A look of defiance shed across the eyes of the rogue sword cultivator when he saw a true cultivator such as Fang Lang that came from a sect. His steel sword was mingled with sword intent and de energy that extended over countless feet as he brandished it. His de moved like a snowstorm! This was the sword intent of this cultivator! The sword cry rang out shrilly as the whole ce was illuminated by the countless sword light emanating from the sword. It looked as though all the air around Fang Lang was being sliced apart. Fang Lang swept a nce at this fourth-ss sword intent realm cultivator. There was no ripple of emotion across his features. He took a step out and his figure instantly turned into a streak of illusions. Even though he had been fighting for such a long time, Fang Lang did not feel tired. This was the effect of the 2x Endurance Card. Fang Lang could see the anger and hatred in the cultivator¡¯s eyes. The two of them drew closer. Fang Lang swung the Obsidian Sword. As the swords shed, a clear sound reverberated throughout every corner of the restaurant. Fang Lang¡¯s Spirit Steps kicked into gear and the illusions instantly sped up. This made Fang Lang¡¯s sword attack even more powerful. In addition, his time sword intent surged out of his energy center into the Obsidian Sword, causing the cultivator to feel as though his sword moved extremely slowly, as though it were in quicksand. However, Fang Lang¡¯s movements were not affected. In fact, it seemed to have sped up! With a single swing of his sword, a sword intent lotus flower bloomed. The cultivator watched as the sword in his hands shattered into pieces! The sword that had been his constantpanion shattered into pieces, disappearing without a trace! Within the sword lotus, a relentless sword cry rang out. In the restaurant, a gust of wind formed from de energy broke out. The cultivator waspletely at a loss. He could not make even... a single attack!? Was this the difference in abilities between him and a sword disciple from the Sword Guild!? The cultivator¡¯s face could be glimpsed through the bamboo hat, revealing the shock in his eyes. A momentter, his chest was blown apart by the de energy lotus. His body flew back! All his meridians were destroyed and blood poured out of every pore in his body. He turned into a thick mist of blood! All it took was a single sword attack and a cultivator who was also of the fourth-ss realm was defeated! The cultivator that An Fan paid a steep price for was defeated! The cost of his defeat was death. An Fan looked at the cultivator¡¯s dead body with absolute shock. However, the expression on his face did not falter. This was because he hadpleted his rune! ¡°Tempest Rune!¡± An Fan floated into the air. A rune appeared beneath his feet. Countless arcs of lightning streaked within the rune! With a bend of his finger, an arc of lightning suddenly burst out, like a sh of lightning behind the clouds. It contained an immense rune power as it surged towards Fang Lang! Fang Lang¡¯s eyes froze. An Fan¡¯s power filled him with fear. He did not try to face it head-on. Instead, he elerated to dodge the attack with the help of the 3x Speed Card. A bolt of lightning shed through the air! A massive pit suddenly appeared in the ground. Arcs of lightning danced within the pit non-stop. An Fan cast the Tempest Rune, which he was most adept at. The rune that he could not perform in the arena at the Resource Battle had materialized. ¡°You did not experience the terror of this rune at the Resource Battle... I¡¯m going to give you the chance to fully experience it today!¡± ¡°The lives of the Main Path Guild disciples that were lost, I¡¯m going to make you pay for it! A life for a life!¡± An Fan soared within the Tempest Rune. He seemed to have transformed into a Lightning God. He swiftly raised his hand and his fourth-ss phantasm realm spiritual sense surged out, affecting an area up to dozens of meters around then. Fang Lang gripped the Obsidian Sword and exhaled deeply. ¡°The killer...¡± His indifferent voice rang out softly. A momentter, Fang Lang¡¯s figure dashed forward. However, Fang Lang¡¯s target was not An Fan. He took out the flight sword from the space ring. The flight swords were all filled with spirit crystals beforehand. After he activated it, the flight sword instantly shot out and flew unsteadily towards a Main Path Guild disciple. An arc of lightning chased behind Fang Lang. However, with the triple eleration, Fang Lang was too quick! Fang Lang was able to dodge the attack because of the cover of the building. An Fan was like a Lightning God as he rained down rune attacks relentlessly. However, Fang Lang was able to speedily avoid them all. Even if An Fan¡¯s attacks were extremely strong, it was pointless if none of them could not hit Fang Lang! All of a sudden, An Fan paled and turned to look at the Main Path Guild disciples outside the building. He saw that Fang Lang was once againunching activated flight swords. After their runes were altered, the ten activated flight swords were extremely unstable. They all crashed into the stairs. The disciples who were crafting an extremely powerful Killing Rune only felt the earth spinning around them and their vision went blurry. The stairs suddenly exploded, bursting into mes as it rained debris. Fang Lang took this opportunity to approach the explosion zone. An Fan was about to make it rain lightning when his actions faltered. If he did so, he might injure his fellow disciples as well. The fourth-ss genius disciples that were caught in the explosion were pretty strong. However, after suffering through an explosion caused by ten flight swords, they were all dizzy and saw stars. No one managed to regain their senses quick enough to cast a rune. A spell disciple¡¯s physical body is extremely weak. Now that Fang Lang has managed to approach them, it was possible to predict their end! Fang Lang did not hold back. An Fan was able to craft a terrifyingly powerful rune on his own and cause such a huge threat to Fang Lang. If the group of genius disciples was able toplete their rune, Fang Lang might not be able to survive. Even though not every disciple would be able to grasp the Tempest Rune, Fang Lang did not care. He was going to kill all these disciples just in case! Swish! The dizzy disciples could sense a chill spread across their bodies. Fang Lang rushed into the crowd of people, gripping two swords in his hands as he moved nimbly. Each time he raised his sword, it came with a head. The group of Main Path Guild disciples was ughtered likembs on the stairs in their dizzy state. There were even a couple of genius disciples among them whose cultivation was much higher than Fang Lang! However, the disadvantage of spell mastery could be seen at that moment in time! A spell disciple without a protection rune was dead meat if they met a spell disciple of the small cultivation level. Even An Fan knew that if Fang Lang could cause an explosion that sent him into a dizzy spell, the oue would be terrible! An Fan felt like tearing his eyes out as he watched Fang Lang snuff out the lives of the Main Path Guild disciples with his two swords. They were all... fourth-ss genius disciples! However, at that moment, Fang Lang ughtered them without mercy! ¡°You wretched demon!¡± roared An Fan. His lips quivered. In his eyes, Fang Lang was like a cold-blooded, heartless demon! As his sword sliced through the head of a female spell disciple that An Fan was close to, Fang Lang¡¯s deep voice slowly rang out. ¡°A killer will always kill.¡± Not even a single person would be spared. Fang Lang panted heavily. Even with the 2x Endurance Card, he could still feel his energy and strength drain rapidly. His white robes were now blood-drenched. His swords were covered in blood. It waspletely silent in the restaurant. There were no longer any sounds of wailing. Corpsesy all over the ground. A couple of cultivators had fled the restaurant a long time ago. The restaurant was devoid of people. Only Fang Lang and An Fan were left standing. An Fan floated in the air. His hair was a mess and his eyes were bloodshot. It looked as though blood was about to spill from his eyes like tears. He roared angrily and unleashed lightning bolts from the Tempest Rune without holding anything back! Hispanions were all dead! There was nothing else that he needed to look out for! Let it all burn! Countless lightning bolts rained down. It was the rage of a ninth-grade, fourth-ss spell disciple. In an instant, the entire first floor of the restaurant was transformed into a sea of lightning. Countless corpses were zapped and sent soaring into the air. Fang Lang darted non-stop among the sea of lightning. However, now that he was faced with An Fan¡¯s nket technique, Fang Lang¡¯s only option was to run out of the restaurant. As soon as he escaped from the restaurant, Fang Lang took out the rest of the flight swords. He activated the swords one after another and hurled them non-stop towards An Fan, shooting them out like missiles! The flight swords exploded! Fang Lang bombed An Fan in the restaurant! An Fan used up everyst bit of energy in him and sent out a Spirit Awl. After that, an endless stream of illusions appeared behind him. The Meta Sword Nurturing Spell! Fang Lang¡¯s energy dropped non-stop until it was nearly non-existent! He leaped up and brandished his sword. An Fan, who just recovered from his dizziness, instantly felt his hairs stand on end! The Tempest Rune, the lightning was the offensive power while the winds acted as a defense. He mobilized the strong winds to create a powerful wind wall to act as a shield! Despite that, the wind wall was still torn down. Fang Lang reentered the fourth-ss sword intent and once again used the Sword Nurturing Spell. Even though it did not match up to Wen Ting¡¯s, who spent ten years nurturing a single sword, it was still terrifyingly powerful! The power contained within the Meta Sword Nurturing Spell mmed through the wind wall and gushed into An Fan¡¯s chest! The gigantic amount of force sent An Fan flying into the air, mming through the wall until he crashed onto the street of Linjiang City. All the Main Path Guild disciples looked on with shock and disbelief. An Fan was pinned to the street! The entire Linjiang City plunged into a deathly silence. Owner Wu and the middle-aged manager in the Jade Pavilion were so shocked they were rendered speechless. Outside the city, the warriors of the Main Path Guild were stopping the Sword Guild warriors from entering Linjiang City. Spiritual sense billowed in the air. When they saw this scene, they were filled with utmost terror! They wanted to rush into the city to save An Fan. However... Linjiang City waspletely enveloped in runes that they had cast. There was no way to enter! They could only shout angrily towards the city. ¡°Stop!¡± An Fan who was on the ground lookedpletely dazed. The power of the Meta Sword Nurturing Spellpletely destroyed his meridians. He was unable to control his mana. His vital energy seemed to be swallowed up by Fang Lang¡¯s sword non-stop. He looked at Fang Lang nkly. Fang Lang stood up shakily. He heard the shoutsing from outside the city walls and looked at An Fan¡¯s dazed expression. Fang Lang removed the Obsidian Sword that was in An Fan¡¯s chest and pressed it against his neck. Swish! The bright rays of the sun shone down on the earth. An Fan shut his eyes because the sun was too bright in his eyes. However, he did not get the chance to open them again. Chapter 151 - Killing a Single Person Makes One a Sinner. Killing Ten Thousand Makes One a Hero!

Chapter 151: Killing a Single Person Makes One a Sinner. Killing Ten Thousand Makes One a Hero!

Trantor: EndlessFantasy Trantion Editor: EndlessFantasy Trantion Sunlight streamed down brightly over the earth, making it look as though thend was veiled in gold silk. Linjiang City was shrouded inplete silence. Clouds of smoke and dust filled the air. Crowds of people were gathered on both sides of the streets. It was extremely crowded and everyone¡¯s eyes were wide with shock as they stared at the figure that looked like a gold statue under the golden sunlight. There were cultivators, blue-robed Main Path Guild disciples below the fourth-ss and also Linjiang city guards gathered there, among others... The entire area waspletely silent. Only the sound that could be heard was the sound of heavy breaths reverberated in everyone¡¯s ears. Blood... The ground waspletely covered in blood. Blood flowed out of the destroyed restaurant building. Owner Wu, the many stewards and clerks of the Jade Pavilion, were huddled around the door, staring at the restaurant across the street with narrowed eyes. The corpse swayed before crashing down to the ground, sending a huge cloud of dust into the air. Owner Wu¡¯s eyes sparkled brightly. The middle-aged manager and the others looked full of fear and terror as their hearts raced. They stared fixedly at An Fan on the street whose head was severed by Fang Lang as a seemingly limitless terror filled their hearts. Even the genius Li Yuanzhen, who participated in the same Imperial Examination as Fang Lang, looked absolutely horrified at that moment. Fang Lang... was on a killing rampage! He had killed a great number of Main Path Guild disciples! Even the most brilliant disciple out of all those Main Path Guild disciples under fourth-ss realm, An Fan, was unable to escape death. Fang Lang beheaded him ruthlessly! Li Yuanzhen recalled the words that An Fan always told him that Fang Lang was not to be feared. This was because he was a disciple of the Main Path Guild and their future had no limits. A day woulde when he would master Forbidden Spells and surpass Fang Lang to be the greatest genius of their ss. Li Yuanzhen believed his words back then. However, An Fan, who spoke those words to him, had his head chopped off by Fang Lang. Everything that he said to reassure Li Yuanzhen had be aughable phrase as insignificant as a passing cloud! Fang Lang, who newly advanced to the fourth-ss, sword-intent realm had killed the peak fourth-ss An Fan! This was a true monster powerhouse! To surpass him!? What a joke! Li Yuanzhen was already in a state of despair but at that moment, he waspletely crushed! He copsed to the ground. His eyes were filled with despair. How could he catch up with a monster like that!? It was a tragedy to be in the same generation and the same ss as a genius like him! Fang Lang¡¯s white robes were stained with blood. It was not his blood but the blood of the Main Path Guild disciples. When Fang Lang decided to go on a killing rampage, he knew that he might transform into a malevolent spirit. Neither the look of fear nor the terrified eyes around him moved him in the slightest. The expression on An Fan¡¯s severed head was one of terror. This expression was rarely seen on his face because An Fan was someone who cared a lot about his appearance. The irony was that he was dead. For someone who was so particr about his appearance, this humiliating expression would stay on his face forever. A breeze blew past. Fang Lang leaned against the Obsidian Sword. The sword de that was as ck as ink reflected the sunlight as blood dripped continuously from it. The killing intent on Fang Lang grew stronger. His steely expression made him appear like a wolf in the desert that tore apart everything that was a threat. He returned the Champion¡¯s de to his scabbard. Fang Lang leaned against the Obsidian Sword with one hand as he picked up An Fan¡¯s head with the other. He tossed it lightly into the air. The severed head fell in an arc tond on the ground, making a dull thud. As the wind blew past his bloodstained robes, there seemed to be a poetic beauty about the scene. The area outside the city was plunged into a sea of disbelief. An Fan was dead. Many of the Main Path Guild disciples who entered Linjiang City to hunt Fang Lang had been ughtered. Even the genius An Fan could not escape this grim fate. This brutal reality devastated each and every one of the Main Path Guild warriors outside the city! ... The area outside Linjiang City was in a momentary state of calm. The atmosphere was sluggish and heavy, as though one was deep within quicksand. Even the slightest movement seemed extremely difficult! ¡°How... how dare he!?¡± A Main Path Guild elder looked on with wide eyes. His beard quivered. He hovered in the sky and reached out a trembling finger to point towards Fang Lang inside the city. His emotions were as turbulent as a mudslide! The Main Path Guild warriors that came to stop the Sword Guild stopped fighting. They all seemed to turn into statues. Everything seemed to turn outpletely different from what they expected! ¡°This d*mn child deserves to die!¡± growled the elder as sorrow overwhelmed his features. He clearly yelled for Fang Lang to stop but Fang Lang still went ahead and killed An Fan in cold blood! In the distance, Wen Ting gripped his rapier and chuckled. ¡°So he deserves to die? That¡¯s hrious. So you¡¯re allowed to kill my Sword Guild disciples but my disciples aren¡¯t allowed to return in kind?¡± ¡°The Main Path Guild has grown ustomed to being on top, right? Don¡¯t forget. The Sword Guild used to be the First Guild in the Tang Dynasty! So what if one of my Sword Guild disciples kills one of your disciples!?¡± Wen Ting¡¯s robes billowed. His cultivation had dropped to the gutter when he killed the first prince, Li Tianlin. At the moment, his cultivation was recovering with the help of the Sword Guild. However, it was not fully recovered yet. Since he still had his seventh-ss realm foundation, he could get involved in this battle. Elder Ji of the Sword Guild¡¯s scarred face quivered slightly. He held his sword and said coldly, ¡°He killed well! This is a cultivator¡¯s vendetta. Since it¡¯s a cultivator¡¯s vendetta, life or death is your own responsibility.¡± ¡°Do you have any right to say anything now that you¡¯re being ughtered since a group of you are hunting a single person, even sealing the city in the process? You bunch of old people are absolute jokes!¡± His taunting words enraged the Main Path Guild warriors. The Sword Guild warriors tried to hide their smiles. The news that Fang Lang was on a killing rampage in Linjiang City caught them all by surprise. It was astonishing that Fang Lang could carve out a bloody path for himself even when he was cornered by so many Main Path Guild disciples when it seemed like there was no way out. He did not choose to run away or hide. Instead, he attacked and ran amok on a killing spree! Many of the Sword Guild warriors were shocked but at the same time, they felt a burning fire raging within them! Even though the Sword Guild had fallen to thest position among the ten great sects, their disciples could not be bullied! They could vaguely glimpse the reflection of the peerless beauty that subdued all the sects in the Tang Dynasty, the First Sword Taihua in Fang Lang! They were both mightily domineering people who managed to single-handedly bring a sect to their knees! As soon as Wen Ting finished speaking, he turned to look towards the city. He wore an extremelyplicated expression. After a long time, he sighed. Back then, Fang Lang was an inexperienced youth swaying his steel sword around in the Luojiang Academy practice grounds. However... Fang Lang had chosen to walk on an extremely tough path paved with blood. Wen Ting wondered if he had influenced Fang Lang to pick the wrong path. Was this a good choice or was it a bad one for the youth? It was a shame that there was no turning back in all decisions in the world. Wen Ting could not alter the things that happened in the past. The only thing that he could do... was to help the youth clear the obstacles in his way. He flicked the rapier in his hand. The rapier hummed. Wen Ting¡¯s calm aura began to sink. In the distance, the expression of a Main Path Guild disciple faltered. He attempted to break the seal over the city walls but as soon as he started, Wen Ting sent out a de ray. The de ray descended from the sky and forced this Main Path Guild disciple back. ¡°Don¡¯t be in a rush to open it. Leave it sealed for now,¡± said Wen Ting calmly. ¡®Why did he have to open the seal? Did he not like the fact that the city was sealed? Wasn¡¯t the n to trap Fang Lang and capture him like shooting fish in a barrel? Well, they might as well continue on then!¡¯ thought Wen Ting. Wen Ting¡¯s actions triggered the Sword Guild warriors into action. Instant, powerful de energy filled the air. Outside the city, the roles were reversed. The Sword Guild warriors who wanted to break the seal over the city had begun to stop the Main Path Guild from releasing the seal. This change seemed extremelyical to some of the people there. The Main Path Guild warriors were unable to undo the rune because of the interference from the Sword Guild warriors. This was because the offensive force of the Sword Guild seemed to be more powerful all of a sudden! ... In the sky, a terrifying sh broke out. The clouds seemed to ripple violently in all directions as though it were a pond and a giant stone had been thrown into it! A gigantic hole seemed to be carved out of the sky at that moment! Chao Xiaojian soared in the skies. His white robes billowed around him as the green steel sword in his hand shattered into thousands of sword fragments, seemingly transforming into thousands of flight swords. They soared in the sky like a school of fish, packed densely in the sky. At a distance from him, the Main Path Guild sect leader, Zhao Longshi rode on his red-crowned crane, surrounded by floating runes as his robed billowed in the wind. At that moment, the two of them had stopped fighting. Zhao Longshi frowned and turned to face Linjiang City, looking as though he could see the sea of blood within the city walls. ¡°This brat has gone overboard!¡± Zhao Longshi drowned. The fact that so many of the Main Path Guild disciples had lost their lives would have a huge impact on the Main Path Guild. It might even affect the future fortune of the Main Path Guild. After all, young disciples were the foundation of the Main Path Guild. They were the future pirs of the sect. However, all the genius fourth-ss disciples, including An Fan, had been ughtered by Fang Lang. This was the end of an entire generation for the Main Path Guild! ¡°Even Xuanyuan Taihua was not this ruthless!¡± Zhao Longshi¡¯s expression was stony. He turned around, having no intentions of continuing to fight Chao Xiaojian. He needed to see the situation in Linjiang City. However, Chao Xiaojian did not let him leave. Even though Fang Lang¡¯s killing spree was out of his expectation. Chao Xiaojian was delighted by his actions. ¡°It¡¯s no wonder he¡¯s the disciple that Xuanyuan Taihua has acknowledged to have great potential!¡± Fang Lang¡¯s explosive temper delighted Chao Xiaojian! ¡°Zhao Longshi, let the young people engage in their fight. Why should an old fart like you meddle in their business?¡± Chao Xiaojian flicked his hand and the countless flight swords instantly sped through the air like a silver river! Zhao Longshi ignored him and cast a rune. It seemed like a mountain was moving towards Chao Xiaojian¡¯s sword river as Zhao Longshi continued to fly in the direction of Linjiang City. Chao Xiaojian had no choice since his brute force fell short whenpared to Zhao Longshi. However, Chao Xiaojian was extremely determined. Since he forced Chao Xiaojian into a corner, he cannot me Chao Xiaojian for putting up a desperate fight and giving his all. Even Fang Lang was striving with everything that he had. Hence, Chao Xiaojian could not embarrass himself. In the past, he earned the name of the White-Haired Sword Demon through his do-or-die efforts in defeating his foes! ... The Main Path Guild on Mount Tongtian. Zhao Taifeng frowned deeply as he absorbed spiritual energy from the Main Path Mausoleum unceasingly to replenish his exhausted supplies. His eyes seemed to span across time and space to see the scene happening within Linjiang City. Fang Lang¡¯s vicious actions caught him by surprise. Zhao Taifeng felt as though he could not let Fang Lang off the more he learned about him. This boy might be the second Xuanyuan Taihua. Perhaps this could be considered a good thing for the Tang Dynasty. However, it would be an absolute disaster for the Main Path Guild! All of a sudden, Zhao Taifeng turned to look up into the sky. His eyes narrowed when he noticed the ripple in the air. A terrifying aura rolled towards him. A person appeared among the clouds wearing steel armor that reflected the intense mes of the burning mountains. A frightful stench of blood filled the air. ¡°It¡¯s you...¡± Zhao Taifeng stared at the strapping man who appeared from behind the clouds with a frown. ¡°Ancestor Zhao, what do you think about joining forces?¡± said the tall and strapping man coolly. ... On the mountain roads, hundreds of miles away from Linjiang City, an old monk dressed in a cassock and holding a staff was traveling with a young monk who had a radish-shaped head. The mountain road beneath his feet was like an endless track. The old monk¡¯s face was covered in wrinkles. His cassock and monk robes billowed around him. ¡°Master, where are we headed to now that we¡¯re leaving the sect?¡± ¡°The day is approaching quickly when the All-Seeing Buddha Sect disciples will battle the geniuses of the demon and devil tribes in Lingshan Demon Portal. Why are you choosing to leave the sect instead of leading the battle?¡± The little monk raised his head, looking a little worried. The old monk turned to look at the young monk and said with a kind smile, ¡°The Lingshan Demon Portal guarded by the All-Seeing Buddha Sect is different from the other demon portals. The All-Seeing Buddha Sect valuespassion and does not kill. Hence, ten ninth-ss disciples will enter the demon realm and transform into buddhist pagoda to dispel the demon beasts in the demon portal. In this manner, we will create a buddhist domain and ensure peace in the area.¡± ¡°However, ten warriors of the demon tribe and the devil tribe have appeared and transformed into demon towers to confront our warriors. It¡¯s a move designed topete with us. It¡¯s also a method tomunicate between the two worlds.¡± ¡°The agreement was to hold a battle between the younger generation every ten years. If we win, one demon tower will retreat. However, if we lose, one of our buddhist pagodas will be withdrawn.¡± The old monk¡¯s words caused a solemn expression to appear on the young monk¡¯s face. ¡°That¡¯s right, master. This year¡¯s Battle of Pagodas is about to begin. Since you know, why are we here?¡± asked the young monk anxiously. The old monk smiled gently. He raised his head and ced his palms together in front of him, exhaling deeply. ¡°In the blink of an eye, 189 years have gone by. This year will be thest decade... the first 18 wins are split equally between both sides. At the moment, there is one buddhist pagoda left and also one demon tower.¡± ¡°Thisst battle is extremely important. If we win, the peace in Lingshan Demon Portal thatsted close to two centuries will continue. If we lose, the demon realm will surely herd the demon beasts that were dispelled by the buddhist pagoda back into the demon portal. If that happens, the All-Seeing Buddha Sect will not see peace.¡± ¡°There¡¯s a very important reason. This is thest buddhist pagoda and it can¡¯t retreat. Do you think that the younger generation of our All-Seeing Buddha Sect will be able to guarantee a win for thisst battle?¡± The light in the old monk¡¯s eyes seemed to deepen. The young monk instantly became unhappy. ¡°Master, are you looking down on me?¡± A corner of the old monk¡¯s lips curved upwards. He ced a hand on the young monk¡¯s head and said, ¡°This year, the demon tribe and the devil tribe have prepared thoroughly. Your fellow disciples who have been training hard in the demon realm have sent word that the demon tribe will send out the sacred maidens and the archdevils of the devil tribe...¡± The old monk¡¯s features slowly became serious. ¡°Within the All-Seeing Buddha Sect, your senior disciples who are cultivating hard in the demon realm have reported that the talents of the sacred maidens and the archdevils are terrifying. Their core is even more astonishing. ording to the Tang Dynasty core ssification, they possess the legendary divine core in the texts!¡± ¡°Do you think that you¡¯ll be alright if you go?¡± asked the old monk to the young monk. The young monk gaped and shook his head. The divine core!? Was there really the existence of a divine core in this world? ¡°Does that mean that you¡¯re heading to Linjiang City to give our only external assist position to An Fan of the Main Path Guild, master? I¡¯ve heard that An Fan is pretty powerful. Might he have the divine core?¡± asked the young monk with raised eyebrows. The old monk¡¯s wrinkled face creased into a deep smile as he raised his head to look in the direction of Linjiang City. He ced his palms together and softly said, ¡°We¡¯re not heading there for An Fan.¡± ¡°The person that we¡¯re heading to see is this year¡¯s champion, Fang Lang. I don¡¯t know what core Fang Lang has. However, he¡¯s Xuanyuan Taihua¡¯s disciple. That is enough.¡± The young monk was stunned. They were not going to seek out An Fan? Instead, they were going to look for Xuanyuan Taihua¡¯s disciple, Fang Lang? The young monk thought about the sword that was stuck in the All-Seeing Buddha Sect Pagoda and fell silent. If he was Xuanyuan Taihua¡¯s disciple, perhaps he couldpete with the sacred maidens and archdevils of the demon and devil tribes... However, the young monk still felt a little unconvinced. After all, Xuanyuan Taihua was Xuanyuan Taihua but her disciple was merely a disciple. Could Xuanyuan Taihua¡¯s disciple really be mentioned in the same breath as Xuanyuan Taihua? ... Linjiang City. The battle outside the city resumed once again. However, the roles of both sides were reversed. The Sword Guild warriors who were originally fighting to open the city gates chose to stop the Main Path Guild warriors from doing so. The battle between the two parties was intense as de rays and runes shed relentlessly, causing the roads outside the city to be pitted with holes. The turbulence spread into the city, striking fear in the hearts of the Linjiang inhabitants! However, the scene that was happening inside the city was even more fear-inducing! Fang Lang walked towards the walls of Linjiang City. All the fourth-ss Main Path Guild disciples were dead. The remaining third-ss realm disciples gathered together as they confronted Fang Lang. They continually retreated in the direction of the city gates. From a high vantage point, it looked as though Fang Lang was forcing several hundred third-realm Main Path Guild disciples to retreat. All the cultivators were scared witless. Even if the Main Path Guild disciples offered an exorbitant reward, the remaining cultivators were only filled with terrier when they thought about the cultivators that lost their lives in the restaurant. There was no ripple of strong emotions in Fang Lang¡¯s eyes. He walked slowly as his blood-stained robes billowed around him. He was a single person but he managed to cause hundreds of Main Path Guild disciples to dare not make any strange motions. They did not dare to make any seals, nor did they dare to shout loudly. They could only retreat continuously. Retreat until they arrived at the city gate where they could retreat no more. Since Fang Lang had killed so many fourth-ss Main Path Guild disciples, an invisible aura materialized around him. It was an aura that struck terror. Killing a single person makes one a sinner. Killing ten thousand makes one a hero! Even though Fang Lang has not killed ten thousand men, there was still an awe-inspiring aura around him. The Main Path Guild disciples that were forced to retreat to the city gates looked pale with terror. Among the crowd, some disciples called out loudly, ¡°Fang Lang! Linjiang City has been sealed by the warriors of the Main Path Guild. You won¡¯t be able to escape!¡± ¡°Are you really going to kill all of us? What difference is there between you and the demons if you do so?¡± Among the crowd, Li Yuanzhen was deathly pale. He did not know what to say and stared intently at Fang Lang. He saw Fang Lang stop in his tracks when he heard those words. A warm smile appeared on Fang Lang¡¯s face. This smile caused all Li Yuanzhen¡¯s hairs to stand on end as his skin erupted in goosebumps. ¡°He¡¯s really going to kill us! He¡¯ll actually do it!¡± Li Yuanzhen turned around and ran towards the city gates and started hammering the city gate. Fang Lang continued to walk towards the Main Path Guild disciples, maintaining a warm smile. With a sh of his figure, he charged into the crowd abruptly, making the most out of the 2x Endurance Card before the effects ran out. The Obsidian Sword swung as two gusts of sword intent surged into the air. Lightning streaks rolled out from Sword Thunder like a blue Lightning Dragon and wreaked havoc among the third-ss realm disciples, causing blood to spurt out all over! Fang Lang showed no mercy to any of the third-ss disciples who dared to fight back. He raised his sword against them. Under the sun, blood seemed to bloom like flowers on the ground. With each step that he took, Fang Lang also took a life. In ten steps, he killed ten people. The white robe on him was blood-red. However, his expression did not falter at all. Li Yuanzhen crouched on the ground in a daze. His body would not stop trembling. He seemed to forget how to cast any runes. The sound of footsteps walking over fresh blood rang out. Fang Lang held the Obsidian Sword at his side as he walked towards Li Yuanzhen, turning to look at him. There was no fight left in Li Yuanzhen¡¯s eyes. He raised his head to meet Fang Lang¡¯s gaze nkly. Fang Lang looked at him quietly. After a long time, a friendly smile appeared on his face. This smile was deeply imprinted in Li Yuanzhen¡¯s heart, like an evil devil that crept out of the depths of hell! Fang Lang gripped the Obsidian Sword and walked past Li Yuanzhen without killing him. Main Path Guild disciples were crouched all over the ground trembling in fear. Fang Lang did not ughter all of them. However, all these disciples havepletely lost their fighting spirit. The only thing they had left was the fathomless dark shadow that Fang Lang gave them! Fang Lang¡¯s hands were drenched in blood. He returned the Obsidian Sword into his scabbard. He stood below the city tower and raised his eyes to look at the city guards stations on the Linjiang City walls. ¡°Open the gates, please. Thank you in advance for your assistance.¡± Fang Lang smiled warmly as he greeted the city guard. On the city tower, a group of armored soldiers gulped nervously. They did not dare to go against his wishes and rushed to open the Linjiang City gates. Creak~ The city gates opened slowly. Sunlight shone down upon Fang Lang¡¯s blood-drenched figure. The ground beneath his feet and the ground behind him was a path of blood heaped with corpses. Outside the city, the fighting stopped. Runes hovered, sealing the city walls. Opening the city walls merely allowed the scene within the city to be seen by the warriors fighting outside. Everyone looked on in a daze, gaping their mouths. Somewhere in the forest a distance away, an old monk and a young monk seemed to have shrunk the earth to arrive here in an instant. When he saw Fang Lang standing at the city gates dressed in robes dripping with blood, the young monk could not stop himself from rubbing his bald head. He stammered, ¡°M-master... O-okay... you¡¯re right. Master, are we... really going to invite him?¡± The old monk¡¯s gaze deepened. His pupils reflected the tragic sight in Linjiang City that looked like hell¡¯s gates. He sighed and pressed his palms together. ¡°Amitabha. He¡¯s the one.¡± Chapter 152 - The Charm of Xuanyuan Taihua

