《Divine King of Honour》


 Chapter 1 Heart-Wrenching Pain

    East Field County, Cloud Sea City.


    Inside the Qin Family Mansion, many people were gathered, but the atmosphere in the grand hall was extremely solemn.


    "Bastard Qin Nian, as a bastard son, you secretly practiced cultivation and vited the family rules. Today, your cultivation will be stripped away, and you will be expelled from the Qin Family. Your mother, of the Xu Family, failed in raising you with virtue; she will be punished by being confined to theundry room for the rest of her life, never to step out of the Qin Family Mansion again," dered Family Head Qin Yuanshan mercilessly.


    After finishing his deration, he struck Qin Nian''s abdomen with a palm, and the violent Primordial Power instantly shattered Qin Nian''s Dantian. Qin Nian was sent flying by this tremendous force.


    "Spurt!"


    Qin Nian fell heavily to the ground, spitting out a mouthful of fresh blood.


    A single palm had shattered his Dantian, and six years of arduous cultivation were destroyed in an instant.


    Inside the Qin Family Mansion, it was deathly silent, and many felt pity for Qin Nian.


    At the same time, they were perplexed. Although the Qin Family had a rule that bastards should not practice cultivation, this rule had not been mentioned for a hundred years and had effectively be obsolete. In addition, many bastards in the Qin Family had started to practice cultivation in recent years.


    They did not know why Qin Yuanshan had brought it up again today, even personally crippling his own biological son.


    Qin Hen stood among the crowd, watching the scene with a sneer.


    He was the only one who knew why, because he had orchestrated everything.


    He had always disliked Qin Nian. It was he who had encouraged Qin Nian to practice cultivation in secret and then informed their father.


    He knew that their father had always disliked his brother. Therefore, he deliberately spoke of this matter before their father, even adding fuel to the fire with some malicious words about Qin Nian, solidifying Qin Yuanshan''s decision to disable Qin Nian.


    Now that Qin Nian''s Dantian was destroyed, he was likely unable to practice cultivation for the rest of his life, which delighted Qin Hen immensely.


    "Ha ha, Qin Nian, if you me anyone, me yourself for being so detestable, even our father dislikes you!" Qin Hen said, looking at Qin Nian, whoy on the ground like a dead dog, feeling extremely pleased with himself.n/?/vel/b//in dot c//om


    Qin Niany dazed on the ground, his eyes empty.


    "He really is that cruel!"


    He still could not believe that his own father would be so ruthless in crippling his cultivation and doing so with such finality.


    Does he not feel a shred of regret?


    Does he really care nothing for familial affection?


    I am his own flesh and blood!


    How could he bring himself to do it?


    Qin Nian''s heart felt as if it were being cut by a knife.


    For sixteen years he had called him father, but today he had be the executioner who crippled his cultivation, a fact he could not ept no matter what.


    "Ha ha, wrong, all wrong!"


    Qin Nian stumbled to his feet andughed madly, hisughter echoing throughout the Qin Family Mansion.


    "Has he gone mad?"


    Everyone looked at Qin Nian, thinking that the severe shock had driven him to mental copse.


    "Unfilial son, what are youughing at?" Qin Yuanshan asked coldly.


    "What am Iughing at?" Qin Nianughed sorrowfully, hisughter filled with destion.


    "Iugh at my own foolishness. Since childhood, you have always been cold and harsh towards me. I always thought you were just being strict. Every time I saw you talking andughing with Qin Tian and Qin Hen, I thought it was because I wasn''t good enough. I kept practicing hard, hoping for a word of praise from you. But all that was just my fantasy; you truly despise me from the bottom of your heart."


    Qin Nian screamed, almost going crazy, his eyes fixed intently on Qin Yuanshan, wanting to see what kind of heart of stone this so-called father had.


    The cold autumn wind blew over him, making him feel a chill from his feet all the way to his head, yet his heart felt even colder.


    "Hmph!"


    Qin Yuanshan snorted disdainfully, utterly unmoved by Qin Nian''s words.


    This scene, seen by Qin Nian, seemed to envelop his heart in ayer of icy frost.


    Sixteen years of father-son affection was just an illusion in his heart!


    "What family rules? What rule that bastards cannot cultivate? It''s all just an excuse. You simply despise my mother because she was born a maid and of low status, tarnishing the face of you, the Family Head of the Qin Family!"


    Qin Nian roared crazily, his eyes burning red.


    "Shut your mouth!" Qin Yuanshan bellowed, his face also flushing with anger.


    "What, have I struck a nerve? Are you feeling guilty? Is Qin Yuanshan not exactly this kind of person?" Qin Nian mocked coldly.


    "Unfilial son, you''re seeking death!" Qin Yuanshan was furious. After he spoke, he struck another palm, knocking Qin Nian into the air again.


    Qin Niany on the ground, his mouth full of fresh blood, looking at the furious Qin Yuanshan in front of him. He felt more than ever that his past yearning for paternal love was utterlyughable!


    "From today onwards, I no longer carry the Qin surname; I take my mother''s surname, Xu. From now on, I am Xu Nian, and I have nothing to do with you, Qin Yuanshan!"


    Qin Nian''s eyes instantly grew cold, as he struggled to stand using one arm against the ground, uttering each word decisively.


    From the moment Qin Yuanshan struck his Dantian, his familial ties with him had dissolved into smoke.


    "Beast, you dare to disrespect your father!" Qin Hen also shouted angrily from the side.


    As Qin Nian was about to leave, his eyes caught Qin Hen amidst the crowd, and a cold smile appeared on his lips once more.


    "You didn''t speak, and I almost forgot about you, my dear second brother. Everything today is thanks to you; someday, your younger brother will surely repay you."


    The cultivation technique Qin Nian practiced in those days was given to him by Qin Hen, originally thought to be out of kindness.


    Yet, all of it was a scheme he had crafted, starting by having him cultivate, then using the family rules to have Qin Yuanshan revoke his cultivation, such craftiness was utterly ruthless.


    How had he still called such a person second brother for sixteen years? He must have been blind!


    Self-mockery covered Qin Nian''s face, and at that moment, his heart was filled with nothing but hatred.


    Hatred for Qin Hen''s ruthlessness.


    Hatred for Qin Yuanshan''s heartlessness.


    Hatred for his own blindness.


    And even more hatred for his own helplessness that had implicated his mother.


    But now he was powerless to do anything; all he could do was continue to live, as this time there was hope to save his mother.


    Qin Nian slowly turned around and walked towards the exit of the Qin Family Mansion, knowing if he didn''t leave now, he probably wouldn''t be able to get away today, because his words just now had already enraged Qin Yuanshan and Qin Hen.


    "Hmph, you think you can leave?" Qin Hen coldly snorted.


    After speaking, he immediately shed in front of Qin Nian,nding a merciless heavy punch on Qin Nian''s chest.


    "Thud!"


    Qin Nian vomited blood recklessly, his ribs instantly breaking, and his body was flung back into the courtyard.


    Now that Qin Nian''s cultivation had been destroyed, and Qin Hen, being a Nine-star Warrior, could shatter even rocks with his punch, how could Qin Nian withstand it?


    After seriously injuring Qin Nian with one punch, Qin Hen appeared not yet ready to stop as he directly stomped on Qin Nian''s legs.


    With great momentum and force, Qin Hen used all his strength on this stomp.


    "Ah..."


    Qin Nian immediately let out a heart-wrenching scream; his two femurs were brutally crushed.


    "Ha ha, how dare you be so arrogant? You wanted revenge? Get up and fight me! A waste, just a waste!" Qin Hen mercilessly stomped on Qin Nian''s thigh,ughing wildly, his expression utterly ferocious.


    Qin Yuanshan just watched by the side, with no intention of intervening.


    The Qin Family also watched indifferently, only a few showing fleeting moments of sympathy, yet no one stepped forward to stop it.


    What a cold and pitiless family.


    Qin Nian''s heart was as cold as ten-thousand-year-old ice.


    At this moment, the pain in his body was beyond measure, yet he still clenched his teeth and persisted.


    His only belief was to stay alive; his mother was still waiting for him to save her, and his vengeance must be avenged.


    He also vowed in his heart, as long as he didn''t die today, all of today''s events, he would doubly repay to the Qin Family someday.


    "Enough!"


    Just then, an old voice came from deep within the grounds of the Qin Family.


    "Ancestor!"


    Everyone in the Qin Family was startled, promptly turning to salute towards the direction of the voice.


    Qin Hen also hurriedly stopped torturing Qin Nian.


    The Ancestor had spoken, he dared not defy, for even his father could not save him.


    "He is still one of us in the Qin Family; since the punishment has been dealt, just drive him out of the house; there''s no need for overkill." That majestic old voice spoke again,manding and irresistible.


    "Yes!" Qin Yuanshan immediately responded, thenmanded the servants, "Someone, carry this beast out, let him fend for himself."


    By the side, the already dazed Qin Nian only felt himself being carried out of the Qin Family, then dumped inside a decrepit temple at the eastern end of Cloud Sea City.


    That ce was a gathering spot for beggars, dirty and disheveled.


    However, Qin Nian knew that his life was saved, and with that, his obsessive thoughts rxed.


    Once his obsession rxed, hepletely lost consciousness.


    ...


    As the night slowly descended, a few stars began to emerge in the sky.


    On the small path outside the broken temple, a middle-aged man was walking this way.


    Strangely, despite the absence of major Republic events since 1912 that led to¡ù Martial Law, the middle-aged man''s movements were very slow, yet his figure was incredibly elusive, almost ghost-like, covering dozens of meters in one step, quickly appearing inside the temple.


    He scanned the temple, and his gaze finally rested on the seriously injured Qin Nian.


    Seeing the severely wounded Qin Nian, a hint of excitement appeared on his face.


    "What a strong Divine Demon bloodline, I, Bai Tianhan, have searched the mortal realms for hundreds of years and have finally found a suitable disciple. From today onwards, you are Bai Tianhan''s apprentice, ha ha!" The middle-aged manughed loudly.


    He picked up Qin Nian and swiftly disappeared into the night.

 Chapter 2 Supreme Bloodline

    "Where am I?"


    Xu Nian woke up from unconsciousness and found himself lying inside a giant bronze tripod.


    The tripod was about two meters in diameter, filled with water, and various herbs and some rare beast bones floated on the surface.


    At that moment, the medicinal soup was boiling hot, the intense heat almost made Xu Nian pass out again.


    "What''s going on? Could it be that I''ve been captured by some demons nning to cook me?"


    Xu Nian suddenly remembered that some elders of the Qin Family had mentioned that some demons eat humans to enhance their cultivation.n/?/vel/b//jn dot c//om


    Could it be his misfortune to encounter such a thing?


    "No, I must escape, my mother is still waiting for me to save her."


    Thinking this, Xu Nian hurriedly tried to crawl out of the tripod.


    "Humph, stay put!"


    Just then, a whirlwind suddenly burst open the door.


    A figure appeared in front of Xu Nian as a fading shadow, and with a single palm strike, he knocked Xu Nian back into the tripod.


    Xu Nian was startled.


    Such terrifying speed, perhaps even Qin Yuanshan couldn''t match it.


    It was over, it was over, he had fallen into the hands of such a terrifying entity.


    A sense of despair arose in Xu Nian''s heart. He had nned to escape while the demon was not paying attention, but this demon was terrifyingly strong.


    "Humph, boy, you know the medicine I prepared took a full ten years to gather. If you waste it, I''ll y your skin," the neer threatened.


    Xu Nian''s body trembled as he looked toward the neer.


    He saw a middle-aged man in a white robe ring at him, his facial features sharp and distinct, his eyebrows like drawn swords, cold and resolute.


    Especially, standing there, he gave Xu Nian the feeling of facing a primordial beast, absolutely terrifying.


    Xu Nian knew that facing such a terrifying existence, there was absolutely no escape. The only way was to beg for mercy,


    perhaps a moment of soft-heartedness from the other party might spare him.


    "Senior, don''t kill me. My mother is still waiting for me to save her; I haven''t avenged my great enmity yet, I don''t want to die," Xu Nian pleaded hastily.


    "Kill you? Who said I was going to kill you?" the middle-aged man asked, puzzled.


    "Eh? Not kill me? Then what are you preparing this pot of medicine for, even boiling me in it?" Xu Nian was baffled and asked.


    "Ha ha!"


    The middle-aged manughed heartily, leaving Xu Nian totally confused.


    "Boy, let me ask you, do you wish to take me as your master?" the middle-aged man suddenly asked seriously after he stoppedughing.


    "Eh!" Xu Nian was stunned again, hardly believing his ears.


    The power the middle-aged man had just shown was definitely not inferior to that of the Silver Moon Level.


    Qin Yuanshan was a Nine-star of the Silver Moon Battle Sect. Xu Nian had seen Qin Yuanshan''s full use of body skill; his speed was definitely not as fast as the middle-aged man''s, so the middle-aged man''s power was very likely beyond the Silver Moon Level, at the Xuantian Level.


    In the realm of cultivation, the ranks are Basic-level Warrior, Star Warrior, Silver Moon Battle Sect, Xuantian-level Battle General, Marquis, Conferred Sage, and Supreme Emperor, each divided into nine stars, with each star ascension increasing the strength by another level.


    Xuantian-level Battle Generals were few in Cloud Sea City and even fewer throughout An Yuan County.


    In Xu Nian''s knowledge, apart from the old patriarch of the Qin Family, who had never shown himself and might be a Xuantian-level Battle General, only the City Lord of Cloud Sea City was a Xuantian-level power.


    As for the Marquis, they were an elusive existence, with only An Yuan Marquis being one in the whole An Yuan County.


    One can imagine how prestigious the position of a Xuantian-level Battle General was.


    Such a powerhouse, enough to guard a region, protect a city.


    Now such a powerhouse wanted to take him as a disciple, which made him momentarily dazed.


    "Would I? Of course, I would!"


    It took Xu Nian a long time to recover from his daze before he hastily agreed, almost as if afraid the middle-aged man would change his mind.


    The middle-aged man smiled and nodded, saying, "Remember, my name is Bai Tianhan. From today, you are my disciple. As for the formalities of bing a disciple, let''s skip them."


    "Yes, Master!" Xu Nian agreed with a smile.


    He was thrilled at the thought of having a Xuantian-level Battle General as his mentor.


    "Master, could you please let me out first? This medicinal soup is about to cook me!"


    The soup bubbled continuously as Xu Nian felt he was nearly done, his skin unable to tolerate it anymore, cracking open as intense, heart-prating pain set in.


    Bai Tianhan shook his head with a smile.


    Xu Nian immediately let out a pig-like blood-curdling scream in protest, but Bai Tianhan remained indifferent.


    "Kid, weren''t your leg bones broken and your Dantian shattered before? Take a look at them now," Bai Tianhan said with a smile.


    Upon hearing this, Xu Nian was startled and hurriedly moved his legs - they were indeed freely movable and undamaged.


    "Eh, how are they healed?"


    He could hardly believe it and quickly mobilized the Heaven and Earth Spiritual Energy to check his Dantian.


    Better unexamined, for the check made him jump.


    Not only was his Dantian undamaged, his cultivation had also returned to that of a Four-star Warrior.


    Moreover, his Dantian had vastly expanded from before, and even his meridians had thickened.


    With that, wouldn''t his cultivation speed be even faster now?


    A great joy filled Xu Nian''s heart.


    "Could all of this really be due to the medicinal bath?" Xu Nian looked incredulously at Bai Tianhan who indeed wore a joyful grin.


    This only confirmed Xu Nian''s suspicion about the medicinal bath''s efficacy.


    At the same time, a surge of excitement overcame him. Previously, with his Dantian destroyed, he had been so desperate he no longer wanted to live, which led to his provocation of Qin Yuanshan and Qin Hen back at the Qin Family.


    Later, the thought of his mother gave him a sliver of desire to survive.


    Even so, infiltrating the Qin Family, brimming with masters, to rescue his mother seemed as difficult as reaching the heavens.


    But now, things were different. His Dantian was restored, and he had taken a Xuantian-level Battle General as his mentor; as long as he didn''t die, there would always be a day when he could rescue his mother.


    Determination sparked in Xu Nian''s eyes, his heart ame with passion.


    "Hmph, Qin Hen, you all just wait, the next time I appear before you, I will make you see me in a new light," Xu Nian clenched his fists till they cricked, his eyes full of fighting spirit.


    At this moment, Bai Tianhan''s voice sounded again.


    "I''ve collected medicinal herbs for ten years, and it wasn''t just to repair your Dantian, oh no!"


    Xu Nian turned to his master with confusion.


    Just then, Bai Tianhan moved.


    His ck hair danced, and his white robe billowed, standing there like a War God, radiating an incredibly powerful aura.


    "How powerful, truly worthy of the Xuan Tian level!" Xu Nian praised internally, nearly overwhelmed by the mere force of the aura.


    Bai Tianhan''s eyes shimmered as he struck the giant bronze tripod, and the nearly ten-thousand-pound tripod suddenly shot into the air.


    Then, Bai Tianhan''s hands moved like lightning, imprinting mysterious seals all over the bronze tripod.


    In no time, the giant bronze tripod was covered with ck mystical patterns.


    Inside, Xu Nian only felt the temperature of the medicinal soup skyrocketing.


    In just a breath''s time, the temperature became dozens of times what it was.


    "Aah, it hurts so much..."


    Xu Nian screamed like he was being ughtered, his veins bulging and skin splitting open as intense pain knocked him unconscious.


    Bai Tianhan stood by, nodding in satisfaction.


    "My disciple, this is all I can do for you. The awakening of the Divine Demon is up to you, and to what extent you can awaken depends on your own destiny."


    With those words, Bai Tianhan turned into a shadow again and disappeared from the room.


    In the room, the giant bronze tripod hung in mid-air, covered with chain-like ck patterns, utterly mysterious.


    Xu Niany inside, unconscious, unaware that his body was undergoing earth-shattering changes. Potent energy emanated from the medicinal herbs and beast bones, furiously surging towards Xu Nian''s limbs and bones.


    Gradually, a faint blood glow enveloped Xu Nian''s entire body, growing increasingly intense.

 Chapter 3 Awakening

    Time slowly passed, and in the blink of an eye, three days and nights had psed.


    At this moment, the blood-red glow on Xu Nian''s body had thickened into a viscous state, enveloping him like a cocoon of blood.


    The medicinal soup in the cauldron had also be clear, with all medicinal efficacy from the herbs and beast bones having beenpletely absorbed.


    "Buzz!"


    Xu Nian suddenly opened his eyes, emitting two beams of blood-colored light that shot towards the sky. The Heaven and Earth Spiritual Energy instantly formed a vortex with a diameter of tens of meters, frantically rushing towards Xu Nian.


    Bai Tianhan, sitting in the courtyard, suddenly looked up, a great joy evident on his face.


    He had guarded outside for three days and nights just for this moment.


    Without any hesitation, he quickly formed hand seals, enveloping the entire courtyard in a barrier to prevent this terrifying Heaven and Earth Phenomenon from spreading outward.


    Otherwise, the fluctuation would definitely rm the entire Cloud Sea City. In a sh, he appeared inside Xu Nian''s room.


    Xu Nian was now enveloped by Heaven and Earth Spiritual Energy, which poured into his body like floodwaters breaching a dam.


    However, not all of the Spiritual Energy entered his Dantian; most of it flowed along his meridians towards his limbs and bones, vigorously cleansing his entire body.


    Every cell in Xu Nian''s body, like a starving child, greedily absorbed this Heaven and Earth Spiritual Energy.


    As the cells continuously absorbed, the aura emanating from Xu Nian became increasingly formidable.


    "Enlightenment pouring down, haha, it''s a sess!"


    Seeing this scene, Bai Tianhan immediately showed a look of ecstasy.


    Enlightenment was the final stage of the Divine Demon Bloodline Awakening, which would not only rapidly enhance one''s strength but also induce the awakening of innate Divine Demon Bloodline Talent.


    Divine Demon Talent was divided into seven levels: Mortal Level, Ghost Level, Demon Level, King Level, Emperor Level, Deste Level, and Divine Level.


    This Divine Demon Talent would determine how far one could go on the path of the Divine Demon.


    That year, he had awakened the King Level Divine Demon Talent and was hailed as a once-in-a-millennium genius by the Divine Demon Sect. Now, he was eager to see what kind of talent Xu Nian would awaken.


    The strength divisions for Divine Demon Body Cultivation and Spiritual Energy Practitioner were broadly simr, also divided into Basic, Star Level, Silver Moon Level, Xuan Tian Level, Marquis Level, Saint Level, and Emperor Level.