Chapter 152: The Charm of Xuanyuan Taihua

Trantor: EndlessFantasy Trantion Editor: EndlessFantasy Trantion It waspletely silent both within the city walls and outside it. No one expected a bloody massacre to happen within the ancient city. The Main Path Guild went with all guns zing to hunt down Fang Lang in order to retrieve the Reincarnating Lotus Sword in his possession. They knew that if a warrior whose power was higher than the fourth-ss realm attacked, it would trigger Xuanyuan Taihua¡¯s will within the Reincarnating Lotus Sword and unleash the power of Xuanyuan Taihua¡¯s explosively powerful divine sense. The Main Path Guild knew a thing or two about Xuanyuan Taihua¡¯s power. The Main Path Guild was extremely clear about the sheer terror of the First Sword that has been unrivaled for the past 200 years. Hence, the Main Path Guild only sent disciples below the fourth-ss realm to hunt Fang Lang. Yet... everything was over. It was all over. All the fourth-ss realm disciples were dead. Fang Lang had ughtered all of them! Even An Fan, the strongest among all the lower fourth-ss disciples, died a wretched death after being beheaded by Fang Lang on the city street. Blood flooded the streets of Linjiang City, filling the city with a terrifying sense of danger. It seemed to have be a graveyard. There was pin-drop silence within Linjiang City. Disciple after disciple sat on the blood-drenched limestone path in a daze. They never expected things to turn out like that. Fang Lang single-handedly ughtered the Main Path Guild disciples! Li Yuanzhen and the other third-ss disciples sat mutely. Their eyes were filled with boundless horror and despair. Fang Lang ignored them and stood in front of the city gates. His white robes had be blood-red robes. Even his sleeves dripped with blood. It was not his desire to kill. Instead, these people insisted on seeking death. Fang Lang smiled wryly and looked into the distance to see the figures outside the city. He leaned against the Obsidian Sword, resting the sword tip against the ground and looked calmly into the meaningful scenery outside the city. Outside the city stood the upper fourth-ss realm warriors of the Main Path Guild. There were Main Path Guild elders, officials and many more. They had been fighting the Sword Guild, trying to prevent the Sword Guild warriors from entering the city. However, no one expected that Fang Lang wouldpletely ughter all the Main Path Guild disciples within the city. Was that what a... monster was like!? A chill spread across each Main Path Guild warrior, starting from the bottom of their feet. Wen Ting, Elder Ji and the other warriors smiled. They exchanged looks with Fang Lang and began to rx. Many of the Sword Guild warriors and disciples of the various pavilions looked on with a strange light in their eyes. They never expected that the new Sword Guild disciple would meet them in that manner. He had just advanced into the fourth-ss realm and killed hundreds of Main Path Guild disciples under the fourth-ss realm... That was extremely ruthless! ¡°Such insolence!¡± an angry roar rang out of the mouth of the Main Path Guild warriors. His deep roar sounded like the roar of a beast. Their bodies trembled. After all, many of those disciples were their kin. Yet, they have all been killed by Fang Lang! Mad man! Fang Lang was an absolute lunatic. That lunatic tried to wipe them out while he was still young and weak. When he is older, he would be the Main Path Guild¡¯s worst nightmare! Not to mention that the Main Path Guild and the Sword Guild were enemies. The rtionship between their two guilds would be difficult to reconcile. Hence, they must destroy the threat and kill him while he was still a young sapling. Countless figures tore through the skies to arrive at the city, looking extremely horrified where they stood in the air. It was Zhao Zhenshi and the other Main Path Guild elders that Huang Zhihe had been battling. They counted among the most powerful fighters of the Main Path Guild. Even though Huang Zhihe was extremely strong, he was still overpowered by them. ¡°By killing so many of our Main Path Guild disciples, he has cut off an entire generation! Bloodshed must be repaid with blood!¡± Zhao Zhenshi¡¯s eyes were extremely grim. The Main Path Guild was thoroughly humiliated. He should not have bothered with niceties for the sake of appearing polite and forbade Fang Lang from retrieving the Reincarnating Lotus Sword. Due to that, the Main Path Guild waspletely humiliated and so many of their disciples died horrible deaths! Chao Xiaojian and Zhao Longshi continued to fight intensely among the sea of clouds. They fought neck-and-neck. As a whole, the Sword Guild was not a match for the Main Path Guild in terms of power without Xuanyuan Taihua. However, Zhao Zhenshi was fearful of the Reincarnating Lotus Sword in Fang Lang¡¯s possession. If they triggered the will of Xuanyuan Taihua in the sword once again, they would be in deep trouble. ¡°Set off the Barricade Rune. Don¡¯t let that punk out of Linjiang City! We¡¯ll wait until our ancestor gets here!¡± Zhao Zhenshi and the many elders continued to confront Huang Zhihe. They wanted to defeat Huang Zhihe but have been unable to do so. Outside Linjiang City, the Main Path Guild warriors¡¯ expressions faltered slightly. After that, they followed Zhao Zhenshi¡¯s orders and stopped fighting the Sword Guild warriors. They no longer tried to open the Linjiang city gates. Instead, they swiftly cast runes and sent the runes out towards Linjiang City. Linjiang City was instantly enveloped in colorful lights. The curtain of lights descended like a brick wall and blocked the way in front of Linjiang City. Wen Ting, Elder Ji and the other Sword Guild warriors looked slightly caught off-guard. They quickly sent out de rays but they were closer to the Main Path Guild. Since the number of the Main Path Guild warriors was slightly superior, the many Main Path Guild warriors acted to stop them, vaporizing all their de rays. Linjiang City was still barricaded. Fang Lang, who had just arrived at the city gates, could sense the strength of the barricade. His eyes gradually grew cold. He raised his hand, lifting the Champion¡¯s de into the air. ¡°A barricade? There are still many Main Path Guild disciples inside the city. Are you nning to lock us up for a lifetime?¡± ¡°If you don¡¯t open the city gates... I will ughter all the Main Path Guild disciples in the city!¡± said Fang Lang coldly. Fang Lang had not killed Li Yuanzhen and the others because he was using them as hostages to threaten the Main Path Guild. With a flick of his fingers, Sword Thunder boomed out. A third-ss Main Path Guild disciple died instantly from Fang Lang¡¯s attack. The stench of blood filled the air. However, the Main Path Guild warriors outside the city did not move a muscle. They still did not choose to release the Barricade Rune. Inside the city, the eyes of Li Yuanzhen and the others began to look a little lost. They were filled with utter despair and sorrow. They... had been abandoned. They had be sacrifices for Fang Lang to kill as he pleased. Fang Lang frowned deeply. The Main Path Guild... was truly ruthless. They abandoned so many disciples as they pleased in order to keep Fang Lang locked up. The First Guild in the world was extremelyughable. However, the heartless nature of the Main Path Guild caused Fang Lang to rack his brains in order to figure out how to break the stalemate. The realm-transcending Zhao Taifeng of the Main Path Guild filled Fang Lang with fear. The mere existence of the transcendental realm... was too unfathomable. Just as Fang Lang was deep in thought about how to turn the situation around, the sound of a buddhist cry rang out from deep within the mountains. It sounded like an ancient bell was being struck. An auspicious light shone over thousands of miles! All the warriors of the Sword Guild and the Main Path Guild froze. They turned their heads towards the pair of monks, one old and the other young, walking towards them on the main road. The old monk had a kind face and friendly eyes. The young monk looked a little haughty. They both wore monk robes and walked in a steady, unrushed manner. However, the ground moved swiftly beneath their feet. Even Fang Lang, who stood at the city gates, was shocked by the sight. ¡°It¡¯s the warriors of the All-Seeing Buddha Sect!¡± ¡°I didn¡¯t expect that even the All-Seeing Buddha Sect would be here!¡± ¡°It¡¯s befitting of the Main Path Guild. They are so shameless tounch an attack with the All-Seeing Buddha Sect. This time Fang Lang will really struggle to escape.¡± ... All around Linjiang City, the cultivators secretly observing the situation were busy chattering away. The two monks that arrived were cultivators of the All-Seeing Buddha Sect. The All-Seeing Buddha Sect held the position of the third sect in the world. Their strength was second only to the Meridian Guild, while their foundation and history went a long way back. The expression on Wen Ting and the other Sword Guild warriors¡¯ faces did not change when they saw the two monks. In contrast, the Main Path Guild warriors all broke out in expressions of joy. The old monk and the young monk stood in the distance, pressing their palms together and making their way over. The old monk¡¯s eyes were fixed on Fang Lang. There was a hint of a smile and a strong sense of kindness in his eyes. He nodded his head slightly. His actions caught Fang Lang by surprise. After all, he was not a person who harbored good intentions towards Fang Lang. The expression of the Main Path Guild warriors faltered slightly when they saw the sight. Was it possible that the warriors of the All-Seeing Buddha sect were here to assist Fang Lang instead of the Main Path Guild? It needed to be known that the oue of the Main Path Guild today would likely be the oue for the All-Seeing Buddha Sect soon after. Fang Lang entered the Main Path Mausoleum to retrieve the Reincarnating Lotus Sword, sending the entire Main Path Guild into turmoil. That meant that when Fang Lang entered the All-Seeing Buddha Sect, he would be likely to retrieve the Circling Lotus Sword in the Secret Realm of the All-Seeing Buddha Sect and cause chaos to break out in the sect! Hence, they did not understand why the All-Seeing Buddha Sect would help Fang Lang. ¡°Amitabha.¡± The old monk of the All-Seeing Buddha Sect continued to walk ahead, quickly arriving before Linjiang City. He pressed his palms together and softly chanted. A terrifying vital energy was unleashed, suppressing the warriors on site so that they were unable to make any movements. He was a powerful warrior that could rival Chao Xiaojian! The foundation of the All-Seeing Buddha Sect was not weakerpared to the Main Path Guild. If the All-Seeing Buddha Sect trulypeted for power, there was no telling who the title of First Guild in the world would belong to. The old monk before them was not the abbot of the All-Seeing Buddha Sect, nor was he a warrior known to them. Even though they had never seen him before, his power was extremely terrifying and deeply immeasurable. All the Main Path Guild disciples paled. That was because the old monk ignored thempletely and continued walking ahead. He quickly arrived before the city walls. The Barricade Rune was like a stream before the old monk. As it flowed, the old monk¡¯s figure melded into the rune. Theplexion of everyone outside the city changed. They had no idea what the purpose of the old monk¡¯s appearance was. The old monk did not pay any heed to the gaze of the people there. He pressed his palms together and continued walking into the city until he arrived before Fang Lang. Fang Lang gripped the Reincarnating Lotus Sword. He was on high alert. ¡°Amitabha. Benefactor Fang. This is the first time we¡¯re meeting. I¡¯m from the All-Seeing Buddha Sect. I¡¯m here to invite you to the All-Seeing Buddha Sect to assist us in the Battle of Pagodas,¡± said the old monk with a smile. His voice was confined to the area within ten feet of Fang Lang. Hence, no one else could hear his words. Fang Lang was stunned. He turned to look back inside the city then nced at the old monk. ¡°What is the Battle of Pagodas?¡± asked Fang Lang. The old monk smiled and exined calmly, seemingly in no rush. He repeated his exnation to the young monk, describing their agreement with the demon and devil tribes as well as the Battle of Pagodas. ¡°So Senior, you¡¯re here to invite me to be the external assist of the All-Seeing Buddha Sect? To be the external assist in the fight with the geniuses of the demon and devil tribe?¡± Fang Lang narrowed his eyes. ¡°To participate in the Battle of Pagodas, one needs to be below the fourth-ss realm. If I¡¯m not mistaken, you should be here to invite An Fan from the Main Path Guild, right Senior?¡± There was not much change in the old monk¡¯s features. He merely smiled. ¡°An Fan is dead. Even though you have recently advanced to the fourth-ss realm, you were able to kill a top fourth-ss. Besides that... you¡¯re Xuanyuan Taihua¡¯s disciple. That alone is enough.¡± ¡°Xuanyuan Taihua left the Circling Lotus Sword in the All-Seeing Buddha Sect, waiting for the predestined person to retrieve it. Weren¡¯t you going to retrieve it, Benefactor Fang? If you help the All-Seeing Buddha Sectplete the Battle of Pagodas, no matter if we win or lose, you can take the sword as you please,¡± said the old monk calmly. ¡°Furthermore, aren¡¯t you in need of an excuse to get out since you¡¯re trapped here right now? I can take responsibility for the decision to take you away from Linjiang City.¡± ¡°The Main Path Guild has Zhao Taifeng. Since Xuanyuan Taihua has not returned, you and the Sword Guild are no match for them.¡± As Fang Lang heard his words, his eyes lit up. The old monk¡¯s offer was pretty attractive. Besides that, the old monk was right. The threat of Zhao Taifeng was extremely great. Who would dare to look down on a realm-transcending warrior? Fang Lang returned the Reincarnating Lotus sword to its scabbard. He pressed his palms together and bowed slightly. ¡°If you get me out of here, wouldn¡¯t that mean offending the Main Path Guild? Since Zhao Taifeng of the Main Path Guild is a realm-transcending warrior, is it really worth the All-Seeing Buddha Sect offending a realm-transcending warrior for the Battle of Pagodas?¡± asked Fang Lang. When the old monk heard his words, he could not help butugh heartily. ¡°With our history spanning several millennia, the foundation of the All-Seeing Buddha Sect isparable to the Main Path Guild. It is not only the Main Path Guild who has a transcendental realm warrior.¡± The old monk finished speaking and shook his head. ¡°Besides that, the Battle of Pagodas carries great meaning to the All-Seeing Buddha Sect... Zhao Taifeng is nothingpared to this.¡± The old monk¡¯s words caused Fang Lang to make a judgment of the All-Seeing Buddha Sect based on his senses. The All-Seeing Buddha Sect seemed differentpared to the Main Path Guild. They did not seem to carry a deep sense of enmity toward him, Xuanyuan Taihua¡¯s disciple, like the Main Path Guild. Fang Lang was curious to know what the rtionship between the All-Seeing Buddha Sect and Xuanyuan Taihua was like. Hence, Fang Lang asked directly. The old monk did not try to avoid Fang Lang¡¯s question and chose to answer. Since he was here to seek Fang Lang¡¯s help, he was not about to hide anything. That was because only when there was mutual trust would Fang Lang put his all in the Battle of Pagodas. ¡°When Xuanyuan Taihua entered the All-Seeing Buddha Sect all those years ago, she was different when she entered the Little Wuliang Mountain, unlike other outsiders who attempted to kill their way up the mountain. She visited the All-Seeing Sect to discuss buddhist concepts. There was no hostility.¡± ¡°First Sword Taihua is peerless. Her grasp and understanding towards cultivation are immensely deep. In fact, she even passed on many cultivation concepts in the All-Seeing Buddha Sect, influencing the younger disciples of our sect. Since then, First Sword Taihua left the Circling Lotus Sword there waiting for the destined person. The All-Seeing Buddha Sect never rejected it and have kept the sword until today.¡± ¡°It¡¯s a shame that First Sword Taihua has disappeared after entering the demon world. If it¡¯s possible, I would like to discuss scriptures with First Sword Taihua again.¡± The old monk wore a reminiscing expression and spoke with a tone full of regret. Fang Lang felt as though the old monk¡¯s expression was extremely simr to Old Huang, the cksmith. He could not help but smile. The charm of his master, Xuanyuan Taihua, was extremely strong. It was understandable that Old Huang had fallen for it. However, even someone from outside the sect had also fallen for her charms! Fang Lang rxed his guard. It seemed as though the old monk was a friend and not a foe. Of course, Fang Lang could not be sure if that was true or false. However, if he truly encountered danger, his master¡¯s divine sense would be released from the Reincarnating Lotus Sword in his hand. Besides, ording to the old monk, they need him for the Battle of Pagodas. Hence, Fang Lang felt as though he was safe. Fang Lang would need to go to the All-Seeing Buddha Sect sooner orter. He had already retrieved the Reincarnating Lotus Sword. He would need to retrieve the Circling Lotus Sword in the All-Seeing Buddha sect as well. Since that was the case, there were only benefits to be gained and no harm done to head to the All-Seeing Buddha Sect. Hence, Fang Lang felt emboldened. Instead of remaining trapped in Linjiang City, why not head over to the All-Seeing Buddha Sect for a visit? Once he decided, Fang Lang shook out his blood-red robes and smiled at the old monk, sping his hands and bowing slightly. ¡°Since that¡¯s the case, I am willing to contribute my strength in this Battle of Pagodas.¡± When the old monk heard his words, he instantly broke out in a wide grin. He pressed his palms together and nodded at Fang Lang. ¡°In that case, I extend my thanks to you, Benefactor Fang.¡± After that, the old monk turned around. His monk robes billowed like the petals of a lotus flower, untouched by dust. The old monk took a step out and the vital energy on his body surged like a violent wave. The rune was instantly destroyed, disappearing into thin air! His frightful power was like a Luohan stepping out! Fang Lang took a deep breath and stepped out behind the old monk. The Barricade Rune cast by the Main Path Guild warriors was destroyed by the aura of the old monk. Fang Lang followed behind him,pletely unobstructed! Chapter 153 - I, Fang Lang, Will Always Remember This City Blockade Gift