    The only difference was each stage had a different name; for Spiritual Energy Practitioners, it was divided from one-star to nine-star, whereas for Divine Demon Body Cultivation, it was from First Rank Nine Level Heaven to Ninth Level Heaven.


    Although the divisions were roughly the same, the Divine Demon Body Cultivation of the same realm was absolutely invincible.


    For example, once a Divine Demon Body Cultivator reached Basic Ninth Level Heaven, they could absolutely dominate any nine-star Spiritual Energy Practitioner in the Basic stage.


    Bai Tianhan stood by, watching Xu Nian enveloped by Spiritual Energy, his eyes filled with expectancy.


    Time ticked away, second by second.


    One two-hour period... Two two-hour periods...


    The longer the time passed, the more excited and shocked Bai Tianhan became.


    The longer the time, the stronger the awakened talent would be.


    He had initially thought that Xu Nian couldst at most for two two-hour periods, but now it was almost three two-hour periods, leaving him utterly astonished.


    As time continued to pse, four two-hour periods quickly passed.


    Bai Tianhan was already numb with shock!


    However, just as the fourth two-hour period was about to end, faint sounds of thunderous roars began emerging from within Xu Nian.


    "Listening to this momentum... could it be the Deste Level Bloodline Talent?"


    Bai Tianhan was shocked, his eyes wide as he stared intently at Xu Nian.


    One should know that back when the Sect was still around, the strongest during Bloodline Awakening was only at Emperor Level Bloodline, and even the Divine Demon Emperor from ten thousand years ago had only just stepped into the Deste Level.


    Legend had it that only those with a Deste Level Bloodline Talent could eventually be a Supreme Emperor.


    Could it be that Xu Nian was the legendary Deste Level Divine Demon Bloodline Talent, seen only once in ten thousand years?


    Did that mean there was a chance he could surpass the Divine Demon Emperor?


    Bai Tianhan dared not think further, and at this moment, he was beyond expressing his emotions through words.


    "Boom!"


    The thundering roar inside Xu Nian became clearer.


    The giant cauldron bearing Xu Nian burst apart suddenly, with nine Giant Dragon Illusions swirling around him.


    Nine Dragons surrounding, radiance soaring to the sky.


    The entire courtyard was enveloped by this terrifying radiance, emanating a mighty Divine Demon presence.


    "This...how is this possible?"


    "Nine Dragons coiling, a Supreme emerges¡ªcould this be the legendary Divine Level Talent Bloodline, the Nine Dragon Supreme Divine Body?"


    Bai Tianhan could hardly believe his eyes, his heart racing uncontrobly, rubbing his eyes several times to confirm that everything he observed was real.


    Supreme Divine Body, venerable among the lineage of Divine Demon with a Divine Demon Talent Bloodline that stands above all. And the Nine Dragon Supreme Divine Body represents the ultimate pinnacle among the Supreme Divine Bodies.n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om


    Nine Dragon veinsy dominant within the body, that once awakened, would render the individual invincible across the world.


    Bai Tianhan originally thought that Xu Nian''s Bloodline Talent could reach Emperor Level at best, but now he didn''t expect it to be the legendary Divine-level.


    "Haha, I am actually the master of a person with a Divine-level Bloodline! The Divine Demon Sect is truly blessed by the heavens. All those who once spilled the blood of my Divine Demon Sect, just wait. One day, you will pay the price for your deeds, just wait and tremble! Haha!" Bai Tianhan burst intoughter, extremely excited, and tears actually flowed down his face.


    Xu Nian opened his eyes and was startled to see his master''s face covered in tears.


    "Master, are you alright?" Xu Nian asked in astonishment.


    "It''s nothing, just some sand got in my eyes," Bai Tianhan seemed to realize his own outburst and hurriedly covered it up.


    Xu Nian''s head filled with question marks¡ªthis was inside the room, not outside, and besides, for a Xuantian Level powerhouse, how could sand easily get into his eyes.


    "Alright, my dear disciple, you go take a bath first and feel the strength you possess now. I''ll pass on the sect''s Holy Scripture, the Ancient Demon Technique, to youter."


    Bai Tianhan dropped these words and then swiftly scurried away.


    Watching Bai Tianhan''s retreating figure, Xu Nian found it even more amusing; his master did not seem as cold as he appeared on the surface.


    Immediately, Xu Nian''s gaze fell upon his own body.


    What immense strength! This power doesn''t seem toe from the Dantian but from the body itself.


    Xu Nian''s eyes sparkled. Ever since he had awoken, he felt an endless power filling his body.


    And the Spiritual Energy in his Dantian hadn''t increased; it was still at the Four-star Warrior Realm, only more condensed than before and not a major breakthrough, so he could affirm that this power originated from his body.


    "Could this be the Divine Demon Body Cultivation that master spoke of? Indeed, it''s powerful, it feels like it must be at the Basic Ninth Level Heaven."


    With that, his body shed, transforming into a breeze and darting outside.


    Such incredible speed!


    At this moment, the speed exhibited by Xu Nian was no longer below that of a Basic Peak warrior and evenparable to some of the One-star Level warriors.


    "Now, below the Star Level, I guess there''s barely anyone who can be my match. Even if I encounter a One-star Warrior, I also have the power to fight," Xu Nian grasped his fists and excitedly muttered to himself.


    "Haha, I''ve be even stronger!"


    Xu Nian looked at his perfect body, the streamlined muscles each containing immense energy. This exhrating feeling was utterly unprecedented; he couldn''t help but shout out loud.


    "Hey, my good disciple, can you put on your clothes before youe out!"


    Just then, Bai Tianhan''s teasing voice reached Xu Nian''s ears.


    Xu Nian then realized his condition¡ªhe waspletely naked.


    "Damn, streaking!"


    Xu Nian hurriedly sped up his legs and quickly dashed back inside.


    Bai Tianhan watched Xu Nian''sical figure andughed heartily, thinking he finally got one over him.


    Over the next three days, Xu Nian also cultivated the Ancient Demon Technique and learned some facts about Divine Demon Body Cultivation.


    It turned out that since the extermination of the Divine Demon Sect a thousand years ago, Divine Demon Body Cultivation hadpletely vanished from the Taiyuan Continent, his master being the only sessor left now.


    As for the Body Cultivations circting in the Taiyuan Continent now, they are all derived from Divine Demon Body Cultivation, far less powerful than the orthodox Divine Demon Body Cultivation.


    Of course, the most important thing was the awakening of Xu Nian''s Nine Dragon Supreme Divine Body. Bai Tianhan mentioned it no less than thirty times, instructing Xu Nian never to reveal his Divine Demon Cultivation unless absolutely necessary.


    Although very few people knew about Divine Demon Bloodline Talents, once someone discovered his terrifying talent, it could easily lead to deadlyplications.


    After exining all these matters to Xu Nian, Bai Tianhan hurriedly left. Before leaving, he instructed Xu Nian to join the Qinglin Academy, officially to cultivate Spiritual Energy and secretly to cultivate Divine Demon Body Cultivation.


    "Master, rest assured, I will diligently cultivate to glorify our Divine Demon Sect."


    As Xu Nian watched his master''s departing figure, he silently bowed, silently swearing in his heart.


    Although he often joked with Bai Tianhan these days, Xu Nian never forgot the great kindness Bai Tianhan had shown in reforming him.


    If it wasn''t for Bai Tianhan, he might still be lying like a lump of mud among the beggars, living a fate worse than death.


    Over the past month, he had deeply felt Bai Tianhan''s meticulous care, a kind of love that, except for his mother, he had never experienced from anyone else.


    Thus, in Xu Nian''s heart, Bai Tianhan was no longer just a master, but the second most important person in his life after his mother.


    "From today onward, I will make the entire continent remember this name, Xu Nian."


    Xu Nian stood arrogantly on the rooftop, the chilly autumn wind continuously blowing, yet he remained unmoved like a mountain.


    Now, he was no longer the same person as he was a month ago.


    The current Xu Nian had been reborn.


    He would make those who had once hurt him pay one by one.


    "Qinglin Academy, it seems Qin Hen is also there; I wonder what your expression will be when you see me again?" Xu Nian watched the cloud rosy sky, the cold smile on his lips growing more distinct.


    His heart brimmed with anticipation for tomorrow''s Qinglin Academy elections.

 Chapter 4 Frantically Fanning Qin Tiann

    Qinglin Academy was situated on the outskirts of Cloud Sea City, holding significant prestige within East Field County, second only to the top institution, Tianhen Academy.


    In East Field County, to be admitted into either of these academies meant to possess a distinguished status, symbolizing noble identity.


    Today was the annual enrollment day for Qinglin Academy. Youths from around the county flocked to the site, each filled with hope and ambition, vying for a ce in the academy everyone dreamt of.


    Xu Nian too arrived early at the gates of Qinglin Academy, gazing at the grand and imposing entrance with a confident smile on his lips.


    In the past, he would have only looked up to this ce of learning, but now his only thought was to conquer it.


    Being discarded and disowned after his Dantian was wrecked, he learned a harsh truth: only the powerful could survive in this world; without strength, you were nothing.


    "Mother, you must wait for me. I will go to the Qin Family and bring you out. Then, I will make Qin Yuanshan regret everything he has done," Xu Nian vowed silently, fists clenched.


    He was too weak now, rescuing his mother seemed nearly impossible, so his current goal was to be as strong as possible.


    "Qin Nian, why are you here?"


    Just as Xu Nian was making his silent pledge, a surprised exmation came from behind.


    Turning around, Xu Nian saw a beautiful young girl standing behind him, her simple but elegant dress entuating her graceful curves.


    The girl''s name was Wang Siyu, sixteen years old, and the only childhood friend of Xu Nian, as well as the daughter of Family Head Wang of the Wang Family in Cloud Sea City.


    The Wang Family, a small n in Cloud Sea City, held a status not as esteemed as the Qin Family, but was still fairly respectable.


    In their childhood, Xu Nian inadvertently saved an imperiled Wang Siyu from drowning.


    Since then, Wang Siyu often sought Xu Nian out to y, and the two grew up like childhood sweethearts.


    Xu Nian indeed had a soft spot for Wang Siyu. He once thought she genuinely liked him, but now it seemed not to be as he had imagined.


    At this moment, Wang Siyu''s brows were furrowed, her gaze unfriendly, and her delicate face even carried a hint of disdain.


    "I''m sorry, I''m not called Qin Nian. My name is Xu Nian," Xu Nian stated bluntly, his initial joy at the reunion evaporating instantly.


    "Right, you''ve been expelled from the Qin Family, so you''ve no right to the Qin surname. I heard you''ve been disowned and your Dantian destroyed. Do you really have the face toe here? Are you hoping Qinglin Academy will take in a cripple like you?" Wang Siyu sneered, her eyes filled with contempt as she looked at Xu Nian.


    Xu Nian could hardly believe his eyes. Wang Siyu had always been sweet and lovely in front of him, constantly calling him ''Brother Qin Nian'', yet in just a few days without seeing her, she seemed to have turned into apletely different person; or perhaps, this was her true nature all along.


    "Xu Nian, don''t look at me like that. I used to be with you solely because you were the third young master of the Qin Family. But now, not only is your Dantian ruined and you''re crippled, but you have also been kicked out of the Qin Family. You think I would still fawn over you like before? Grow up, Xu Nian. Stop being so naive. You and I are not from the same world anymore," Wang Siyu said with derision, her eyes full of contempt as if she thought disguising her disdain for Xu Nian, now a cripple, was unnecessary.


    Shaking his head with a bitter smile, Xu Nianughed at his own past ignorance, for not seeing the true face of the woman before him, and at the pathetic thought of believing in a reciprocated childhood affection, when her proximity was simply due to his identity as the third young master of the Qin Family.


    If he hadn''t been cast out by Qin Yuanshan, he might never have seen the real face of the woman before him.


    "What an opportunistic, scheming woman. Today, Xu Nian has truly had his eyes opened," Xu Nian thought coldly, erasing all fond memories of Wang Siyu from his mind, without a trace of lingering attachment.


    "Xu Nian, you can hate me all you want, but let me tell you, I am now with Qin Tiann. We just got engaged yesterday," Wang Siyu said again, her face carrying a trace of triumph.


    Xu Nian sneered!


    What swift action. He had been out of the Qin Family for only a few days, and this woman had already hooked up with Qin Tiann, indeed stopping at nothing to achieve her ends.


    "Then congrattions to you, may you and Qin Tiann grow old together. Trash like you, I''m afraid, can only be matched by someone like Qin Tiann," Xu Nian scoffed coldly. After speaking, he flipped his sleeve and turned to leave.


    "You..." Wang Siyu erupted in anger.


    Xu Nian dared to call her trash?


    A Qin Family outcast with a ruined Dantian dared to call her trash¡ªhow could she not be furious?


    "Stop right there!"


    Just as Xu Nian was about to leave, a cold shout came from not far away.


    Turning his head, Xu Nian saw a young man in a cyan long robe approaching from afar, ring at him angrily.


    Xu Nian saw the neer and anger surged in his eyes.


    The man was none other than the Qin Tian mentioned by Wang Siyu, the most outstanding junior among the Qin Family''s side branches.


    At just seventeen, he already possessed the cultivation of a Five-star Peak Warrior, ranking third among the young members of the Qin Family after only Qin Tian and Qin Hen. His status among the young people of Cloud Sea City was not to be underestimated.


    In the past, Qin Tian had always looked down upon Xu Nian, often bullying him behind the scenes. He had been severely beaten multiple times, and on several asions when his mother was harassed, it was Qin Tian who had orchestrated it behind the scenes. Xu Nian''s resentment toward Qin Tian was no weaker than his resentment toward Qin Hen.


    "Worthless trash, kneel down and apologize to Siyu," Qin Tianmanded arrogantly, standing before Wang Siyu with an air that brooked no resistance.


    By now, the za in front of the Sect''s gate had attracted quite a crowd. When they heard Qin Tian''s roar, naturally, more people gathered around.


    "Isn''t that Qin Tian of the Qin Family? Who''s the young man standing opposite him, daring to offend him?"


    "Don''t you know? He''s the outcast who was kicked out of the Qin Family not long ago. Rumor has it that his father shattered his Dantian with a single strike, rendering him a cripple. What''s he doing here?"


    "Probably hoping for some stroke of fortune to fall on him. But look at the state he''s in now. Offending Qin Tian, he''s in for a world of pain!"


    ...


    The crowd around was buzzing with discussion, but most of thements were mocking Xu Nian, with only a few expressing sympathy for his plight.


    Xu Nian ignored the jeers and sneers of the crowd and coldly looked at Qin Tian, asking sarcastically, "And what if I refuse?"n/?/vel/b//jn dot c//om


    "Then don''t even think about leaving here alive!" Qin Tian dered arrogantly.


    "Really? Then let me see how you''re going to stop me from leaving here alive," Xu Nian shot back with a sneer, his disdain for Qin Tian''s words tangible.


    Qin Tian was instantly furious: "You''re seeking death!"


    The people around were astonished as well, murmuring that Xu Nian had no idea the trouble he was inviting.


    However, Xu Nian seemed indifferent, continuing to taunt, "Stop with the nonsense. Are you good for anything other than being Qin Hen''s dog, Qin Tian?"


    Hearing this, Qin Tian''s rage reached new heights, his fists clenched so tightly that they made a popping sound.


    "Brother Tian, since he''s so unappreciative, you should teach him a good lesson, let him understand what kind of trash he really is," Wang Siyu also added with a cold snort.


    "Don''t worry, if he can walk out of here today, I''ll crawl around Qinglin Academy," Qin Tian dered coldly. Then he made ready, rubbing his hands together with anticipation and charged at Xu Nian, his face twisted with a cruel grin.


    The people around shook their heads helplessly ¨C a man with a shattered Dantian facing a Five-star Warrior was bound for an obvious oue.


    "Prepare to die!"


    Qin Tian pounced like a tiger, swiftly closing the distance to Xu Nian, his ferocious punch aimed straight for Xu Nian''s chest.


    The Fist Wind was tiger-like, showing no mercy.


    Qin Tian''s lips twisted in a cruel smile, as if he had already seen Xu Nian being sted away by his punch.


    Wang Siyu''s face was full of mockery too, showing not a shred of sympathy.


    "Smack!"


    Just when everyone thought Xu Nian was about to be sent flying by that punch, something stunning happened. The ferocious Qin Tian was actually pped away by Xu Nian.


    Teeth went flying, and his entire body spun through the air,nding three meters away.


    "A p? How... how is this possible?"


    Everyone around was stunned, their eyes wide with disbelief at the sight.


    The formerly mocking smile on Wang Siyu''s face froze instantly, revealing an expression of utter shock.


    But the surprises for the crowd were not over yet. Xu Nian stepped forward without hesitation, grabbed Qin Tian by the cor with one hand, and pped his face frenziedly with the other.


    The sound of ps, like popping soybeans, continued to ring out across the za in front of Qinglin Academy.


    While pping, Xu Nian cursed, "Shameless scum, you thought you could bully me without consequence? Today, I''ll let you know whether I''m really trash or not."

 Chapter 5 Be Mature, Not Childish

    Xu Nian''s movements were extremely coherent, and his strength was immensely powerful. He pped Qin Tian again and again, leaving him dazed and disoriented.


    The crowd around them was dumbstruck.


    A Five-star Warrior was being wildly pped around by a man whose Dantian was supposedly ruined, and he had no power to fight back. If they hadn''t seen it with their own eyes, even if they were beaten to death, they wouldn''t believe it.


    Wang Siyu was alsopletely stunned, not understanding what was happening at all.


    Xu Nian''s Dantian was clearly ruined, how could he possibly beat Qin Tian to the point where he couldn''t fight back?n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om


    "It must be a fluke; Qin Tian must have underestimated his opponent! That must be why Xu Nian caught him off guard." Wang Siyu muttered to himself.


    Xu Nian heard the discussions around him and a slight smile appeared at the corner of his mouth.


    Dantian ruined?


    Not to mention that his Spiritual Cultivation had recovered to the Four-star Warrior Realm, his Divine Demon Cultivation had even reached the Basic Ninth Level Heaven. Below the Star Realm, he was invincible. Beating a mere Five-star Warrior like Qin Tian was like catching a chick.


    "Boom!"


    After a hundred ps, Xu Nian kicked Qin Tian so hard that he flew out.


    Qin Tian flew ten meters away, his face swollen like a watermelon, making it unbearable to look at.


    The crowd around gasped in awe, their looks toward Xu Nian turning into fear.


    Damn, that was too savage; they wouldn''t recognize Qin Tian even if he was their own mother.


    Qin Tian also regained consciousness from his dizziness, feeling the intense pain on his cheeks and chest. A strong sense of humiliation flooded his heart.


    He was beaten to look like a pig head by a "useless" person; wouldn''t this be aughing stock if it spread around?


    "No, I won''t be human if I don''t kill you today," Qin Tian roared with bloodshot eyes, his heart filled with murderous intent.


    Having said that, an incredibly fierce aura surged from his body, and a tiger head phantom appeared behind him, instantly making his aura ferocious.


    "Could this be the Qin Family''s Combat Skill¡­ Furious Tiger Sky Punch Fist? I didn''t expect Qin Tian to have cultivated a Combat Skill?"


    "Though it''s the most basic Combat Skill, its power is anything but ordinary. If this punch is thrown, wouldn''t Xu Nian be killed on the spot?"


    "It seems Qin Tian is truly enraged, otherwise he wouldn''t use his Combat Skill."


    ¡­


    A wave of exmations arose again about the Combat Skill demonstrated by Qin Tian.


    Xu Nian looked at the tiger head phantom behind Qin Tian, feeling somewhat surprised himself.


    How could he not recognize the Furious Tiger Sky Punch Fist? It was the most basic Combat Skill of their Qin family, and no one outside the direct descendants could cultivate it.


    Now that Qin Tian, as a coteral family member, could use Furious Tiger Sky Punch Fist, it clearly showed that the Qin family highly valued him.


    "Xu Nian, if you want to me someone, me yourself for overestimating your capabilities. Being killed by the Furious Tiger Sky Punch Fist could even be considered your honor!" Qin Tian scoffed coldly, his fist clenched like a roaring tiger, his aura fierce and intimidating.


    "Die!" With a loud shout, Qin Tian charged at Xu Nian again, his momentum as fierce as a tiger descending the mountain.


    The crowd all showed shock; the power of the Furious Tiger Sky Punch Fist was indeed formidable.


    However, facing the ferociously charging Qin Tian, Xu Nian was not only unafraid but also stood calmly in his original spot, without even a hint of defensive posture.


    "Is he seeking death?"


    The crowd all eximed, thinking that Xu Nian had given up on resisting.


    Qin Tiann''s lips curled into a monstrous sneer, as if he had already seen Xu Nian being blown apart by his punch.


    "p!"


    However, just as everyone thought Xu Nian would be killed by Qin Tiann''s punch right there and then, something happened that made everyone''s jaw drop to the ground.


    Xu Nian, with a casual flick of his palm, sent Qin Tiann flying out with a p.


    "This..."


    The people around were all frozen in ce, unable to believe what they were seeing was real.


    Wang Siyu was also dumbstruck, unable to utter a single word in surprise.


    If one were to say that Xu Nian''s earlier p that sent Qin Tiann flying was a fluke or because Qin Tiann was careless, then what about this p?


    Qin Tiann had even used hisbat skills, yet he was still pped away; now, to say that Xu Nian''s Dantian was destroyed, even if you beat them to death, they wouldn''t believe it.


    "Boom!"


    Qin Tiann crashed heavily to the ground, spitting out a mouthful of blood, unable to believe that all of this was real.


    Xu Nian walked over smiling, ced a foot on Qin Tiann''s chest, and asked with a lightugh, "How does it feel now, do you think you''re useless?"


    "You bastard born from a lowly servant, you dare..." Qin Tiann saw Xu Nian stepping on his chest and immediately erupted in rage again.


    "Shut your filthy mouth, or seek death!" A glint of coldness shed in Xu Nian''s eyes, and he stomped directly on Qin Tiann''s mouth.


    With that stomp, Qin Tiann''s teeth and jawbone were instantly crushed, his mouth horribly disfigured.


    The surrounding crowd twitched in shock, thinking that probably Qin Tiann wouldn''t be able to eat for three months!


    What a ruthless man!


    Absolutely ruthless!


    For a moment, everyone looked at Xu Nian with a sense of fear.


    "Qin Tiann, I''ll tell you the truth, I didn''t even use ten percent of my strength just now, so in my eyes, you''re nothing but an ant," Xu Nian said coldly as he looked at Qin Tiann lying on the ground, his mouth bloody.


    An ant!


    Qin Tiann couldn''t ept this reality and spat out another mouthful of fresh blood before fainting from anger.


    Xu Nian looked at the disfigured Qin Tiann without a trace of sympathy in his eyes.


    All of this was nothing but the consequences of Qin Tiann''s own actions; after all, Qin Tiann had always bullied him and his mother, never showing a shred of sympathy.


    "Qin Hen, you wait, you''re next," Xu Nian muttered to himself, his eyes shing with a glint of coldness.


    "Xu Nian, has your Dantian recovered? Why didn''t you tell me, I''ve always had feelings for you in my heart? Can''t we get back together?" Just as Xu Nian was about to turn around and leave, Wang Siyu suddenly came up, grabbed his sleeve, and showed a ttering smile.


    After everything that had just happened, she had realized that not only had Xu Nian''s Dantian recovered, but his strength had also significantly increased. With his current abilities, entering Qinglin Academy would be no problem, and his future achievements would be immense.


    "You have me in your heart?" Xu Nian sneered, turning to look at the pleading face of Wang Siyu.


    He suddenly realized that he had only truly recognized the girl in front of him now.


    "Grow up, stop being so childish, you and I are no longer from the same world," Xu Nian coldly chuckled as he shook off Wang Siyu''s arm and walked away without looking back.


    The smile on Wang Siyu''s face instantly stiffened, and she stood frozen in ce, a strong sense of regret welling up inside her.

 Chapter 6 Chen Wudi

    Time passed quickly, and before long, it was time for Qinglin Academy''s assessment to begin.


    At this moment, the square in front of Qinglin Academy''s gate was already teeming with a thousand young people gathered to participate in the assessment, hailing from various parts of East Field County.


    The enrollment requirements of Qinglin Academy stated that anyone under the age of eighteen with a cultivation talent of Demon Level could qualify for basic selection.


    Spirit Cultivator and Body Cultivation were the same; they both divided their talent levels into seven levels: Mortal Level, Ghost Level, Demon Level, King-level, Emperor Level, Holy Level, and Divine-level.


    Generally, Mortal Level was the lowest and meant one was unable to cultivate. Achieving Ghost Level gave one the qualifications to cultivate, but their future achievements would not be high, hence Qinglin Academy''s minimum standard for recruitment was a Demon Level Talent.


    Though the requirement for Demon Level Talent seemed not high, it was enough to weed out half of the applicants, as not many on Tianhen Continent possessed the talent to cultivate.


    Qinglin Academy was divided into two institutions, one being the Spirit Academy and the other the Body Institute.


    The Spirit Academy focused on cultivating spiritual power while the Body Institute emphasized physical strength.


    Over the centuries, the two academies were equally strong,peting fiercely with each other and refusing to coexist in harmony.


    Therefore, during recruitment, both academies conducted their enrollment separately and students had to choose whether to join the Spirit Academy or the Body Institute before the selection process.


    Xu Nian naturally chose to enter the Spirit Academy. Even if the Body Institute offered abundant resources, it could notpare to his Divine Demon Refining Body technique. Moreover, if he were to participate in the Body Institute''s selection, his Divine-level Divine Demon Bloodline Talent would be exposed, which would create an upheaval throughout East Field County, and perhaps even throughout Tianhen Empire.


    Outstanding trees in the forest are the first to be felled. His current strength was limited, and revealing his talent could likely bring disaster upon himself. Therefore, until he became powerful, he must not let anyone know he was a Divine Demon Refining Body practitioner, not to mention avoiding exposure of his body refinement skills.


    "My Divine Demon Refining Body is of Divine-level talent. I just don''t know which level my spiritual cultivation talent falls under, but it''s definitely at least Demon Level," Xu Nian mused internally as he stood in the long queue for the Spirit Academy''s basic selection, watching the ongoing talent tests of the young people ahead.


    Although Xu Nian had started his cultivation at ten years old, it was always done in secret, so he had never undergone a talent test.


    However, the fact that he could cultivate to the pinnacle of a Four-star Warrior without any assistance from pills was enough to show his Spirit Cultivation Talent was not weak.


    "Hum!"


    Just as Xu Nian was guessing what his talent might be, a powerful fluctuation suddenly emanated from ahead, and a dazzling green light burst forth from the Talent Detection Stone.


    "Uh, King-level Talent?" Xu Nian said in surprise as he watched the green light on the Talent Detection Stone.


    The Talent Detection Stone could test one''s talent. As soon as someone ced their hand on it, the stone would emit a glow.


    The seven types of talents corresponded to seven colors: red, orange, yellow, green, cyan, blue, and purple.


    At this moment, the dazzling green light bursting forth from the Talent Detection Stone signified that this person''s talent had reached the King-level threshold.


    After such a long time of testing, this was the first person whose talent had reached the King-level, and the intense green light indicated a strong King-level talent.


    The people around were also amazed, looking enviously at the young man standing before the Talent Detection Stone.


    He was avishly dressed youth, appearing to be about the same age as Xu Nian, but his cultivation was much higher than Xu Nian''s, having reached the Nine-star Warrior Level.


    The young man''s gaze was haughty, his face arrogant. He sneered at the admiration of the people around him, showing utter disdain.


    "Such an arrogant person, even a King-level talent is so conceited?" Xu Nian sighed in self-talk.


    Xu Nian found the young man''s disdainful attitude somewhat hard to tolerate.


    It was just a King-level talent, after all; he, a Divine-level talent, had never unted himself like that, with his nose in the air.


    "Others have the capital to be proud, reaching the Nine-star Warrior Level at the age of sixteen, King-level Bloodline Talent¡ªif it were me, I would be even more arrogant, not to mention he has an even more formidable older brother. Being arrogant is expected," said the chubby man standing in front of Xu Nian, unable to help turning his head andughing in response to Xu Nian''sment.


    Only then did Xu Nian pay attention to the person before him, a short and plump figure, roughly the same age as Xu Nian, but significantly heavier¡ªXu Nian estimated definitely over 200 pounds.


    However, the plump man''s cultivation was not weak, having reached the Seven-star Warrior Level, and at the moment, he was looking at Xu Nian with a friendly face.


    "Do you know who he is?" Xu Nian curiously asked.


    "Of course I know, isn''t that the second genius of the Ouyang Family from Yu State, Ouyang Tian?" the chubby man replied.


    "That''s Ouyang Tian?" Xu Nian was also surprised and took another look at the proud young man.


    The Ouyang Family of Yu State had produced two geniuses, one named Ouyang Chengfeng, famed in the Qinglin Academy, possessing the legendary Emperor-level talent, and the other was Ouyang Tian, only slightly behind his brother, with King-level Bloodline Talent.


    The brothers possessed extraordinary talents, and their reputation had shaken the whole of Yu State, especially his brother Ouyang Chengfeng, who had quite a reputation throughout East Field County.


    Emperor-level talent had appeared in the history of Qinglin Academy only a handful of times.


    "Now you know why he''s so proud, right? Not only does he have amazing talent, but he also has his older brother to cover for him. He was already designated by the Spirit Academy; now, it''s just a formality. How about it, jealous, aren''t you?" the chubby man pped Xu Nian''s shoulder and said with a smile.


    Xu Nian also smiled; he found the chubby man in front of him quite amusing.


    When others looked at Ouyang Tian, they felt either envy or jealousy, but only this chubby man had a trace of disdain on his lips.


    "My name is Xu Nian, may I know how to address this little brother?" Xu Nian said, introducing himself with a smile.


    Unexpectedly, the chubby manughed out loud, excitedly saying, "I know you, the castaway of the Qin Family, aren''t you? I saw it when you fought Qin Tiann just now, wasn''t that p awesome?"


    As he spoke, he even mimicked the action of pping, which was extremelyical.


    Xu Nian could only smile helplessly; this chubby man was truly a character, but he gave a sense of familiarity.


    "Oh, by the way, my name is Chen Wudi, how about that, isn''t the name imposing enough!" the chubby man raised his eyebrows at Xu Nian.


    "Chen Wudi?" Xu Nian was speechless.


    That name really was damn imposing; he was curious which parents would be so bold as to give such a name to their son.


    "I named myself that, because I''m also an orphan. You and I can be considered as sharing the same plight. If someone dares to bully you in the future, Brother Wudi will teach them a lesson for you," the chubby man puffed out his chest and said proudly to Xu Nian.


    Xu Nian was taken aback, not having expected Chen Wudi to also have such a background, but Chen Wudi''s words moved him.


    "Next up, Chen Wudi!"n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om


    Just as Xu Nian and Chen Wudi were chatting merrily, the elder responsible for testing had called out Chen Wudi''s name.

 Chapter 7 Slapping Ouyang Tianlans Face

    "Chen Wudi? Someone dared to take such an audacious name?"


    "Yeah, not afraid to get beaten up when stepping outside with a name like that?"


    ...


    As soon as the elder called out that name, the surrounding area suddenly buzzed with discussion, even the elder who announced the name rolled his eyes.


    But Chen Wudi swaggered forward, with a very arrogant demeanor, eliciting a wave of sighs from the crowd.


    Xu Nian could only helplessly chuckle upon seeing this. He had previously thought Chen Wudi was a character, and now it seemed he had underestimated him; he definitely loved stirring up trouble.


    "Hmph, showing off to gain attention, even calling himself invincible, I think people like him should be kicked out directly. He shouldn''t even be allowed to participate in the preliminary selection, so as not to disgrace our Qinglin Academy," Ouyang Tian, who had already passed the preliminary selection, sneered coldly, looking at Chen Wudi with contempt.


    In his opinion, Chen Wudi''s actions were nothing but a clownish attempt to attract attention.


    "What''s it to you? Did I take a shit on your head or did I sleep with your mother? Talking about ''our Qinglin Academy'', you''ve only just passed the preliminary selection, yet you carry on as if you are truly a member of Qinglin Academy." Hearing Ouyang Tian''s words, Chen Wudi immediately hurled back an insult.


    Everyone around was taken aback, not expecting that Chen Wudi would dare publicly curse at Ouyang Tian.


    Xu Nian was rendered speechless. He wasn''t surprised by Chen Wudi''s reckless audacity but by the artistry with which Chen Wudi cursed.


    Taking a shit on your head, sleeping with your mother.


    That actually rolled off the tongue pretty well.


    "You..." Ouyang Tian was instantly furious. He had always been treated with utmost respect since childhood, and now someone had dared to openly insult him, and in such a vulgar manner at that.


    "What ''you''? Don''t think that just because you have King-level talent, you''re something special. Let me tell you, the world is vast, and there are plenty of people with talent stronger than yours. A mere King-level talent behaving so arrogantly, looking down on others," Chen Wudi refused to back down and continued his tirade.


    The crowd around was dumbstruck; Chen Wudi truly never rested until he shocked everyone¡ªhe was outright giving Ouyang Tian a dressing-down.


    Leaving aside whether his ability was truly invincible, this mouth alone was unbeatable.


    Ouyang Tian was so angry his body shook. If not for the presence of the Qinglin Academy elders, he would likely have already rushed forward to hurl this annoying fatty out of sight.


    "Hmph, you downy King-level talent. What about you then? I fear you don''t even possess Demon Level talent, yet here you are, making a racket," Ouyang Tian managed to spit out, suppressing the anger in his heart.


    "How about we make a bet then? If I have King-level talent, you kneel down and kowtow to me three times, calling me ''grandpa'' three times. How about that?" Chen Wudi said with a smile, looking at Ouyang Tian.


    "And if you don''t have King-level talent, you would cripple your own Dantian, break your hands and legs, and crawl around this Sect once," Ouyang Tian said through clenched teeth.


    Everyone around gasped upon hearing this.


    Xu Nian frowned slightly. He had experienced crippling his own Dantian and breaking limbs¡ªit felt far worse than death. He hadn''t expected Ouyang Tian to propose such a cruel bet.


    Yet, to everyone''s amazement, Chen Wudi agreed without hesitation.


    "Deal! Elder, please be our witness," Chen Wudi said to an elder from Qinglin Academy nearby.n/?/vel/b//jn dot c//om


    Xie Chenyu was also taken aback. As an elder of Qinglin Academy,


    before these disciples became official students, they wouldn''t get involved in their disputes. Hence, he had maintained a neutral stance and hadn''t intervened in their matter.


    But the stakes were so high now, and Chen Wudi had actually agreed, which surprised him.


    However, the wager was good for Spirit Academy; if Ouyang Tian won, it would show Chen Wudi didn''t have much talent, no loss to them. But if Chen Wudi won, their Qinglin Academy would gain another individual with King-level talent.


    "Aren''t you going to reconsider?" Xie Chenyu asked.


    "No need to reconsider," Chen Wudi said with full confidence, and after speaking, he provocatively looked towards Ouyang Tian.


    "All bark and no bite, I refuse to believe you truly have king-level talent," Ouyang Tian sneered disdainfully, still unconvinced.


    "Fine, since both parties have made up their minds, I will act as the notary for this wager. Anyone who goes back on their word will be forever disqualified from Qinglin Academy''s selection," Xie Chenyu announced.


    The surrounding crowd, upon hearing these words, were all shocked, their eyes all turned to Chen Wudi, guessing in their hearts whether he truly possessed king-level talent. If not, his fate today was likely to be quite miserable.


    Xu Nian was also somewhat worried, but he believed that Chen Wudi was not reckless. Since he dared to bet, he must be confident in winning.


    With a slight smile at the corner of his mouth, Chen Wudi then walked towards the Talent Detection Stone under everyone''s watchful eyes and ced his palm on it.


    Everyone around held their breath, anticipating what color of light the Talent Detection Stone would emit.


    "Buzz!"


    The moment Chen Wudi''s hand touched the Talent Detection Stone, a strong green light burst forth from it.


    "It''s... it''s really king-level talent, my God, the Spirit Academy has actually recruited two people with king-level talent at once." Someone in the crowd suddenly eximed.


    Seeing the dazzling green light, Xie Chenyu was also excited.


    King-level talent, in the past, it was impressive enough to have one person with such talent. Now, unexpectedly, they''ve got two at once. With this, wouldn''t their Spirit Academy thoroughly outshine the Body Institute?


    "This... how is this possible? You must have cheated," Ouyang Tian said, his face green with disbelief as he looked at the Talent Detection Stone, unable to ept this fact.


    Chen Wudi looked at Ouyang Tian with a cold smile and said sarcastically, "Now you know your own weight, don''t you? Since you lost, ept the bet and call me grandpa while kneeling!"


    Ouyang Tian''s face turned ashen, his expression one of bitterly gnashing teeth, not willing to give in. But with so many people watching, he couldn''t deny it and had to swallow the humiliation and kneel before Chen Wudi, calling out "Grandpa" three times.


    "Good grandson, that''s more like it. Remember to keep a lower profile in the future," Chen Wudi said with a chuckle.


    Ouyang Tian''s face was extremely pale, his eyes filled with uncontroble anger as he stared at Chen Wudi.


    "Hmph, even if you have king-level talent, you''re only the same as me, and you''re not qualified to lecture me," Ouyang Tian said through clenched teeth, his heart brimming with killing intent.


    Hearing this, Chen Wudiughed and said to Ouyang Tian, "So, you mean to say if someone surpasses king-level talent, they would be qualified to lecture you?"


    "In the entire Qinglin Academy, only my elder brother Ouyang Chengfeng possesses emperor-level talent. There can''t possibly be a second emperor-level talent," Ouyang Tian said with a coldugh.


    Mentioning his elder brother, his pride seemed to swell even more.


    The eyes of everyone around were filled with reverence.


    Ouyang Chengfeng, the undisputed genius of Qinglin Academy, held a status that was even higher than elder Xie Chenyu''s.


    To Ouyang Tian, his elder brother was the person he admired the most, unparalleled by anyone, which was why he refused to believe there could be another with emperor-level talent like his elder brother.


    "It''s just emperor-level talent. Xu Nian,e out and let them see your spiritual cultivation talent," said Chen Wudi suddenly to Xu Nian, just as the crowd was internalizing the notion of Ouyang Tian as a peerless genius.


    Whoosh!


    Instantly, all eyes turned to Xu Nian, with Ouyang Tian also unable to help casting his gaze towards him.


    Xu Nian was taken aback, not expecting Chen Wudi to call on him at this moment.

 Chapter 8 Unpreventable

    "Xu Nian, let''s see your Spiritual Cultivation Talent, just so some fools don''t overestimate themselves." Chen Wudi seemed afraid that the crowd hadn''t heard, repeating himself loudly, and after he finished, he cast a provoking nce at Ouyang Tian.


    The voice of Chen Wudi this time was loud enough that everyone heard him clearly.


    "He has Emperor Level talent? How is that possible? In the thousand-year history of Qinglin Academy, only three individuals have emerged with Emperor Level talent. Could this person named Xu Nian really possess Emperor Level talent?"


    "I also find it unlikely. Qinglin Academy was lucky enough to have a talent like Ouyang Chengfeng, who''s considered Emperor Level. How could there suddenly be another one?"


    "Hey, do you guys feel like the name Xu Nian sounds familiar? I think I''ve heard it somewhere before?"


    ...


    Surrounding onlookers all engaged in heated discussion, none believed Chen Wudi''s im to be true.


    At this moment, Xu Nian''s face was full of confusion. With the speed of his own spiritual cultivation, he felt he was at most Demon Level talent, far from King-level, let alone Emperor Level.


    But Chen Wudi didn''t seem to be joking, which left Xu Nian somewhat puzzled.


    "Humph, you don''t really mean to tell me he has Emperor Level talent, do you? That''s a joke. Do you think I don''t know who he is?" However, in the midst of Xu Nian''s confusion, Ouyang Tian sneered with mockery.


    "Yes, he''s talking about his Emperor Level talent, why, do you think that''s not possible?" Chen Wudi responded with a coldugh too.


    "Haha, if you said someone else had Emperor Level Bloodline Talent, I might believe it. But if you say he has Emperor Level Bloodline Talent, that''s trulyughable. Perhaps you don''t know that he is none other than the waste orphan of the Qin Family of Cloud Sea City, Qin Nian. Supposedly, his own father destroyed his Dantian with a p, leaving him aplete waste. You say he has Emperor Level Bloodline Talent, isn''t that just hrious?" Ouyang Tianughed heartily.