Chapter 153: I, Fang Lang, Will Always Remember This City Blockade Gift

Trantor: EndlessFantasy Trantion Editor: EndlessFantasy Trantion Mount Tongtian of the Main Path Guild. The Main Path Mausoleum. A strapping man in armor left through the skies with the power of an entire army, stirring the clouds and turning the skies blood-red. On the ancient stone steps of the Main Path Mausoleum, the old cultivator stood quietly. The old and tattered robes of his billowed with the breeze. Zhao Taifeng¡¯s eyes glittered. His conversation with the strapping man caused him to go deep in thought. At that moment, the situation in the Main Path Mausoleum changed. Strands of energy were stirring within it. As the energy rippled, it flowed into Zhao Taifeng¡¯s body like threads, causing his energy to recover. All the clouds around Mount Tongtian were surging. However, as his energy recovered to a certain stage, it stopped and did not continue to surge. The suppression of the Tang Code that floated above Changan City remained. He did not dare to risk it. In order words, he did not dare to gamble away his life which he struggled hard to preserve. The appearance of the armored general has caused Zhao Taifeng¡¯s heart to waver. He could be sure that a problem had happened with the Tang Code. However, he could not confirm if it would be a huge problem or not. He did not dare to assume. If he was the head of the operation, would he be the person in power? Hence, he dared not act. However, with the appearance of the armored general, it gave him the drive and opportunity. ¡°Xuanyuan Taihua...¡± ¡°The Tang Dynasty...¡± His eyes shone with light. Zhao Taifeng stood on the mountain peak, the winds causing his robes to flutter and wrap around his figure. All of a sudden, Zhao Taifeng¡¯s eyes became immeasurably deep. He seemed to see across the endless skies, through theyers of mist, into Linjiang City that was located hundreds of miles away. Huh? Zhao Taifeng¡¯s eyes narrowed when he saw the piles of corpses in Linjiang City and the rivers of blood flowing through its streets. Countless Main Path Guild disciples were injured or dead. Even though Zhao Taifeng did not know these disciples well, they were still disciples of the Main Path Guild. These disciples that have lost their lives were like a harsh p from Fang Lang on the face of the Main Path Guild. ¡°This kid... cannot be spared.¡± Zhao Taifeng recalled Fang Lang¡¯s sharp eyes. There was absolutely no trace of fear in his eyes even though he was facing a transcendental realm warrior. A feeling of threat for the future grew in his heart. ¡°The monks of the All-Seeing Buddha Sect...¡± Zhao Taifeng narrowed his eyes. In the next moment, he raised his hands brusquely. With a bend of his waist, his robes tighten abruptly like a rope that was being pulled. It loosened suddenly and the sound of an explosion broke through the air. After that, a wordless tablet within the Main Path Mausoleum made a roar that broke apart energy waves. It seemed to contain the power to move mountains as it headed in the directions of Linjiang City! ... Linjiang City. The battle outside the city had stopped. Everyone¡¯s gaze was focused on the scene happening within the city. That was especially true for the Main Path Guild warriors. They were all feeling extremely tense and were ready to cast runes at any moment. By contrast, the Sword Guild warriors were more rxed. Many of them let out a sigh of relief and wore smiles on their faces. That was because the appearance of the All-Seeing Buddha Sect was like a heavy bargaining chip, causing the power bnce to tip the other way. That old monk easily broke through the rune set by countless Main Path Guild seventh-ss and eight-ss spell masters. That feat was enough to prove the sheer power of the old monk. At the moment when the rune that barricaded Linjiang City was torn apart, a terrifying vital energy surged out of Linjiang City. That proved that the old monk was extremely powerful in martial arts. The monk of the All-Seeing Buddha Sect was not only proficient in spell mastery. He was also a martial arts cultivator with unparalleled vital energy. Buddhist martial arts was extremely well-known across the entire Tang Dynasty. Everyone¡¯s eyes were focused on the area in front of the Linjiang City gates. The old monk pressed his palms together. The vital energy on his body surged and it seemed to cause the area around him to change color. Fang Lang, in his bloody robes, quietly followed behind the old monk, taking step after step to leave Linjiang City. The heaps of dead bodies were everywhere within the city. Li Yuanzhen and the other disciples whose confidence had beenpletely crushed sat numbly on the ground and looked dazed as Fang Lang walked out of the city. Close to a thousand Main Path Guild disciples had surrounded Fang Lang. How did such aughable endinge to be? Fang Lang calmly followed behind the old monk. The old monk was extremely powerful. Fang Lang could sense it from the vital energy hovering in the air! The old monk invited him to participate in the Battle of Pagodas of the All-Seeing Buddha Sect. Fang Lang used the opportunity to take part in the battle to escape Linjiang City. If not, Fang Lang would have struggled toe up with a n to escape. Even though the Sword Guild was strong, before Xuanyuan Taihua returned, Chao Xiaojian was the only powerful warrior they had. That might not be enough to defeat the Main Path Guild, who had Zhao Taifeng¡¯s protection. Hence, participating in the Battle of Pagodas was a great escape opportunity. The light suddenly darkened. The aura on the old monk quietened down. A deathly silence descended over the area as everyone stared fixed at the old monk and Fang Lang walked out of the city. The Main Path Guild warriors looked extremely furious. ¡°What is the meaning of this!?¡± In the skies a distance away, Zhao Zhenshi blocked Huang Zhihe¡¯s attack and asked fiercely. The old monk smiled and pressed his palms together. ¡°I just wish to bring Benefactor Fang away. Benefactor Fang has an appointment with the All-Seeing Buddha Sect. We have a request for Benefactor Fang. Hence, our guild will guarantee Benefactor Fang¡¯s safety from now on,¡± said the old monk calmly. His voice was not loud but it had an undisputed authority. ¡°Has the All-Seeing Buddha Sect forgotten the humiliation caused by Xuanyuan Taihua?¡± Zhao Zhenshi looked extremely livid. Fang Lang was a cornered prey. He never expected that the All-Seeing Buddha Sect would suddenly appear. ¡°Amitabha... First Sword Taihua has only humiliated the Main Path Guild. Our All-Seeing Buddha Sect has no enmity with First Sword Taihua... In fact, our destinies are joined,¡± said the old monk. Behind him, Fang Lang rolled his eyes. ¡®Senior... You need to focus!¡¯ he thought. Fang Lang has truly experienced the charm of his master. Zhao Zhenshi¡¯s face was filled with embarrassment and anger. The old monk¡¯s words were not offensive but extremely humiliating. What did he mean by only the Main Path Guild was humiliated? Was the sword stuck in the All-Seeing Buddha Sect there for nothing? The old monk smiled and shook his head. ¡°Xuanyuan Taihua is a genius who managed to advance to the transcendental realm within 200 years of cultivation. The sword that she left behind is a treasure. The sword intent contained within it is a matchless treasure. It is the foundation of power inheritance.¡± ¡°If the disciples of our sect can gain an understanding of the true intent of transcendence, it would be a stroke of good luck and also a huge benefit.¡± ¡°So, did Benefactor Taihua leave behind a gift or a humiliation? Buddha tells us to be more open-minded,¡± continued the old monk. Fang Lang was stunned that Buddha said something like that. Zhao Zhenshi looked ashen. However, he did not want to continue arguing with the old monk. He was not a match for the All-Seeing Buddha Sect monk in debates. ¡°It does not matter. We must capture Fang Lang today! This kind has killed hundreds of Main Path Guild disciples. He¡¯s ughtered an entire generation of the Main Path Guild! This is an unforgivable offense!¡± ¡°Attack! Get him!¡± shouted Zhao Zhenshi fiercely! As soon as he finished speaking, the Main Path Guild warriors in front of the city doors shouted in unison. All of a sudden, a terrifying quake rang out. A stone tablet tore through the skies to appear before them. It was like a speedboat speeding over the ocean, sending gushing waves into the skies! Air was disced by a terrifying force that seemed like a mountain was crushing down from the sky! Everyone paled. In the sky, Chao Xiaojian, who was in a face-off with Zhao Longshi, suddenly frowned. He was surrounded by countless sword rays and with his cultivation realm, he could sense that Zhao Taifeng was responsible for that. Zhao Zhenshi, who was battling Huang Zhihe, looked extremely happy. The Sword Guild warriors in front of the city walls looked extremely grim and serious. Wen Ting gripped his rapier. He felt the suffocating sense of oppression that was contained within the stone tablet. A look of worry appeared on his face. The stone tablet flew through the air towards Fang Lang. It was like a huge mountain that was about to crush down upon him. The Reincarnating Lotus Sword in the scabbard on Fang Lang¡¯s back seemed to sense the threat and was quivering gently. However, the force on the stone tablet changed suddenly. It instantly transformed into a rune. The rune filled the sky and blotted out the sun. It looked like it was about to seal the entire world. The Five Phase Rune that the Main Path Guild was most skilled in had unlimited forms. At the moment, the Earth Phase was dominant. Naturally, it transformed into a mountainous world. It was a forbidden rune that was about to trap Fang Lang! Since the old monk stood very close to Fang Lang, he was also enveloped by the rune. The old monk, dressed in monk robes, pressed his palms together. His expression was calm, like still water in an ancient well. The sound of a buddhist chant rang out. Instantly the old monk stretched out a fist and threw a swift punch at the stone tablet crashing towards them! Every cell in his body vibrated as he threw his punch. Vital energy surged as golden lights shot into the clouds to transform into a Thousand-Armed Luohan behind him! His punch was like Luohan¡¯s punch as it crashed into the mountainous world! It was a sh between the top forces in the Tang Dynasty! At that moment, everyone went pale. Even Fang Lang was shocked. The old monk¡¯s power was terrifyingly strong! In the distance, the young monk who was left behind by the old monk was red-faced as he cheered, danced and punched his first into the sky! A single punch versus the stone tablet. Vital energy shing with divine sense! Zhao Taifeng¡¯s realm-transcending power was worn down by the old monk¡¯s vital energy. In the end, with a slight bend of his leg, the old monk drew a circle with his foot, holding the stone tablet as it crashed to the ground. The earth shook violently. It was like there was an earthquake. The stone tablet that was around four meters tall crashnded on the ground like it was diving into the earth. ¡°Amitabha. Benefactor Taifeng. Be merciful and forgive others wherever possible,¡± said the old monk with his hands pressed together. The vital energy on him was still like a withered tree. There was nothing exceptional about it. In that manner, this unimpressive-looking old monk managed to stop a transcendental realm blow. Hundreds of miles away. Mount Tongtian. The Main Path Mausoleum. Zhao Taifeng ced his hands behind his back. His eyes were dark. His vision leaped across hundreds of miles to see that old monk. That old monk was not a realm-transcending warrior but he managed to block his attack. There was no doubt that the All-Seeing Buddha Sect possessed a powerful foundation that rivaled the Main Path Guild. The old monk was only a hair¡¯s breadth away from achieving transcendence. He was about to ovee the obstacles of transcendence at any moment. Zhao Taifeng did not continue to attack since the old monk was protecting Fang Lang. If he offended a realm-transcending warrior of the All-Seeing Buddha Sect, it would not benefit the Main Path Guild in any way. He went on to think about the n of the armored man. Zhao Taifeng decided not to continue attacking in the end. ¡°Fang Lang...¡± ¡°To have killed so many disciples of my Main Path Guild. The retribution for today will surely be dealt with.¡± Zhao Taifeng stammered out. His voice rang out like a great bell, traversing hundreds of miles to reverberate in the skies above Linjiang City. In Zhao Taifeng¡¯s eyes, Fang Lang was weak and pitiful. He was merely a fourth-ss. Even if Fang Lang had many tricks under his sleeves, it did not amount to much in Zhao Taifeng¡¯s eyes. Even though Fang Lang¡¯s talent and natural ability were pretty decent, once he bes a transcendental realm warrior, the world... might have undergone a huge change before then. Fang Lang would not have the time to be a transcendental realm warrior. If he did not manage to transcend, he would be no match for Zhao Taifeng. Fang Lang¡¯s bloodied robes billowed around him. He revealed a mocking smile. ¡°I, Fang Lang, will always remember this gift of a city blockade. I will be sure to return the favor in kind with interest in the future,¡± said Fang Lang intently as he shook out his bloody robes. As Zhao Taifeng said, ¡°The retribution for today will be dealt with one day!¡± The old monk was like a withered tree. He stretched out his arm and ced it on Fang Lang¡¯s shoulder. ¡°Benefactor Fang, it¡¯s not good to dy. We should head off,¡± said the old monk. As soon as he spoke, many of the Main Path Guild warriors were about to stop them. However, the old monk brought Fang Lang with him as he transformed into a roaring enormous gold dragon. His vital energy surged in the air as it soared across the mountains like a fierce python! The strong winds gusted without ceasing, agitating plumes of rubble! The numerous Main Path Guild warriors did not dare to stop him and quickly stopped what they were doing. They were in shock. What was the cultivation level of the old monk!? He was extremely powerful. It seemed as though he was likely a peak ninth-ss and was just a hair¡¯s breadth away from the transcendental realm. No one dared to stop him. No one could stop him! In the skies, Zhao Zhenshi, who battled Huang Zhihe, was extremely frustrated. That happened under hismand. Yet now, so many disciples have lost their lives and even their most ster fourth-ss realm disciple, An Fan, was dead! Despite all that, Fang Lang still managed to escape unscathed! ¡°I can¡¯t let this kid leave like this. Ancestor, please do something!¡± Zhao Zhenshi was unwilling to ept the result. He shouted for Zhao Taifeng to act. However, Zhao Taifeng seemed to have some qualms and ignored him. The old monk appeared to have transformed into a real dragon as he soared over the road outside Linjiang City. He picked up the cheering young monk and disappeared over the horizon. Countless de rays descended. Chao Xiaojian soared in the skies while his white hair fluttered around him. His hands were behind his back and there seemed to be a single leaf on the tip of his toes. Zhao Longshi did not continue fighting Chao Xiaojian among the sea of clouds. He merely let out a long sigh. Even though ancestor Zhao Taifeng was a transcendental realm, hecked boldness. The longer he lived, the more he feared death. Since Fang Lang was allowed to escape, he would surely be a huge misfortune for the Main Path Guild waiting to happen. Huang Zhihe was panting like a dragon but he broke into a huge grin. The countless steel des behind him transformed into a sword hammer. Today was extremely fun! Even though Huang Zhihe never thought that the battle would end in that manner. He was caught by surprise when the All-Seeing Buddha Sect warriors came to save Fang Lang. Huang Zhihe connected the dots and recalled that Xuanyuan Taihua¡¯s Circling Lotus Sword was in the All-Seeing Buddha sect. It must be Xuanyuan Taihua¡¯s backup n! ¡°A genius move, befitting of Xuanyuan Taihua!¡¯ Huang Zhihe was extremely grateful. His eyes were filled with appreciation and madness. The Sword Guild warriors in front of the city walls let out a sigh of relief. Wen Ting, Elder Ji and the others gazed at Fang Lang disappearing into the distance and slowly exhaled. After that, the Sword Guild disciples stopped fighting and swiftly retreated. The battle would have ended with both guilds killing wantonly, resulting in the death of numerous disciples. Hence, the fact that the battle ended in that manner could be considered good news for the Sword Guild. Of course, the Main Path Guild was extremely outraged. As a result of the fight, all the Main Path Guild disciples that were of the fourth-ss realm and below have been wiped out. A whole generation was killed. That was a huge blow to their strength and vitality! Inside Linjiang City, themon folk looked around the city, hardly daring to make a sound. They would always remember the youth who yed a person every ten steps on their streets, causing his white robes to turn blood-red. Owner Wu and the others inside the Jade Pavilion stared at the youth who managed to break the stalemate and leave the city in shock. Owner Wu was relieved. She was relieved that they did not offend that youth. That youth walked out of the Jade Pavilion and threw out money extravagantly, destroying the restaurant and killing until blood flowed through the streets like a river. That scene was imprinted on their minds. ... Numerous homing pigeons flew swiftly out of the city, heading in all directions all over the Tang Dynasty. The news spread like wildfire. The raging fire continued to surge as it rolled out in all directions. Changan City was enveloped in falling snow. Snow was falling in the Royal City. The buildings were covered in a thickyer of white snow. There were pces within the rear pce where it was green all year round. A maid agily retrieved the message pouch tied around the homing pigeon¡¯s leg and took out the letter from within it. Inside the building, there was a figure behind the curtains. Empress Pei looked like a painting as she read the news within the letter. She was surprised. When Jiang Linglong, who was quietly sitting to the side, heard the news from the maid, she could not help but gasp. ¡°That kid... he¡¯s really exceeded expectations by managing to escape after being cornered by the Main Path Guild. I was actually nning on sending Pei Liao to save him.¡± Empress Pei took a sip of hot tea and said that with a smile. Every smile and expression of hers was filled with charm. The fifth princess by her side smiled sweetly. ¡°He¡¯s truly a surprising little fellow.¡± Jiang Linglong felt a huge weight crushing her heart disappear. She instantly felt a lot more rxed. Empress Pei nced at her and said with a smile, ¡°Does that mean that you¡¯ll be able to learn sword intent in peace now?¡± ¡°Your heart needs to be calm and undisturbed to better grasp sword intent... Ling¡¯er, Fang Lang has already advanced to the fourth-ss, sword-intent realm. If you don¡¯t work harder, you¡¯re going to be left behind.¡± When Jiang Linglong heard her words, she instantly stood up. She was a little anxious and stressed. ¡°I understand. I¡¯ve already mastered the essence of the Four Seasons sword intent. I will definitely be able to sessfully master it over the next day or two.¡± ¡°Aunt, will Fang Lang be in danger now that he¡¯s going to the All-Seeing Buddha Sect? I¡¯ve heard that sect leader Taihua previously defeated the All-Seeing Buddha Sect with one attack. Will the All-Seeing Buddha Sect harm Fang Lang?¡± asked Jiang Linglong, porting out the worries of her heart. Empress Pei did not get the chance to answer when the fifth princess said with augh, ¡°You can rx, Ling-er. If I¡¯m not mistaken, Master Ci Yue of the All-Seeing Buddha Sect personally brought Fang Lang to the sect because the Battle of Pagodas is about to start. Fang Lang should be participating in the Battle of Pagodas as one of the external assists.¡± ¡°The Battle of Pagodas?¡± Jiang Linglong felt as though she might have heard about this before but she did not truly know what it was about. ¡°The Battle of Pagodas is an agreement between the All-Seeing Buddha, the devil tribe and the demon tribe in the demon realm. The battle will be between the younger generation who are of the fourth-ss and below. The result of the battle will determine the movements of the pagodas.¡± ¡°This battle is extremely important for the peace of the All-Seeing Buddha Sect region that spans over 10,000 miles.¡± ¡°Fang Lang has killed An Fan, so the external assist position would naturally go to Fang Lang.¡± The fifth princess knew a lot about secret ounts such as this. ¡°It¡¯s a pretty good training opportunity to battle the geniuses of the demon world. It¡¯s an opportunity that mostmon people would never get.¡± ¡°This year¡¯s Battle of Pagodas is unique because the rumor is that the sacred maidens of the demon tribe and the archdevils of the devil tribe will be taking part. The All-Seeing Buddha Sect¡¯s chances of winning this Battle of Pagodas were already slim. Even with Fang Lang as their external assist, it might not be enough.¡± ¡°The sacred maidens and the archdevils all possess divine cores. They¡¯re more gifted than Xuanyaun Taihua in her youth. If Fang Lang goes up against them, the odds of victory are extremely slim.¡± ¡°With regards to his safety, there¡¯s no need to worry about that. The All-Seeing Buddha Sect is protected by a top realm-transcending warrior. Even if they lost the Battle of Pagodas, they would be able to retreat safely.¡± The fifth princess¡¯s words helped Jiang Linglong understand the situation. She nodded but felt as though the pressure on her heart had increased. This was because after Fang Lang goes through the Battle of Pagodas, he would surely be more powerful. In that case, she was going to bepletely surpassed by Fang Lang. Without her realizing, the gap between her ability and Fang Lang had increased. Jiang Linglong swiftly got up, said her goodbyes then continued to train hard. Empress Pei and the fifth princess exchanged looks. They could not help but share a smile. Chapter 154 - The Sacred Maiden and the Archdevil