    "He is Qin Nian? No wonder his name sounded familiar. Turns out he changed it."


    "To say this Qin Nian has Emperor Level Bloodline Talent is indeed far-fetched. If Qin Nian truly possessed such talent, the Qin Family must be blind."


    ...


    As soon as Ouyang Tian''s words came out, everyone erupted into an uproar, further solidifying their belief that Xu Nian couldn''t possibly possess true Emperor Level talent.


    Although Xu Nian never considered himself to have Emperor Level Bloodline Talent, Ouyang Tian''s continuousbeling him as a waste twice struck a raw nerve.


    Xie Chenyu also turned his head to look at Chen Wudi. Initially, on hearing Chen Wudi''s words, his heart lit up with excitement at the thought that there could be another Emperor Level Bloodline Talent. But after hearing what Ouyang Tian said, hepletely dismissed the notion.


    He had heard of this discarded child of the Qin Family, Xu Nian. If he truly had Emperor Level Bloodline Talent, he would have been renowned by now. How could he have had his Dantian destroyed by his own father and been kicked out of his own home?


    Yet, Chen Wudi remained calmly smiling, continuing to speak, "Don''t you all know that Xu Nian''s Dantian has been repaired?"


    "Humph, even if his Dantian has been repaired, so what? Six years of cultivation, only reaching Four-star Warrior status. How could he possibly have Emperor Level Bloodline Talent? At best, he''s just a Demon-level waste. It''s said he''s also illegitimate; his mother was a lowly maid. Even his own Qin Family looked down on him, what right does he have to bepared with my brother?" Ouyang Tian''s disdain was palpable as he sneered at Xu Nian.


    Xu Nian boiled with rage upon hearing this. He could tolerate Ouyang Tian calling him a waste, but the insult to his mother was something he could not bear.


    "Ouyang Tian, watch your filthy mouth! I may be illegitimate, but I will not allow you to insult my mother," Xu Nian said, eyes icy as he red at Ouyang Tian, a fierce chill in his gaze.


    To him, his mother was his reversed scale, which he felt could not be insulted by anyone in the least.


    "Hmph, what I''m saying is nothing but the truth. Your mother was indeed a lowly maid, and you are a thorough waste." Ouyang Tian retorted with a scoff, full of contempt in his gaze.


    "You''re seeking death!" Xu Nian roared in anger.


    With a vigorous step, he was instantly in front of Ouyang Tian and sent him flying with a single punch.


    "Pfft!"


    As he spat out a mouthful of blood, Ouyang Tian''s body smashed to the ground ten meters away.


    ```


    "I... I must be seeing things, did a Four-Star Warrior actually punch Nine-Star Ouyang Tian and send him flying?"


    ```


    The crowd around was instantly stunned, looking at the scene in utter disbelief.


    Xu Nian''s action just now had been so fast, they hadn''t even had time to react before they saw Ouyang Tian being sted away.


    Xie Chenyu, standing nearby, was also taken aback. Xu Nian''s move had been somewhat unexpected; a Four-Star Warrior should definitely not have been capable of such a quick response.


    "How... How is this possible? How could you, a Four-Star Warrior, possibly be my match?" Ouyang Tian stood up from the ground, unable to ept the fact that he had been sent flying by Xu Nian''s punch.


    "Haha, Ouyang Tian, you''ve witnessed it now, haven''t you? Xu Nian here has Innate Divine Strength; defeating you is naturally no problem," Chen Wudiughed heartily.


    "Innate Divine Strength?" The surrounding crowd heard this, and suddenly it made sense to them; Xie Chenyu also understood immediately.


    If it truly was Innate Divine Strength, then that would exin it, considering the pure Physical Strength that Xu Nian had used just now.


    "Hmph, even if he really does have Innate Divine Strength, without a strong Bloodline Talent, he will still end up under my feet in three months," Ouyang Tian dered stubbornly.


    "It seems you won''t shed a tear until you see the coffin. Xu Nian, go on and show your Talent. I want to see what he has to say after he''s seen your Talent," Chen Wudi said to Xu Nian.


    Xu Nian hesitated for a moment but still walked towards the Talent Detection Stone.n/?/vel/b//jn dot c//om


    The gaze of everyone around followed Xu Nian''s movements; they were eager to see just what level of Talent this Xu Nian possessed.


    Could it really be, as Chen Wudi had said, a once-in-a-millennium, Emperor Level Talent?


    "Hum!"


    The very moment Xu Nian''s hand touched the Talent Detection Stone, the stone lit up, bursting forth with a dazzling radiance.


    Everybody, including Xie Chenyu, was left dumbstruck, their faces disying an immensely shocked expression.


    Even though they had braced themselves, when the Talent Detection Stone lit up, they were still so astounded they couldn''t speak.


    "No... This is impossible, absolutely impossible; the Talent Detection Stone must be broken," Ouyang Tian also stared wide-eyed at the Talent Detection Stone in disbelief.


    At this moment, an extremely dazzling cyan light burst forth from the Talent Detection Stone, indicating an Emperor Level Talent.


    "Haha, Emperor Level Bloodline Talent, our Spirit Academy is set to risepletely now!" Xie Chenyu eximed excitedly.


    He knew better than anyone that the Talent Detection Stone couldn''t possibly be wrong. Therefore, since the Talent Detection Stone indicated that Xu Nian had Emperor Level Bloodline Talent, Xu Nian truly possessed it.


    Hearing Xie Chenyu speak, Ouyang Tian felt a surge of despair wash over him.


    However, just then, Xu Nian standing in front of the Talent Detection Stone let out a puzzled noise, "Eh, that''s not right. I should be of Demon Level Talent; how did it turn into Emperor Level Talent? This doesn''t make sense!"


    With that, he ced his hand on the Talent Detection Stone once again, wanting to check if the stone was indeed malfunctioning.


    But again, the cyan light burst forth from the Talent Detection Stone.


    The onlookers saw this scene and were at a loss for words.


    Pfft!


    Ouyang Tian, now beside himself with fury, spurted out a mouthful of blood.


    Goddamn it, invisible show-off is the hardest to guard against!


    ```

 Chapter 9 Cultivation Progress

    Qin Nian touched the Talent Detection Stone three times before he confirmed that he truly possessed Emperor Level Spiritual Cultivation Talent.


    Emperor Level Spiritual Cultivation Talent, Divine-level Divine Demon Bloodline Talent.


    If this were to spread, it would be enough to shake the entire Tianhen Empire.


    However, Qin Nian naturally wouldn''t easily reveal his Divine Demon Bloodline Talent, as the Emperor Level Spiritual Cultivation Talent already made him quite conspicuous.


    If he were to reveal his Divine Demon Bloodline Talent, it would inevitably bring about fatal danger, and by then, even the Qinglin Academy might not be able to protect him.


    As Qin Nian touched the Talent Detection Stone three times, the hearts of the people around him also thumped wildly three times.n/?/vel/b//in dot c//om


    His Emperor Level Spiritual Cultivation Talent was destined to make him a key figure to be nurtured by Qinglin Academy, with limitless potential for achievement in the future.


    Standing in the crowd, Wang Siyu bit her red lips fiercely, her heart already bleeding with regret over the most foolish decision in her life.


    On the other side, Ouyang Tian hadpletely copsed to the ground. He had thought his talent was next only to that of his elder brother, but now not only had Chen Wudi emerged with the same level of talent as his, but there was also Qin Nian, whose Bloodline Talent surpassed his own, delivering a heavy blow to him that he couldn''te to terms with.


    Seeing this, both Qin Nian and Chen Wudi couldn''t help but chuckle.


    Previously, Ouyang Tian had been arrogantly unbound, and now seeing him so affected brought them particr satisfaction.


    Following that, both Qin Nian and Chen Wudi were directly admitted to the Qinglin Academy without participating in any further assessments.


    After all, the Qinglin Academy had a rule that anyone who could reach King Level talent or above would be admitted without any assessments, granted an exception.


    Qin Nian and Chen Wudi were spared the trouble, and so they didn''t participate in the subsequent selections.


    Ouyang Tian also didn''t take part in the subsequent assessments. His previous participation was purely for show, but after such a hit to his pride, he naturallycked the face to continue.


    While other candidates were being assessed, Qin Nian and Chen Wudi had a thorough exchange.


    They finally understood why Qin Nian possessed Emperor Level Bloodline Talent yet, after six years of cultivation, only had Four-star Cultivation.


    It turned out that six years ago, after Qin Hen taught Qin Nian the cultivation technique, he feared that Qin Nian''s exceptional talent would attract the attention of Qin Yuanshan and jeopardize his ns. Therefore, he consistently had the servants secretly add Qi Scattering Powder to Qin Nian''s food and drink.


    This Qi Scattering Powder was colorless and tasteless, and although it was not a strong poison, it could suppress a person''s cultivation, causing their progress to be extremely sluggish without being detected.


    Qin Nian had been unknowingly ingesting Qi Scattering Powder for a full six years, arranged by Qin Hen.


    If it weren''t for the Qi Scattering Powder, at this moment, Qin Nian''s cultivation would no longer be of the Warrior Realm but that of a Star Warrior.


    When Qin Nian first heard this truth, he was so enraged that he clenched his teeth furiously.


    For six years, Qin Hen had been continuously encouraging his cultivation, just to wait for the moment when Qin Yuanshan decided to neutralize Qin Nian and witness the pain of his six years'' efforts turning into nothing.


    Every step along this path revealed a profoundly scheming and venomous heart.


    "Qin Hen, just you wait. When I stand before you again, it will be time for you to tremble, and that day will not be too far off," Qin Nian clenched his fists, his eyes filled with resolve.


    He had long taken an oath that he would return tenfold everything bestowed upon him by Qin Hen.


    However, along with his anger, Qin Nian was also curious about how Chen Wudi came to know of this.


    ```


    But Chen Wudi simply smiled without exnation and said something that left Xu Nian bewildered, "You''ll understandter!" Then he deftly changed the subject.


    Xu Nian suddenly felt that Chen Wudi was definitely not as simple as he imed to be, just an orphan.


    However, since Chen Wudi was unwilling to talk, Xu Nian did not press further. After all, everyone had their secrets.


    After four full hours, the three rounds of assessment finally concluded.


    Out of a total of sixteen hundred participants, only a hundred and twelve were admitted.


    Among them, to Xu Nian''s surprise, Wang Siyu had also passed the assessment and be an official disciple of the Spirit Academy.


    Nevertheless, Xu Nian did not pay much attention to it, as Wang Siyu was destined to no longer be in his world.


    ...


    Time flew, and three days had passed. During these three days, Xu Nian had alsoe to understand Qinglin Academy quite well.


    It turns out that Qinglin Academy ssifies students into three levels: Basic-level students, Mid-level Students, and High-level students.


    All those below the Star Realm are Basic-level students; those below five stars in the Star Realm be Mid-level Students, and those above, including those at five stars, are High-level students.


    The entire academy had three thousand one hundred students in the Spirit Academy and three thousand six hundred in the Warrior Academy, totaling six thousand seven hundred students, with Basic-level students ounting for fifty percent, Mid-level Students forty percent, and High-level students only ten percent.


    Moreover, the mode of training adopted by Qinglin Academy waspletely free-range. There was only one collective lecture a month; the rest of the time, students were free to cultivate on their own.


    Within the living quarters of the Basic-level students of Qinglin Academy, located in a secluded courtyard, Xu Nian was sitting cross-legged, cultivating.


    Qinglin Mountain was vast, and each academy had its own independent residence, each of which was protected by a formation. Without the owner''s permission, outsiders could not enter, so there was no fear of sudden disturbances.


    Xu Nian was now seated in his courtyard, practicing the Ling Feng Combat Skill. The Ling Feng Combat Skill was the foundationalbat skill practiced by every student of Qinglin Academy, including the Dean.


    Although the Ling Feng Combat Skill was foundational, it was much more sophisticated than thebat skills Xu Nian had previously trained at the Qin Family.


    As thebat skill circted, Heaven and Earth Spiritual Energy continuously converged towards his body.


    The flow of spiritual energy even formed a slight breeze that whirled around Xu Nian''s body, even stirring the sand and gravel beneath his feet.


    "Buzz!"


    Suddenly, a humming sound resonated, and Xu Nian opened his eyes abruptly. He exhaled a stream of white breath that shot out like an arc, extending over three feet.


    "Another breakthrough, just three days and up two stars. Indeed, without the repression of the Qi Scattering Powder, my Emperor-level Bloodline Talent has fully manifested," Xu Nian said, feeling the changes in the spiritual energy within his dantian, his face disying joy.


    In just three days, he had advanced from a Four-star Warrior to a Six-star Warrior level.


    If such a frightening rate of cultivation were to be known, it would surely astonish everyone.


    "Cultivating spiritual energy is quick, but this Divine Demon Refining Body is stuck at the Basic Nine Stars level and just can''t break through to the Star Realm," Xu Nian frowned.


    He understood that the core of his strengthy in Demon Cultivation, stronger than any spiritual cultivation could be.


    "Master once said that body refinement must involve realbat. Looks like I should pay the arena a visit," Xu Nian suddenly remembered something, and with a flip of his hand, a crystal-clear jade token appeared in his palm.


    And inscribed on the jade token were a few lines of text, with his name, Xu Nian, most prominent among them.


    ```

 Chapter 10 Challenge Information

    The Identity Jade Token serves as a possession of every Qinglin Academy student and a symbol of their disciple''s identity.


    Aside from recording Xu Nian''s name and his status as a basic-level student, there was a strange line of data on it.


    This line of data was known as "points," and it was the universally recognized medium of exchange within Qinglin Academy.


    To put it inly, points were the equivalent of money for the daily living expenses of Qinglin Academy students. Whether it was for food, clothing, shelter, or transportation, cultivation resources including Combat Techniques and Combat Skills, everything was exchanged using points.


    Without points, you would find it difficult to get by in Qinglin Academy; you might even starve to death.


    Of course, each month Qinglin Academy provided its students with a hundred points, but these one hundred points were only enough to maintain a normal life for a student.


    If you wanted to obtain more cultivation resources, you had to earn points through your own efforts. Therefore, although Qinglin Academy seemed to have a hands-off approach, thepetition within it was incredibly fierce.


    There were many ways to earn points, frompleting various levels of missions to gain corresponding points to selling treasures to the Academy in exchange for points.


    Besides these methods, there were many other ways to earn points, among which the quickest ce to earn them was the arenas.


    The so-called arenas were where students earned points through sparring with one another.


    Before the match, the arena would evaluate each student''s strength and set the number of points for the match. The winner of the match would get corresponding points, while the loser would have points deducted.


    Of course, students could challenge each other, privately setting the points as a bet. Once one side won the match, the Identity Jade Token would automatically transfer the points to the winner''s token. It was truly magical.


    The most interesting aspect for Xu Nian was that the arena had a special rule, which allowedpetitors to hide their identities and use codenames for thepetition.


    As long as they wore masks during thepetition and chose an appropriate codename, no one would be able to recognize their true identities. In this way, he wasn''t afraid that his Divine Demon Refining Body Cultivation would be exposed, especially since the arena was a ce where both Spirit Academy and Body Institute studentspeted together.


    Xu Nian changed into a set of ck clothes and tucked a prepared pure ck mask into his chest before sneaking out the door and heading towards the arena.


    Upon arriving near the arena, he found a secluded ce, put on his mask, and then directly entered the arena.


    There were many masked people inside the arena, so Xu Nian''s appearance didn''t attract any attention.


    As soon as he entered the arena, what stood before Xu Nian was a giant stele towering ten meters high and about five meters wide.


    On this stele were densely packed light characters, which shifted over time. Especially the characters at the bottom moved more noticeably, while those at the top barely changed even after a long while.


    "This must be the Dark List of the arena!" Xu Nian softly mumbled to himself while looking at the huge stele.


    Within Qinglin Academy, there were three major lists: the Azure Dragon List, the Hidden Dragon List, and the Dark List.


    Among them, the Azure Dragon List naturally ranked the strong ones in Qinglin Academy. Those who could enter the top twenty of Qinglin Academy students could find a ce on the Azure Dragon List.


    Those who made it onto the Azure Dragon List were all elites and outstanding figures among the Academy''s students.


    The Hidden Dragon List was a potential list, which also had only twenty names. However, it was not ranked by strength, but by potential.


    What surprised Xu Nian was that he, along with Chen Wudi and Ouyang Tian, were all on the list, and his own ranking was neither high nor low, exactly at number ten. As for Chen Wudi and Ouyang Tian, they ranked twentieth and neenth, barely making it onto the list.


    The reason Xu Nian managed to rank tenth upon entering the Academy was due to his Emperor Level Bloodline Talent, and being ranked twelfth might have been because his own strength was rtively low.


    Because of this, Xu Nian received eight hundred more points than others every month.


    As for the Dark List, it was unique to the arena. The identities of those on this list were mostly nominal, and few knew their true identities. There were a hundred slots on this list.


    The ranking was not based on strength but on consecutive victories. The more consecutive victories one had, the higher the ranking.


    Currently ranked first was "Demon King," with forty-eight fights, forty-eight wins, and forty-eight consecutive victories.


    Second ce: "Destruction," with forty fights, thirty-nine wins, and thirty-nine consecutive victories.


    Third ce: "Emperor Ba," with fifty-seven fights, fifty wins, and thirty consecutive victories.


    ...


    The more Xu Nian looked, the more amazed he felt, especially about this Demon King who had fought forty-eight matches and won every single one, maintaining a 100% win rate.


    Such an achievement was probably something that only the top fighters on the Azure Dragon List could achieve, and even there, their ranking wouldn''t be low.


    The further down he looked, the more matches the ranked fighters had fought, but their record of consecutive victories wasn''t as impressive.


    Often, after ten consecutive victories, a powerful fighter would step forward to put them back in their ce. Thus, it''s imaginable how difficult it was for Demon King to achieve forty-eight consecutive wins.


    However, the more challenging it was, the more interested Xu Nian became. Only in such brutalbat could he gain more actualbat experience and continuously improve himself.n/?/vel/b//jn dot c//om


    Besides these three major lists, Qinglin Academy also had an unofficial list known as the Beauty List, which was limited to women. There were only ten spots on the list, and the criteria for entry did not consider strength but only a contender''s beauty.


    Thus, every woman who made it onto the list was an astonishing beauty, as if she was a celestial beauty herself.


    Nevertheless, Xu Nian wasn''t interested in this list and didn''t pay it much attention. It was Chen Wudi who had a great interest in it. The existence of this list was something Chen Wudi had told him about.


    Without further thought, Xu Nian made his way to the Challenge Stone.


    The Challenge Stone was the ce to issuepetitive challenges. By cing one''s Identity Jade Token on it and inputting the requirements for an opponent''s strength with one''s thoughts and cing the corresponding bet, one could issue a challenge.


    Other challengers who saw the challenge and met the requirements could ept it.


    Challengers could also directly issue a challenge to the top fighters on the Dark List, and if the other party agreed, they could fight.


    Xu Nian walked up to the Challenge Stone, ced his Identity Jade Token on it, and entered the following information:


    Challenger: Dragon God


    Strength: Basic Nine-Star Body Cultivation


    Challengee: First-star of Star Realm (Spirit Cultivator or Body Cultivation, either)


    Wager: 100 points


    That''s right, the codename Xu Nian chose for himself was Dragon God, as his Divine Demon Physique was the Nine Dragon Supreme Divine Body.


    As soon as this challenge was issued, those challengers who were viewing the challenges erupted into a frenzy.


    Everyone began to buzz with conversation, marveling at the audacity of whoever dared to issue such a challenge.

 Chapter 11 Disparity in Strength

    "Who is this? How dare they take the name of the Dragon God? Do they not understand what those two words signify?"


    "I think it''s just a clown trying to grab attention by using such a name to attract eyeballs. Look at his challenge, a Basic Nine Star in Body Cultivation challenging a One-star Warrior of the Star Realm. Isn''t that asking for punishment?"


    "Exactly, the gap between the Star Realm and the Basic Realm is a huge divide. For instance, once a Body Cultivation warrior steps into the Star Realm, he generates Gang Qi in his body. Someone at the Basic Nine Star level can''t possibly stand against such power, and yet he dares to challenge someone above his rank. Isn''t that asking for suffering?"n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om


    "Hmph, whoever is the One-star Warrior of the Star Realm should ept this challenge and teach this ignorant fool a lesson. A Basic-level student dares challenge the authority of us Mid-level Students? Let''s show him his real worth."


    ¡­


    The surrounding voices of discussion continued nonstop, everyone filled with righteous indignation and wanting to properly teach the person who issued the challenge a lesson.


    Xu Nian stood by silently, speechless. He had not expected to offend everyone even before the challenge had begun.


    However, at this moment, his heart felt an unusual surge of excitement. Challenging the authority of Mid-level Students seemed quite appealing.


    Soon, Xu Nian''s Identity Jade lit up. He knew someone had epted his challenge.


    Following the directions on the Identity Jade, Xu Nian made his way to the designated arena.


    The arena had nearly a hundredbat fields, capable of amodating many concurrent battles. Therefore, the challenge issued by Xu Nian could be immediately initiated.


    When Xu Nian arrived at the spot, his challenger was already there¡ªa youth of about 1.8 meters in height.


    Wearing a tiger-faced mask and of a rather burly build, he was a Spiritual Cultivation, Star Realm One Star Warrior.


    "Kid, are you the one who calls himself the Dragon God?" A rough voice came from beneath the tiger mask.


    "Yes!" Xu Nian replied in a hoarse voice.


    Though he was already wearing a mask, making it difficult for anyone to recognize him, he chose to alter his voice just in case.


    "Hmph, an ignorant fool. You, a Basic Nine Star and Basic-level student, dare to challenge someone of the Star Realm. Don''t you realize how great the gap is between Basic and Star Realm?" The youth under the tiger mask coldly snorted, a fierce light shining through.


    By this time, a considerable crowd had gathered, most being Mid-level Students who thought Xu Nian''s challenge was a provocation against them. They all eagerly anticipated the young man in the tiger mask giving Xu Nian a harsh lesson.


    There was also a minority of Basic-level students silently cheering for Xu Nian in their hearts, but they dared not voice their support.


    "Who says a Basic-level student can''t challenge a Mid-level student? Who set that rule? And really, I don''t even know how big the gap between Basic and Star Realm is. Why don''t you enlighten me?" Xu Nian responded with a coldugh.


    The remarks from the youth in the tiger mask had annoyed him. Why should it be assumed that Basic-level students aren''t a match for Mid-level Students?


    Although the gap between the Basic Realm and the Star Realm is significant, it is not insurmountable. Today, he intended to show everyone how he could break this seemingly iron rule.


    "Good, you''re bold indeed. Since that''s the case, I''ll just have to use my fists to teach you how to respect your seniors," the tiger-masked youth coldly snorted.


    Taking a step forward, the aura of a First-star Warrior of Star Level burst forth from his body, vibrating intensely, causing his robe to rustle.


    A Nine-star Warrior of Spiritual Cultivation, once breaking through to the Star Realm, undergoes a transformation in the Dantian within the body, forming a Qi Sea. The storage of Spiritual Energy increases tenfold, and it bes much denser, significantly enhancing strength.


    This is why everyone believes there is a vast chasm between the Basic Realm and the Star Realm.


    "Buzz!"


    The tiger-masked youth tapped the ground with his toes, instantly causing the stone bs on the ground to crack, and in a sh, he darted towards Xu Nian, his palm charged with powerful Spiritual Energy.


    His movement was swift like the wind, elegant yet fierce, reaching Xu Nian''s chest in the blink of an eye, about to strike.


    If this palm hit, Xu Nian would certainly be sent flying, losing hisbat capability, after all, a Warrior of the Star Realm wasn''t for show.


    "It looks like it''s going to be over." The crowd outside felt Xu Nian had already lost.


    The corners of the tiger-masked youth''s eyes slightly curved, also feeling confident of victory.


    "The power is not bad, just too slow,"


    However, just when everyone thought the match was about to end, the originally motionless Xu Nian suddenly hooked up a faint smile on his lips.


    Before anyone could see how he threw the punch, the young man in the tiger mask was already flying backward, crashing five meters away with blood dribbling from the corner of his mouth.


    "How... How is this possible?"


    The crowd around was instantly stunned, their faces full of disbelief at the scene.


    The young man in the tiger mask was also shocked as he stood up holding his stomach, his eyes filled with confusion and astonishment.


    He had not seen how the man before him had made his move, seeing only a blurry afterimage before he was struck with pain and sent flying.


    "Such fast speed, is he really just a Basic Nine Star?" The young man in the tiger mask had now put away his contempt, knowing his opponent was a formidable one.


    Xu Nian stood in ce, replying with a coldugh.


    He was not an ordinary Body Cultivation Basic Nine Star but a Divine Demon Refining Body Basic Nine Star.


    Divine Demon Refining Body was the supreme Holy Scripture of the Body Cultivation lineage, could the difference be judged by ordinary standards?


    "You should use yourbat skills, or soon you won''t have the chance," Xu Nian said with a sneer.


    The man before him had obviously just entered the One-star Warrior rank and was not proficient in controlling the power of the Star Realm without usingbat skills, he was definitely no match for him.


    The crowd around went silent, a Basic Nine Star talking down to a One-star Warrior like this was sheer humiliation.


    The young man in the tiger mask had a face as pale as iron beneath his mask; he was being looked down upon by a basic-level student. If word of this got out, would he ever be able to show his face in this arena again?


    "Humph, since you want to witness mybat skills, I shall grant your wish. I don''t believe you can break through them," the young man in the tiger mask said coldly, a gentle breeze emanating from his body as he spoke.


    His palm shimmered with a cyan light, swirling like a brisk wind and exceptionally sharp.


    "Is this¡­ the Yellow-level Middle Level Battle Skill, Gentle Wind Stone Breaking Palm?"


    Someone outside the ring recognized thebat skill the masked youth was using and eximed in surprise.


    Gentle Wind Stone Breaking Palm was an extremely sharp offensive battle skill. When the palm struck, both its speed and power were many times stronger than usual.


    Feeling this strong wind, a smile also appeared on Xu Nian''s lips beneath his mask.


    Now, this battle had meaning!


    "Take this!"


    The young man in the tiger mask''s eyes turned sharp, his figure rushing toward Xu Nian like he was riding the wind, his fierce palm carrying a powerful palm wind, moving twice as fast as before.


    Xu Nian was notcent; he arched his waist like a drawn bow and countered directly with a punch against theing palm.


    "Boom!"


    The vigorous wind roared, bursting like spring thunder.


    The young man in the tiger mask was instantly sent flying back.


    Looking at Xu Nian, his figure merely swayed slightly before he surged forward like a thunderous bolt.


    With a leap, Xu Nian covered several meters and caught up with the flying tiger-masked youth, delivering another punch powerful enough to shatter rocks.


    The young man in the tiger mask was catapulted more than ten meters away, falling off the tform and passing out.


    The crowd around, witnessing this, stood entirely dumbfounded, too shocked to speak.


    Truly a battle of mismatched strengths!

 Chapter 12 Who is the Dragon God

    After Xu Nian won the match, he left the arena to the stunned gazes of the crowd.


    Everyone thought that was the end, but unexpectedly, over the next nine days,


    this youth, codenamed Dragon God, appeared each day issuing a challenge, still requiring his opponents to be at the First-star of Star Realm, and then he would defeat them with the Cultivation of a Nine-star Beginner Body Cultivator.


    Ten days, ten consecutive victories.


    He went straight to the top of the Dark Ranking, and although he was only in the eighty-sixth ce, his actions still caused a huge sensation.


    This matter quickly spread throughout Qinglin Academy, and suddenly everyone knew that a genius had emerged among the Basic-level students of the Body Institute, defeating ten First-star Star Realm warriors with the strength of a Nine-star Beginner Realm.


    Especially those First-star Mid-level Students, they were furious, wanting to find this Dragon God to settle the score and regain their dignity.


    But just then, this so-called Dragon God disappeared.


    All of a sudden, there was a craze to find the true identity of Dragon God within Qinglin Academy.


    The students of the Body Institute were also guessing among themselves, just who could this Dragon God be?


    Even the Elders of the Body Institute were curious, searching in secret, but after they had looked through all the Basic-level students, they still could not find anyone matching the description of Dragon God.


    During this period, there was also a false rm.


    The top Basic-level student, Long Aotian, was pushed into the spotlight, and with his surname Long, he attracted even more suspicion.


    Those Mid-level Students who felt humiliated were convinced that Long Aotian was the Dragon God and challenged him one after another. Poor Long Aotian exined many times but no one believed him.


    In order to prove his innocence, Long Aotian reluctantly epted a challenge from a Body Institute senior who had just entered the First-star of Star Realm and ended up being beaten to a pulp.


    Only at this moment did everyone understand that Long Aotian was not Dragon God.


    Poor Long Aotian wanted to curse someone out, but he didn''t know who to reason with.


    After Long Aotian''s defeat, many turned their attention to the second-ranked Basic-level student, who, without exception, also got beaten to a pulp.


    By the time it came to the third-ranked student, the Basic-level student was so scared that he immediately knelt down, thus avoiding the tragic fate of being beaten to a pulp.


    Afterward, the three of them huddled together, weeping bitterly, cursing that Dragon God was a scoundrel, putting on airs, and causing them to suffer.


    Just like that, nearly all the Basic-level students of the Body Institute had been turned inside out, but still, no one found out who Dragon God actually was.


    For a time, the identity of Dragon God became a great mystery in Qinglin Academy.


    However, the one who caused all of this was oblivious to it, as he was at his own courtyard, diligently and desperately training.


    The continuous ten days of battle had also benefited him greatly.


    Although he had won all ten battles, only he knew how hard-won each victory was.


    Particrly during thest fight, his opponent was a First-star Star Realm student from the Body Institute. It could be said he barely scraped through a win.


    That senior had been in the First-star of Star Realm for quite some time and mastered his internal Gang Qi to an impable degree. In speed and strength, he was not only a match for Xu Nian but even surpassed him.


    Xu Nian took three hits from him and barely managed to get up from the ground. If it hadn''t been for his extraordinary tenacity andbat talent, seizing the opportunity in a moment of his opponent''s carelessness, winning by a narrow margin, Xu Nian''s record of ten consecutive victories would have ceased to exist.


    However, it was because of this battle that Xu Nian grasped an opportunity for breakthrough.


    At this moment, the qi and blood within his body churned violently, as if boiling water surged continuously, causing his skin to turn an exceptionally bright red.


    Qi and blood like the sea, skin like crimson blood, were signs that the Divine Demon Refining Body Technique was about to break through from the Basic Nine Stars to the Star Realm.


    Xu Nian, gritting his teeth, desperately circted the Divine Demon Refining Body Technique within his body, causing the qi and blood to surge and a buzzing sound to reverberate through his frame.


    The Divine Demon Refining Body Technique was not a method of meditative breathing but rather a set of fist techniques.


    Xu Nian would practice this set of fist techniques no less than ten times a day, already having each movement deeply ingrained in his heart. Now as he executed them, he exuded an overwhelming presence, impressive from all sides.


    At one moment, he was like a dragon searching the depths of the sea, and at another, a silver monkey scooping up the moon.


    His form moved as swift as the wind, with qi and blood running through his body like thunder.


    With one breath, he could unleash over a dozen moves, each one forceful and domineering, yet also containing a harmony of hardness and softness.


    "Boom!"


    It was during the ninth repetition, on thest movement, when a dull sound emanated from within his body.


    The restless qi and blood inside, which was about to cause a storm, suddenly flowed into arge river, bing unblocked all at once and rushing through the tributaries to his whole body, giving a refreshing and satisfying nourishment to all his flesh and blood.


    Simultaneously, as the blood and flesh revitalized, a mysterious and domineering power emerged from the depths of his body.


    Feeling the birth of this power, Xu Nian''s heart filled with joy. He channeled this power to his arm and threw a punch at a half-human-high boulder inside the courtyard.


    "Bang!"


    The boulder instantly shattered, turning into countless fragments that shot in all directions.


    Xu Nian stood tall with a burning gaze, exuding an indescribable spirit and vigor.


    "Haha, I''ve finally broken through. This must be the Divine Demon Gang Qi, such a domineering power," Xu Nian looked at the scattering stones, feeling an indescribable thrill in his heart.


    Whether practicing the Divine Demon Refining Body or ordinary body refinement, once one breaks through to the Star Realm, gang qi is born within the body, with the gang qi from the Divine Demon Refining Body being known as Divine Demon Gang Qi.


    "With my current level of the Divine Demon Refining Body Technique, let alone facing a Second-star of Star Realm, even a Third-star of Star Realm would not be my match. After I train a bit longer, not even a Third-star of Star Realm will be an opponent," Xu Nian whispered to himself, his eyes gleaming like torches.


    "However, having just made a breakthrough in the Divine Demon Refining Body Technique, it will be hard to improve in the short term. It might be time to set it aside for now and focus on my spiritual cultivation," Xu Nian took a deep breath, calming the excitement in his heart.


    Although he was now stronger, he was still far from being able to march against the Qin Family and rescue his mother.


    As far as Xu Nian knew, the Qin Family''s Silver Moon Battle Sect had no less than five members, not to mention an Elder of Xuantian-level Battle General rank. His current cultivation was simply insufficient.


    "Mother, please wait for me. Just give me a little more time. When the timees, I will bring you out of the Qin Family in glory and make those who bullied you pay the price they deserve," Xu Nian clenched his fist tightly, brimming with killing intent.


    "Thud thud thud!"n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om


    However, just as Xu Nian was making this silent vow to himself, someone knocked on his door.


    Xu Nian took a deep breath to steady his emotions before going to open the door.


    But as soon as he opened it, he saw Chen Wudi looking panicked and rushed, saying, "Xu Nian, hurry,e with me. It''s toote if we don''t leave now."


    After saying this, he immediately grabbed Xu Nian and started running outside. Xu Nian, utterly confused, had no idea what had happened. It was only after he managed to stop Chen Wudi and get an exnation that he was utterly speechless.

 Chapter 13 Murong Xue

    He thought something big had happened, but he didn''t expect Chen Wudi to be in such a rush just to see a woman.


    "What kind of woman, that''s the stunner ranked third on the Beauty List," Chen Wudi retorted when he saw Xu Nian''s indifferent face.


    "That''s still only third ce, not the first. What''s so good about that?" Xu Nian teased on purpose.


    Chen Wudi rolled his eyes, making an ignorant face.


    Seeing Xu Nian still unmoved, Chen Wudi had to patiently exin, "Although there are ten on the Beauty List, only the top three can truly be called stunning beauties. The women ranked below third are just average beauties, but the top three are very different."


    "What''s so different?" Xu Nian asked curiously.


    "The top three on the Beauty List all have beauty, temperament, talent, and status all in one. They''re simply iparable to the other seven beauties. Take the third-ranked one, for example. Her looks are absolutely gorgeous, her figure is hot, her talent is King-level, ranked sixth on the Hidden Dragon List, and her temperament is undeniably cold and proud. Even more, her father is the City Lord, a Xuantian-level Battle General," Chen Wudi said with excitement in his eyes.


    "Wait, are you talking about Murong Xue?" Xu Nian asked in surprise.


    "Exactly, it''s Murong Xue from your Tianhai City. You know her?" Chen Wudi asked excitedly, grabbing Xu Nian''s arm.


    "Murong Xue is recognized as the number one beauty in Tianhai City. Who doesn''t know her?" Xu Nian replied lightly.


    "That''s true, with your past status in the Qin Family, you couldn''t have possibly been in contact with her," Chen Wudi said, immediately looking disappointed.


    Xu Nian just smiled, saying nothing.


    He could easily see through Chen Wudi''s thoughts; Chen Wudi obviously wanted to use Xu Nian to get close to Murong Xue.


    Now, finding that Xu Nian''s status made it impossible for him to have any connection with Murong Xue, Chen Wudi was understandably disappointed.


    In fact, Xu Nian had indeed had an encounter with Murong Xue, although it was only for one day. Yet the events of that day were unimaginable to others, and that sensuous scene still lingered in Xu Nian''s mind.


    "Are you going or not? If you don''t go now, I''m leaving," Chen Wudi said impatiently as Xu Nian zoned out.


    Xu Nian just smiled and didn''t answer, instead heading straight towards the Scripture Pavilion.


    "Such a repressed guy!"


    Chen Wudi cursed under his breath as he looked at Xu Nian''s retreating figure, then quickly followed him.


    ...


    Qinglin Academy, first floor of the Scripture Pavilion.


    Murong Xue, as usual, was selecting the Combat Skills she wanted, ignoring the fervent gazes of those around her.


    On the first of every month, she woulde to the Scripture Pavilion to pick out the Combat Skills she desired, and her appearance would inevitably attract attention. Some people even figured out her routine, waiting at the Scripture Pavilion on each month''s first day.


    Over time, the Scripture Pavilion would be packed to the gills on the first day.


    Murong Xue''s personality was always cold and proud; she wouldn''t change her habits for anyone.


    Moreover, even if she deliberately altered her schedule, it was to no avail. As soon as she appeared, she would certainly grab the attention of the crowd.


    When Xu Nian and Chen Wudi arrived at the Scripture Pavilion, the first floor was already surrounded by severalyers of people, and they had to squeeze their way to the front row.


    When Xu Nian saw Murong Xue''s charming figure, he was still stunned for a few seconds.


    Murong Xue was d in a in white dress, which outlined her slender figure with striking rity. Her graceful curves were so enchanting that they elicited gasps of admiration and led to fanciful daydreams, especially her face, which resembled a fairy descending to earth, pure and as lovely as a lotus emerging from clear water.


    Standing there, she looked like a delicate jade statue, akin to a breathtaking painting.


    "How about it, isn''t Murong Xue beautiful?" Chen Wudi saw Xu Nian''s dazed expression and snickered.


    Xu Nian could only smile wryly and shake his head. His stupor was because the moment he saw Murong Xue, he remembered the scene from a year ago that had suddenlye to his mind.


    It was an afternoon a year ago when Xu Nian was hunting in the forests of Tianhai City and was unexpectedly collided with by a figure.N?v(el)B\\jnn


    At first, he thought it was some fierce beast, but it turned out to be a severely injured beautiful young girl.


    The girl had taken an arrow to the chest, and her blood was flowing profusely, a truly shocking sight.


    The moment the girl collided with Xu Nian, she was already losing consciousness.


    She could only manage to say ''Save... save me...'' before losing consciousness.


    Xu Nian was initially shocked, but he quickly realized that the girl was being pursued and took her into a very secluded cave. Sure enough, it wasn''t long before their pursuers arrived.


    Holding the girl, Xu Nian hid in the cave and thus avoided a cmity.


    Although they escaped pursuit, the girl had an arrow wound, and it was poisoned at that, leaving her life hanging by a thread.


    In his anxiousness, Xu Nian could only find some clean water and hemostatic herbs to treat the girl''s wounds.


    He removed the arrow, cleaned the wound, sucked out the poison with his mouth, and applied the hemostatic medicine, touching the girl''s private areas throughout the process.


    But with a life at stake, Xu Nian had no choice but to proceed.


    Not until nightfall, when Xu Nian saw that the girl was no longer in mortal danger, did he return home alone to reassure his mother and nned to go back the next day.


    However, when Xu Nian arrived at the cave early the next day, he discovered that the girl was no longer there.


    Latter, Xu Nian learned from others that the daughter of Cloud Sea City''s City Lord had been assassinated outside the city, and that was when he realized the girl he had saved was Murong Xue.


    Although Murong Xue was only fifteen at the time, she was already well-developed, so Xu Nian saw what he should not have seen.


    Fearing that Murong Xue might hold a grudge against him, he told no one about the incident, acting as if it had never happened, while Murong Xue herself was in aa at the time and could not possibly recognize him, so to this day, only Xu Nian knew of this event.


    In fact, Murong Xue truly did not know who had saved her, as she was in a daze at the time and only knew a young man had treated her wounds.


    As for who this young man was, she had no memory whatsoever.


    Suddenly, Xu Nian''s body stiffened, and his gaze fixated on the delicate jade pendant hanging from Murong Xue''s slender waist.


    He was all too familiar with this jade pendant, as its true owner was himself.


    He had thought he had lost it carelessly while running through the woods, but it turned out it had been left in the cave, and he never expected Murong Xue to have picked it up.


    "I never thought she would actually keep this jade pendant with her all the time. If she knew the significance of this jade pendant, I wonder what she would think," Xu Nian thought to himself with self-mockingughter.


    Although the jade pendant was just an ordinary one, it was the heirloom of his mother''s family, and Xu Nian was only holding on to it temporarily.


    In his mother''s words, it was a gift for the future daughter-inw upon meeting her.