Chapter 154: The Sacred Maiden and the Archdevil

Trantor: EndlessFantasy Trantion Editor: EndlessFantasy Trantion Fang Lang was being carried by the old monk. All he could feel was the air around him moving at lightning speeds. There seemed to be countless lights and shadows flying past him at high speeds. Traveling at that speed was an unprecedented horror. It was faster than even Chao Xiaojian¡¯s flight sword. Fang Lang understood that the old monk was much more powerful than Chao Xiaojian. After all, this old monk managed to easily block the long-range killing attack from Zhao Taifeng! He was not a transcendental realm warrior but he could block the attack of a transcendental realm warrior. He must be a warrior that belonged to the ninth-ss realm. Fang Lang was filled with awe and respect in the presence of a warrior like this. The old monk¡¯s speed never faltered. Even while carrying a passenger, he could maintain this divine feat of making the earth seem to shrink into inches. His might was unfathomable. The winds around them howled, sounding as sharp and shrill as a steel saber. Fang Lang could not help but quiet down. Fang Lang was not too worried about the old monk turning against him. After all, he had the Reincarnating Lotus Sword and the Blooming Lotus Swords on him with Xuanyuan Taihua¡¯s divine sense hidden within them. If the old monk tried to harm him, his power would definitely trigger a reaction from the swords. So, before the Battle of Pagodas mentioned by the old monk was over, Fang Lang should be safe. As Fang Lang¡¯s eyes narrowed, many thoughts went past his mind. The old monk carried Fang Lang and the young monk without stopping to rest. He was like a gold dragon streaking across the mountains at awe-inspiring speeds. ... The All-Seeing Buddha Sect. The third sect in the Tang Dynasty! It was also one of the rare true Buddhist sects that spread buddhist teachings, built the physique through harsh training. A huge number of senior monks were trained in both spell mastery and martial arts. This was a sect with a history that went back thousands of years. Its foundation and teachings could rival the Main Path Guild. It had even surpassed the Main Path Guild in ranking in the past. The ruling dynasty has changed hands multiple times. However, the All-Seeing Buddha Sect remained the same. It never wavered and was like a firm mountain, nor did it undergo much change. The All-Seeing Buddha Sect did not engage in worldly strife. Even when the dynasties changed, the sect would heed the orders of the new dynasty without much opposition or struggle. Hence, the All-Seeing Buddha Sect has been able to endure for so long. The All-Seeing Buddha Sect was located in the Southern Sea. Multiple inds rose among the waves, surrounded by mist. On top of the indy a temple. This strange scene was like a fairy realm, causing anyone who saw it to exim in praise. The All-Seeing Buddha Sect is also known as the Southern Sea Buddhist Sect because it was located in the vast Southern Sea. A gust of cool breeze surged. The old monk carried Fang Lang and the young monk from the maind and rushed straight into the vast ocean as soon as they arrived at the edge of the Southern Sea. The old man¡¯s vital energy surged among the huge waves as he crossed the ocean. Fang Lang and the young monk quietly followed behind him, carried along by his aura as they tread on the waves. In no time at all, all three of them arrived at the All-Seeing Buddha domain. Fang Lang swept his gaze around the area and noticed that there were ancient temples on each of the inds. Fang Lang finally noticed a lofty mountain peak on one of the inds. This mountain peak was the main summit of the All-Seeing Buddha Sect, Little Wuliang Mountain. The mountain has been excavated several times and there appeared to be arge statue of Buddha carved into the mountain face high in the sky. This feat, this foundation... It was all slowlypiled and umted over time. The old monk brought Fang Lang and the young monk to the ind at the foot of therge buddha. As they arrived on the ind, Fang Lang noticed numerous warrior monks dressed in monk robes standing guard. These were the monks of the All-Seeing Buddha Sect. There were upper fourth-ss realm and lower fourth-ss realm disciples among the warrior monks. Boundless vital energy interweaved and almost seemed to turn the skies blood-red. Among the crowd, an old monk with a kind face stood, dressed in gold monk robes. He withdrew his vital energy and seemed to meld with the earth to form one body. ¡°Brother abbot, I¡¯ve brought our guest,¡± said the old monk that brought Fang Lang to the All-Seeing Buddha Sect after he recited the buddhist chant and pressed his palms together. The old monk dressed in gold monk robes smiled and nodded. ¡°Brother Ci Yue, thank you for your troubles.¡± ¡°This is First Sword Taihua¡¯s disciple, Fang Lang. In Linjiang City, he single-handedly killed An Fan, the top lower fourth-ss disciple of the Main Path Guild. Hence, I¡¯ve brought him to participate in the Battle of Pagodas,¡± said the old monk Ci Yue. The abbot of the All-Seeing Buddha Sect merely smiled and nodded as though this was not a surprise to him. The abbot looked towards Fang Lang and nodded his head. ¡°Benefactor Fang, we hope for your help in this year¡¯s Battle of the Pagodas.¡± Fang Lang pressed his palms together and greeted him in return. ¡°I will do my best in this battle.¡± The surrounding warrior monks looked at Fang Lang curiously. After that, Master Ci Yue and the abbot asked the young monk to show Fang Lang around the All-Seeing Buddha Sect then bring him to his room so that he can rest. Fang Lang had fought his way out of the Main Path Guild, then found himself surrounded by enemies in Linjiang City as well and was forced to continue fighting. He had not rested in a long time. Hence, he should take this opportunity to get some good rest. The young monk led Fang Lang through the mountain gates. Everything seemed extremely calm and peaceful within the sect. ¡°The Battle of Pagodas... is the most important event for the All-Seeing Buddha Sect. It allows us to maintain peace without shedding blood which had always been the guiding principle of our sect,¡± said the young monk as he walked. He described some of the sights on the ind while also telling Fang Lang about the Battle of Pagodas. Fang Lang was extremely curious and could not help but ask, ¡°How... how was the Battle of Pagodas fought?¡± The young monk smiled so happily that his eyes narrowed into slits. He exined, ¡°The Battle of Pagodas is split into three battles.¡± ¡°Three of the geniuses of the younger generation of the All-Seeing Buddha Sect will go up against three of the geniuses of the demon and devil tribe. Two geniuses wille from the demon tribe and one from the devil tribe.¡± ¡°The only way to keep our pagoda is by winning. Winning is the only way to maintain peace.¡± ¡°If we lose in the Battle of Pagodas, the demon realm will no longer keep their promise and will definitely send their armies to invade and attack.¡± ¡°The All-Seeing Buddha Sect is not weak but as soon as war breaks out, the infiltration of the demon portal energy will definitely affect themon people living in the surrounding area of the All-Seeing Buddha Sect...¡± said the young monk. The young monk turned to look at Fang Lang with a serious and intent look in his eyes and pleaded for Fang Lang to strive with all his might in the Battle of Pagodas. Fang Lang smiled and answered confidently, exaggerating his abilities. The young monk showed Fang Lang to his room. After he said his goodbyes, the young monk rushed to leave. Fang Lang sat cross-legged in the room and entered the cultivation state. He switched into binding partner mode and phantoms appeared around him. The System was still upgrading. However, that would not affect the functions of the various parts. Fang Lang¡¯s cultivation speed increased drastically in the binding partner mode. Fang Lang treated the Battle of Pagodas with utmost seriousness. ording to his agreement with the old monk Ci Yue, he needed toplete the Battle of Pagodas before the All-Seeing Buddha Sect would give him the opportunity to retrieve the sword. Hence, it would be best if they won the Battle of Pagodas. Fang Lang would be too embarrassed to retrieve the sword if they lost. Hence, Fang Lang had no other option but to give it his all in the Battle of Pagodas. His cultivation recently advanced into the fourth-ss realm belonging to the ten thousand sword intent of the ten thousand de skill. He also possessed the time sword intent that was passed on to him by his master. They were both top-level sword intents which allowed Fang Lang¡¯s power to increase by leaps and bounds. Even though he had just advanced to the fourth-ss realm, in a real fight, he would be no weaker than some of the fourth-ss sword intent realm warriors that were of the fifth or sixth-grade. Besides that, Fang Lang also had the inventory card that could boost his abilities. Hence, Fang Lang was confident about the Battle of Pagodas. He sat cross-legged and took out a spirit crystal. A stack of spirit crystals sat around him. As he absorbed the spiritual energy within the crystals, the spirit crystal would turn into trash and be tossed aside, lying scattered all over the ground. For the next five consecutive days, Fang Lang spent his time in the All-Seeing Buddha Sect in Closed Door Meditation. He quickly advanced from first-grade sword intent realm into the second-grade. He used up much of the cultivation resources provided by the System. Fang Lang had initially nned to bind the young monk, Fa Jiao. After all, the young monk should be pretty strong since he could represent the All-Seeing Buddha Sect in the Battle of Pagodas. It was a shame that since the System was in the process of upgrading, he was unable to bind a new genius partner. ... The sky was bright as the sun rose from the horizon of the sea. The brilliant rays of the sun tore through the thick cloudyers and shone down upon the ind. Fang Lang opened his eyes. His entire body creaked as he moved. His spiritual sense surged and as it rippled, a gentle breeze stirred. Fang Lang was a fourth-ss sword disciple, a third-ss ninth-grade spell disciple and his martial arts mastery was formidable. Fang Lang stood up and moved within the room. Vital energy surged throughout his body as he practiced sword techniques. The young monk Fa Jiao was extremely motivated. He clenched his fists as his eyes shone brightly. Fang Lang was dressed in white robes with his scabbard on his back. He tightened his waistband and stroked the space ring on his hand. He smiled and said, ¡°We will definitely win.¡± The All-Seeing Buddha Sect was extremely calm and peaceful. Over the past few days, Fang Lang finally experienced what peace was. When he was on a killing rampage in Linjiang City, Fang Lang felt as though a fog of blood was enveloping his mind. However, thest few days of peace and quiet in the All-Seeing Buddha Sect washed away much of the rage and killing intent within Fang Lang¡¯s heart. He exhaled deeply. Fang Lang then began to eat the steamed bun that Fa Jiao brought him as he walked out of the little courtyard that he had spent five full days cleansing the impurities from his heart. He quickly arrived at the All-Seeing Buddha Sect practice grounds. Master Ci Yue stood quietly on the practice grounds. He wore a kind expression as the sun shone down on him. ¡°Benefactor Fang, how has your rest been over the past few days?¡± asked Master Ci Yue with a smile as he looked towards Fang Lang. Fang Lang sped his hands together and bowed his head. ¡°The All-Seeing Buddha Sect is truly an ancient temple with a strong and deep foundation. Over the past five days, my heart and mind have calmed down. I feel at peace inside. My body and mind have been purified and my heart is like a clear mirror.¡± Master Ci Yue¡¯s smile deepened. Fang Lang¡¯s words were extremely pleasing to the ear, even more sopared to Xuanyuan Taihua. However, Master Ci Yue quickly became serious. ¡°We hope that we can rely on you in the uing Battle of Pagodas, Benefactor Fang.¡± Fang Lang waited on the practice grounds for a moment before another warrior monk finally arrived. This warrior monk was tall and strapping. His body was covered in huge muscles and his aura was powerful. He was also a fourth-ss but the oppressive feeling that he radiated was extremely strong. The warrior monk was called Fa He. He was from the same generation as Fa Jiao. However, he did not merely train in martial arts, Fa He also trained his spiritual sense. Fa He was a pure warrior monk trained in the All-Seeing Buddha martial arts. He focused on cultivating his vital energy and strength. Master Ci Yue brought the three of them out from the practice grounds towards the center of the mountain. This was a mountain that had taken countless years to develop. There were numerous buddhist cave sights to behold and buddha statues that have been carved with various forms and expressions that appeared extremely lifelike. It gave one a deep sense of profoundness. This demon portal was different from all the other demon portals that floated in the sky. The All-Seeing Buddha Sect demon portal was at the peak of Little Wuliang Mountain. It was located at the heart of the huge Buddha. The All-Seeing Buddha Sect had set the demon portal at the heart of the entire sect. If they lost control of the demon portal, the first ce that would be attacked would be the All-Seeing Buddha Sect. Perhaps this was in ordance with the buddhist teachings, ¡®If I do not enter hell, who will enter hell¡¯. Master Ci Yue led Fang Lang and the others up an endless flight of ancient stone steps to arrive at the entrance of the demon portal. Warrior monks stood guard at the demon portal entrance along with numerous ancient monks with an incredibly powerful aura. Since these old monks were residing over the area, the oppressive power radiating from within the demon portal lessened significantly. Master Ci Yue bowed towards the old monks and sped his hand together in greeting. When the warrior monks received their orders, they swiftly stretched out their palms and mmed it on the door. The tightly shut door slowly opened. ¡°Benefactor Fang, please go ahead,¡± said Master Ci Yue with a smile. Fang Lang, Fa Jiao and Fa He did not hesitate and stepped through the door. Beyond the demon portal entrancey the space of the demon portal. Despite this, Master Ci Yue did not stop walking. Instead, he continued to lead Fang Lang and the others into the depths of the demon portal. There were cracks between the earth. The shing forces between the two worlds collided and mmed against each other relentlessly. Fang Lang¡¯s eyes froze. Was the n to advance towards the demon world? As soon as they entered the demon world, it would be dangerous beyond measure. A powerful oppressive force suddenly descended upon them. It was the oppressive force of the two worlds. This oppressive force was extremely unbearable for third-ss realm cultivators. However, Fang Lang was now a fourth-ss cultivator. Even though he could feel the oppressive force, it did not affect him greatly. Fang Lang felt a ripple of emotion inside him. After all, this was his first time entering the demon realm, stepping into a different world. Boom! Master Ci Yue released a grueling amount of vital energy, wrapping it around Fang Lang and the others and entering the world behind the crack, entering a different world! ... The demon world. The moon was blood-red. It looked like two parallel spacetimes in direct contact. They flew out of the crack in space. Fang Lang immediately began to assess his surroundings. He was surrounded by a vast ocean. The ocean was covered in ripples which grew to be huge waves. A gentle breeze blew past continuously, carrying a salty fish stench with it. There was not much difference between this sea and the seas in the Tang Dynasty. The only difference might be the blood-red moon in the sky, which appeared weird and strange. Master Ci Yue brought Fang Lang, Fa Jiao and Fa He tond upon an ind. There was a gold buddhist pagoda on top of the floating ind. It glowed with a brilliant golden light that extended across hundreds and thousands of meters, tearing through the blood-red moonlight and the fog that rose from the ocean. ¡°This is thest buddhist pagoda of the All-Seeing Buddha Sect in the demon world.¡± Master Ci Yue¡¯s eyes were deep and filled with aplicated light. ¡°If we lose in this Battle of Pagodas, this buddhist pagoda will topple and the demon world warriors will be able to invade the world behind the All-Seeing Buddha Sect with no qualms, bringing harm and threat to the people living within a 10,000 mile radius of the area.¡± Master Ci Yue sighed. On top of the ind, warrior monks stood guard. They were all warriors of the fourth-ss realm and above. Their vital energy was linked together and each of them wore an expression of utmost seriousness. Fang Lang raised his eyes and could see an astoundingly gigantic sea beast in the distance galloping towards them, causing massive waves that reached as high as several hundred meters! It was a humongous demon beast that looked like a giant turtle. A terrifying demonic energy hung in the air. It felt as though it was about to raise a storm! ¡°The warriors of the demon and devil tribes are here,¡± said Master Ci Yue solemnly. Fang Lang focused his eyes on them and could see that warriors were standing on top of the demon beast that looked like it was carrying a mountain on its back. ¡°The demon tribe and the devil tribe... are the two biggest tribes of the demon world. They control the voice of the demon world and there is no one above them,¡± said Master Ci Yue. ¡°Fortunately, the demon and devil tribes have been reasonable. They¡¯ve not tried to cheat. The sh between the Tang Dynasty and the demon worldpletely stems from the hostility between the two worlds. ¡°The true danger is actually a tribe of demon beasts within the demon portal at the barrier between the two worlds who have disordered ideas and are iparably vicious and violent.¡± Master Ci Yue exined a lot to Fang Lang. Fang Lang seemed to be deep in thought. In the gap between his words, the warriors of the mountain-like back of the demon beast floated over. There was a tall jet-ck tower on the back of the demon beast. It was the demon tower that would oppose the buddhist pagoda. There was only one demon tower left and only one buddhist pagoda left. ¡°You old donkey, Ci Yue. We¡¯ve battled for hundreds of years. Today... let¡¯se to an understanding.¡± ¡°Our demon realm values rules. ording to the rules, if you lose, the buddhist pagoda will self-destruct and our kind will invade the All-Seeing Buddha Sect...¡± ¡°However, if we lose, we can never invade the Tang Dynasty through the All-Seeing Buddha domain,¡± said an old man with a smile as he stood on the back of the giant demon beast. His voice was loud and rang across the realm. It even suppressed the waves and caused them to settle down. Master Ci Yue pressed his palms together and merely smiled in response. ¡°Hahaha! You¡¯re going to lose for sure this year! The sacred maiden of the demon tribe is personally taking part in the battle. You¡¯re definitely going to lose!¡± ¡°Besides that, the devil of the devil tribe is willing to help the demon tribe in this battle. You group of donkeys might as well wait for death to strike!¡± The old man on the back of the giant beastughed jubntly. However, Ci Yue was not angered. He wore a gentle smile and said, ¡°Amitabha. What a coincidence... I¡¯ve invited Xuanyuan Taihua¡¯s personal disciple to help us in this year¡¯s battle.¡± As soon as Ci Yue spoke, the smile on the old man¡¯s face instantly froze. The aura of all the warriors of the demon world instantly trembled. Was that a joke!? Xuanyuan Taihua¡¯s personal disciple!? What the hell was going on!? When the old man recalled the true terror of Xuanyuan Taihua, the arrogance on his features instantly disappeared and was reced by an extremely grim expression. The All-Seeing Buddha Sect was taking this seriously. They actually invited Xuanyuan Taihua¡¯s disciple! However, the old man swept a nce over them and instantly noticed Fang Lang, who was standing beside the two monks. Since Fang Lang was not a monk, he was quite noticeable among a group of monks. As soon as he saw him, the old man was stunned. A momentter, the old man burst intoughter. ¡°He¡¯s just entered the fourth-ss realm!? So what if he¡¯s Xuanyuan Taihua¡¯s disciple since he¡¯s just advanced to the fourth-ss? What can he change?¡± Beside the old man, a sharp-eared, veiled girl with a graceful demeanor stood. Her blue eyes gazed downwards from the back of the giant beast. When she heard about Xuanyuan Taihua¡¯s disciple, her eyes were filled with curiosity and fighting spirit. She was a sacred maiden of the demon tribe. To the other side, there was a tall guy dressed in ck armor. His hair billowed around him as he overlooked the situation. He was an archdevil of the devil tribe. The two of them focused their attention on Fang Lang. Fang Lang seemed to sense their gaze on him and looked up to respond in kind. Their gaze shed in the sky. At the exact moment that their eyes met, the voice of the System prompt rang out in Fang Lang¡¯s mind. ¡®Ding. System upgrade isplete.¡¯ Chapter 155 - Naturally the Trump Card Appears at the Very End

Chapter 155: Naturally the Trump Card Appears at the Very End

Trantor: EndlessFantasy Trantion Editor: EndlessFantasy Trantion When Fang Lang heard the sound of the System prompt in his consciousness, he waspletely stunned. The long-unheard prompt filled Fang Lang with great joy. The System upgrade had taken a long time and it was finallyplete! This was extremely great news for Fang Lang that the System function waspletely restored right as he was about to face the top geniuses of the demon world. Even though he could continue to use the System while it was being upgraded, he was unable to bind to a new partner. Now that the System was fully restored, it meant that he would be able to do so. After all, at that moment, Fang Lang would be fighting the sacred maiden and the archdevil of the demon and devil tribes. What did that mean? That meant that the two top geniuses had appearedpletely unguarded before him. If he could bind to these two geniuses, it would be a huge bounty for Fang Lang. Hence, Fang Lang was overjoyed. Of course, Fang Lang was also curious to know what had been upgraded through the System upgrade. As his mind focused, the long-awaited System control panel appeared. ... Host: Fang Lang Cultivation Discipline: Second-grade, sword-intent (fourth-ss) Level: Level 8 Experience: 0/1,000,000 Core: 36 (White) Modified Core: 66 (Purple) Cultivation Resource: 100 high-grade spirit crystals (use restricted to cultivation events) Inventory: Two Grade-Rush Card Fragment, Two 5X Amplification Card, Two Enlightenment Card, Two Enchantment Card Equipment: Instant Casting Staff Binding Partner: Ni Wen, Jiang Linglong, Liu Bubai, Wen Ting, Wei Sheng... Sole Active Ability: Able to share 80% of the binding partner¡¯s cultivation, ability etc. The power can be stacked. Sole Passive Ability: Able to receive rewards whenpleting activities rted to cultivation. [Upgrade notification: This System upgrade has activated the new Sole Active Ability.] ... Fang Lang¡¯s eyes focused on the System panel and nced across it non-stop. Not much had changed on the System panel. The only difference was the added Active Function. This function was extremely shocking! To Fang Lang, the upgrade of the Active Function far exceeded his expectations and imagination. He could share the cultivation inspiration and cultivation speed of his binding partner. He could also superimpose. Even though the cultivation level of his precious binding partners such as Ni Wen was not considered too powerful, with Fang Lang¡¯s current level, if he could superimpose all the binding geniuses¡¯ cultivation, the power and fighting ability that he could unleash would be astounding. In other words, the System upgrade would definitely allow Fang Lang¡¯s power to increase in leaps and bounds! Fang Lang nned to continue studying the System. However, he quickly focused his senses. He widened his eyes and looked into the distance. His eyes met the gaze of the two figures in the distance. It was like there was an invisible smoke hanging in the air. The sacred maiden of the demon tribe and the archdevil of the devil tribe... Fang Lang previously heard their names when Master Ci Yue invited him to participate in the battle. Master Ci Yue was extremely fearful of them and even said that there was no one in the Tang Dynasty who was a match for these two. In fact, Master Ci Yue did not have high hopes for even Fang Lang against them. Master Ci Yue could see that Fang Lang¡¯s innate talent and power were decent. It was a shame that his cultivation was too weak. He had just advanced to the fourth-ss. Even if he could advance grades through battle, it would not give him any advantage against the sacred maiden and the archdevil who possessed the divine core ability. The atmosphere was thick and strong. The warriors of the demon world thought that this year¡¯s Battle of the Pagodas would be a guaranteed win since they had invited the sacred maiden and the archdevil to take part. However, now that Master Ci Yue has also invited Xuanyuan Taihua¡¯s disciple to help, the situation has changed. Xuanyuan Taihua was a woman whose name could stir changes in the wind as soon as it was mentioned. With her innate ability, she was able to ascend to the transcendental realm in a mere 200 years. Besides that, she single-handedly entered the demon world and managed to ughter the devil king and the demon king! Hence, the mention of Xuanyuan Taihua¡¯s disciple was enough to gain the attention of the demon world warriors. The ocean waves continued to crash over the shores. The giant turtle-like demon beast swam over, causing huge waves that seemed to shroud the skies. The demon world warriors stood on top of the vast ocean. Demonic energy hovered around the demon tower on the back of the turtle-like demon beast. The demon beast floated unsteadily within the vast ocean, unable to press ahead. It stayed a fixed distance away from the buddhist pagoda as though by prior agreement, nevering into contact. The handsome face of the archdevil dressed in ck armor seemed to be filled with curiosity as he focused on Fang Lang. The veiled sacred maiden dressed in a long dress with two pointy ears was also staring intently at Fang Lang. There was a huge difference in the color of their eyespared to humans. As the three of them exchanged looks, fireworks seemed to burst forth from their eyes. A mysterious sense of pressure crushed down upon Fang Lang¡¯s heart. It was an oppressive pressure that could be felt across the sky. It was a mutual response between geniuses. ¡°The sacred maiden of the demon tribe and the archdevil of the devil tribe...¡± mumbled Fang Lang. All the cells in his body seemed to vibrate slightly. They were filled with excitement and joy. Beside Fang Lang, Fa Jiao and Fa He wore expressions of utmost seriousness. There was a solemness within their serious expression. They pressed their palms together. However, the vital energy within their bodies had already begun to flow uncontrobly! This was an uncontroble reflex in response to the sense of pressure. Fang Lang tore his gaze away and turned his head slightly. He moved closer to Master Ci Yue and inhaled deeply before he asked, ¡°Master Ci Yue, I have a small question.¡± Master Ci Yue pressed his palms together and turned his gaze from the demon realm warriors. Master Ci Yue¡¯s kind features broke into a smile and said, ¡°Please go ahead, Benefactor Fang. I will definitely answer if I know the answer to your question.¡± Fang Lang instantly smiled. ¡°It¡¯s not a big question. When I met the gaze of the sacred maiden and the archdevil, I felt... extremely drawn to them, as though I wish we¡¯d met sooner. Hence, I have a presumptuous question.¡± ¡°Please go ahead, Benefactor Fang,¡± said Master Ci Yue. ¡®Extremely drawn to them? Wish he had met them sooner?¡¯ Benefactor Fang¡¯s method to relieve pressure was extremely meaningful. Fang Lang did not pay attention to the look in Master Ci Yue¡¯s eyes as he asked curiously, ¡°What is the name of the sacred maiden from the demon tribe?¡± ¡®Huh?¡¯ Master Ci Yue was stunned. So this was his question!? Fang Lang wanted to know what the name of the sacred maiden was? Was this a special interest of his? The sacred maiden... was a foreign tribe from a different world! They would definitely not have a good ending. The smile on Master Ci Yue¡¯s lips faltered. He was about to speak but paused. However, he pressed his palms together and thought for a moment before he replied, ¡°The sacred maiden of the demon tribe is descended from the bloodline of the White King, the high king of the demon world. Her surname is Bai. As for her given name, I think she¡¯s called Ling,¡± said Master Ci Yue. The name of the sacred maiden was unknown to most people in the Tang Dynasty. However, the All-Seeing Buddha Sect has been warring with the demon world for many years. Besides that, the Battle of Pagodas involved the geniuses of the demon world. Hence, the names of the demon world geniuses would garner special interest. Hence, Master Ci Yue could tell Fang Lang the name of the sacred maiden. ¡°Bai Ling?¡± muttered Fang Lang. ¡®So that was the name of the sacred maiden?¡¯ Fang Lang¡¯s eyes twitched slightly. He wouldmit this name to memory. After that, he put on a broad smile and continued to ask, ¡°What about the archdevil of the devil tribe? What¡¯s his name?¡± Master Ci Yue¡¯s bald head shone as he tilted his head to one side. ¡®What was this boy nning to do!? Wasn¡¯t it enough for him to ask about the name of the sacred maiden? Why did he need to know the name of the archdevil as well?¡¯ Since they were the same gender, there should be mutual repulsion. Master Ci Yue thought that Fang Lang should just fight him. Winning would make everyone happy. If he lost, there would be no point learning his name. However, when Master Ci Yue saw the look of anticipation in Fang Lang¡¯s eyes, he sighed and said, ¡°The archdevil of the devil tribe is descended from the bloodline of the demon king. His surname is Chi while his name is Yun.¡± ¡®Chi Yun?¡¯ As soon as Fang Lang heard his answer, he was overjoyed. Now that he knew the names of the sacred maiden and the archdevil, he could set his n into action! ¡°Thank you for answering my questions, master.¡± Fang Lang sped his hands together and stood beside Master Ci Yue, ignoring the sacred maiden and the archdevil. It was as though they were slowly turning invisible. On the other side, Master Ci Yue stopped chatting to Fang Lang. He took a step out as golden light shone out from his entire body. His robes fluttered around him as his vital energy surged like a ferocious beast roaring at the limitless ocean. Even though Master Ci Yue¡¯s figure was stooped and small, by standing in front of that ginormous, mountain-like turtle demon beast, he managed to suppress the demon beast and fill it with fear. A warrior with a powerful aura appeared among the warriors of the demon world. Demonic energy circted in the air as a jet-ck light enveloped the earth andpletely quelled Master Ci Yue¡¯s vital energy. The two of them battled in the skies above the vast ocean. Their powers surged but appeared to be evenly matched. They discussed the details of the uing Battle of Pagodas. Beside Fang Lang, the two monks, Fa Jiao and Fa He clenched their fists. They looked a little worked up and also a little nervous. After all, the Battle of Pagodas would determine the future of the All-Seeing Buddha Sect. It was entrusted to them. If they won, the warriors of the demon world would withdraw their armies and the peace in the All-Seeing Buddha Sect would endure. However, if they lost, the buddhist pagoda would topple. Without the defense of the buddhist pagoda, the warriors of the demon world wouldunch an attack on the All-Seeing Buddha Sect. This would endanger the lives of the All-Seeing Buddha Sect and also themon folk living in the surrounding areas of the sect. Hence, they were extremely anxious and agitated. After all, they bore the responsibility and pressure far beyond their years. Their gaze shifted to the side tond upon Fang Lang. They observed Fang Lang. At that moment, his eyes were shuttered and he looked as though he was deep in thought. The young monk, Fa Jiao, hoped to chat with Fang Lang in order to alleviate the pressure. However, when he saw Fang Lang¡¯s appearance, he felt embarrassed to speak up. He could only turn around to converse with his Senior Brother Fa He. At that moment, Fang Lang was deep in concentration. ¡®System, I choose Bai Ling as my binding partner,¡¯ thought Fang Lang. ¡®Ding! The chosen partner Bai Ling is a fourth-ss, ninth-grade cultivator. The estimated binding time is a full day and night.¡¯ Fang Lang was shocked when he heard the news. His heart fluttered. Which mastery was she a fourth-ss, ninth-grade in? At the moment, Fang Lang was a fourth-ss, second-grade, sword-intent realm. In addition to his martial arts mastery and his spell mastery, he could reduce the binding time. In reality, as long as he was not binding to someone above his grade the binding time would not be too long. ¡®Continue binding,¡¯ said Fang Lang internally. ¡®Ding! The binding is in progress...¡¯ Fang Lang was not in a rush to use the Grade-Rush-Card to reduce the binding time that now stood at one day and one night. His heart kicked into action as he stared at the archdevil from the devil tribe. ¡®System, I choose Chi Yun as my binding partner,¡¯ continued Fang Lang. ¡®Ding! The chosen partner Chi Yun is fourth-ss, ninth-grade cultivator. The estimated binding time is a full day and night¡¯ It turned out that the cultivation level of this archdevil was also the fourth-ss, ninth-grade realm. The cultivation system of the demon world might be a little different. Hence, it might not be categorized into spell mastery, sword mastery, etc. Hence, the System has generalized their cultivation level as the fourth-ss. ¡®Ding! The binding is in progress...¡¯ The System indicated that the binding process for the sacred maiden and the archdevil was being carried out. If he did not use the Grade-Rush Card Fragments to reduce the binding time, it would only bepleted after a full day and night. At the moment, Fang Lang¡¯s inventory was left with three Grade-Rush Card Fragments after he used the Grade-Rush Card earlier. It would be enough to cut down the time required. While Fang Lang prepared to bind to the sacred maiden and the archdevil, Master Ci Yue and the demon world warrior¡¯s tussle finally reached an end. The rules of the Battle of Pagodas were the same as previous years. The selection of the representative could be made at will. Thest genius still standing at the end of the battle would be determined as the winner. In simple terms, if the All-Seeing Buddha Sect genius representative could win three matches in a row and remain standing until the very end, this would mean victory for the All-Seeing Buddha Sect. Likewise, the opposite would also be true. Master Ci Yue returned. His eyes were extremely solem. He looked at Fang Lang whose eyes narrowed, then turned to nce at Fa He. ¡°Fa He, you¡¯re up for the first battle. Remember to give it all you¡¯ve got.¡± Master Ci Yue did not speak much. Everythingy in words unspoken. This battle was immeasurably important to the All-Seeing Buddha Sect. The result of each battle was extremely crucial. Tall and strapping Fa He sped his hands together. He bowed slightly, wearing an extremely grim expression. ¡°I will certainly do my best.¡± Fa He has always been a meticulous person. At that moment, he seemed to be even more serious. The vital energy in his body stirred up and seemed to cause the air to fill with the sound of explosions. As soon as he finished speaking, Fa He trembled and took a step out into the vast ocean, walking across the waves. Huge waves rose up and roared like a ferocious beast. There was no arena. The vast ocean was their arena and the surface of the sea was their battleground. The sky suddenly turned dark and gloomy. It felt oppressive and deary, as though it was about to rain. Fa Hended on the ocean surface. The ocean rippled with strong waves. However, he did not appear to sink despite standing on top of the ocean. On the other side, the demon world representative was... the sacred maiden! They did not choose to send some other genius that was not the sacred maiden or the archdevil. Right from the start, they chose to send out the sacred maiden of the demon realm. There was no intention of concealing their trump card! ¡°Bai Ling of the bloodline of the White King of the demon world¡± The sacred maiden wore a veil. Her skin was strangely white. Her green hair fluttered in the breeze and her blue eyes had a haughty look in them. ¡°Fa He of the All-Seeing Buddha Sect.¡± The monk Fa He did not speak much. As soon as he finished speaking, he pressed his palms together. Bai Ling¡¯s eyes sparkled under her veil. After that, the energy on her body surged and rushed into the sky. The sacred maiden raised her hands and clenched them firmly into fists, sending a surge of terrifying vital energy to boom out and spin around. Behind her, an enormous bird phantom appeared with its wings outstretched. When Bai Ling attacked, she did not hold back at all. The Battle of Pagodas was too important. Hence, Bai Ling would not go easy on her opponent! Fa He pressed his palms together. His expression was one of utmost seriousness. He walked on top of the ocean surface. With each step, the ocean waves shook. After that, the seawater went quiet from being suppressed. Boundless vital energy rushed out. However, it did not stir the ocean water, not even a little. Fa He was surrounded by a thick mist of gold light that did not disperse. As he gradually wielded his vital energy, a divine light shone out of him. He was only a fourth-ss realm monk, yet he was able to send forth the divine light of the All-Seeing Buddha Sect. He was like a Luohan surging with vital energy as he walked forwards, looking as resplendent and brilliant as the huge golden sun in the sky! ¡°Amitabha. It¡¯s an honor to meet you.¡± Fa He¡¯s eyes were bright and sparkling. As he pressed his palms together, there seemed to be a huge buddha holding a gold bell sitting on the vast ocean. The ocean waters appeared gold because of the endless divine light shining down from the sky. Fa He walked across the ocean surface. He took step after step, moving like a giant bell. ¡°Great Buddha Gold Bell!¡± The giant bird behind Bai Ling spread its wings. Her long dress and her veil fluttered in the breeze. Her sharp, pointy ears quivered slightly. Her eyes were filled with a steely intention. Since he had been selected to represent the All-Seeing Buddha Sect in the Battle of Pagodas, this proved that Fa He was an extraordinary disciple among the younger generation. Hence, the sacred maiden, Bai Ling did not underestimate him. She raised her hands. The demon tribe was highly skilled in their physical strength. Their physical body was unrivaled. However, as she did so, a white feather flew out sideways into the air, transforming into a white feather sword. That was an extremely miraculous precious sword. Countless de rays interweaved as they tore through the skies! Fa He continued walking towards Bai Ling. Bai Ling¡¯s blue eyes shed as she swung her sword. Her sword attack seemed to be filled with energy that could slice the vast ocean apart as it swung out like a massive hammer. Her sword attack mmed into Fa He¡¯s giant buddha. It was like a giant bird crashing into a buddha! Boom! A loud noise rang out that sounded like the ringing of the ancient bell in the All-Seeing Buddha Sect! The resonant sound of the bell reverberated in all directions, causing the waves to rock violently. Fa He¡¯s figure trembled. Blood spilled out of his mouth and nose. However, he continued to step ahead with his hands sped together. His eyes were filled with a determined light. As he walked ahead, the energy in his body surged like a mountainous wave! ¡°Amitabha. Miss Benefactor. Please go again.¡± Fa He¡¯s muscr body seemed to berger as the divine light around him seemed to shine even brighter! The sacred maiden Bai Ling¡¯s silky hair and long dress fluttered in the wind. She gripped the sword in her hand and observed Fa He, who continued to advance. She got into position once again and swung her sword. One swing, two swings, three swings... The sacred maiden of the demon tribe did not hold back. She gave her all and swung her sword 13 times in one go! A thousand thunderbolts exploded in unison! In the blink of an eye, even though he had only taken three steps forward, Fa He waspletely drenched in blood. He had turned into a blood man. The great buddha phantom behind him was covered in cracks! ¡°Good, good, good... There aren¡¯t many people in the same ss as me who are able to take thirteen swings of my sword.¡± Bai Ling could not stop herself from saying good three times,plimenting Fa He. On the All-Seeing Buddha Sect side, Fang Lang, who had his eyes shut tight, slowly opened them and stared at the battle upon the sea. Fa Jiao¡¯s eyes were bloodshot and his fists were clenched tightly. Master Ci Yue sighed deeply. ¡°The sacred maiden of the demon tribe is clearly a genius who possesses a divine core...¡± On the vast ocean, Fa He, who was drenched in blood continued walking until he arrived before Bai Ling and roared angrily. The gold bell in his arms suddenly rang out. The earth seemed to dim before the eyes of the sacred maiden. This was the hit that Fa He desperately needed tond after crossing the sea and receiving thirteen straight sword attacks. The Buddha Gold Bell that contained all his vital energy, energy and spiritual sense! The sacred maid swung her sword. A sh instantly appeared on her snow-white skin. The giant white bird behind her spread out its wings like a giant hawk and suddenly soared out! There was a loud noise that sounded like thunder on the sea! The waves on the ocean surged relentlessly. The sacred maiden flew out across the ocean, splitting a gutter over hundreds of feet through the ocean. The veil covering her face was torn into tatters from the force of the attack, revealing her enchanting and strange demon features. Fa He was covered in blood andpletely drained of energy. He was panting heavily like a dragon. He copsed into the ocean surface, sending a ssh of water to rise. ¡°Not bad.¡± The sacred maid gripped her white longsword. Her lips curved gently as sheplimented Fa He. The warrior monks of the All-Seeing Buddha Sect were truly powerful, especially those who were like Fa He, who did not fear death. He almost seemed to sacrifice his strength in order tond a heavy blow on her. Master Ci Yue floated to the sea and fished out Fa He, who waspletely covered in blood. ¡°Master, I lost.¡± Fa He looked ashen. ¡°Amitabha. You gave it your all.¡± Master Ci Yue did not seem to me him at all. A kind smile hung on his face. The sacred maiden of the demon tribe, whose core and talent were equivalent to a divine core, was practically unbeatable by those of the same grade as her. At the moment, he feared that there was no one in the younger generation of the Tang Dynasty who could beat her. Perhaps, 200 years ago, Xuanyuan Taihua of the same grade might be able to battle her. Master Ci Yue sighed. He turned his head to look at Fa Jiao. The sacred maiden stood on the ocean surface leaning against her sword. She won the first round. The pressure was mounting for the All-Seeing Buddha Sect in this year¡¯s Battle of Pagodas. Just as Master Ci Yue was about to ask Fa Jiao to head into battle, Fang Lang, who had kept his head down all this time, suddenly stretched out and yawned a couple of times. His white robes fluttered around him as a smile appeared on his face. ¡°Master Ci Yue. Fa Jiao is our trump card. Naturally, the trump card appears at the end...¡± ¡°Allow me to fight the second battle.¡± Chapter 156 - A Strange Battle