 Chapter 14 Murderous Intent Everywhere

    Xu Nian looked at the extraordinarily graceful Murong Xue, feeling a multitude of emotions in his heart.


    Now, Murong Xue evidently seemed more charming than a year ago, with an added touch of maturity.


    "How about that, was it worth the trip? Let me tell you, although Murong Xue is ranked third on the Beauty List, it''s only because she is younger. Give her a few more years, and even the top two might not be able to hold a candle to her elegance," Chen Wudi said to Xu Nian with a light smile.


    Xu Nian was silent but agreed with Chen Wudi''s statement.


    At just sixteen, Murong Xue was already so outstanding; in another two years, she would likely be even more dazzling.


    Thinking of this, Xu Nian couldn''t help but have the image surface in his mind from the time he helped treat her illness and the white scene that was unveiled when he removed the pink bellyband, causing his blood to churn.


    Frightened, he quicklyposed himself, suppressing the restless energy inside and silently chided himself for his wild thoughts.


    "What''s her cultivation level now?" Xu Nian deliberately changed the subject.


    "Her cultivation level is not low, King-level talent plus already two years at the Academy, so she is now a One-star Warrior," Chen Wudi answered.


    He hadn''t done anything else these past few days but investigate the backgrounds of all ten beauties on the Beauty List, so naturally, he knew Murong Xue''s cultivation level very well.


    "Sixteen years old, a One-star Warrior, truly deserves to be the number one prodigy of Tianhai City," Xu Nian remarked with emotion.


    Anyone who could reach the Star Realm before the age of eighteen was considered a genius-grade person, and Murong Xue reaching it at sixteen further proved her diligence in addition to her talent.


    "Feeling interested, huh? But let me tell you, it''s hopeless. I''ve already inquired, Murong Xue already has someone in her heart. Otherwise, with your Emperor Level talent, you would have made a great match for her," Chen Wudi teased with a chuckle.


    Xu Nian gave a helpless smile, but his heart felt a mysterious sense of loss.


    "She has someone in her heart? Who could it be?" Xu Nian murmured softly, looking at that mesmerizing figure.


    ¡­


    "Xue''er sister, there you are. No wonder I didn''t see you at your residence," as Xu Nian was lost in his thoughts, a familiar voice resounded in the Scripture Pavilion.


    Xu Nian''s eyes instantly turned icy, and killing intent shed, fixing his gaze on the neer.


    The neer was none other than his ''good second brother,'' Qin Hen, who had caused his six years of hard cultivation to be destroyed.


    Seeing Qin Hen again now, the suppressed killing intent in Xu Nian''s heart surged forth.


    Seeing this, Chen Wudi beside him patted Xu Nian''s shoulder and said, "I forgot to tell you, just three days ago, your second brother advanced from a Nine-star Warrior to a First-star of the Star Realm. He was already a pursuer of Murong Xue, but he had been quiet for a while after Murong Xue''s breakthrough knowing his own shame. It seems he recently gained confidence with his breakthrough and has started his relentless pursuit of Murong Xue again."


    Hearing this, Xu Nian''s expression became even colder, staring intently at the all-too-familiar Qin Hen.


    Qin Hen had not noticed Xu Nian among the crowd and was heading towards Murong Xue with unabashed adoration in his eyes.


    However, Murong Xue frowned slightly at the sight of Qin Hen and spoke coldly, "Qin Hen, please address me as Murong Xue. We are not that familiar with each other."


    "Xue''er sister, look, we bothe from Tianhai City, and your father and my father are old friends. Why be so distant?" Qin Hen shamelessly grinned, his eyes unabashedly ncing at Murong Xue''s graceful figure, his gaze extremely lecherous.


    Those around saw this and were filled with indignation, inwardly chastising Qin Hen for his shamelessness, yet due to Qin Hen''s status, nobody dared to speak out.


    A trace of disgust also shed in Murong Xue''s eyes, as she also greatly disliked Qin Hen.


    However, just like Qin Hen said, their fathers were longtime friends, and she couldn''t just sever ties outright; she could only respond coldly, hoping Qin Hen would get the hint and back off.


    But unexpectedly, Qin Hen''s thick-skinned nature was even greater than she had imagined.


    "Xue''er sister, whatbat skills are you looking for? Let me help you find them," seeing that Murong Xue was ignoring him, Qin Hen shamelessly persisted.


    "No need, I''m just looking around and will be leaving shortly. You should go," Murong Xue responded without even lifting her head.


    "I''ll take you home then," Qin Hen immediately said and added, "No rush, take your time, I''ll wait for you."


    Murong Xue was instantly at a loss for words. Was Qin Hen really that annoying, insisting on staying even when she tried to send him away? Did she need to confront him directly for him to leave?


    Qin Hen chuckled inside. He aimed for persistence, believing that one day, Murong Xue would be moved by his sincerity.


    Once he gained Murong Xue''s affection, not only would he have a beauty by his side but his standing within the Qin Family would rise significantly¡ªa win-win situation.


    Especially given that Murong Xue''s beauty was increasingly irresistible, he found it hard to stop himself.


    Having Murong Xue would make this current humiliation seem insignificant.


    "Shameless! Thedy is clearly trying to send you away, yet you shamelessly remain here without a hint of embarrassment."


    However, just when Qin Hen thought he could endure the criticisms, a mocking voice came from the crowd.


    "Who?" Qin Hen immediately red in the direction of the voice, his eyes full of anger.


    Even Murong Xue curiously raised her head to look towards the source of the sound.


    Indeed, the speaker was none other than the ever-troublemaking Chen Wudi.


    After taking one look at Chen Wudi, Qin Hen''s gaze shifted coldly towards Xu Nian standing next to him.


    "Who are you?" Qin Hen asked Chen Wudi.


    "Who I am isn''t important. What''s important is my elder brother thinks you''re shameless, so he sent me to scold you," Chen Wudi said arrogantly.


    "Who is your elder brother?" Qin Hen asked again.


    "If I tell you, it might scare you to death. My elder brother is him, his name is Xu Nian," Chen Wudi boasted as he pointed at Xu Nian.


    Suddenly, all eyes fell on Xu Nian, everyone pondering over which significant figure he might be.


    Even Murong Xue looked at Xu Nian in surprise, curiosity filling her eyes.


    Meanwhile, Xu Nian rolled his eyes, cursed inwardly at Chen Wudi''s knack fornding his allies in trouble.


    Though he had wanted to confront Qin Hen eventually, he hadn''t nned to act so soon. However, with Chen Wudi''s instigation, it seemed he had no choice but to engage now.


    Sure enough, upon hearing Chen Wudi''s remark, Qin Hen fixed his gaze on Xu Nian and scoffed, "So it was you, my dear brother. I didn''t expect you to turn the tables one day. What, feeling confident enough to challenge me now?"


    My dear brother?


    As Qin Hen spoke those words, everyone''s eyes again settled on Xu Nian, suddenly realizing his identity.


    Xu Nian''s story had spread throughout Qinglin Academy, turning him into a legendary figure. At first, people hadn''t made the connection, but Qin Hen''s words had fully awakened them.


    Murong Xue also looked at Xu Nian in astonishment, her curiosity piqued.


    She had heard of Xu Nian''s tales¡ªhow his Dantian had been destroyed, how he was expelled from his family, and inexplicably his Dantian recovered, allowing him entry into Qinglin Academy with Emperor Level cultivation. Truly, he was a legendary figure.


    But what intrigued her the most was the sudden, mysterious sense of familiarity and closeness she felt when she first saw Xu Nian.


    Xu Nian red back at Qin Hen, his eyes filled with endless killing intent.


    He was initially upset at Chen Wudi''s meddling, but when Qin Hen spoke up, he suddenly felt grateful for Chen Wudi''s initiative.


    Killing intent surged like a flood, unstoppable once unleashed!n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om

 Chapter 15 The Tao of managing others is to manage oneself.

    Chen Wudi stood silently to the side, a slight smile ying on his lips.


    He was indeed helping Xu Nian, for if Xu Nian did not confront this inner turmoil, it would greatly hinder his cultivation in the future, so the sooner he released it, the better.


    Xu Nian took a step forward, walking towards Qin Hen.


    Having decided to take action, he naturally hesitated no more.


    Xu Nian''s action immediately drew everyone''s attention; they were eager to see what kind of collision would ur between the two brothers.


    "Brother? Qin Hen, do you even deserve to utter that word, are you not afraid that I will expose all your deeds?" Xu Nian said fiercely, his gaze piercing Qin Hen like a spike, domineering and harsh.


    Qin Hen''s gaze narrowed slightly; if Xu Nian really exposed his actions, although it wouldn''t ruin himpletely, it could at least destroy his reputation.


    However, a cold smile quickly tugged at the corners of Qin Hen''s mouth as he looked at Xu Nian and feigned innocence, "My actions? Brother, I was clearly helping you. I taught you cultivation so that one day you could stand out, but what did you do? You used your cultivation to force yourself on a maid, causing her to jump to her death. Yes, I was the one who told father, but it was to save you, to prevent you from taking the wrong path. I didn''t expect you to hate me so much for it."


    With these words, the audience was in an uproar.


    They hadn''t expected such an internal story; they had felt that Xu Nian''s expulsion from the family due to his bastard status and cultivation was somewhat unjustified, but Qin Hen''s exnation now seemed more reasonable.


    Suddenly, everyone began pointing fingers at Xu Nian, calling him unworthy and heartless, even praising Qin Hen for his righteousness in face of kin.


    Seeing the crowd believe his words, a barely detectable smirk appeared on Qin Hen''s lips, and he muttered to himself, "My dear brother, luckily you reminded me, I almost let you seed. me yourself for being too na?ve."


    Watching the cunning smile on Qin Hen''s lips, Xu Nianughed in extreme anger.


    To be honest, he had truly underestimated Qin Hen.


    He underestimated how shameless Qin Hen could be, still trying to me him at this moment.


    "Brother, although you''vemitted an unforgivable sin, caused a maid to die along with her unborn child, if you sincerely repent, father will still allow you to return. I can even plead on your behalf; elder brother truly wishes the best for you, please do not be upset with him," Qin Hen continued to y his part, putting on a look of disappointment in Xu Nian.


    Qin Hen''s words elicited a wave of sympathy from the crowd, and they began to use Xu Nian.


    Qin Hen, seeing this, felt even more triumphant; this validation made it all the more justifiable for him to reprimand Xu Nian next.


    Xu Nian burst outughing, having to admit, Qin Hen''s acting was superb, almost bringing the dead to life.


    Despite hisughter, Xu Nian''s anger peaked.


    Murong Xue had been watching Xu Nian''s expressions all along and honestly, she did not believe a word Qin Hen said.


    Xu Nian''s expressions corroborated her suspicions; she was curious, however, about how Xu Nian would resolve this issue.


    "Qin Hen, I truly admire your ability to lie with a straight face, and your splendid acting skills," Xu Nian retorted, each word striking like a bead, "Defiling a maid, causing her death and that of her unborn child was clearly your doing. I merely stumbled upon it by ident and to keep me quiet, you used father to banish me from home. Now, you even use this incident to nder me, are you not ashamed at all? Have you forgotten what you once said about that woman giving you the most exhrating night of your life?" Xu Nian articted firmly.


    What was happening now?


    Everyone was suddenly confused, unsure of whom to believe.


    Qin Hen was also stunned. He hadn''t expected Xu Nian to turn the tables on him.


    A smile appeared on Murong Xue''s face. Xu Nian''s actions had somewhat surprised her, but it was indeed the best approach.


    Xu Nian didn''t let it go and continued, "I remember you once told me, although the maid weighed 180 kilograms and had a stocky build, you said you liked that kind of voluptuous woman. You liked her misty eyes, her sexy lips, and after she died, you always kept her bodice by your bed, saying it retained her scent and helped you sleep peacefully. Have you forgotten all that?"


    "Wow!"


    The people around immediately felt nauseous.


    Xu Nian''s description was too graphic, the image too horrifying to even consider.


    Thinking of a woman weighing 180 kilograms was frightening, and it was unexpected that Qin Hen would have such extreme tastes.n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om


    Murong Xueughed out loud, amused by Xu Nian''s words.


    Qin Hen''s face turned ashen, feeling like he had just pped himself. The strange looks from the crowd around him brought a wave of humiliation.


    "Hmph, Xu Nian, I didn''t think you''d remain unrepentant and dare to nder me. Fine, today I will properly teach you a lesson on behalf of my father and set you on the right path," Qin Hen snorted coldly, anger rising in his face.


    "Great, it''s too cramped in here. How about we step outside and have a match?" Xu Nian said with a slight smirk, then turned and walked toward the square outside the Scripture Pavilion.


    He had been waiting for this moment for so long. Now that Qin Hen had taken the initiative to speak up, it aligned perfectly with his intentions.


    "Has he gone mad? Agreeing to duel with Qin Hen is just asking for trouble!"


    "Yes, he''s only been in the Academy for a short while, a six-star warrior at most. Qin Hen has already advanced to a One-star Warrior; how could he possibly stand a chance against Qin Hen?"


    ...


    The crowd around them, seeing Xu Nian actually take up the challenge, all showed expressions of shock.


    Murong Xue was also somewhat surprised. She hadn''t expected Xu Nian to actively seek battle, which she thought was an unwise decision.


    "Hmph, you''re bringing this upon yourself. Don''t me me!" Qin Hen scoffed contemptuously and then strode after him.


    If Xu Nian had avoided the fight, it would have been difficult for him to make a move forcibly, but now that Xu Nian had actively epted the challenge, how could he pass up the opportunity?


    What good was Emperor Level talent?


    True strength was key. He did not believe that Xu Nian could elevate from a Four-star Warrior to his level within just ten days.


    Seeing this, the crowd rushed toward the square outside the Scripture Pavilion. Murong Xue hesitated for a moment but followed as well.


    The square outside the Pavilion quickly filled with people, leaving arge open area in the middle.


    Xu Nian and Qin Hen stood in the center of the area, facing each other with drawn swords and tense atmospheres. The mood was incredibly strained.


    Both of them avoided any idle talk and directly initiatedbat.


    Especially Qin Hen, the strength of a One-star Warrior burst forth unrestrained, an impressive aura emanating from him.

 Chapter 16 Shocking the Entire Audience

    Gale-force winds howled, and spiritual energy roamed freely.


    Qin Hen took a step, instantly elevating his aura to a higher level.


    His fingers formed ws, with spiritual energy swirling around his palm, exceptionally sharp and fierce.


    "What powerful fluctuations of spiritual energy, this Qin Hen has just entered the Star Realm, yet his qi is so formidable," the crowd around him revealed surprised expressions upon seeing this scene.


    At this moment, the turbulence in Qin Hen''s hand was strong and fierce, not at all like someone who had just entered the Star Realm.


    Such formidable spiritual energy was stronger, not weaker, than those who had long been in the Star Realm.


    The crowd had already doubted Xu Nian''s chances, and now with Qin Hen''s momentum, they were even more convinced that Xu Nian stood no chance.


    Xu Nian, however, wasn''t surprised at all. The Qin Family''s top-notch cultivation technique "Welkin Power" focused on solid foundations and strengthening the core. It was precisely this technique that Qin Hen practiced, so even if he had just made a breakthrough, his internal spiritual energy would be extraordinarily robust.


    But now, it would be even harder for him to defeat Qin Hen without revealing his Body Cultivation.


    "Die!" A cold smile curled at the corner of Qin Hen''s mouth, his eyes suddenly turning icy as his figure burst forth like a swift cheetah, covering three meters in an instant.


    That sharp and fierce leopard''s paw aimed straight for Xu Nian''s chest, a tiger''s heart-plucking strike, merciless and ruthless.


    Gasps sounded from the crowd. Qin Hen''s attack seemed too vicious, as if he was intent on sending Xu Nian to his death.


    From a distance, Murong Xue''s heart also jumped to her throat, anxious for Xu Nian.


    Yet, at this critical moment, Xu Nian showed no sign of panic. Relying on his Basic Nine Stars cultivation, he had won against ten First-star of Star Realm opponents before. Now, having broken through to the First-star of Star Realm with his Divine Demon Refining Body technique, how could he possibly fear Qin Hen''s offense?


    If he were to go all out, Qin Hen would notst a single move against him.


    However, with so many onlookers present, he could not afford to reveal his Body Cultivation.


    Once exposed, it would bring considerable trouble, so he had to rely only on his six-star warrior''s Spiritual Cultivation.


    A six-star warrior defeating a one-star warrior seemed like an impossible tale, but Xu Nian wasn''t one to adhere to conventional wisdom.


    "Buzz!"


    Xu Nian''s legs enveloped in spiritual energy, he stepped on the ground, forcefully shifting his body several inches backward¡ªnarrowly avoiding Qin Hen''s vicious attack.


    This move exposed his level of Spiritual Cultivation.


    Once spiritual energy was utilized, others could judge one''s cultivation level based on the energy''s intensity.


    A six-star warrior!


    A collective sigh rose from the surrounding crowd. Those who had held onto a sliver of hope for Xu Nian were now utterly disappointed.


    A six-star warrior, how could he be a match for a one-star warrior? The battle seemed to have no suspense left.


    Murong Xue shook her head slightly in disappointment. In her eyes, Xu Nian should never have agreed to this fight; it was simply rash.


    "Ha ha, good brother, with your six-star warrior''s cultivation, you''re too confident in yourself, don''t you think? Do you really believe you can defeat me with the cultivation of a six-star warrior?" Qin Hen burst intoughter when he saw Xu Nian''s cultivation level, his eyes filling with mockery.


    Yet, deep in his eyes, a killing intent swirled.


    He remembered all too well that Xu Nian, when his Dantian had been destroyed, only had the cultivation of a four-star warrior. It had been barely a dozen days since then, and yet here he was, two levels higher¡ªa stark demonstration of his great potential.


    "Hmph, this time I will turn you into a cripple for good, and I won''t give you another chance to grow. What''s the use of Emperor-level talent if youck the strength?" Qin Hen sneered inwardly, his killing intent filling the air.


    Xu Nian stood in the distance, a smile ying at the corners of his mouth.


    Others might not have caught the murderous look in Qin Hen''s eyes, but he saw it clear as day¡ªthe same scornful and ruthless gaze from that day in the Qin Family Mansion.


    "Who said I''m a six-star warrior? Take another good look, if you can," Xu Nian chuckled lightly, and then he started to operate the "Ling Feng Dominating Battle Technique."


    Once the "Ling Feng Dominating Battle Technique" was in motion, the surrounding spiritual energy surged like a dragon drinking water, rushing towards him frenziedly.


    "What''s he trying to do? Is he nning to break through during the battle?"


    "He''s gone mad,pletely mad. A breakthrough duringbat, isn''t he afraid of demonic deviation?"


    "Moreover, even if he were to break through, he would only be a seven-star warrior, still no match for Qin Hen!"


    The surrounding crowd eximed in shock at Xu Nian''s actions, their faces showing utter surprise.


    Murong Xue''s pretty face was also filled with astonishment, not understanding why Xu Nian was doing this.


    With a knowing smile, Xu Nian ignored the shocked gazes of the crowd. He had already been at the peak of six stars, just a step away from a breakthrough, and now was the perfect opportunity to seed in one fell swoop.


    "Ha ha, my good brother, do you think breaking through to a seven-star warrior would let you defeat me? And to make a breakthrough right in front of me? How na?ve," Qin Henughed heartily. His eyes became fierce in an instant, and his figure burst forth again, rushing towards Xu Nian.


    Xu Nian''s actions were exactly to his liking. By seriously injuring Xu Nian, he would inevitably drive him into a state of cultivation madness.


    At that point, even if the Academy med him, he could shift all the responsibility onto Xu Nian himself.


    "Whoosh!"


    Qin Hen moved swiftly, his palm surrounded by spiritual energy that flickered like lightning, fierce and overbearing.


    "Yellow-level Middle Level Combat Skill, Thunderp Palm!"


    An exmation arose from the crowd, recognizing thebat skill used by Qin Hen.


    They were all shocked by Qin Hen''s ruthlessness; he clearly intended topletely ruin Xu Nian.


    Let alone a Seven-star Warrior, even a Nine-star Warrior would be severely injured by this palm strike.


    Right now, Xu Nian was at a critical moment in his breakthrough; if he suffered a heavy blow, his whole body''s meridians would certainly be severed, and no matter how talented he was, he would ultimately be a cripple.


    Murong Xue was also frowning tightly, her heart anxious.