Chapter 156: A Strange Battle

Trantor: EndlessFantasy Trantion Editor: EndlessFantasy Trantion The monk Fa He had lost. The All-Seeing Buddha Sect lost in the first round of the Battle of Pagodas. However, that did not mean that the All-Seeing Buddha Sect was thoroughly defeated. They were merely behind and in a disadvantageous position. There was still a chance to turn the tables around. The sacred maiden of the demon tribe, Bai Ling, was extremely powerful. Her extraordinary talent and natural ability, in addition to her astonishing power, made her nearly impossible to defeat. Fa He was not weak. His martial arts mastery was of the fourth-ss, ninth-grade realm. His vital energy was immense. To Fang Lang, even if An Fan went up against Fa He, he would likely end up with a painful beating. However, Fa He still lost. It proved that Bai Ling¡¯s power was superior. Her white demon sword was exquisitely stylish. To Master Ci Yue, only the young Xuanyuan Taihua might have been able to beat her. Fa Jiao began preparing to head into battle when Fa He lost. However, Fang Lang¡¯s breezy words disrupted Master Ci Yue and Fa Jiao¡¯s decision. Fa Jiao looked at Fang Lang in dumbfounded shock. When he heard Fang Lang call him the trump card of the Battle of Pagodas, Fa Jiao could not hide the shock on his features. W-why was he the trump card!? The highly esteemed and respected Master Ci Yue wore an extremely solemn expression. Fa He¡¯s loss was not a good start to the Battle of Pagodas for the All-Seeing Buddha Sect. To the All-Seeing Buddha Sect, Fa He¡¯s loss meant that they were forced into a dead end. However, Master Ci Yue was astounded by Fang Lang personally asking to be sent out to battle. After all, Fang Lang¡¯s cultivation was not very strong, even though Master Ci Yue acknowledged that Fang Lang was naturally gifted. However, in terms of absolute cultivation, Fang Lang was definitely much weaker than Bai Ling, the sacred maiden of the demon tribe. Fang Lang¡¯s words about heading into battle so that Fa Jiao could be the trump card made some sense. Hence, Master Ci Yue did not refuse Fang Lang after some thought. After all, Fa Jiao did look a little ill-at-ease. ¡°Why am I the trump card? I¡¯m not fit to do that. Benefactor Fang, allow me to go. You¡¯re the true hope of the All-Seeing Buddha Sect.¡± After all, Fa Jiao saw Fang Lang in Linjiang City. He remembered the scene of him single-handedly killing the Main Path Guild disciples. That battle dealt a huge blow to him. He felt that if he were to swap ces with Fang Lang, he might not be able to carry out the ughter. Fang Lang smiled. He looked at Fa Jiao with an expression ofplete confidence. ¡°I believe in you. You¡¯re truly the trump card of this year¡¯s Battle of Pagodas. I need you to cover me!¡± said Fang Lang. Fa Jiao felt an inexplicably heavy sense of burden and responsibility because of Fang Lang¡¯s words. Fang Lang smiled. As his white robes billowed around him, he took a step out. The de energy in his lungs instantly surged out and gushed among the ocean waves. The waves were sliced apart. Fang Langnded on the ocean surface and started walking ahead. Naturally, Fang Lang had his reasons for choosing to head into battle first. When he entered the field, the System prompt rang out in his mind. ¡®Congrattions, host. Partner-binding sessful. Binding partner: Bai Ling.¡¯ ¡®Congrattions, host. Partner-binding sessful. Binding partner: Chi Yun.¡¯ The two prompts rang out simultaneously. There was a faint light shining in the depths of Fang Lang¡¯s eyes. To sessfully bind two geniuses was extremely good news for Fang Lang. After all, he was sure to gain numerous advantages from binding to the sacred maiden and the archdevil. Besides that, even though there was a new active function, the original passive function still remained. As long as hepleted a cultivation-rted activity with his binding partner, he would be able to obtain prizes. The ocean waves continued to surge. After her battle with monk Fa He, Bai Ling¡¯s aura underwent some changes. After all, Fa He was not a weak opponent. Bai Ling held her sword beside her. There was a stir of emotions in her pretty eyes. She stared at Fang Lang. She heard Master Ci Yue introducing Fang Lang. She did not pay heed to Fang Lang¡¯s cultivation. He had just entered the fourth-ss realm and was not worth a mention in her eyes. The thing that truly caught Bai Ling¡¯s attention was his identity as Xuanyuan Taihua¡¯s disciple. That status was no lesserpared to her status as a sacred maiden of the demon tribe. However, when she saw Fang Lang step out in battle, Bai Ling was dumbfounded. She thought that Fang Lang would be the trump card. Yet... he was the second one to take part in the battle. Bai Ling¡¯s gaze moved tond on monk Fa Jiao standing beside Master Ci Yue with his palms pressed together. Was that monk Fa Jiao more outstanding than Xuanyuan Taihua¡¯s disciple? Bai Ling returned her gaze. She felt more solemn. She understood the importance of the Battle of Pagodas. If it were not crucial, the demon world would not have sent her to take part in the battle. She would not let her guard down and would continue to give it her all. When she saw Fang Lang walk over on the waves, Bai Ling sighed and raised the white sword in her hand. Fang Lang wore a warm smile on his face. He maintained an elegant and friendly smile even though the Battle of Pagodas was of the utmost importance. Bai Ling was a little dazed as she faced Fang Lang. In her daze, she felt as though Fang Lang was not her enemy. Instead, he seemed to be a long-lost good friend of hers. Apart from that, the battle between them was not a simple fight. Perhaps it should be called a cultivation exchange? What was that mysterious and d*mning feeling? Bai Ling shoved the strange feeling aside and waved the sword in her hand. She raised her delicate face slightly. ¡°Bai Ling of the demon world,¡± said Bai Ling to Fang Lang across the vast ocean. Fang Lang, in his snow-white robes, smiled brightly and slowly retrieved the Obsidian Sword from the scabbard on his back. He held the sword at an angle, imitating Bai Ling¡¯s actions and said with a smile, ¡°Fang Lang of the Tang Dynasty. It¡¯s an honor to meet you.¡± As soon as he spoke, Bai Ling was dumbfounded once again. It was a moment before she acted, holding nothing back. She instantly closed the distance between them as she ran across the ocean, stepping over the relentless waves. The demon tribe had extremely strong physical bodies. Her physical body was her advantage. While as Xuanyuan Taihua¡¯s disciple, Fang Lang¡¯s specialty was undoubtedly his sword mastery. Bai Ling was also proficient in sword mastery. However, she may not be a match for Fang Lang in terms of sword mastery. Hence, she chose to overpower Fang Lang using her superior physical strength! Fang Lang gripped the Obsidian Sword and slowly lifted it, swinging it in arge circle in the air. Instantly, Fang Lang¡¯s eyes deepened. It was calm like still water in an ancient well. ¡®System, share cultivation.¡¯ As soon as he finished speaking, Fang Lang¡¯s early-stage fourth-ss aura began to climb non-stop. This was the active function of the System after it finished upgrading. He could share 80% of his binding partner¡¯s cultivation, ability, etc! He could also stack his power! Once he attacked, Fang Lang would not hold himself back at all! The battle was also a form of cultivation exchange. In fact, it was a profound cultivation exchange! ¡°Come!¡± shouted Fang Lang. His cultivation level began to stack up. Jiang Lingling, Liu Bubai, Ni Wen, Wei Sheng, Wen Ting... Bai Ling and Chi Yun! The cultivation level of all his binding partners stacked together, causing Fang Lang¡¯s aura to climb rapidly. Behind him, it seemed as though multiple phantoms were popping up! As soon as he swung his Obsidian Sword, de energy burst forth from under the surface of the ocean like sea serpents. The de energy seemed to roar like a white dragon and dash into the clouds before shooting towards Bai Ling! Fang Lang¡¯s sword attack was astonishingly powerful! Bai Ling did not dare to let her concentration slip. He was strong! Very strong! In fact, he could rival her! Bai Ling¡¯splexion paled. She was filled with fear. She no longer concealed the white feather sword in her hand. Her movements were extremely graceful and filled with beauty. She glided over the ocean as though it were t ground. As soon as she swung her sword, it tore through the clouds and waves, sounding like the roar of a dragon or a tiger! The countless rolling ocean waves were shed apart! Sword light filled the air and seemed to contain an extremely sharp cutting edge. In the blink of an eye, an extremely long sword mark stretched across the ocean like a white snake. It remained for ages without fading, looking like it would endure forever! Sword intent burst out of the sword attack. Behind the sword¡¯s light, arge hawk seemed to spread its wings and soar into the skies, looking like it was about to stir up a whirlwind! In a sh, Bai Ling had drawn close to Fang Lang. She waved her fist and swung her sword! It was only two moves. However, each of these moves were killing moves! Even though Fang Lang possessed the power of shared cultivation, he could still feel goosebumps erupting all over his body. The powerful de energy seemed to cause his hairs to stand on its ends. On top of a giant turtle, the archdevil ced his hands behind his back as his jet-ck hair fluttered around him. His eyes were filled with admiration. ¡°Bai Ling is truly a genius that appears once every couple of centuries! Her fighting skills and sword skills have reached the peak of the fourth-ss realm! There are very few geniuses in the demon world who canpete with her.¡± The praise of the archdevil caused the demon tribe warrior to burst out inughter. Since the sacred maiden was participating in the Battle of Pagodas this year, victory would definitely be in the bag. So what if he was Xuanyuan Taihua¡¯s disciple!? Pride swelled in the heart of the demon tribe warrior! Back at the All-Seeing Buddha Sect side, Master Ci Yue pressed his palms together, looking worried. Despite just going through a fight with Fa He, the strength of the sacred maiden did not falter. On the contrary, her strength seemed to climb and be stronger! Would Fang Lang be able to win? ¡°Sigh...¡± Master Ci Yue let out a long sigh. However, the sacred maiden Bai Ling was the only person who truly knew the pressures of the match. Even though her power increased steadily, the pressure that Fang Lang ced on her seemed to be more terrifying. In fact, she vaguely felt as though Fang Lang had already seen through all her moves! The two of them shed over the vast ocean. Fang Lang did not try to hide nor avoid her attacks. With all the cultivation of his binding partners stacked up, Fang Lang¡¯s power had entered the fifth-ss realm. Fang Lang also stacked Bai Ling¡¯s cultivation and activated the Enlightenment Card, Enchantment Card and many more... With regards to Bai Ling¡¯s fighting style and tactics, Fang Lang knew them like the back of his hand. As their fists met, it seemed as though their palms were made out of gold as a loud sound of metals shing rang out. When their swords shed, sword flux surged as de rays shed like dragons in the sky. The two of them duked it out over the vast ocean. As the battle went on, the odd feeling within Bai Ling¡¯s heart grew. She felt as though she was fighting the mirror image of herself. Each move and attack felt strangely familiar to her. His cultivation... was a little strange! He was supposed to be an early stage fourth-ss cultivation. Yet, why did Fang Lang give her the feeling that he was more powerful than some of the fifth-ss cultivators? Fang Lang and Bai Ling were engaged in an intense battle. They battled non-stop but remained evenly matched. The scene caused everyone to exchange looks of surprise. Master Ci Yue¡¯s eyes shone with delight while the archdevil of the devil tribe looked extremely astonished. Fang Lang was thoroughly enjoying the battle at that moment as he stepped out on the waves. With the Enlightenment Card, he continuously familiarized himself with the sacred maiden¡¯s fighting style and techniques. The upgraded active function of the System was extremely terrifying. He could stack the power of his binding partners and use it as his own. It was no big deal if he could only do so with just one or two partners. However, it would truly reach a frightening level if he had too many binding partners to count! For example, the sacred maiden and the archdevil¡¯s cultivation was stacked along with Wen Ting¡¯s cultivation. The three of them were geniuses that were on par with each other. With their cultivation stacked into one, Fang Lang felt extremely at ease! Boom! Countless de rays intertwined as the white feather sword flew out. Bai Ling¡¯s features were contorted into an extremely ugly expression. Her body flew out as she ran across the ocean. She frowned deeply, wearing an expression of utmost hate. She felt like Fang Lang was unfathomable, like a bottomless pit. He could see through all her moves. She had no way to strike and waspletely unable to find an opening. How could she win like that? The sacred maiden Bai Ling was deep in thought. She needed to find a way to defeat Fang Lang. On the other hand, Fang Lang maintained his gentle and elegant smile throughout the turbulent and ever-changing battle with Bai Ling. There was a sense of anticipation in the depths of his eyes. ¡®Ding! Congrattions. By engaging in the Battle of Pagodas with your binding partner, Bai Ling, you have bonded with your binding partner over cultivation. You have obtained the prize¡ªRealm Breakthrough Card.¡¯ ¡®Huh? An inventory card!?¡¯ When he heard the name of the card, it sounded a little simr to the Grade-Rush Card. However, after he read the introduction of the Realm Breakthrough Card, Fang Lang realized that there was a difference between them. In fact, the difference was huge. The Realm Breakthrough Card could be called the superior version of the Grade-Rush Card. After all, the Grade-Rush Card was used to help one advance into the next grade. As for the Realm Breakthrough Card, it was guaranteed to help raise one¡¯s cultivation by a full grade. Fang Lang smiled and used the Realm Breakthrough Card without any hesitation. After he used the card, Fang Lang sensed a heat flux surging within his entire body. As the heat flux moved within him, his fourth-ss, second-grade cultivation easily advanced to the fourth-ss, third-grade realm! The effortless cultivation breakthrough filled Fang Lang with a mysterious sense of ease. ¡°Hahaha! You¡¯re truly amazing, sacred maiden. You¡¯repletely deserving of the title of the genius with a divine core. This match is great fun!¡± Fang Langughed. In the distance, the tense features of Bai Ling seemed to rx slightly. ¡°You¡¯re pretty impressive as well. It¡¯s no wonder that you¡¯re Xuanyuan Taihua¡¯s disciple, the woman who managed to subdue nine demon kings single-handedly. Let¡¯s go again!¡± said the sacred maiden. After that, she raised her sword and continued to race into the skies. Her de ray was like a dragon, stirring waves in the ocean. Fang Lang¡¯s eyes sparkled. ¡°That¡¯s a great move!¡± Since Fang Lang stacked his cultivation, the stacked cultivation meant that he would expend spiritual sense and energy. However, at that moment, Fang Lang would not be a match for the sacred maiden without stacking his cultivation. Of course, that was not Fang Lang¡¯s only motive. Fang Lang swung his Obsidian Sword and as he fought, he said, ¡°Miss Bai, we wouldn¡¯t have met if it weren¡¯t for this fight. I¡¯m a little stuck on some matters rting to sword mastery. I hope that you¡¯ll be able to teach me a thing or two.¡± Fang Lang asked his question as he parried each of Bai Ling¡¯s sword attacks. Bai Ling was stupefied. She held her sword. He did not seem to be paying attention to the fight. Could it even be considered a fight? Could he be a little more serious since it was the Battle of Pagodas!? However, the sacred maiden felt like she had to respond when faced with the earnest look in Fang Lang¡¯s eyes. Hence, she gave his question some thought then answered it. Bai Ling felt as though she was at a disadvantage. Since she answered Fang Lang¡¯s question, she decided to ask one in return. Hence, she asked him about a problem that she had been facing in her sword technique, hoping that Fang Lang would give her an answer. Fang Lang was delighted at the frankness of the maiden. Through the exchange, Fang Lang obtained two more Realm Breakthrough Cards. He used them immediately and his cultivation was now in the fourth-ss, fifth-grade realm! The All-Seeing Buddha Sect warriors and the demon realm warriors were speechless as they watched the battle. How did the battle turn into a cultivation exchange!? Based on their stance, it looked like they were bing more engrossed in their conversation. The confrontation on the vast ocean quickly entered its finale. Bai Ling seemed to realize that her stance was not ideal. Hence, she pursed her lips and stopped answering Fang Lang¡¯s questions. She focused on the fight! Fang Lang sighed. When he saw that he could not continue obtaining prizes, he did not waste his strength and energy in y-fighting. ¡°Sword Nurturing Spell!¡± The look in Fang Lang¡¯s eyes suddenly changed. After he stacked Wen Ting¡¯s cultivation, he immediately unleashed the Sword Nurturing Spell! Wen Ting¡¯s cool style could be faintly seen. Ten years spent nurturing a single sword! Bai Ling could sense the feeling of impending dooming for her! The ocean surface seemed to be sliced by a single sh of a sword. Bai Ling gripped her white feather sword as her body was sent flying more than a hundred feet backward. She was battered out of her senses. In the end, she dropped her sword. She could barely hide the despair in her eyes. She lost. At that exact moment that Bai Ling lost mysteriously, the demon world warrior on the back of the giant turtle turned extremely grim. The eyes of the archdevil were extremely solemn. He stared fixedly at Fang Lang, whoughed and chatted away after defeating Bai Ling. That punk... was a little strange! By coincidence, Fang Lang leaned against his sword and turned to look at the archdevil. Their gaze met across the sea. Fang Lang smiled brightly. He wondered if the archdevil of the devil tribe would be able to hold out for longer. Chapter 157 - I Definitely Can’t Interact With Him