    Logically, Xu Nian''s life and death had nothing to do with her, but for some reason, she felt an uneasy concern, as if the Xu Nian about to meet disaster was someone very important to her.


    "Die!"


    With a loud shout from Qin Hen, he appeared in front of Xu Nian like a gust of wind, his hand glowing with lightning, and fiercely pped at Xu Nian''s chest.


    However, not only did Xu Nian not dodge, he unexpectedly stepped forward, proactively meeting Qin Hen''s attack.


    "Courting death!" Qin Hen was overjoyed at the sight, and the might of his palm strike surged even more.


    The gathered onlookers sighed inwardly, a prodigious Emperor Level talent was about to fall.


    However, at the moment when everyone thought Xu Nian would be sent flying with one palm, something shocking happened.


    Xu Nian''s figure sidestepped like a nimble Spirit Monkey, avoiding Qin Hen''s Thunderp Palm, and with spiritual energy that had been gathering for a long time now fully concentrated in his palm, he struck Qin Hen''s abdomen with the force of a thunderstorm.


    "Puh!"


    Blood spurted violently from Qin Hen, his eyes bloodshot, his face full of pain and shock.


    The surrounding crowd gaped in amazement, now realizing that Xu Nian had not been cultivating to breakthrough but to deliver this fatal strike.


    Madman!


    An absolute madman!


    Such a wild method of fighting was even crazier than breaking through duringbat. The slightest miscalction could lead to all the meridians in his body rupturing.


    Murong Xue was also stunned, shocked by Xu Nian''s frenzied actions.N?v(el)B\\jnn


    But what surprised her even more was that Xu Nian, as a Six-star Warrior, had defeated Qin Hen, a One-star Warrior.


    Xu Nian paid no attention to the surprise around him, his eyes coldly fixed on Qin Hen as he was thrown backward.


    Only he knew that the strike which had severely injured Qin Hen was possible not only due to a mad risk but also due to the agile figure his Body Cultivation had given him, otherwise he could not have evaded Qin Hen''s mightily fierce Thunderp Palm.


    However, everyone''s focus was on his insane action of energy umtion, thus overlooking the reflex speed that a Six-star Warrior should not possess.


    "No... It''s impossible, absolutely impossible!" Qin Hen struggled to get up from the ground, but the intense pain in his abdomen made him fall back, in agony.


    His abdomen was struck by Xu Nian''s palm; his inner energy was in disarray, and he couldn''t mobilize his spiritual energy for a short time, even moving was excruciating.


    Clearly, Xu Nian''s palm had been aimed deliberately at his Dantian, and had the attack been a little stronger, his Dantian would have been ruined.


    "Nothing is impossible, even as a Six-star Warrior, I can defeat you!" Xu Nian approached Qin Hen with a murderous look in his eyes.


    Now he needed only one palm strike to kill Qin Hen on the spot, but by doing so, there would no longer be a ce for him in Qinglin Academy.


    Qinglin Academy did not prohibit fights between students but forbade fratricide, and Xu Nian did not want to be expelled from the Academy because of this.


    Death could be avoided, but punishment was inescapable.


    Xu Nian looked fiercely at Qin Hen, his eyes red like a hungry wolf.


    Qin Hen was startled and hurriedly said, "You¡­ what do you want to do, I¡­ I am your elder brother."


    "Now you remember you''re my elder brother? Why didn''t you remember that when you were about to cripple me?" Xu Nian sneered coldly, then suddenly stomped on Qin Hen''s thigh.


    "Ah..."


    Qin Hen''s scream, like that of a ughtered pig, resounded through the entire square.


    The surrounding crowd was horrified, but no one interfered, because as Xu Nian said, it was Qin Hen who had been brutally aggressive first.

 Chapter 17 Murong Xues Invitation

    After a round of horrific screams, Qin Heny on the ground like a puddle of mud.


    His limbs and more than a dozen ribs had all been broken by Xu Nian. It was doubtful he could get out of bed within two to three months.


    Everyone around was utterly stunned. They had seen torture, but never torture this brutal.


    Of course, what made their scalps tingle the most was Xu Nian''s final kick, which had hit Qin Hen in a lethal spot.


    They estimated that even if he recovered, that part might no longer function.


    At that moment, everyone''s gaze toward Xu Nian turned to one of awe.


    A ruthless person!


    Not just ruthless to himself but even more ruthless to others!


    By this point, no one doubted whether Xu Nian had mistreated the maid anymore. Qin Hen''s previous cruel actions had proven everything, and moreover, the victor was king, and the vanquished, the viin. This usation was something Qin Hen would never wash away.


    After settling the score with Qin Hen, Xu Nian didn''t greet anyone and quickly returned to his courtyard.


    This battle, although he had taken a risky move and won against Qin Hen, had also caused some damage to his meridians due to the concentration of energy before the fight, so he had to recuperate promptly, otherwise leaving behind a permanent issue would not be worth it.


    In the following days, Xu Nian stayed inside, healing his injuries.


    Fortunately, his meridian injuries were not severe andpletely recovered in merely three days. Furthermore, he turned a misfortune into a blessing and made a breakthrough to the Seven-star Warrior Realm.


    Two days after stabilizing his realm, he finally stepped out of his courtyard.


    Upon stepping out, Chen Wudi greeted him, eximing excitedly, "Xu Nian, Xu Nian, you''re famous!"


    "What do you mean?" Xu Nian was momentarily puzzled.


    Chen Wudi hurriedly exined, "A few days ago, didn''t you defeat Qin Hen? This news has now spread throughout Qinglin Academy. A Six-star Warrior defeating a First-star Warrior of the Star Realm, this is unprecedented!"


    "Oh," said Xu Nian expressionlessly.


    He had anticipated this oue, so it was nothing unexpected.


    But what Chen Wudi said next thoroughly dampened Xu Nian''s spirits.


    "You don''t know, your reputation is now on par with that of the Dragon God. The Body Institute has been quite arrogant because they had the Dragon God, and now that our Spirit Academy has you, we can finally hold our heads high. The basic-level students here are all hoping you can step up and challenge the Dragon God, to give our Spirit Academy a boost and properly teach the Dragon God a lesson," said Chen Wudi enthusiastically.


    Xu Nian was silent for a moment, challenge the Dragon God?


    But wouldn''t that mean challenging himself?


    Fighting himself, that was something only a fool would do.


    "Not interested!" Xu Nian directly rejected the idea.


    He had already heard about the mix-up caused by his identity as the Dragon God.


    At that time, he had decided to let the name of the Dragon God fade into obscurity for a while, otherwise, it might lead to discoveries of clues, which could turn out very bad.


    "Alright then, I''ll reject this on your behalf to those students. However, there''s another matter that you must take seriously," Chen Wudi spoke again.


    "What''s that?" Xu Nian asked, intrigued.


    Chen Wudi chuckled mysteriously before finally speaking, "During the days of your seclusion, Murong Xue came looking for you, not just once but three times."


    "What did she want with me?" Xu Nian immediately stunned, he remembered not having said a word to Murong Xue that day.


    Logically, there should''ve been no connection between Murong Xue and him, so why would she suddenly seek him out?


    "Could she have recognized me?" Xu Nian suddenly considered the possibility, and his mind instantly tensed up.


    If Murong Xue had indeed recognized him, he really didn''t know what he would do.


    "I would like to invite you to join our war team and carry out missions with us." However, just then, a clear and spirited voice rose from not too far away.


    A shapely and graceful figure then made her way over from a distance.


    Xu Nian turned towards theer and was startled¡ªthe person was Murong Xue.


    But Murong Xue''s words also breathed a sigh of relief into his heart.


    So, Murong Xue''s purpose in finding him was to invite him into a war team, not because she had discovered his identity.


    As for the so-called war team, that was a special method that Qinglin Academy used to train students.


    Any student going out to carry out a mission had to do so in the form of a war team; first and foremost for the safety of the students, as well as to cultivate a capacity for cooperation amongst them.


    The members of the war teams typically ranged from three to five people, and they were generally individuals who were quite strong and trusted each other.


    Now that Murong Xue was actively inviting him to join the war team, it was not only a recognition of his strength but also of the trust in his character.


    "Why choose me?" Xu Nian didn''t immediately agree but instead asked back.


    Chen Wudi gave Xu Nian a kick from behind, clearly thinking him a fool as Murong Xue was personally inviting him to join a war team, and he was still ying coy.


    Yet Xu Nian ignored Chen Wudi and kept his gaze firmly on Murong Xue, genuinely curious about why she would pick him.


    "Your talent goes without saying, Emperor Level talent, huge potential for the future. Although your strength is somewhatcking, it is still decent. However, what really led me to seek you out was that relentlessness and resourcefulness you possess. We have to carry out a very dangerous mission next, and you are the most suitable candidate. I wonder if you dare to join our war team?" Murong Xue spoke with a smile, very pleased with Xu Nian''s performance.


    If Xu Nian had just agreed without asking anything, she would''ve truly considered whether to actually bring him into the war team. Therefore, the more cautious Xu Nian''s behavior, the more satisfied she became.


    "What mission?" Xu Nian pressed on.


    "A Xuan Level Low Grade mission, in Demon Beast Forest. The specifics are to remain confidential for now, but I can guarantee that should the mission bepleted sessfully, the final reward will definitely satisfy you," Murong Xue spoke with a smile that was both breathtakingly beautiful and full of valiance.


    Much like the levels for Cultivation Techniques and Combat Skills, mission difficulties were ssified as Yellow Level, Xuan Level, Earth Level, Heavenly Level, each with its own subdivision of Low Grade, Mid Level, and High Grade.


    A Xuan Level Low Grade mission was already considered very difficult for Mid-level Students, which was evident from the fact that the location of the mission was none other than the Demon Beast Forest.n/?/vel/b//jn dot c//om


    The Demon Beast Forest was one of the three deadly ces in Tianhen Empire, teeming with Demon Beasts. One careless move could result in death by the jaws of a powerful Demon Beast.


    "Fine, I agree to join the war team. When do we depart?" Xu Nian agreed without hesitation.


    He had already nned to train in the Demon Beast Forest after a while, and this was the perfect opportunity.


    "Three days from now at dawn, we''ll gather at the Academy courtyard entrance," Murong Xue, hearing Xu Nian''s agreement, her mouth curled into a beautiful smile, and with those words, she turned and left.


    "Three days, huh? That should be enough time." Xu Nian watched Murong Xue''s retreating figure, murmuring to himself, before heading towards the Scripture Pavilion.


    Chen Wudi, on the other hand, stood still, filled with frustration. He had wanted to ask if he could also join, but from beginning to end, Murong Xue hadn''t given him so much as a nce.


    It''s just maddeningparing oneself to others!

 Chapter 18 Selecting Combat Technique

    Xu Nian quickly arrived at the Scripture Pavilion.


    The Scripture Pavilion was where Qinglin Academy stored its Combat Techniques, Combat Skills, Body Techniques, and Gang Skills.


    Combat Techniques were the cultivation methods practiced by Spiritual Cultivators, and the quality of a Combat Technique directly affected a Spiritual Cultivator''s future achievements and the speed of cultivation.


    Combat Skills were the abilities used by Spiritual Cultivators, allowing them to unleash their maximum power.


    Thus, for Spiritual Cultivators, Combat Techniques and Combat Skills yed a critically important role.


    For example, the Ling Feng Dominating Battle Technique that Xu Nian was currently cultivating was a very basic one, suitable only for the Warrior Level and not appropriate past the Star Realm.


    As for Body Techniques and Gang Skills, these were for Body Cultivators, and their significance was much the same as Combat Techniques and Combat Skills for Spiritual Cultivators.


    The reason Xu Nian came to the Scripture Pavilion at this time was to find a Combat Technique and Combat Skill suitable for himself.


    Although the Ling Feng Dominating Battle Technique was a decent basic-level Combat Technique, itcked specificity. The most crucial aspect of a Combat Technique''s quality was its emphasis.


    For instance, the Qin Family''s Welkin Power was a Cultivation Technique that emphasized strength and solidity. Though the cultivation process was slow, the solid foundation ensured there was no risk of instability or cultivation deviation.


    Simrly, Murong Xue''s chosen Combat Skill clearly leaned towards lightness and agility, hence the ethereal and graceful quality that always seemed to surround her.


    Right now, Xu Nian was searching for a Combat Technique that matched his own temperament, as an ipatible Combat Technique could drastically slow down his cultivation progress.


    The Scripture Pavilion had three levels, which housed the secret manuals of Yellow, Xuan, and Earth levels of Combat Techniques, Combat Skills, and the like.


    The first floor shelves were filled with all Yellow-level secret manuals. It wasn''t that Xu Nian didn''t want to ess the second floor; he simply didn''t have the qualifications.


    To enter the second floor, one needed ten thousand points. Xu Nian only had a total of one thousand nine hundred points, including his own and the one thousand he had won, so he didn''t even need to think about the second floor.


    In the first-floor Combat Technique area, Xu Nian browsed through the Combat Techniques on the shelves, asionally picking up an interesting summary to nce through.


    After two hours of meticulous selection, he finally picked out three Combat Techniques that piqued his interest.


    The first Combat Technique was called the Xuantian Technique, a Yellow-level Top Grade worth five hundred points.


    This Xuantian Technique was somewhat simr to their Qin Family''s Welkin Power, a durability-enhancing technique, although not as high-grade as Welkin Power; it was nheless a decent lower-level Combat Technique.


    The second Combat Technique was the Spirit Rhinoceros Sword, a Yellow-level Top Grade, valued at six hundred points.


    This Spirit Rhinoceros Sword was a swordsmanship Combat Technique. After cultivating this method, the Spiritual Energy concentrated within one''s body would be remarkably sharp, making the practice of swordsmanship skills twice as effective.


    As Xu Nian intended to pursue the path of a Sword Cultivator, the Spirit Rhinoceros Sword was the perfect base Combat Technique for him to condense his Qi Sea. Additionally, this Spirit Rhinoceros Sword came with an apanying swordsmanship Combat Skill, enabling him to choose another Combat Skill with his remaining points.n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om


    However, Xu Nian''s attention soon shifted to the third Combat Technique.


    This Combat Technique was quite peculiar, with its name "Dan Sea Species Green Lotus" sounding neither mighty nor imposing but instead carrying a poetic charm.


    What caught Xu Nian''s eye was that the summary of this method actually read: "This method is an iplete text, only including the Basic-level Warrior Chapter and Star Realm Chapter, and is suspected to enhance Spiritual Cultivation Talent, resembling a Heavenly-level Combat Technique."


    Upon reading this, Xu Nian''s first reaction was disbelief. How could there exist a method that enhanced Spiritual Cultivation Talent?


    But if it were true, then this method was unquestionably a Heavenly-level Technique or even the legendary Divine-level.


    However, a note below that line read: "Although this method is formidable, in a thousand years, no one in the Academy has seeded in cultivating it. Therefore, this iplete volume is ssified as Yellow-level Top Grade, valued at six hundred points. Choosers should consider carefully."


    Xu Nian was speechless. If no one had seeded in a thousand years, how could they know it enhanced one''s talent?


    And yet, for some reason, Xu Nian couldn''t bring himself to discard this method.


    His gaze traveled between Dan Sea Species Green Lotus and Spirit Rhinoceros Sword. Hepletely abandoned the thought of the Xuantian Technique, but these two made for a tough choice.


    In the end, Xu Nian chose the Dan Sea Species Green Lotus. He decided to take a gamble¡ªif it really was as the summary stated, he would have hit the jackpot.


    Afterward, Xu Nian chose two Combat Skills. They were the Yellow-level Top Grade swordsmanship skill Ling Feng Thirteen Swords and the movement skill Gale Dragon Step.


    Originally, Xu Nian also wanted to pick a fist-based Combat Skill, but after selecting these three items, he realized he only had a hundred points left and could only give up reluctantly.


    As for Gang Skills, although Xu Nian also desired them, he decided to suppress his wish to avoid exposing his Body Cultivation.


    When Xu Nian handed over his choices of Combat Techniques and Skills to the Elder in charge, the old man with snowy hair and cloudy eyes looked up at Xu Nian and asked, "Are you sure you want this Combat Technique?"


    Xu Nian nodded and passed over his Identity Jade.


    The old man hesitated for a moment and then borrowed the jade, wiping off the one thousand eight hundred points from it. He handed over the copies of the Combat Technique and the two Combat Skills to Xu Nian.


    Xu Nian was quite surprised by this action.


    Just a moment ago, the elder had nothing in his hands, but with a flip of his palm, three secret manuals appeared.


    A storage ring!


    Xu Nian instantly thought of this precious artifact that had been legendary throughout the Tianhen Continent and felt amazement and envy in his heart.


    Taking the secret manuals, Xu Nian bid farewell to the elder and then returned to his residence.


    His time was running out; he had only three days.


    Transforming a Combat Technique would be impossible in less than ten days to half a month, and as Dan Sea Species Green Lotus was particrly difficult to cultivate, he did not know how long it would take. Thus, Xu Nian decided to prioritize the two Combat Skills, increasing his ability to protect himself when out on missions.


    But mastering two Combat Skills was not easy either. Not to mention the secrets and intricacies of both Combat Skills requiring a great deal of time toprehend, just bing proficient in the techniques required significant effort.


    For others, mastering the techniques without a couple of months would be impossible, but Xu Nian thought of mastering both Combat Skills within three days.


    If others knew what he was thinking, who knows what they would make of it?


    Over the next three days, Xu Nian locked himself in the small courtyard and practiced strenuously without ever stepping foot outside, until on the third day he changed into clean clothes and stepped out of the courtyard door.

 Chapter 19 Wind Snow Team

    On the third morning, the sunshine was bright and beautiful.


    Xu Nian left his residence and headed towards the Sect of Qinglin Academy, where he had arranged to meet Murong Xue.n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om


    When Xu Nian arrived at the za in front of the Sect, he found that aside from Murong Xue, there were three other figures who looked to be youths. If Xu Nian was not mistaken, these three individuals were the other members of Murong Xue''s Wind Snow Team.


    "You''ve arrived?" Murong Xue saw Xu Nian approaching and asked with a smile.


    As she spoke, her eyes briefly nced at the steel sword in Xu Nian''s hand, seemingly curious that Xu Nian had chosen the path of a Sword Cultivator.


    Spiritual Cultivators were different from Body Cultivators; they did not have powerful bodies, so they generally selected a kind of weapon to pursue Cultivation, and Sword Cultivation was the mostmon among all weapons.


    But simrly, Sword Cultivation was also the most difficult to reach the pinnacle among all weapon disciplines. Instead, paths such as spear or saber Cultivation were easier to master.


    ording to Murong Xue''s thinking, a maverick like Xu Nian should not have chosen such a conventional weapon.


    Xu Nian just smiled and did not bother exining anything.


    If he did not have Body Cultivation, he indeed would not have chosen the path of a Sword Cultivator and would have more likely chosen the more aggressively powerful spear Cultivation instead. But with his Body Cultivation, he could disregard defense and pursue the limit of attack.


    This was also the reason why he chose the purely offensivebat technique, "Ling Feng Thirteen Swords."


    "Ah, Xue, so this is the new team member you mentioned inviting? Wee to the Wind Snow Team," said a tall youth who walked over, his face full of smiles as he spoke to Xu Nian.


    The youth was around eighteen, tall and handsome, with a lean build and a warm, Ru Yu-like smile. However, beneath that smile lurked a barely perceptible chill, which made it somewhat ufortable to behold.


    "Here, Xu Nian, let me introduce you. He is the captain of our Wind Snow Team, his name is Lin Feng," Murong Xue said as she introduced him to Xu Nian.


    Lin Feng?


    The Lin Feng who ranked third on the Hidden Dragon List, a Third-star Warrior of the Star Realm.


    Xu Nian immediately recalled the name; Chen Wudi had once told him about the people on the Hidden Dragon List, among whom the third was this Lin Feng.


    Xu Nian had not expected that the captain of the Wind Snow Team would be this individual.


    And the name of the Wind Snow Team itself was thought-provoking.


    "Lin Feng, brother, this is Xu Nian, whom I mentioned to you," Murong Xue said, introducing Xu Nian to Lin Feng.


    "Haha, Xu Nian, your name has reached my ears long ago. Aside from Ouyang Cheng Feng, you are the second person in our Spirit Academy with Emperor Level talent. Just a few days ago, you defeated a One-star Warrior with the strength of a Six-star warrior and made a name for yourself. I didn''t expect that you would join our Wind Snow Team. It is truly an honor for our team," Lin Fengughed heartily, his wee seeming genuine. However, deep within his eyes was a hint of disdain and mockery.