Chapter 157: I Definitely Can¡¯t Interact With Him

Trantor: EndlessFantasy Trantion Editor: EndlessFantasy Trantion Mount Shu. The Sword Guild. Chao Xiaojian stood on the mountain summit. His chest-baring robes billowed non-stop in the wind. A sword covered in cracks hung at his waist. He looked into the distance, wearing a solemn frown. He poured wine as he stared into the sky, looking as though he wished he could see through time and space to see past the barrier of the world. ¡°The Battle of Pagodas is a huge battle between the All-Seeing Buddha Sect and the demon world... I wonder what the result is right now. I wonder if the result will change now that Fang Lang is taking part.¡± Chao Xiaojian sighed. Fang Lang was taken to the All-Seeing Buddha Sect by Master Ci Yue in order to participate in the Battle of Pagodas. Chao Xiaojian was aware of this. As the current leader of the Sword Guild, of course, Chao Xiaojian knew of the Battle of Pagodas. He was also aware of the difficulty of the Battle of Pagodas. After all, over the years, the All-Seeing Buddha Sect would frequently invite extremely talented top geniuses to take part in the Battle of Pagodas in order to assist the All-Seeing Buddha Sect bag a win. ¡°It¡¯s a shame that Fang Lang has just advanced to the fourth-ss realm... The impact he would have on the final result should not be too great.¡± ¡°There¡¯s nothing we can do about it. Among all the disciples of the fourth-ss realm and below, An Fan might have made a difference. However, An Fan was ughtered in Linjiang City.¡± Chao Xiaojian took a sip of wine and could not help but chuckle. He wasughing at Fang Lang¡¯s terrible temper, which was exactly like his senior sister. ¡°Oh well, I¡¯m too busy to bother with the result of the Battle of Pagodas. After all, Zhao Taifeng of the Main Path Guild has now awoken and returned to society. Asi Luoshan of West Sai had the third prince, Li Liancheng, on his side andunched his troops... The Tang Dynasty is no longer peaceful.¡± Chao Xiaojian¡¯s eyes were immeasurably deep. In truth, through his sense of smell, Chao Xiaojian had noticed something odd about the pce. Besides that, this strangeness seemed to be strongly rted to his senior sister, who disappeared. Perhaps, from the moment Fang Lang retrieved the Reincarnating Lotus Sword, the vortex that involved the entire Tang Dynasty had begun to spin slowly. The first prince and the third prince tried again and again. The chaos that struck Changan City time after time all seems to point out that some secret change had urred within the depths of the Royal City in Changan. Chao Xiaojian finished his wine and rested his fingers on his sword, tapping it gently. He observed the surging sea of clouds and collected his thoughts. He would not go anywhere over theing days. He would stay put in the Sword Guild. The storm swept through. Since Xuanyuan Taihua was the sect leader of the Sword Guild, the Sword Guild would be unable to stay on the sidelines in the uing troubles. ... West Sai Asi Luoshan focused on the immensely massive door of the demon portal. There was no trace of emotion on his features. His hair billowed around him as powerful vital energy surged relentlessly over his tall and strapping figure. After a long time, he entered the demon portal. On the same day, Asi Luoshan walked out of the demon portal. He personally traveled across the skies to visit the foreign troops stationed there under themand of a general. In an army camp over 10,000 miles from West Sai, a powerful aura appeared among the clouds. A mighty vital energy seemed to fill the skies like a river of fire. Amotion broke out among the soldiers in the army camp. Song Xianzhi strode out in his silver armor and white cloak. He raised his head and looked into the sky. There was a profound look on his handsome face. ¡°Asi Luoshan... Is that day finallying?¡± Song Xianzhi sighed. ¡°However, I¡¯m different from you...¡± Song Xianzhi soared into the skies with one stride. His white cloak bloomed in the sky like a white rose. Among the sea of clouds, Song Xianzhi and Asi Luoshan faced each other. One man as strapping as a mountain; the other, handsome and elegant. The conversation between the two of them could not be overheard by anyone else. Despite that, the soldiers all raised their heads to look into the sky. They all felt as though there was a heavy mountain crushing down on their hearts. After a long time, the clouds blew apart and a terrifying vital energy condensed to form an evil god-like phantom. They saw Asi Luohan filled with rage. ¡®How dare you reject me!? If you join forces with me, all thend spanning across tens of thousands of miles will belong to the both of us!¡± said Asi Luoshan in a deep voice. Down below, everyone waspletely silent. Song Xianzhi sighed. However, he did not respond. Asi Luoshan turned around to leave. He transformed into a stream of fire and tore through the skies. On that day, Asi Luoshan was able to continue traveling across the skies to various army camps with his strong cultivation in order to convince many foreign generals to join forces with him. Asi Luoshan, Song Xianzhi, Geshu Taixing were the three mighty foreign generals in the Tang Dynasty. Hence, everyone thought that these three ferocious and mighty tigers would join forces to invade the Tang Dynasty. However, to everyone¡¯s surprise, Song Xianzhi and Geshu Taixing refused to agree to Asi Luoshan¡¯s actions tounch a mutiny to overthrow the Tang Dynasty. Despite this, Asi Luoshan had a good cause to do so. He was harboring the third prince. His punitive expedition had already caused chaos to break out in the Tang Dynasty. Besides that, there were many warriors from various sects gathered to form Asi Luoshan¡¯s army. It was like a hundred streams flowing into one body which was the sea. The troops poised to invade the Tang Dynasty were growingrger! .. Of course, Fang Lang was blissfully unaware of all this. He was in the midst of the Battle of Pagodas. Even if he knew, he might not be too concerned. After all, Fang Lang did not think that he would be able to change the mutiny against the Tang Dynasty. On the vast ocean, there was a deathly silence. The only thing that could be heard was the sound of the waves. No one would have guessed that Bai Ling, the sacred maiden of the demon tribe, a top genius and rumored to possess a core that was close to a divine core would lose to Fang Lang! The warriors of the All-Seeing Buddha Sect and the demon world were caught off guard. The demon world group was silent. They wore grim expressions. Bai Ling was their main offense. Their n was for her to make a clean sweep of the younger generation of the All-Seeing Buddha Sect. However, she was defeated in the second match! The sacred maiden Bai Ling returned with her head hung low. Her delicate features wore an embarrassed look. After all, the importance of this Battle of Pagodas was immense. Yet, she lost. Despite losing, Bai Ling did not feel rage or disappointment. In fact, she even felt a little satisfied. She felt an odd sense of satisfaction after battling Fang Lang. It was like meeting a friend. The battle was delightful. She was able to show off everything that she learned and exhibit her charm. Even though she lost, it was a clean, honorable defeat. Besides that, as she interacted with Fang Lang, she gained a lot of insight and knowledge. She was extremely satisfied. Bai Ling¡¯s exquisite face wore a gentle smile. ¡°Allow me to take the next match,¡± said the archdevil Chi Yun of the devil tribe. He nced at Bai Ling and said, ¡°Bai Ling, you need to be fully confident of a victory when you fight. In your battle with that kid, Fang Lang, you focused on chatting with him until it turned into a discussion of cultivation. Your fighting spirit weakened. That¡¯s the reason you lost.¡± ¡°If it were me, I would never have made that mistake.¡± As soon as Chi Yun finished speaking, his gaze suddenly sharpened. After that, his gaze shifted tond upon Fang Lang, who was standing upon the waves in the distance. Since he was able to defeat Bai Ling, this proved that the power of this punk could not be underestimated. However, that triggered thepetitive spirit within Chi Yun¡¯s heart. By coincidence, Chi Yun also felt the desire topete with Fang Lang, to determine who was superior. This desire was strange. Since he was about to go up against Fang Lang, Chi Yun felt a rare sense of joy. It was a feeling that he never felt before. Chi Yun had never felt this excited for anyone in the same generation as him, even if Bai Ling was his opponent. This guy was... a little strange! The warrior of the demon realm looked at Chi Yun in the eyes but did not say a word. ¡°It¡¯s the best possible thing for us since you¡¯ve decided to go next. We¡¯ll be sure to win since you¡¯re heading out!¡± ¡°The sacred maiden must have battled the All-Seeing Buddha Sect disciple for too long and exhausted herself. That¡¯s the only reason that punk was able to defeat her,¡± said the warrior of the demon world. Since the archdevil of the devil tribe was going into battle, he was surely going to make them eat humble pie. When Bai Ling heard his words, she rolled her eyes but did not offer any exnation. Bai Ling did not expend much energy in the battle with Fa He. Even though she lost to Fang Lang, she was at peace with her loss. Of course, Bai Ling was also extremely curious to see if Chi Yun would be able to defeat Fang Lang. Hence, she watched as Chi Yun stepped off the giant turtle¡¯s back and stepped into the ocean with some interest and excitement. On the All-Seeing Buddha Sect side, they were in the midst of celebration. He won! Fang Lang actually defeated the sacred maiden of the demon tribe! Even Master Ci Yue felt a little odd. After all, there appeared to be a huge gap between Fang Lang¡¯s strength and the sacred maiden to him. However, Fang Lang achieved a win with ease and turned the tables around! Master Ci Yue was very sure that everything Fang Lang said about Fa Jiao being the trump card was utter nonsense. If Fang Lang lost, all hope would be lost for this Battle of Pagodas. Yet, Fang Lang managed to defeat the sacred maiden. A pleased smile appeared on Master Ci Yue¡¯s face. The All-Seeing Buddha Sect... had not lost yet! Fang Lang could still fight! Monk Fa Jiao, who was beside him, wore an extremely solemn expression. He rubbed his palms together and would sporadically take deep breaths in and out. ¡°The pressure is so great! Benefactor Fang won the first match. He will go up against the archdevil of the devil tribe in the next fight. The archdevil is definitely as strong as the sacred maiden. Even if he wins, it will be a pyrrhic victory. However, it¡¯s more likely that he will lose.¡± ¡°Despite that, even if Benefactor Fang Loses, he will do his best to exhaust the archdevil and create the opportunity for me to defeat the archdevil!¡± ¡°The pressure is so truly immense! Benefactor Fang is right. I¡¯m the trump card! As the trump card that appears at the end, I need to bear the pressure that others will find hard to endure!¡± As monk Fa Jiao continued to analyze the situation, the heavier the sense of responsibility hanging over his shoulders felt. Beside him, Master Ci Yue could not help but turn to nce at him when he heard Fa Jiao¡¯s whispered words. Monk Fa Jiao turned to face Master Ci Yue and seemed to see the deep sense of hope and anticipation in his eyes. ¡°Master, I will do my best!¡± Master Ci Yue smiled warmly. ¡°As long as you¡¯re happy.¡± After that, Master Ci Yue shifted his gaze towards the ocean where the waves surged and quelled. ... Fang Lang stood on the ocean surface in his white robes. He carried his scabbard that hid his swords on his back. He looked confident and at ease like a de lord. The archdevil Chi Yun made his way over on the waves, crashing through the sea breeze in his ck armor. It seemed like a sturdy road had appeared on the vast ocean surface, directly below Chi Yun¡¯s feet. A ck demonic energy seemed to reverberate like a ck tiger roaring into the skies above the ocean. Fang Lang gripped the hilt of the Obsidian Sword and slowly withdrew it. A clear sword cry rang out and sounded like it was about to split their eardrums. Fang Lang¡¯s heart palpitated and seemed to be more solemn. Chi Yun¡¯s training was focused on his physical body. His physical body was unrivaled and his vital energy was unequaled. He was even more tricky to deal withpared to the sacred maiden, Bai Ling. Hence, Chi Yun¡¯s fighting power might be more terrifying. Time seemed toe to a halt. The huge waves stopped rolling. The archdevil Chi Yun walked until he stood in front of Fang Lang. He faced Fang Lang and raised his hands, sping them in greeting. ¡°Chi Yun from the archdevil tribe. Nice to meet you.¡± He was quite polite and did not seem full of arrogance. Fang Lang sped his hands together in return. ¡°Fang Lang. The All-Seeing Buddha Sect.¡± At the moment, Fang Lang was representing the All-Seeing Buddha Sect in the Battle of Pagodas. Hence, he would naturally use their name. ¡°You¡¯re pretty odd to have beaten Bai Ling. In fact, your energy and cultivation rose continuously throughout the battle. It¡¯s... a little frightening. You truly have the appearance of a genius.¡± ¡°I will put my all into this battle,¡± said Chi Yun. ¡°I will also put my all into it.¡± Fang Lang gripped the Obsidian Sword. With a squeeze of his fingers, the sword swished in the air turning into Sword Thunder! The Champion¡¯s de let out a roar as it rushed out of the scabbard and crashed into the clouds. Countless lightning serpents were entwined around the sword. It looked like an other-worldly poisonous snake that stared at its enemy¡¯s hand, flicking its tongue out! With Fang Lang¡¯s current spiritual sense energy, the Sword Thunder that he unleashed could not be underestimated. Anyone who dared to look down on him within the same ss would be faced with instant death by Sword Thunder! That would be the price of looking down on him! Chi Yun narrowed his eyes. Countless rays of red light shone out behind him. His vital energy surged as his body began to erge until he was absolutely massive! He clenched his fist and looked as ferocious as a blood tiger! Fang Lang gripped the Obsidian de. His eyes sparkled brightly and were filled with a sense of anticipation and glee. After that, he activated the System¡¯s active ability, binding partner stacking! The aura on his body rose steadily. Even though he had an expended spiritual sense, Fang Lang activated Ni Wen¡¯s bloodline ability and his spiritual sense quickly recovered. This time, he would set the archdevil as his main binding partner. The vital energy on him started to be more powerful and more terrifying! The ocean surface was stirring erratically. ¡°Fight!¡± Chi Yun frowned as his peerlessly handsome figure instantly transformed into a blood-red streak of light. He was like a ferocious tiger running wildly across the ocean surface! Boom! The strong winds pressed down and in an instant, Chi Yun appeared in front of Fang Lang. He raised his fist and instantly brought it crashing down! Thud! A loud sound rang out! Fang Lang returned his swords to his scabbard and formed a cross with his arms, blocking his punch! In the blink of an eye, a crater appeared on the ocean surface beneath Fang Lang¡¯s feet. It was like a giant bowl! Fang Lang¡¯s white robes were instantly shredded into pieces by the spiraling winds that exploded from the archdevil¡¯s body, revealing his strong figure. He was sent flying across the ocean, carving out a rolling white streak of waves that endured for a long time! Fang Lang steadied himself. He wore a neutral expression as he clenched his palms into fists and thrust them out. ¡°Come again!¡± After that, he took another step out and the vital energy on his body surged! The archdevil, Chi Yun, tilted his head and instantly looked a little stunned. He almost seemed to see an image of himself reflected in Fang Lang! However, he quickly shook his head in an attempt to shake this strange feeling away! In a battle, one needed to have the confidence to win! This punk was no match for him! Besides that, Fang Lang managed to defeat Bai Ling earlier because he would not stop discussing and exchanging ideas throughout the battle. That weakened Bai Ling¡¯s fighting spirit and resulted in her loss. He, Chi Yun, would definitely not interact or discuss anything rting to martial arts during his battle with Fang Lang! He would never do so! Chi Yun took a step out and gaped open his mouth. Demonic energy and vital energy rolled out to form a blood tiger that dashed out across the vast ocean. Fang Lang did not try to hide or avoid the attack. His eyes sparkled. His martial arts cultivation was currently only in the third-ss realm. However, after stacking Chi Yun¡¯s power, he could grasp some martial arts techniques and skills in this battle. Crash! Neither of them moved out of the way and their fists collided! They were evenly matched! Neither one of them had the upper hand! As they engaged in an intense battle in the midst of the vast ocean, even though Fang Lang had endured two powerful blows, he still unleashed aftershocks and oppressive lightning bolts that ravaged through the skies, tearing through the clouds only to explode on the ocean surface. It was like a sh between a dragon and tiger. A battle between a Lightning Dragon and a Blood Tiger. It was a miraculous sight! This battle was extremely intense and dazzling to watch! On the All-Seeing Buddha Sect side, the monks Fa He and Fa Jiao watched with bright eyes. Their hearts were filled with waves of emotion. That was especially true for monk Fa He. He was a warrior monk of the All-Seeing Buddha Sect. His training focused on his physical body and vital energy. However, he never imagined that Fang Lang would have such powerful vital energy. This kid... was a mutant! On the other side, the demon world warrior wore a strange expression. The sacred maiden Bai Ling was pleasantly surprised as she observed the fight. The battle caused her heart to surge with emotions! An hour went by! Two hours! The zing sun set and the bright moon began to rise! The two of them continued to battle. They continued to sh. It was intense and dazzling! Boom! No one knew how many punches had been exchanged. The archdevil Chi Yun¡¯s armor was covered in cracks. As for Fang Lang, his aura began to weaken. His eyes were like a raging furnace, like fire, as the rising zing sun! The two of themnded separately on the ocean. Waves that appeared like white dragons form over the ocean. Fang Lang stood and panted slightly. His chest rose and fell. A warm smile hung on his face. He was drenched in sweat. He said, ¡°You¡¯re truly the archdevil of the devil tribe. Your physical strength is matchless. All your various vital energy attack techniques have really pierced straight to my heart!¡± ¡°I¡¯m a little puzzled with some aspects of the cultivation of vital energy. I wonder... if you might be able to give me a couple of pointers?¡± asked Fang Lang with a smile. As soon as he spoke, Chi Yun frowned. In the distance, the corner of Bai Ling¡¯s lips curved upwards. ¡®It¡¯sing! It¡¯s happening once again!¡¯ This familiar feeling. The cultivation exchange during the battle! Chi Yun narrowed his eyes and did not respond to Fang Lang. He merely raised his fists and instantly, his vital energy transformed into a fierce tiger that pounced once again. In the battle, he needed to have the confidence to win. He did not want to be affected by Fang Lang¡¯s questions about martial arts! This punk affected his confidence in his fighting ability, trying to destroy his fighting drive! He was not going to fall for that trick! ng! Fang Lang did not have a choice. He started to fight Chi Yun once again. Winds and thunders began to surge and sh! Fang Lang gritted his teeth. ¡®System, use the Enchantment Card! Enchantment Card target, Chi Yun!¡¯ As soon as the Enchantment Card was activated, a phantom seemed to appear behind Fang Lang that fought in synchrony with him. Chi Yun¡¯s eyes narrowed in shock! That was because he realized that this phantom looked extremely like him! Besides that, as he was fighting Fang Lang, Chi Yun noticed his own martial arts techniques! The Blood Tiger Technique! Devil Punch! Devil Lord Heaven-Splitting Punch! Great Devil Sky Attack! He even used the divine intention punch technique of the devil tribe! All these techniques and divine intention were ones that he had spent many years in training in order to grasp andprehend! ¡°There¡¯s no way!¡± Chi Yun¡¯s expression faltered. Fang Lang was merely a human. How could Fang Lang master his punch techniques!? In fact, a thought suddenly appeared in Chi Yun¡¯s mind, if he could have a good cultivation exchange with Fang Lang, perhaps he might be able to advance to the next level in his punch techniques! ¡®No! Don¡¯t fall for his tricks! He¡¯s nning to destroy my fighting spirit! Don¡¯t interact with him! Everything is fake! He¡¯s only a human. He doesn¡¯t know shit about the devil tribe punch techniques!¡¯ Chi Yun gritted his teeth and kept cautioning himself! On the other hand, Fang Lang maintained his warm smile and did not stop asking questions as they fought. It was as though he was toying and baiting him. It was like he was waving his hands and shouting for attention. Come on,e on... In the end... The archdevil of the devil tribe could not resist the curiosity inside him. After a round of fighting ended, the two of them flew back over a hundred feet. They faced each other with arge distance separating them. Fang Lang remained the same as before and once again asked his questions regarding the Devil Punch technique. The question triggered Chi Yun. ¡°Bloody hell! The understanding of the Devil Punch technique is not for people like you!¡± said Chi Yun. Fang Lang¡¯s eyes lit up. He said with a smile, ¡°Oh, so what¡¯s your opinion on it?¡± Chi Yun clenched his fists and slowly spoke, exining his understanding of the Devil Punch technique. Fang Lang would interject at appropriate times to add his muddled understanding of the punch technique. The two of them chatted more intensely as they went on. When they finally resumed fighting, they used their punch techniques to demonstrate their understanding, using punch techniques to interact! As they fought, they continued debating and discussing their mutual understanding of concepts! In the distance, an expression of disdain appeared on Bai Ling¡¯s delicate face when she saw the situation. Chi Yun¡¯s previous resolve hadpletely disappeared into thin air. At that moment, the only emotion Chi Yun felt was happiness. He felt so happy to be able to fight and exchange ideas with Fang Lang! That was a mysteriouslyfortable feeling! There was a vague sense of mutual appreciation! the trantion Chapter 158 - I, the Trump Card, Am Ready to Fight

Chapter 158: I, the Trump Card, Am Ready to Fight

Trantor: EndlessFantasy Trantion Editor: EndlessFantasy Trantion Mutual appreciation? Yes, that was right. That was the feeling! The strange feeling that Chi Yun felt was a sense of being with a close confidant. ¡®He understands me.¡¯ That was the feeling that Chi Yun felt when he finished fighting and interacting with Fang Lang. The heat of the battle gradually began to lessen. It was just like the battle between Fang Lang and Bai Ling, the sacred maiden of the demon tribe earlier. The exchanges between the two of them became more of a test to check their understanding of the concepts in their cultivation exchange. The ocean waves continued to surge and the winds continued to beat down upon them. Among the heavy rain and strong winds, the booming of thunder never ceased. The cultivation of both of them was pretty strong. With the boost of his binding partners, Fang Lang¡¯s fighting strength rose to a frightful level. As he fought against the archdevil, their powers were evenly matched. ¡®Ding! Congrattions, you havepleted a meaningful interaction with your binding partner, Chi Yun, rted to cultivation in the Battle of Pagodas. You have obtained a Realm Breakthrough Card.¡¯ ¡®Huh?¡¯ When he heard the System prompt, Fang Lang was stunned. He did not expect to get the Realm Breakthrough Card after interacting with Chi Yun. It was not because the prize was not good. In fact, the effect of the prize was very good for Fang Lang. After all, Fang Lang¡¯s weakest point was his cultivation. If he could raise his cultivation, he would have sufficient power to protect himself in the next fight. Fang Lang could predict that the Tang Dynasty was about to break out in chaos. He could tell from the appearance of the Main Path Guild ancestor, the transcendental realm cultivator¡ªZhao Taifeng. Zhao Taifeng and Xuanyuan Taihua were not on good terms. It seemed as though he noticed the oddness of the Tang Code. As soon as he acted, the world would descend into chaos and turmoil. As a person who had offended Zhao Taifeng, Fang Lang would definitely struggle to save himself in the uing struggles. Hence, being able to raise his power was a good thing for him. As these thoughts pressed down upon him, Fang Lang continued to fight Chi Yun over the vast ocean like a divine immortal! His hair and his snow-white robes fluttered around him. The two fought using punch techniques and punch intent. Fang Lang was not highly skilled in punch technique. If he had not bound Chi Yun as his binding partner, fighting against Chi Yun using the punch technique would have been a disparity as vast as the mountain is from the oceans. Right now, as the effect of his Enchantment Card slowly disappeared, Fang Lang was unable to continue shing with Chi Yun using the punch technique. Neither did Fang Lang n on continuing in that manner. He retrieved his Obsidian Sword, wielding it in one hand. His expression was serious as he stared at the archdevil Chi Yun who simrly stood among the ocean waves. He smiled and said, ¡°Brother Chi Yun, you¡¯re unmatched in the punch technique. From now onwards, I hope that you can oblige me in my sword intent.¡± ¡°We¡¯re on the same road, the sword versus the fist. In fact, there are many simrities between the two. Please go ahead.¡± Chi Yun stood on the vast ocean and gestured for Fang Lang to start. Fang Lang smiled and angled his finger. Sword Thunder began to howl across the ocean. As it roared, it seemed to turn into a blue Thunder Dragon that tore through the clouds, discing the air. It growled as it rushed towards Chi Yun. Chi Yun screamed. His hair into his face as that single punch sent him flying back. It was like a river flowing in reverse. His punch intent converged. A ck tiger could vaguely be seen roaring at the sword intent. Over the ocean, a battle was raging between a dragon and a tiger. The sh between the two gradually heated up, going from being white-hot to the burning point. Rounds of explosions urred in the ocean at intervals, resulting in crisscrossing ditches carved out by sword intent. asionally, a couple of ocean fish would be caught in the st, causing blood to rain down. Chi Yunughed. His eyes were filled with a sharp light. In his eyes, there was a look of satisfaction and also one of reminiscence... His innate talent and ability were extraordinary. He was epted by the devil king of the devil tribe as a disciple. Within those in the same generation as him, few would be able to fight him apart from the sacred maiden Bai Ling. However, Bai Ling was a sacred maiden. Chi Yun would rarely be able to fight freely to his heart¡¯s content with Bai Ling. He was unable to enjoy himself each time that they fought. This time, he could finally sense the joy and pleasure of fighting! He enjoyed himself tremendously! Fang Lang also had a good time. Chi Yun¡¯s stamina and enduring power were greater than Bai Ling! The System in Fang Lang¡¯s brain continued to ring non-stop. He obtained Realm Breakthrough Card each time! That made Fang Lang so happy he couldugh his head off. In truth, Fang Lang enjoyed himself, feeling free and satisfied! From the moment he began cultivating until now, Fang Lang has experienced many battles, bothrge and small. Yet, this might be the first and only battle in which he truly feltpletely unbridled and able to fight to his heart¡¯s content! Hence, Fang Lang continuously unleashed all the techniques that he learned as well as all the cultivation techniques from his binding partners. He could acutely sense the changes brought on by the stacked power as he trained in those techniques! Due to this, Fang Lang¡¯s fighting techniques andbat methods steadily improved. Chi Yun could sense this clearly. Chi Yun could visibly notice Fang Lang¡¯s improvement! Fang Lang wielded his Obsidian Sword. His ck hair and dark eyes seemed to glow like ck lightning! His two sword intents surged relentlessly; the time sword intent and the ten thousand de intent! Fang Lang was a dual-sword intent, fourth-ss realm cultivator, which was extremely rare. After all, any sword cultivator of the fourth-ss realm would only be able to gain enlightenment in a single sword intent. People like Fang Lang, who managed to grasp two sword intents were extremely hard toe by. He gained enlightenment in time sword intent after he was taught by Xuanyuan Taihua when he retrieved the Reincarnating Lotus Sword. As for the ten thousand de intent, he gained it after receiving the Ten Thousand de Scripture as a prize from the System! His power was pretty formidable and impressive! Boom! Fang Lang hovered over the ocean surface. His feet were not in contact with the ocean. His white robes and ck hair billowed in the wind. As he raised his arm, the ocean quaked and drops of water sttered across the air. As the water droplets rushed into the air, it made a loud explosion that tore through the skies and caused a seismic shock in the air! Each drop of water was drawn by an invisible force, transforming them into long, slender water swords! This scene was extremely dazzling to observe. It was like there were thousands of swords suspended in the air like a reverse waterfall behind Fang Lang. The archdevil Chi Yun felt a sense of oppression. His ck armor glowed brightly as Chi Yun¡¯s vital energy flowed through his whole body. Devil energy rippled through the air. He clenched his fists tightly as a devil phantom appeared behind him. He unleashed his punch technique and seemed to aim a punch into a sea of stars as he aimed directly for Fang Lang¡¯s reverse vast ocean of swords! Fang Lang sent out a powerful st of spiritual sense that flowed into each de energy. After that, the thousands of des became like Sword Thunder. Each water sword transformed into a Sword Thunder. In an instant, tens of thousands of Sword Thunder was headed towards Chi Yun¡¯s head! Splish ssh! That was quickly followed by a terrifying explosion! The entire ocean surface exploded like ss. Chi Yun was enveloped within the explosion and roared angrily. His vital energy surged as he threw another punch towards the sword rain! Fang Lang¡¯s dual sword intent ced Chi Yun under immense pressure. However, Chi Yun was so ted that every single cell within his body was trembling! This was so much fun! A battle like this was extremely enjoyable! He grew more and more appreciative of Fang Lang! The world seemed less lonely now that he found an opponent like him! The other end of the ocean. The sacred maiden Bai Ling narrowed her eyes and inhaled deeply on the back of the giant turtle. Her gaze was like an electric bolt that streaked through the heavy sword rain tond upon Fang Lang. Her expression wasplicated. She never thought that Fang Lang had held back when he was battling her earlier. This move... if she was the one out there instead of Chi Yun, she feared that she would be unable to escape. ¡°This is the final struggle! The end result will have to be revealed,¡± said the demon world warrior solemnly. The extent of Fang Lang¡¯s genius far exceeded his imagination. This disciple of Xuanyuan Taihua who was the All-Seeing Buddha Sect¡¯s external assist was so brilliant that it was frightening! It needed to be known that among the younger generation of the demon tribe and the devil tribe, both Bai Ling and Chi Yun¡¯s talent had received the recognition of the demon king and devil king! If this was exined in human terms, these two warriors would possess the divine core if they were humans! Since these two geniuses participated in this Battle of Pagodas, their victory should have been guaranteed! However... a wild Fang Lang appeared. Xuanyuan Taihua¡¯s disciple managed to defeat the sacred maiden Bai Ling and was now evenly matched with the archdevil Chi Yun! ¡°He¡¯s a monster genius! The both of them... are monster geniuses!¡± The demon world warrior was full of conflicting emotions. They could not help but exim in admiration and praise! On the All-Seeing Buddha side, Fa Jiao and Fa He, who recovered from his injuries, had been watching in bated breath. They fixed their gaze on the battle in the midst of the vast ocean! They were entranced by such an exciting and suspense-filled match. Was this a battle between fourth-ss cultivators? Their might and power seemed more akin to... a fifth-ss battle! ¡°The result is about to be revealed. Who will win and who will lose will soon be discovered,¡± said Master Ci Yue calmly with his palms pressed together. Even though he sounded calm, that was not the case on the inside. The saying ¡®When there seems as though there is no way out, another solution will appear¡¯ could be used to describe Master Ci Yue¡¯s current emotion. His feelings were extremelyplex. Fang Lang¡¯s current performance exceeded his expectations. To be honest, Master Ci Yue invited Fang Lang to participate in the Battle of Pagodas merely to make up the number of participants required. Even if he had invited An Fan, it would also be to make up the number. However, this stand-in person here to make up the number managed to put up a decent fight. He defeated the sacred maiden of the demon tribe and even looked as though he might be able to beat the archdevil of the devil tribe. This would be the first time a feat like this was aplished in the entire history of time. Regardless if it were the sacred maiden or the archdevil, neither were easy opponents to beat. After all, they were called divine core geniuses. That was enough to prove how extraordinarily gifted they were. Among the younger generation, few could face them in battle. However, Fang Lang managed to do something that most normal people would not be able to aplish! The world seemed to go silent right at that moment. Everyone watched the battle on the vast ocean intently. Countless sword rain gushed down. The earth became dark as though a storm was brewing. On the ocean surface, steam bubbled up and shot into the skies. It was Chi Yun¡¯s vital energy flowing across the ocean, causing the seawater to boil and st into the skies like a volcano erupting! At that moment, Chi Yun felt pressured for the first time! As he faced the sword rain, he merely sent a punch out. It was like the phantom image of the devil king appeared behind him. With a single punch, the entire ocean domain seemed to open up like a crater. The immeasurable sword rain droplets froze, looking as though this punch had torn through it! It was like a single punch lifted the rain. However, as the devil¡¯s punch encountered the first sword rain, the sword rain abruptly twisted. After that, it seemed to speed up drastically. In the blink of an eye, itpletely enveloped the archdevil! Chi Yun¡¯s eyes suddenly narrowed! ¡°Time sword intent! This is First Sword Taihua¡¯s time sword intent!¡± Chi Yun instantly broke out in goosebumps. All his hairs stood on ends. At that point in time, he felt a threat! A threat to his life! Boom! Right in front of the eyes of everyone there, the archdevil Chi Yun was instantly enveloped by countless sword rain. The ocean was instantly sliced apart like tofu. The crisscrossing lines carved into the ocean made it look like a chessboard! A thick fog that rolled like the roar of a tsunami appeared. Everyone stared intently in shock. Master Ci Yue pressed his palms together and chanted. The demon world warrior sighed deeply. The result was out. The fog rolled out. A figure slowly floated up. It was the archdevil, Chi Yun,pletely unharmed! However... his aura had broken through the shackles of the fourth-ss to advance into the fifth-ss! ¡°I lost,¡± said Chi Yun with a long sigh. Chi Yun stood on the ocean surface, looking a little shocked. His ck hair fluttered among the fog. Under the threat of Fang Lang¡¯s dual-sword intent, Chi Yun decided to achieve a breakthrough into the fifth-ss realm in order to block this attack. Even though he managed to resist this attack, the end result... this feeling... He lost. The All-Seeing Buddha Sect side instantly erupted into joyous cheers that came from monk Fa Jiao! They won! Fang Lang actually managed to achieve a miracle. He won two consecutive matches and managed to turn the tables! Master Ci Yue broke out into a bright smile and gently stroked his beard. A smile also appeared on monk Fa He¡¯s stern, emotionless face. Fa Jiao¡¯s eyes sparkled. He rubbed his palms together. Fang Lang had won two consecutive matches, so it should be time for him, the trump card of the All-Seeing Buddha Sect, to enter the ring! Fang Lang was right. The trump card had to be unveiled at the end! However, monk Fa Jiao was stunned. He looked toward Fang Lang. Even though the archdevil had turned around and left, Fang Lang continued to stand in the middle of the vast ocean. He did not make a move to step out of the ring. Fa Jiao felt his heart stop. ¡®Was it possible... Did Fang Lang n to fight all three of their opponents single-handedly!? Wait a minute! Didn¡¯t he say that as the trump card, I should appear at the very end!?¡¯ Beside Fa Jiao, Fa He inhaled deeply and observed the heavily panting figure in the middle of the vast ocean. A sense of awe and admiration grew within him. ¡°What a great person Master Fang is. Fa Jiao, Master Fang is nning to use hisst bit of strength to help you wear down thest opponent on the demon realm side to guarantee our victory in this year¡¯s Battle of Pagodas!¡± Monk Fa He¡¯s words caused Fa Jiao¡¯s eyes to narrow. ¡®Ah, so that was the reason!¡¯ In an instant, Fa Jiao felt a prickle in his eyes! ¡®Master Fang, you¡¯ve done more than enough already! I won¡¯t let you down! As the trump card, I¡¯m ready to fight! Wait for me, the trump card, to head into action... and win the final match!¡¯ The bnce in the universe would be restored! Chapter 159 - The Battle of Pagodas; The Devil King and the Buddha

Chapter 159: The Battle of Pagodas; The Devil King and the Buddha

Trantor: EndlessFantasy Trantion Editor: EndlessFantasy Trantion Monk Fa He¡¯s exnation made Fa Jiao¡¯s heart stop. He began to feel a prickling sensation in his nose. Fa Jiao could see the fatigue in Fang Lang¡¯s figure after battling the sacred maiden Bai Ling and the archdevil Chi Yun. Fa Jiao felt that Fang Lang had done enough. His efforts in battling both the sacred maiden and archdevil single-handedly. As Master Ci Yue¡¯s disciple, Fa Jiao was very clear about how powerful Bai Ling and Chi Yun were. For them to have been acknowledged as the geniuses of the younger generation of the demon world, they would definitely be pretty powerful. However, Fang Lang did not elect to step out of the match even after battling those two powerful characters. Instead, he remained on the battlefield waiting for thest match to start. Fang Lang was still going to help Fa Jiao pave the way for the All-Seeing Buddha Sect to winfortably in this year¡¯s Battle of Pagodas. He would rather continue to fight in his injured state in order to weaken the opponent instead of retreating. Fa Jiao could sense Fang Lang¡¯s high moral principles and admirable conduct. Fang Lang was truly deserving of his title as the Tang Dynasty¡¯s Imperial Examination Champion! ... Strong winds gusted across the ocean. After the intense battle, white foam remnants of the waves and ripples continued to drift over the ocean surface. Fang Lang stood on top of the ocean in his spotless white robes. Even though his strength had dipped slightly, he maintained his powerful stance. His surroundings were deadly silent. This was true for the All-Seeing Buddha Sect side as well as the demon world side. No one expected that Fang Lang would be able to achieve this. To battle two great geniuses and win! However, at that moment, the eyes of the demon world warriors were iparably sharp. They focused their gaze on Fang Lang, who remained standing on the ocean surface, feeling an angry fire rage within their hearts. ¡°Isn¡¯t he going to step down!?¡± ¡°Is he nning to continue fighting?¡± ¡°After fighting with Chi Yun and Bai Ling, his condition must have certainly deteriorated drastically. Even though he isn¡¯t hurt, isn¡¯t he worried that he¡¯d be crushed if he continues fighting in the third match?¡± The demon world warriors raged in an exceedingly cold and grim manner. This Battle of Pagodas has been an absolute humiliation for the two tribes of the demon realm. After all, the sacred maiden and the archdevil both suffered losses. They had originally thought that with these two geniuses taking part, victory over the All-Seeing Buddha Sect was guaranteed. Yet, the result had turned out like this. The leader of the demon world warriors was utterly depressed. The main reason for this was that Bai Ling and Chi Yun were not upset or distressed after losing. On the contrary, they both seemed appreciative and fond of Fang Lang! ¡®He belongs to the enemy camp!¡¯ However, since one of them was a demon tribe¡¯s sacred maiden and the other, an archdevil of the devil tribe, there was nothing he could say, nor could he berate them. ¡°This Fang Lang... is extremely savage. Is he really nning to fight in three consecutive battles and challenge the geniuses of the two tribes of the demon world single-handedly? Is he hoping to get a triple win single-handedly?¡± ¡°Make sure you teach Fang Lang a good lesson in the third match!¡± The demon world warrior looked at the third demon world genius that would be taking part in the battle. The innate talents and abilities of the genius were pretty powerful. Even though he was not up to Bai Ling¡¯s level, he still possessed the fighting power of a peak fourth-ss cultivator! Fang Lang was not in peak condition after fighting two tough battles. Hence, the third genius of the demon world might even deal a death blow to Fang Lang! All of a sudden, the demon tribe warrior realized that Fang Lang might not be nning to make a clean sweep of one versus three. He merely wanted to tire out and weaken the third participant of the demon world to pave the way for the third candidate of the All-Seeing Buddha Sect! What a considerate Tang Dynasty champion! This demon warrior shot a look at the third genius to step into the arena. A momentter, the demon tribe genius leaped into the ocean. Ssh! A massive wave rose in the ocean. Fang Lang stood with his hands hanging beside him. He withdrew his aura back into his body. His energy essence was brewing continuously. ¡°Bai Lai of the demon tribe. Nice to meet you.¡± The third genius representative of the demon world was called Bai Lai. His aura indicated that he was in the peak fourth-ss realm. ¡°You¡¯re nning to fight hard in order to reduce my strength, right? So that the representative of the All-Seeing Buddha Sect will have an advantage. It¡¯s a shame that I won¡¯t fulfill your wish.¡± ¡°You¡¯ve shown yourself to be extraordinary by defeating the sacred maiden and the archdevil. However... how much fighting power do you have left after engaging in such a tough battle with the two of them?¡± Bai Lai smiled coolly. In the next moment, the vital energy on his body surged! His physical body began to expand as a terrifying force rushed into the sky, causing huge waves to break out all across the ocean and the winds to howl. Boom! Boom! Boom! The ocean surface exploded beneath his feet, sending wild waves in all directions. Bai Lai rushed towards Fang Lang. However, Fang Lang merely raised his head slowly. ¡®It¡¯s now the third match... I¡¯ve not bound this guy, so there¡¯s no point in interacting with him,¡¯ thought Fang Lang as his ck hair rippled in the wind, brushing across his forehead. He then raised his hand and chose to retrieve the Blooming Lotus Sword from his scabbard slowly. He did not n to create a sense of mutual appreciation with Bai Lai. This was because Bai Lai would not be able to help him obtain anything. Since there was nothing to be gained, there was no value in interacting with him. A quick match and a fast result were what he would aim for. After that, he will head to the All-Seeing Buddha Sect to retrieve the third sword left behind by his master. As soon as he made up his mind, Fang Lang¡¯s aura began to alter. He instantly activated the shared cultivation state. Even though he would only be able to obtain 80% of the cultivation strength, there was no limit to the number of partners that Fang Lang could bind to. With the stacking of Bai Ling and Chi Yun¡¯s cultivation, Fang Lang¡¯s aura increased drastically. Fang Lang gripped the Blooming Lotus Sword as his aura continued to climb steadily. The air before him seemed to burn. Massive waves began to roar and the hurricanes howled like dragons. Bang! A tremendously loud noise rang out. The gigantic figure before Fang Lang approached him at high speed. He raised a fist as his vital energy condensed to form a demon beast phantom behind him that roared into the skies! Bai Lai¡¯s sheer strength was frighteningly powerful! With one blow, he seemed to change the color of the skies. The massive waves rolled towards Fang Lang with a huge sense of pressure. An enormous vital energy fist formed above Fang Lang¡¯s head. As the fist pressed down, it seemed like it was about to send Fang Lang into the depths of the ocean. On the All-Seeing Buddha side, monk Fa Jiao looked extremely shocked! Even the third representative of the demon tribe was this strong! Even though he was not on the same level as the sacred maiden, he was still pretty formidable. If he was in perfect condition, Fa Jiao felt as though there was less than a 50% chance that he would win! Instantly, all Fa Jiao felt was a massive sense of pressure. How could Fang Lang, in his current state, manage to withstand his might? How would Fang Lang be able to tire out Bai Lai!? m! Out of the blue, Bai Lai¡¯s fist disced a huge amount of air. A deep crater formed in the ocean. It was as if the explosion created a huge, swirling vortex. After a long time, a geyser of water spurted into the sky, like a giant whale spraying water out of its blowhole. Sharp de energy appeared in the pir of water. Countless de rays shot out across the sky as immeasurable de energy swirled in the water. The water pir exploded but a bright, radiant figure remained standing where the water used to be, slowly extending a sword. As he raised his sword, a mysterious phantom appeared behind him instantly! Both the All-Seeing Buddha Sect and the two demon tribes erupted in goosebumps. They felt a chill spread through their hearts as they stared at the phantom. ¡°That¡¯s... Xuanyuan Taihua!¡± Below the mysterious phantom, Fang Lang looked calm and unbothered. His white robes billowed around him. He slowly raised the Blooming Lotus Sword in his hand. As soon as his sword was raised, a lotus flower bloomed in the sky. A single sword attack resulted in a blooming lotus. Instantly, countless de rays transformed into lotus flower petals and spun out. It was like ten thousand swords spinning out, like ten thousand swords bowing as they flew through the skies! Time sword intentbined with ten thousand de intent became a move that Fang Lang mastered from Xuanyuan Taihua¡¯s Blooming Lotus Sword. Blooming Lotus Strike! The sword attack was going to change his luck now that Fang Lang was weak. The entire world was trapped in an imprable, giant that was made out of de energy. This single sword attack was absolutely astounding! As the single sword attack crushed down, the air seemed to shatter and wail under the unbearable load. Bai Lai¡¯s eyes narrowed. He roared angrily as heshed out, sending punch after punch against the de energy lotus flower. However, he was beginning to tire. Cough cough! In the end, he coughed out a huge mouthful of blood. He flew hundreds of feet backward over the ocean, covered in blood until he crashed into the turtle¡¯s back. The entire ce was silent. Fang Lang remained in the same spot peacefully. His ten thousand de energy had dissipated. Fang Lang¡¯s white robes billowed around him as he returned the Blooming Lotus Sword to his scabbard. He bowed slightly in the direction of the warriors of the demon and the devil tribe standing on the turtle¡¯s back. ¡°Thank you for letting me win.¡± The entire area descended into pin-drop silence. The demon tribe warrior looked extremely horrified. He reached out to pull the blood-drenched Bai Lai up the turtle¡¯s back. They had lost! It was such a sudden and devastating loss! Even Bai Lai was a little dazed. He knew that there was a chance that he might not be able to defeat Fang Lang. After all, Fang Lang was the pride of the human race who managed to defeat Bai Ling and Chi Yun. However, Fang Lang was not in great condition since he had expended a great amount of energy. Despite that, he was defeated by a single attack from Fang Lang. He waspletely and utterly devastated. This was... absolutely humiliating! Was he really that weak? On top of the turtle¡¯s back, Bai Ling and Chi Yun¡¯s eyes were also narrowed. They exchanged a look and could see the grave looks in each other¡¯s eyes. It seemed that Fang Lang had held back when he battled the both of them... If Fang Lang made such a move when he was fighting with them, even if they managed to withstand his attack, they would be in a bad state. Their severe decline in form would culminate in a rapid loss soon after. However, Fang Lang did no such thing. Instead, he chose to battle them slowly and engage them in cultivation exchange. The sense of mutual appreciation that they felt towards Fang Lang grew. ¡°That¡¯s Xuanyuan Taihua¡¯s secret sword technique.¡± The demon tribe warrior was discerning and recognized Fang Lang¡¯s attack. They looked extremely devastated. This time, they werepletely trounced. Bai Lai was truly excellent. However, he was still far from being a match for the attack. He went into battle in vain. ¡°Since my team lost, that means that the All-Seeing Buddha Sect has won this year¡¯s Battle of Pagodas,¡± shouted the demon tribe warrior loudly at Master Ci Yue on the other side. The demon tribe warrior stared intently at Fang Lang and did not say any more. As soon as he finished speaking, he took out a gold scale and suddenly crushed it. Instantly, strong winds began to gust over the ocean surface. As the hurricane swept through, dense clouds swirled over the sea. Fang Lang felt his heart race. He did not dare to continue acting like a pretentious prick and speedily flew back to the All-Seeing Buddha Sect domain. Master Ci Yue looked extremely stern and solemn. His body radiated with a faint divine light. Behind him, a giant buddha phantom appeared. Ding ding ding... The ringing of a buddhist bell could be heard. Light, from the scale crushed by the demon tribe warrior, rose into the skies and transformed into a phantom towering as tall as a mountain. The demon king of the demon tribe! The transcendental realm warrior of the demon realm! A terrifying aura spread across the vast ocean. It was oppressive, making everyone feel as though they could barely breathe. Master Ci Yue¡¯s face was bright red. Even though he was close to the transcendental realm, he still felt quite a fair amount of pressure. Ding ding ding! The buddhist bell continued to ring. After that, a massive buddha appeared from the All-Seeing Buddha Sect in the Tang Dynasty. It seemed to traverse through the barriers of both worlds to appear over the ocean. ¡°So the All-Seeing Buddha Sect also has a realm-transcending warrior.¡± The demon king phantom nced at the giant buddha. Soon after, his aura stopped increasing. However, it still enveloped the entire sky. The demon king phantom opened his mouth to speak. His voice was bright and resounding. He sounded as though he was making an oath. After he finished speaking, he seemed to be more solid right before everyone¡¯s eyes. All it took was a nce and it was like he traveled through time and space to arrive above Fang Lang. ¡°Taihua¡¯s disciple...¡± The eyes of the demon king¡¯s phantom figure darkened. He continued to speak, ¡°The demon tribe has never been sore losers. Since we¡¯ve lost in the Battle of Pagodas, we will remove the demon tower. We will keep our word. The demon warriors will also never step foot into the All-Seeing Buddha Sect domain.¡± As soon as he finished speaking, the expression of the demon warrior on the turtle¡¯s back faltered. Bai Ling the sacred maiden, wore a gentle smile. It appeared that she had predicted the demon king¡¯s eptance of their loss. Master Ci Yue from the All-Seeing Buddha Sect side was stunned. Fang Lang nced at the demon king¡¯s phantom. His words reverberated in his ears. ¡®The demon king called me Taihua¡¯s disciple... That¡¯s quite an intimate address, isn¡¯t it?¡¯ Besides that, the attitudes of the two demon world tribes were not as Fang Lang had expected. ording to Chao Xiaojian, Fang Lang¡¯s master went missing in the demon world because the demon king and the devil king held her captive... However, that did not seem to be the case. Fang Lang¡¯s heart was filled with questions. However, the demon king did not seem to have any intention of giving answers to his questions. The demon king¡¯s phantom raised his head and stared intently into a point in the sky as though he met someone¡¯s gaze. He slowly nodded then disappeared. The demon tower began to topple and disappear. The year¡¯s Battle of Pagodas came to an end in this manner. The sacred maiden Bai Ling and the archdevil Chi Yun nodded at Fang Lang from the top of the turtle¡¯s back. ¡°Fang Lang,e to the demon world if you have the time. We can have another chance to properly discuss and exchange ideas about cultivation,¡± said Chi Yun. Bai Ling merely smiled and nodded. After that, the demon tribe warrior navigated the giant turtle and tore through the massive waves, disappearing from the ocean surface. The ocean once again returned to its calm and peaceful state. It seemed as though the Battle of Pagodas was truly over. Master Ci Yue, who stood beside Fang Lang let out a long sigh. It was finally over. When the demon king¡¯s phantom appeared, Master Ci Yue thought that the two tribes of the demon world were about to break their word and fight them. However, in the end, that did not happen. He felt a little surprised and caught off-guard. ¡°Amitabha, thank you so much for your help, Benefactor Fang. Thanks to you, chaos has been averted through the Battle of Pagodas. I would like to thank you on behalf of the All-Seeing Buddha Sect.¡± Master Ci Yue looked towards Fang Lang. His face was full of gratitude as he bowed deeply. If it were not for Fang Lang, they had no hope whatsoever in this Battle of Pagodas. Fa Jiao and Fa Hebined might not have been able to defeat the sacred maiden of the demon tribe. Monk Fa He bowed along with Master Ci Yue. The power that Fang Lang demonstrated won his respect and even his admiration. A genius like this was destined to be a matchless transcendental realm warrior in the future if he did not die before then. Fa Jiao felt a little dazed. He looked at the calm ocean with a dumbstruck expression. So... it was over? This was it? How could it end before he, the trump card, could have his turn!? All of a sudden, Fa Jiao felt meaningless deep inside his heart, as though he was empty inside. He did not even have the chance to fight even one person! No one paid attention to Fa Jiao, who finally understood the concept that ¡®everything was meaningless¡¯. Fang Lang smiled and returned the bow. He then asked, ¡°Master, you promised me before that if I participated to make up the number, you¡¯d let me retrieve the Circling Lotus Sword left behind by my master after the Battle of Pagodas.¡± Master Ci Yue¡¯s kind eyes turned to the massive buddha phantom after he recited a buddhist chant. Master Ci Yue¡¯s lips were moving but no sound escaped them. It was as if he wasmunicating with that giant buddha phantom. That buddha phantom was a transcendental realm warrior of the All-Seeing Buddha Sect, just like Zhao Taifeng of the Main Path Guild. Chao Xiaojian was not wrong. All the various sects in the Tang Dynasty had transcendental realm warriors in hiding or in a deep sleep. Currently, there was a problem with the Tang Code, and all these transcendental realm warriors were beginning to awaken from their deep slumber. He did not know if this transcendental realm warrior of the All-Seeing Buddha Sect would allow him to take the Circling Lotus sword and leave. After a long time, Master Ci Yue finished his discussion with the transcendental realm warrior of the All-Seeing Buddha Sect. He looked at Fang Lang with his kind eyes and said with a smile, ¡°Buddha has said that since you¡¯ve helped us win the Battle of Pagodas, our sect will keep our promise and allow you to retrieve the Circling Lotus Sword.¡± When Fang Lang heard the news, he turned to face the buddha phantom and bowed slightly. ¡°Many thanks, Buddha.¡± The buddha phantom behind Master Ci Yue almost seemed to press his palms together and smile. In a sh, it disappeared as a golden light into the sky. The oppressive threat that hung in the air like a tidal wave retreating. Fang Lang let out a sigh of relief. Master Ci Yue reopened the passage to return to the All-Seeing Buddha Sect and gestured. ¡°First Sword Taihua subdued the All-Seeing Buddha Sect single-handedly. The Circling Lotus Sword is in the heart of the sect.¡± ¡°I¡¯ll bring you back to the All-Seeing Buddha Sect to retrieve the Circling Lotus Sword. Benefactor Fang, please go ahead.¡± Chapter 160 - Retrieve the Circling Lotus Sword, Do as You Please

Chapter 160: Retrieve the Circling Lotus Sword, Do as You Please

Trantor: EndlessFantasy Trantion Editor: EndlessFantasy Trantion A tremendously powerful wave of energy surged the crack between the barriers of the two worlds. Fang Lang left the demon world, following Master Ci Yue¡¯s lead, and returned to the All-Seeing Buddha Sect. On the practice grounds, many monks were seated cross-legged. They had already heard the news about the Battle of Pagodas that just ended. Every single monk in the All-Seeing Buddha Sect was extremely interested in the Battle of Pagodas. After all, if the All-Seeing Buddha Sect lost in the battle, they would have to face the invasion of the two demon world tribes. When the time came, each monk would have to go to war. When there was war, people would die. By helping the All-Seeing Buddha Sect win in the all-important Battle of Pagodas, Fang Lang managed to stop a war from breaking out. This was a supreme act of kindness in the eyes of the All-Seeing Buddha Sect. Hence, all these monks were gathered here in order to greet Fang Lang and to express their deepest gratitude. Fa Jiao and Fa He was smiling from ear to ear. Today was a day of great celebration for the All-Seeing Buddha Sect. Fang Lang smiled. He had been invited to participate in the Battle of Pagodas and also gained much from the experience. Not only did the System upgrade after he binded to the sacred maid¡ªBai Ling and the archdevil¡ªChi Yun, his power also rose. If Fang Langpletely shared the power of all his binding partners, the force that he could unleash would surpass the fifth-ss realm, reaching into the sixth-ss realm. After all, Chi Yun achieved a sudden breakthrough to the fifth-ss realm during the battle. Bai Ling was also prepared to do the same. With their talent and core, even though they were early fifth-ss cultivators, their understanding and fighting capacity would allow them to defeat typical sixth-ss cultivators with no difficulty. Fang Lang could sense Chi Yun¡¯s cultivation rise rapidly. It was frightfully quick. As they grew stronger, Fang Lang would also be stronger. Fang Lang understood a little about the partition of the upper fourth-ss realm from Wen Ting. The upper fourth-ss realm focused on the cultivation and elevation of one¡¯s intent. The difference between strengths still existed but it would not be toorge, For example, Wen Ting spent ten years nurturing a single sword. Over ten years, his cultivation did not advance. However, after he unleashed his Sword Nurturing Spell and he was able to grasp his intent, his cultivation level rose drastically until he was stronger than even some of the seventh-ss or eight-ss cultivators. His Sword Nurturing Spell was able to reach a level where he could kill a ninth-ss warrior from the beginning. The true disparity between power and strengthy in the gap between the ninth-ss realm and the transcendental realm. Master Ci Yue kept his promise and slowly led Fang Lang among the ancient monasteries of the All-Seeing Buddha Sect. The ancient monasteries seemed to sit among the sea of clouds. They were faintly visible among the clouds that were as vast as an ocean. Gold light shone out between the many ancient monasteries. It was extremely brilliant and dazzling to see. It was like multiple buddhas sitting on the earth as the glow of the evening sun illuminated the sky. Perhaps this was the origin of the name of the All-Seeing Buddha Sect. Among the ancient monasteries, Master Ci Yue ced a hand behind his back and pointed a finger ahead. He said, ¡°The Circling Lotus Sword is located there.¡± Fang Lang looked up and could sense a bright and resplendent sword intent shooting out from among the sea of clouds. It seemed like it was about to tear through the skies. The sword intent seemed to bloom faintly, slowly blossoming into a lotus flower. ¡°The Circling Lotus Sword,¡± muttered Fang Lang. He stood up straight. A gust of wind blew past, causing Fang Lang to cling to his figure. ¡°The Blooming Lotus Sword, the Reincarnating Lotus Sword, and now the Circling Lotus Sword...¡± The four lotus swords were left behind by Xuanyuan Taihua. They were like clues and also another method to summon her. In his daze, Fang Lang could sense that he was slowly drawing close to the truth, closer to uncovering the truth. If he managed to gather all four swords, would he really be able to summon Xuanyuan Taihua? As Fang Lang gained more worldly experience, he got the vague sense that he was a chess piece on aplicated chessboard. Fang Lang did not continue pondering these inconsequential matters that inconsequential people worried about. At the moment, he was an inconsequential person to those high and mighty transcendental realm warriors. Master Ci Yue led Fang Lang over a limestone path through a peaceful forest scene, walking past ancient monasteries covered in moss. The world was peaceful and quiet. Everything seemed to be tinged with a buddhist sound. Fang Lang nced at the ancient monasteries and felt peace in his heart. The All-Seeing Buddha Sect seemed to have a calming effect. As he walked, Fang Lang could feel the restless, violent energy within him begin to settle. In addition, his moods seemed to improve. Master Ci Yue gazed deeply at Fang Lang. ¡°Benefactor Fang, your fate is linked with our sect. It¡¯s a shame that you¡¯re Xuanyuan Taihua¡¯s disciple. Otherwise, if you joined our sect, you would have be the pride of the All-Seeing Buddha Sect.¡± Master Ci Yue¡¯s tone was full of regret. Fang Lang smiled but did not say a word. The bamboo leaves in the grove rustled in the breeze, sounding like the crash of the ocean waves. The sound seemed to soothe Fang Lang¡¯s heart, making it even calmer. ¡°This is the ancient monastery where the Circling Lotus Sword resides. This is also the heart of the All-Seeing Buddha Sect...¡± said Master Ci Yue. After that, he pushed open the door of the ancient monastery and the sight of numerous swords tightly packed together. Each sword was stuck into the ground. Some had rusted, others were damaged. There were those that still looked as glorious as ever. All of the swords were stuck in the ground surrounding an iparably mysterious and magical levitating sword. This was the Circling Lotus Sword. There were many monks sitting cross-legged on the ground, surrounding the Circling Lotus Sword in meditation. The cultivation level of these monks was pretty strong. In fact, all of them belonged to the upper fourth-ss realm. They were all in the midst of trying to understand the intent contained within the Circling Lotus sword. Even though the Circling Lotus Sword did not contain buddhist teaching, the power of the sword intent within it was extremely helpful for the disciples of this buddhist sect. ¡°This is Xuanyuan Taihua¡¯s disciple. He has speciallye to retrieve the Circling Lotus Sword under the orders of his master,¡± said Master Ci Yue. As soon as he finished speaking, the meditating monks instantly stood up, recited a buddhist chant and gave way to Fang Lang. The eyes of each monk were filled with respect for Xuanyuan Taihua. ¡°Benefactor Fang, please go ahead. The matter of retrieving the sword depends on one¡¯s destiny. Buddha ces high regard on destiny and fate. If you¡¯re able to retrieve the Circling Lotus Sword, the All-Seeing Buddha Sect will not stop you,¡± said Master Ci Yue. Fang Lang nodded. After that, Master Ci Yue¡¯s figure went blurry as he transformed into a streak of light and disappeared. When he reappeared, he stood on the summit of an ancient monastery among the sea of clouds. Master Ci Yue looked respectfully towards the old monk standing in front of him, ¡°Buddha. At the moment, the Tang Dynasty is in chaos. Asi Luoshan has used the name of the third prince in order to cause a revolt among the soldiers. The armies have already begun to subdue the territories. They¡¯ve even invaded countless cities within the Tang Dynasty.¡± ¡°All this is connected to the Tang Code in Changan City. The Tang Emperor controls the Tang Code and used it to suppress all the transcendental realm warriors in the Tang Dynasty. Now, Asi Luoshan has joined forces with the transcendental realm warriors with the hopes of ending the rule of the Tang Emperor... troubled times areing.¡± ¡°If this kid is able to summon Xuanyuan Taihua, it might be a good thing for the world. However, it¡¯s an easy feat for him to retrieve the Circling Lotus Sword. The truly difficult sword for him to retrieve would be the Withering Lotus Sword in the Meridian Guild.¡± ¡°If Fang Lang is really able to retrieve the Circling Lotus Sword that would mean that he¡¯s retrieved three swords. Asi Luoshan and his traitorous soldiers will never allow Fang Lang to get his hands on thest sword,¡± said Buddha in an unhurried manner. Master Ci Yue descended into silence and did not say a word. He was not an idiot. Naturally, he understood that the struggle for the Withering Lotus Sword would be the crux of the matter. Many people hoped for the return of Xuanyuan Taihua. However, there were also many people who did not want Xuanyuan Taihua to return. ... Within the ancient monastery, the Circling Lotus Sword levitated quietly. It was not stuck in the ground. Instead, it floated in the air. The sword tip hung towards the ground but there was a gap between it and the ground. A lotus flower was carved into the ground surrounding the Circling Lotus Sword by countless de energy. The dense sword imprints on the ground were slightly shocking to the eye. The swords stuck in the ground seemed to be guarding the lotus flower. All the monks in the surrounding areas of the ancient monastery wandered a distance away. Some of them levitated. Others stood on top ofrge trees. There were also some who focused their gaze on Fang Lang in the middle of the monastery. Many monks were unhappy that Fang Lang was about to retrieve the Circling Lotus Sword. After all, many of them gain an understanding of Xuanyuan Taihua¡¯s intent from the Circling Lotus Sword. Through the sword intent, they were able to improve. However, since even Buddha was not going to stop Fang Lang, neither would they attempt to do so on their own ord. A majority of the monks were absolutely confident that Fang Lang would be able to retrieve the sword. That was because Fang Lang had already obtained two of Xuanyuan Taihua¡¯s prized swords. The first was the Blooming Lotus Sword and the second was the Reincarnating Lotus Sword. Hence, no one thought that Fang Lang would fail in his attempt to retrieve the Circling Lotus Sword. Many of the monks merely felt a sense of sorrow that they would no longer have a sword that could help them gain enlightenment. Fang Lang started to walk under the eyes of the crowd. Fang Lang was a little emotional now that he was about to retrieve the third lotus sword. With the third sword in hand, he was another step closer to the return of Xuanyuan Taihua. Perhaps then, the truth that had been shrouded this whole time would finally be revealed. What actually happened to the Tang Code? What was going on with the Tang Emperor? Xuanyuan Taihua would know the answer to all this. The Circling Lotus Sword sat at the center of this ancient monastery, as though it were stuck in the heart of the All-Seeing Buddha Sect. Many monks attempted to gain an understanding from the sword. However, the closer they approached it, the stronger the sense of oppression they felt. Hence, up till now, there was practically no monk who could approach the Circling Lotus Sword apart from Buddha and Master Ci Yue. Hence, Fang Lang¡¯s arrival to retrieve the sword had attracted the attention of arge number of people. Atop arge tree outside the ancient monastery, Fa He and Fa Jiao levitated by standing on top of a withered leaf. ¡°Brother Fa He, do you think that Benefactor Fang Lang will be able to retrieve the Circling Lotus Sword?¡± ¡°I¡¯ve heard that the Circling Lotus Sword contains a unique time sword intent. As one approaches it, one will be able to feel time reverse. You might even get lost and engrossed in the past and struggle to escape.¡± Fa Jiao chattered away non-stop. Fa He looked solemn and emotionless. He nodded his head seriously. The proper way to deal with verbal diarrhea was to stay silent and allow that person to speak. Fa Jiao continued speaking for a long time and slowly lost interest. His gazended upon the scene within the old monastery and his eyes slowly lit up. Fa Jiao felt extremely curious to know how Fang Lang would retrieve the Circling Lotus Sword. Countless monks of the All-Seeing Buddha Sect were unable to retrieve the sword. How would Fang Lang be able to seed? Just because he was Xuanyuan Taihua¡¯s disciple, did that mean he could do whatever he wanted? However, Fa Jiao¡¯s expression changed instantly a momentter. ... Fang Lang felt the sword intent that thrummed in the air. He slowly walked out. His robes fluttered around him even though there was no wind. A clear sword cry reverberated through the air. In Fang Lang¡¯s eyes, The Circling Lotus Sword seemed to transform into a blooming lotus. He shut his eyes. Fang Lang felt like the Circling Lotus Sword a like a radiant sun hanging proudly in the sky and sword intent shone out of it like sunlight. Under the glow of the sunlight, Fang Lang felt like he was growing younger, as though he was turning back into a child... This was the ability to turn back time. Fang Lang was stunned. However, he remained calm and began to activate the time sword intent that he had grasped. As his time sword intent surged, it seemed as though flowing water swirled around him. Fang Lang stretched out his hand, aiming for the Circling Lotus Sword in the distance. Fang Lang¡¯s time sword intent seemed like a deadly lure, slowly drawing the Circling Lotus Sword towards him. Ding ding... The swords all around the Circling Lotus Sword began to tremble and quake non-stop. After that, they began to shoot out of the ground and hover in the air, clinking as they crashed into each other. Fang Lang raised his hand and gestured at the Circling Lotus Sword. The Circling Lotus Sword was like a shy, bashful maiden. Under the protective guard of all the hovering steel swords, it tore through the mud like a clear stream and slowly flowed towards Fang Lang. In the end, Fang Lang caught it in his hand. Now that the Circling Lotus Sword was in Fang Lang¡¯s hand, it trembled slightly and emitted a clear sword cry. It was like it had returned to its rightful position. The Blooming Lotus Sword and the Reincarnating Lotus Sword in Fang Lang¡¯s scabbard softly responded. An invisible sword wave spread out. After that, all the hovering swords dropped back into the ground. All the surrounding monks were dumbfounded. He managed to retrieve the sword... just like that? Arge number of monks predicted that Fang Lang would be able to retrieve the sword. Despite this, they never imagined that he would be able to retrieve it... in such an easy and rxed manner. It was as though he had merely called over a cat to bring it home to look after. Fang Lang wielded the Circling Lotus Sword. The de energy and the sword intent contained within it seemed to flow into Fang Lang¡¯s body, entering his meridians. The time sword intent in Fang Lang¡¯s energy center seemed to absorb it and a faint change began to ur. Fang Lang¡¯s aura began to rise. His enlightenment in sword intent rapidly rose, helping him toplete and perfect his time sword intent! Outside the ancient monastery, monk Fa Jiao, who levitated on top of a withered leaf, watched as Fang Lang gently waved his hand and the difficult sword that had eluded numerous monks flew towards him like a swallow returning to its nest. Fa Jiao buried his face in his hands. He felt as though he had underestimated Fang Lang. After all, as Xuanyuan Taihua¡¯s disciple, he could do as he pleased. Chapter 161 - Becoming Stronger By Accident

Chapter 161: Bing Stronger By ident

Trantor: EndlessFantasy Trantion Editor: EndlessFantasy Trantion There are moments when the disparity between people bes so massive that it surpasses imagination. It might even be more frightening than the difference between man and dog. The Circling Lotus Sword was in the All-Seeing Buddha Sect for such a long time. Countless monks visited the All-Seeing Buddha Sect to attempt to retrieve the sword. After all, it was Xuanyuan Taihua¡¯s sword. It was a prized sword of a transcendental realm warrior. However, none of the All-Seeing Buddha monks were sessful in retrieving the sword. This was because the task was too difficult. Failure after failure crushed the spirits of numerous monks. Hence, many of the monks chose to give up and ept that this sword could only be admired from afar. Yet, Fang Lang¡¯s actions proved to them that it was not because they could not retrieve the sword. Instead, it was because this sword did not choose them. The Circling Lotus Sword was retrieved by Fang Lang in a manner that exceeded their imaginations. It was ridiculously simple to the extent that many of them were speechless. It was like the sword was presenting itself to him, like a dog waiting to be pet. Fang Lang was not surprised by this. After all, he managed to obtain the Blooming Lotus Sword and the Reincarnating Lotus Sword through Xuanyuan Taihua¡¯s aura that he possessed. It was so strong that it had the ability to automatically lure Xuanyuan Taihua¡¯s prized sword to deliver itself to him. Of course, the All-Seeing Buddha monks also understood this. They just could not ept it. Since Fang Lang had retrieved the sword, his enlightenment in time sword intent became more profound. His power also increased drastically. He could faintly sense the doorway into the fifth-ss realm. However, Fang Lang was not concerned about this. After he had bound so many geniuses, especially the sacred maiden of the demon tribe and the archdevil of the devil tribe, Fang Lang had be more powerful. The sacred maiden and the archdevil possessed a true divine core that was unlike Fang Lang¡¯s tactless divine core. Their innate talent was frightfully powerful. Since they had suffered a loss at Fang Lang¡¯s hands, they would naturally feel unresigned to the result and a little unhappy. This feeling will cause them to have the intention of making sure that they would not lose again the next time they encountered Fang Lang. Hence, they would train intensely and fervently in order to advance their cultivation. However, they did not know that the more they trained, Fang Lang¡¯s cultivation would only be stronger! A gust of wind blew past. As soon as Master Ci Yue entered the ancient monastery, his kind face changed into an odd expression as he looked at Fang Lang. He had been hoping to see the scene of Fang Lang struggling to retrieve the sword. However, it appeared that he would not be able to watch that scene ur. ¡°Amitabha, congrattions. Benefactor Fang, you have retrieved the Circling Lotus Sword and are now another step closer to First Sword Taihua¡¯s return,¡± said Master Ci Yue with a wide smile, apanied by a buddhist chant. Fang Lang smiled and nodded. This world was no longer peaceful. Since a problem has arisen with the Tang Code, it would definitely trigger insolence among some of the warriors. At that moment in time, the world needed warriors to stand out and righteously uphold world order. Fang Lang could not do this. Even Martial Arts King Jiang might not be able to do this. In this world, there were only two people who could strike fear in the hearts of the numerous transcendental realm warriors. The first one was the Emperor, while the other was Xuanyuan Taihua. Fang Lang ced the Circling Lotus Sword in his scabbard and bowed towards Master Ci Yue. He nned to leave the All-Seeing Buddha Sect. Since that he had the Circling Lotus Sword in hand, his cultivation would also strengthen tremendously. Fang Lang nned to head onwards to the Meridian Guild and retrieve thest sword, the Withering Lotus Sword. When that was aplished, all four lotus swords would be obtained and Fang Lang would havepleted the job that Xuanyuan Taihua had entrusted him to do. Fang Lang would be considered to have fulfilled his duty to honor his master. As for what would happen next, whether arge battle between transcendental warriors would break out in the Tang Dynasty or not would have nothing to do with Fang Lang. Fang Lang would not pay attention to such matters. The issue that he was truly concerned with was how he would bind more geniuses. Fang Lang expressed his intention to leave the All-Seeing Buddha Sect. Master Ci Yue was not surprised by this. After all, the main reason Fang Lang came to the sect was to retrieve the Circling Lotus Sword. Even the Battle of Pagodas was merely a way for Fang Lang to repay Master Ci Yue for saving him. It was also the token that allowed him to retrieve the Circling Lotus Sword. ¡°Since you wish to leave, I won¡¯t stop you. However, I would still like to remind you that the world is no longer at peace.¡± ¡°Asi Luohan has joined forces with the third prince and their armies are suppressing the territories. Asi Luohan says that the Emperor is being threatened and deceived. Hence, he is calling for a clean-up of the monarchy. At the moment, the army has already invaded numerous cities. A majority of the foreign warriors have responded to Asi Luohan¡¯s call, forming a terrifying torrent.¡± ¡°Besides that, Asi Luoshan has also visited many sects and joined forces with numerous transcendental realm warriors of the various sects. The transcendental realm warriors of the Main Path Guild, the Four Rings Tower, the Medicine Valley and other sects have all agreed to join Asi Luohan. Their power is enough to overturn the world,¡± said Master Ci Yue as his eyes shone brightly. Fang Lang was stunned. Had a rebellion broke out!? Fang Lang sighed internally. He knew a little about the problem going on with the Tang Code. The Tang Emperor wanted to perfect the Tang Code but might have suffered the Tang Code¡¯s bacsh. After all, the Tang Code was the key to suppressing the transcendental realm warriors. Even though there was not a great number of transcendental realm warriors in the Tang Dynasty, they still existed. Hence, they were extremely sensitive about the Tang Code. However, not every transcendental warrior was as cautious as Zhao Taifeng. ¡°The war is finally about to break out. However, the only people who will suffer because of the war would be themon folk.¡± ¡°Win or lose, the people will suffer...¡± sighed Fang Lang. Master Ci Yue was stunned. His simple words sent Master Ci Yue deep in thought. The more he pondered on it, the more meaning he found in those words. After a long time, he said with aplicated look on his face, ¡°Benefactor Fang, you¡¯re undeniably the champion of the Imperial Examination. To understandpletely with just one sentence.¡± Fang Lang smiled but did not offer any exnations. His snow-white robes billowed in the breeze. After that, he sped his hands towards Master Ci Yue once more and turned around breezily, takingrge strides as he left. ¡°Benefactor Fang, please be careful after you leave the All-Seeing Buddha Sect.¡± ¡°Asi Luohan will not let you retrieve thest sword with ease. Asi Luoshan, Zhao Taifeng and the others all do not wish to see the return of Xuanyuan Taihua.¡± ¡°The third prince, Li Liancheng, has even prepared an army to corner you in a trap. Please be careful, Benefactor Fang.¡± Master Ci Yue advised Fang Lang in-kind concern as he watched Fang Lang¡¯s retreating figure. Fang Lang cocked an eyebrow and leisurely raised his arm as his figure disappeared into the thick mist. ... The Meridian Guild. The Meridian Guild was located in an extremely unique ce. It was situated in the desert. However, the desert was not located in the western regions of the Tang Dynasty. Instead, it was situated in the inner region of the central ins. In fact, there was a lush primeval forest all around the Meridian Guild. The Meridian Guild was a sect that specialized in researching the power of meridians. As the second guild in the Tang Dynasty, it was very powerful. ording to rumors, the Meridian Guild has the backing of the Tang Dynasty royal family. Besides that, the royal bloodline was also what the Meridian Guild¡¯s research was headed toward. The Meridian Guild had not been around for long. It was an emerging guild. The Emperor formed the Meridian Guild after he united the Tang Dynasty all those years ago. It was established in order to conduct research on the royal bloodlines of the royal families that were toppled by the Tang Dynasty in the War of Eight Nation. The power of the Tang Dynasty royal bloodline was strengthened through the bloodlines of these royal families. The results of the research were tremendous and allowed the Tang Dynasty to produce numerous great warriors. It also helped the royal family by allowing them to awaken and develop their bloodline so that they could advance even further. For example, the first prince that died was quite young. Even though his innate talent and ability were decent, there was a huge disparity between his abilities and top geniuses. However, once he entered the ninth-ss realm, he exceeded many geniuses who trained hard for many years. How was that possible? That was because the first prince was able to master the ability to develop his bloodline power with the help of the Meridian Guild. Hence, his strength rose exceedingly quicklypared to typical geniuses. Even the third prince, Li Liancheng¡¯s cultivation improved at rapid speeds. All this was possible because the royal family had the help of the Meridian Guild. At that point in time, a thick fog swirled outside the primeval forest outside the Meridian Guild. A figure arrived on the back of an armored white horse, dressed in armor. His eyes were cold and looming. Swish, swish, swish! The sound of explosions broke out in the air. After that, numerous strapping figures appeared behind the man¡¯s figure. The fog began to clear, revealing the face of the man. It was the third prince, Li Liancheng! It was the third prince, who was locked up in the rear pce by the Emperor but defied the Emperor, and left the pce to join forces with the foreign general Asi Luoshan! At that moment, he had appeared in front of the Meridian Guild. ¡°ording to the feedback report, Fang Lang has helped the All-Seeing Buddha Sect achieve victory in the Battle of Pagodas.¡± ¡°Fang Lang won three consecutive rounds in the Battle of Pagodas, defeating the sacred maiden of the demon tribe, the archdevil of the devil tribe... achieving a shocking blow.¡± ¡°It is said that the demon king of the demon tribe personally appeared... However, he was forced away by the Buddha of the All-Seeing Sect.¡± ¡°On another note, Fang Lang has sessfully retrieved the Circling Lotus Sword from the All-Seeing Buddha Sect,¡± reported a strapping figure solemnly. Everything that he reported was detailed information of the Battle of Pagodas. Of course, it was not strange for him to know about the details of the Battle of Pagodas. After all, the All-Seeing Buddha Sect announced the news of their victory and also the news that they rejected Asi Luoshan¡¯s offer to join forces. That was because the All-Seeing Buddha Sect owed Fang Lang a debt of gratitude. Hence, they would not form an alliance with Asi Luoshan. They would not betray Fang Lang. The corner of Li Liancheng¡¯s mouth twitched. ¡°That group of donkeys definitely won¡¯t dare to take part in this war. Those donkeys have always been like this. When the world erupts in chaos, they will close themselves off from the world. Do-gooders.¡± ¡°Besides that, how could the demon tribe and the devil tribe be such trash! Even the so-called sacred maiden and the archdevil only amount to this. How could they be defeated by Fang Lang so easily!? That¡¯s trulyughable!¡± ¡°If I¡¯m not mistaken, when Fang Lang took part in the Battle of Pagodas, he had just entered the fourth-ss realm. The sacred maiden of the demon tribe and the archdevil of the devil tribe who are known as divine core geniuses couldn¡¯t even beat him?¡± The third prince¡¯sugh reverberated in the fog-covered forest. ¡°I¡¯m not surprised that the Circling Lotus Sword has been retrieved. However, the general said that if Fang Lang manages to gather all four lotus swords, it¡¯s likely that it could lure Xuanyuan Taihua, who has gone missing in the demon world.¡± ¡°Hence, Fang Lang must not be allowed to retrieve the fourth sword, the Withering Lotus Sword, in the Meridian Guild.¡± The third prince gazed at the Meridian Guild on horseback. Behind him stood the strong warriors sent by Asi Luohan, whose cultivation level and strength were pretty powerful. There were also warriors with high cultivation sent by Zhao Taifeng of the Main Path Guild in order to ensure the safety of the third prince. Li Liancheng was very clear that Asi Luoshan ced great importance on his safety because with him, Asi Luoshan¡¯s revolt would not be without reason. ¡°This is the only entrance to the Meridian Guild. If Fang Lang wishes to retrieve the Withering Lotus Sword, he will need to enter through here.¡± ¡°Our army is prepared to ambush here. As soon as Fang Lang appears, kill him without mercy!¡± Li Liancheng¡¯s eyes were filled with killing intent. His intent to kill Fang Lang waspletely surfacing unreservedly. ¡°Yes, sir!¡± The warriors of the Main Path Guild and those under Asi Luoshan¡¯smand all responded in affirmation. Li Liancheng¡¯s lips curved into a smile. He raised his head to look at the Meridian Guild that was slowly shrouded in yellow sand. A light shed across his eyes. The Meridian Guild was a forbiddennd for Fang Lang. If he dared toe, he would die for sure! However, Li Liancheng was sure that Fang Lang... would definitelye to the Meridian Guild. ... Imperial City. Royal City. A breeze blew past, causing gentle ripples to appear over the surface of theke. Under the illumination of the sunlight, it appeared to be covered in gold. There was a pavilion next to theke and a young girl dressed in red sat there quietly. The young girl¡¯s surroundings would asionally break out in rain or gusts of wind. It was as though all four seasons were appearing around the girl. It was as if she could control the weather. The young girl¡¯s aura climbed steadily until shepletely advanced into the fourth-ss realm and crystallized her unique sword intent. The sound of gentle footsteps rang out. Jiang Linglong¡¯s long eyshes froze. She opened her eyes slightly and saw a woman with a graceful demeanor walk over elegantly. ¡°Aunt Pei.¡± Jiang Linglong stood up and bowed. Consort Pei¡¯s beautiful fox-like eyes focused on Jiang Linglong. A smile that was filled with satisfaction and pleasure appeared on her face. ¡°That¡¯s good. You¡¯ve be enlightened in the four seasons sword intent. It appears that you have surely been training hard during this period of time.¡± A faint smile appeared on Jiang Linglong¡¯s face. ¡°Would you like to hear the news about Fang Lang?¡± asked Consort Pei with a smile. As soon as she heard her aunt¡¯s words, Jiang Linglong¡¯s eyes lit up. ¡°This kid managed to win the Battle of the Pagodas and sessfully retrieve the Circling Lotus Sword. At the moment, he¡¯s headed toward the Meridian Guild.¡± Consort Pei sat in the pavilion andnguidly stretched her body. Her lithe and graceful figure was extremely eye-catching. ¡°The sacred maiden of the demon tribe and the archdevil of the devil tribe were both defeated by Fang Lang. This is something that I can¡¯t quite believe myself.¡± ¡°This kid has managed to advance at terrifying speeds. It¡¯s no wonder that he¡¯s the disciple, who caught the eye of Xuanyuan Taihua,¡± said Consort Pei admiringly. Jiang Linglong was a little dumbstruck. ¡®Fang Lang actually defeated the sacred maiden of the demon tribe and the archdevil of the devil tribe!?¡¯ She had heard of these two characters before. Even though Jiang Linglong was enlightened in the four season sword intent, she feared that she would barely be able to get a couple of hits in if she was faced with these two characters. ¡°Fang Lang... What sort of level has he advanced to?¡± Jiang Linglong was a little dazed. When she thought about the youth that tried to get closer to her back then, she suddenly felt as though many years had gone by. Without her realization, she had started to chase after his footsteps. In fact, even if she put everything she had into trying to catch up with him, she might still be unable to do so. Consort Pei seemed to notice her dazed look and hid her smile. She said, ¡°There¡¯s still one more piece of bad news.¡± ¡°Li Liancheng is leading an army towards the Meridian Guild toy an ambush. If Fang Lang wishes to enter the Meridian Guild, he will definitely encounter them. Li Liancheng, Asi Luoshand, Zhao Taifeng and the others are all unwilling to let Fang Lang retrieve thest sword.¡± ¡°Hence, it won¡¯t be long before Fang Lang might encounter a threat even greater than being besieged by the Main Path Guild disciples,¡± said Consort Pei. When Jiang Linglong heard that, her eyes could not help but freeze, however, the look in her eyes darkened rapidly. ¡°He needs support. However, I fear that even if I went, I wouldn¡¯t be much help,¡± said Jiang Linglong. Consort Pei shook her head. She reached out a slender, fair finger and pressed it against Jiang Linglong¡¯s brow. ¡°Have you forgotten... whose blood flows within your veins?¡± ¡°Even though my older sistercks cultivation practice, the Pei family was previously a royal bloodline. Not to mention your father¡¯s bloodline... You might discover your chance to ascend to great heights,¡± said Consort Pei. As soon as she finished speaking, the spiritual energy in the entire garden rapidly converged and transformed into a giant whirlpool about the pavilion. As the whirlpool converged continuously, the Tang Code deep within the Imperial City seemed to release a faint and mysterious wave. Soon after, that wave began to travel through the air. The spiritual energy in the world waspletely enveloped andpressed, transforming into a vermillion nevus on Jiang Linglong¡¯s forehead. Jiang Linglong¡¯s aura began to climb steadily. Consort Pei withdrew her finger and smiled at the young girl with the red mole on her forehead. Her red lips curved. ¡°Go ahead. Give that boy... a good surprise.¡± ... Fang Lang left the All-Seeing Buddha Sect and was walking on foot. The earth speedily shrunk under his feet. All of a sudden, Fang Lang stopped. He stood in ce and an odd light appeared in his eyes. He felt as though the aura inside his body had explosively increased. He was a little confused. ¡°Huh? It seems like I¡¯ve identally... be stronger.¡± The Novel will be updated first on this website. Come back and continue reading tomorrow, everyone!