    "Senior Lin Feng is too kind. That was just good fortune," Xu Nian modestly replied, but inwardly he scoffed.


    Lin Feng was putting on a friendly facade in front of Murong Xue, but it was clear that he wasn''t pleased with Xu Nian''s addition to the team.


    Xu Nian did not care about these things; as long as Lin Feng did not provoke him, he wouldn''t bother with petty grievances.


    But if Lin Feng dared to secretly trip him up, Xu Nian wouldn''t mind settling the score properly.


    "Kid, my name is Lu Morning, deputy captain of the Wind Snow Team. Now that you''ve joined the team, you need to keep it steady. Whatever I tell you to do, you do it¡ªdon''t end up dragging everyone down." Just at that moment, a snorting sound came through.


    Xu Nian was startled and looked toward the direction of the voice.


    He saw a young man, even bigger and burlier than Lin Feng, looking at Xu Nian with disdain. Beneath his loose robe was an extremely muscr physique.


    "He is a Body Cultivator, second-star in the Star Realm. He''s somewhat proud, but once you get to know him, you''ll find he''s actually pretty decent. So don''t take it too personally," Murong Xueforted from the side.


    Xu Nian smiled and waved his hand to show he didn''t mind.


    Compared to Lin Feng''s hypocrisy, he actually preferred Lu Morning''s straightforwardness.


    However, he was surprised that there were Body Cultivators in the Wind Snow Team.


    Although the Spirit Cultivators and Body Cultivators of the Academy seemed harmonious on the surface, there had been an ongoing secret rivalry between the Spirit Academy and Body Institute for a thousand years, with neither group regarding the other highly. So, for this Lu Morning, as a Body Cultivator, to join a Spiritual Cultivator battle team was indeed a strange affair.


    "Hello, I''m Yu Feng, also a member of the Wind Snow Team, also a Two-star Warrior. From now on, we''re all good brothers. If you encounter any difficulties, feel free toe to me," thest young man came over with a smile and patted Xu Nian''s shoulder as he chuckled.


    Xu Nian sized up this young man named Yu Feng. He was rather slender and had an average face but exuded a sort of yin, soft aura that was somewhat unsettling.


    "Then, thank you Senior Yu Feng!" Xu Nian replied indifferently.


    Ever since the incident with Qin Hen, Xu Nian no longer easily trusted people.


    This Yu Feng started off all buddy-buddy, even proudly revealing his own cultivation level. It was clear he wasn''t actually interested in helping Xu Nian, but rather seeking a sense of superiority, hoping that Xu Nian would fawn over him.


    And such a person would surely run faster than anyone when trouble arose, or even step on you when danger loomed.


    Indeed, when Yu Feng saw that Xu Nian did not show any enthusiasm towards his words, his smiling face immediately turned cold, and after giving Xu Nian a fierce re, he turned and walked away.


    Seeing this, Xu Nian could only smile wryly and didn''t bother to exin anything.


    Among the four in the team, the least capable seemed to be this Yu Feng, who not onlycked strength but didn''t have the shrewdness of Lin Feng either.


    "Now that everyone is here, let''s set out. The mission we have to undertake is a Xuan Level Low Grade mission. Oncepleted, each member of our team will receive five thousand points. So I hope everyone will put in an effort. Of course, the most important thing is safety. Everyone knows how dangerous the Demon Beast Forest can be¡ªone careless mistake can lead to death. So, everyone must be careful. As for the details of the mission, I will go over them with everyone after we arrive at the Demon Beast Forest," Lin Feng announced as the time approached.


    Xu Nian and the others nodded. The Demon Beast Forest was indeed fraught with peril, and with their cultivation levels, they could only operate on the periphery. Venturing deeper would be a death sentence.


    It was said that Emperor Level Demon Beasts even lived within the forest, and even human powerhouses dared not enter lightly.


    However, the reward for the mission startled Xu Nian as well. Five thousand points were a considerable fortune indeed.


    "Let''s depart!" Lin Feng dered.


    After finishing, he led Xu Nian and the others toward the direction of the Demon Beast Forest.


    However, shortly after Xu Nian and his team left, a figure slowly emerged from a shadowy ce, looking in the direction they had gone with an incredibly sly smile on his lips.


    This person was none other than Ouyang Tian, who Xu Nian had humiliated the other day.

 Chapter 20 Demon Beast Forest

    Xu Nian and his fourpanions traveled swiftly and finally arrived at the outskirts of the Demon Beast Forest by evening.


    "Let''s rest here for the night," Lin Feng said with a smile, "and set off early tomorrow morning."


    No one had any objections. Demon Beasts were most active at night, and anyone with a basic understanding of forest survival knew that moving through the Demon Beast Forest at night was a death wish.


    Moreover, after a day of hurrying along, everyone was somewhat tired, and it was not suitable to enter the Demon Beast Forest. Stopping to rest and recover now was the wisest choice.


    Thus, Xu Nian and hispanions set up a campfire outside the Demon Beast Forest and somehow got through the night.


    However, no one got a good rest. Part of the reason was the need to remain vignt in this unfamiliar environment. Another reason was the terrifying roars of Demon Beastsing from the forest, which instilled fear in everyone.


    Xu Nian, too, had a night of fake slumber. The night seemed peaceful, but his emotions were moreplicated than anyone else''s.


    The first reason was that he knew the mission they were about to undertake was to steal an Earth Dragon Egg.


    The Earth Dragon was a Demon Beast at the Peak Level of the Star Realm, containing Dragon Bloodline within its body. Although extremely rare, this thin lineage made it far more formidable than the average Peak Powerhouse of the Star Realm.


    He couldn''t believe these people were so bold as to target the Earth Dragon Egg, for that could easily provoke not just one Earth Dragon, but two.


    The second reason was rted to Xu Nian''s Nine Dragon Supreme Divine Body. His master once said that his Bloodline needed nine different Dragon n Bloodlines to fully awaken, so Xu Nian was eager to see if this journey into the Demon Beast Forest might present such an opportunity.


    As for thest reason, it was about Murong Xue.


    He discovered that Murong Xue was absent-mindedly holding his Jade Pendantte at night, her lips asionally revealing a shy, sweet smile. Eventually, she even made the Jade Pendant into a pendant that she hung close to her chest.


    Seeing Murong Xue''s actions made Xu Nian feel unsettled.


    Obviously, Murong Xue was afraid of entering the Demon Beast Forest and identally losing the Jade Pendant, so she chose to keep it close to her body.


    However, this also showed that she was very anxious about the Jade Pendant, which caused a huge stir in Xu Nian''s heart. He did not expect that the person Murong Xue had always liked was actually him.


    This discovery was both shocking and joyous for Xu Nian, yet he still decided to keep to himself the fact that he was her lifesaver.


    "Whoosh, whoosh, whoosh!"


    Xu Nian and his group dashed swiftly through the Demon Beast Forest, heading deeper inside.


    The hierarchy among Demon Beasts was strictly enforced, with a very strong sense of territorial consciousness. Therefore, the more powerful the Demon Beast, the deeper it lived inside the forest.


    As a Demon Beast of the Star Peak, the Earth Dragon naturally lived even deeper within.


    At the very outer edges of the Demon Beast Forest were only Basic Demon Beasts with iplete Spiritual Wisdom. Upon seeing Xu Nian and the others invade their territory, theyunched attacks.


    However, these Basic Demon Beasts were all killed by Lu Morning''s Iron Fist before they could even get close. Thus, Xu Nian and the team were not hindered much on their journey.


    "Stop!"


    However, as they reached a dense thicket, Lin Feng suddenly called out.


    Everyone looked at Lin Feng with puzzled expressions, while he watched their surroundings with a vignt face.


    Xu Nian''s brow also furrowed slightly¡ªhe too sensed that something was amiss. It was eerily quiet around them, an unnatural silence devoid of any sounds from insects or small animals. This was extremely abnormal for a dense forest.


    The only exnation for this situation was that a formidable Demon Beast was lurking nearby; its presence intimidated and silenced all other Demon Beasts and living creatures around.


    "Retreat!"


    Lin Feng waved his hand and spoke softly.


    The people around him also realized that something was amiss and began to retreat, not daring to be careless in the Demon Beast Forest, as a moment''s negligence could cost them their lives.


    "Whoosh!"


    But before they could take a few steps back, a dark shadow shot out from the jungle at high speed, heading straight for Xu Nian. Its sharp w, like a cold de, reached for Xu Nian''s brow.


    A Third-star of the Star Realm Demon Beast, the ck Wind Leopard!


    Xu Nian recognized the beast instantly, not expecting to encounter such a high-level Demon Beast here.


    The ck Wind Leopard''s attack on Xu Nian was clearly because it sensed Xu Nian''s weak aura and sought to kill him in one fell swoop.


    Xu Nian''s hand instantly grasped the hilt of his sword, intending to draw it to defend against the attack of the ck Wind Leopard, but a fierce shout came from beside him, "If you don''t want to die, get out of the way!"


    Then, a figure rushed forward, leaping ahead of him to meet the ck Wind Leopard''s sharp w.


    Xu Nian saw clearly that the person was none other than Lu Morning.


    But Lu Morning was merely at the Second-star of the Star Realm, no match for the ck Wind Leopard.


    His punch against the ck Wind Leopard''s w was shredded, leaving three deep gashes. Fortunately, Lu Morning''s punch managed to repel the ck Wind Leopard and resolved the crisis for Xu Nian.


    Lin Feng also drew his Long Spear in an instant, and while the ck Wind Leopard was repelled, he swung a mighty arc and mmed it into the beast''s abdomen.N?v(el)B\\jnn


    The ck Wind Leopard, struck in the abdomen, was thrown more than ten meters away and crashed into a sturdy tree, a trickle of fresh blood leaking from the corner of its mouth before it chose to retreat.


    Lin Feng did not pursue further, knowing that if it hadn''t been for Lu Morning''s full-strength blow, which caused the ck Wind Leopard to reveal a w, he would not necessarily have been a match for it in a head-on battle.


    As a rule, Demon Beasts are stronger than Spirit Cultivators and Body Cultivators of the same level, which is why most Cultivators rarely enter the Demon Beast Forest alone unless they are exceptionally powerful.


    After repelling the ck Wind Leopard, everyone gathered around Lu Morning, whose hand was severely injured, with three wounds deep enough to reveal bone and flesh mangled.


    After a simple bandaging of the wounds, Lu Morning red at Xu Nian, angrily saying, "Did you think you could block that Third-star Demon Beast? Next time, if you''re still so reckless, no one will save you."


    Without waiting for Xu Nian to exin, he turned and walked away.


    Xu Nian felt speechless inside; he didn''t know whether to thank or me Lu Morning for his presumptuousness, but Lu Morning''s actions warmed his heart.


    Just as Murong Xue had said, Lu Morning was a person with a sharp tongue but a soft heart¡ªwho wasn''t bad at the core, or he wouldn''t have risked his life to save him.


    "From now on, follow behind me and don''t get more than two meters away," Murong Xue said as she walked over, clearly intending to protect Xu Nian.


    Xu Nian found this even more amusing. Was he so weak that he needed a woman to protect him?


    However, he did not refuse. Refusing would only make Murong Xue think he was too proud to ept help.


    "Whoosh!"


    However, just as they were about to set off, a cold light suddenly broke through the air from afar, arriving in an instant and aiming straight at Murong Xue''s chest.


    It was an arrow, one imbued with Spiritual Energy, and immensely powerful.


    Murong Xue was shocked and hurriedly tried to swing her sword to block the sudden arrow, but she was still a beat too slow and could only watch as it bore down on her chest.


    The people around were only just reacting, but they were too far away to lend any help.


    As the arrow was about to pierce Murong Xue''s chest, a figure appeared by her side like a ghost, and the swiftly lethal arrow was caught by him. The razor-sharp tip was just an inch away from her heart.

 Chapter 21 Lurking Danger

    Murong Xue''s eyes widened in disbelief at the shocking scene, a moment ago she thought she was truly going to die.


    The sharp arrowhead had nearly pierced her heart, and its surface glowed with ayer of green light¡ªclearly coated with a deadly poison that would ensure death even if it missed the vital organ.


    What shocked her even more was that, in the final moment of crisis, it was Xu Nian who stepped forward to save her.


    She stared at Xu Nian''s resolute profile, unable toprehend how he had managed it.


    The arrow hade too suddenly and with unbelievable speed; she hadn''t even had time to react herself, yet Xu Nian, who had been standing behind her, intercepted the deadly projectile first¡ªand with his bare hands, an impossibility in her view.


    The other three also noticed what had happened and looked at Xu Nian with astonished faces.


    Xu Nian seemed to realize that his actions had revealed too much and exined with a smile, "I had previously eaten a fruit that not only healed my Dantian but also enhanced my strength and reflexes beyond that of an average nine-star warrior; plus, I detected the arrow first, which is why I was able to block it."


    The others nodded their heads upon hearing this.


    They too had heard about Xu Nian''s previously ruined Dantian whichter recoveredpletely. Indeed, there were some rare and exotic fruits that could strengthen a person''s body.


    However, these fruits were only useful for low-level cultivators and had no effect on those of a higher level, so they didn''t feel too envious, merely thinking Xu Nian was lucky.


    "Xu Nian, thank you for saving me!" Murong Xue said gratefully.


    "It was the right thing to do!" Xu Nian replied with a casual smile, then asked seriously, "Why would someone shoot an arrow in secret? We haven''t offended anyone."


    It was clear that the arrow had been shot by a human, not a Demon Beast, so why would someone attack them without cause or enmity?


    "It was probably a hunter, but they''ve run off," Lin Feng came over and said.


    "A hunter? Shouldn''t they be attacking Demon Beasts? Why would they shoot at us?" Xu Nian asked, puzzled.


    He knew about hunters, who were professionals making a living by hunting Demon Beasts and collecting their Crystal Cores, often roaming the Demon Beast Forest for their prey.


    But it was obvious that the arrow was intended for them and not a stray shot.


    "Hmph, you''re still too naive. These hunters, killing a single Demon Beast, would only earn one Demon Beast Crystal Core. But by killing a human, they might gain even more Crystal Cores, and possibly other treasures. Would they rather kill people or Demon Beasts?" Yu Feng said with a coldugh.


    Xu Nian frowned slightly; although Yu Feng''s tone was unfriendly, his words were true.


    Killing a human would certainly yield more wealth than a Demon Beast, and these people, ustomed to living on the edge of the knife, would not care about the sanctity of life¡ªwealth was their first priority.


    "Let''s continue on our way, everyone be careful. In the Demon Beast Forest, humans can be more dangerous than the beasts. We must stay fully alert," Lin Feng spoke.


    Everyone nodded, and after such an incident, no one dared to let their guard down again.


    Xu Nian turned to look in the direction from which the arrow hade, feeling that there was more to this incident than met the eye.


    Hunters generally moved in groups, and the person who had just fired an arrow from a distance before swiftly leaving was clearly testing them.


    Judging from the level of spiritual energy on the poison arrow, that person must be a high-level, third-star in the Star Realm.


    Had he not secretly used his Gang Qi to instantly dissolve the spiritual energy on the poison arrow, even Lin Feng would have found it difficult to intercept that shot.


    "There might be big trouble ahead," Xu Nian nced at the four people ahead, who remained blissfully unaware, and shook his head with reluctant eptance.


    A third-star shooter in the Star Realm, how could he be withoutpanions?


    Now, Xu Nian could only hope that these people were merely passing by, and that his group wasn''t their actual target; otherwise, they would be facing considerable cmity.


    ...


    Three miles away from where Xu Nian and Lin Feng''s group were traveling, there were three men gathered.


    All of them had broad shoulders and dark skin and were dressed in tight fighting clothes and had sharp eyes¡ªit was evident that they were seasoned survivors in this jungle.


    "Big brother, I''ve already tested them. Four men and one woman¡ªI took a shot at the woman. The other three didn''t react, but the target we are after promptly spotted it and blocked the arrow; otherwise, she would have died by my shot. Based on my observation, the target''s cultivation level is only at the Seven-Star Warrior Level, which should be easy to deal with," a man with a longbow strapped to his back whispered with a sly chuckle.


    "I say, Gangzi, if you wanted to test them, why use the woman for your target? She''s the third-ranked top beauty of Qinglin Academy. You know you''re wasting divine resources!" another man with a donkey''s face retorted irritably.


    When he first heard that among the targets of this hunt was a top beauty, he had already nned to enjoy herpany. Now, hearing that hispanion had nearly killed this top beauty, how could he not be angry?


    "Pfft, Tie Donkey, all you think about is women. Wanting a woman in the Demon Beast Forest? You''re bound to die on a woman''s belly sooner orter. Once we finish the mission and get the reward, what kind of woman can''t you have?" the youth carrying the longbow sneered.n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om


    "You just don''t realize how precious this woman is this time; she''s worth far more than any amount of money," the donkey-faced man scornfully said.


    The especially tall and muscr man with a crew cut in the middle of the two remained silent.


    The two arguing men also seemed to notice something was off with their leader and stopped bickering.


    Gangzi turned his head to look at the crew-cut man and asked, "Big brother, is something bothering you? Didn''t we already use that ck Wind Leopard to test their strength? The strongest is just a three-star warrior, and with two three-star warriors and one four-star Star Realm Body Cultivator, we can easily kill them. What are you worried about?"


    The crew-cut man fell silent for a moment before speaking, "I feel that our target this time is a bit strange. You said it was he who blocked your arrow, but how could a Seven-Star Warrior possibly block your shot?"


    "Big brother, I thought you were pondering something serious. It''s just a seven-star warrior, even if his strength is higher, how much higher could it go? If he blocked that arrow, it''s entirely coincidental. Plus, I didn''t use my full strength. If I had, I could have pierced his heart with one shot," Gangzi said with a lightugh.


    The crew-cut man nodded; he felt perhaps he was worrying unnecessarily.


    A Seven-Star Warrior, even if they possessed strength surpassing their own, how could they possibly be a match for him, a Four-star Body Cultivator?


    "Let''s go, we''ll meet them," the crew-cut man decided.


    The bowman and the donkey-faced man exchanged smiles, both seeing the excitement in the other''s eyes.

 Chapter 22 Abnormal Xu Nian

    "Buzz!"


    Just as Xu Nian and his group continued to rush into the depths of the Demon Beast Forest, a swift sound of breaking air suddenly came from behind.


    It was an arrow covered with Spiritual Energy, piercing through three or four thick trees, aimed directly at Xu Nian''s back heart.


    Xu Nian didn''t hesitate for a second, instantly drawing the steel sword from his waist and turning around to strike.


    The sword''s edge struck the extremely sharp arrowhead, producing extremely dazzling sparks.


    Despite this sudden and fierce attack, Xu Nian managed to deflect the arrow, which ended up embedded in arge tree.


    Xu Nian also used the rebound force tond on the trunk of a tree, his eyes sharply watching behind.


    "Indeed, they havee after all." Xu Nian muttered to himself; the thing he feared most had finally happened.


    The other four also noticed the situation, taken aback. They hurriedly drew their weapons, watching the surroundings warily.


    "Swoosh swoosh!"


    Two figures rapidly emerged from the jungle, one wielding an axe charging at Lin Feng and the other swinging a saber at Lu Morning.


    Just like that, the two strongest members in the team were restrained by the opponents.


    Meanwhile, another arrow, carrying a terrifying force, shot towards Xu Nian.


    This arrow was even faster than thest, its speed like that of a meteor.


    Jungle assassins never wasted words; they knew that killing an opponent in the simplest and fastest way was the correct approach.


    Seeing this, Murong Xue wanted to step up and help Xu Nian but was stopped by his loud shout.


    "Don''t worry about me, I can handle this!"


    Xu Nian shouted, his eyes piercing and his steel sword buzzing, a sudden austere breeze covered his long sword.


    "Ling Feng Thirteen Swords, First Style, Sword Song of the Wind!"


    Xu Nian called out, thrusting his sword out instantly.


    The sound of the sword shing with the rapid arrow resonated, like a high-pitched phoenix cry, instantly chopping the swift arrow.


    "ng!"


    The feathered arrow was deflected, and Xu Nian merely floated down from the tree to the ground.


    Murong Xue, watching this, widened her eyes in shock. She herself couldn''t have caught the sword he had just deflected so easily.


    And this Ling Feng Thirteen Swords, how could he perform it so proficiently? Although it was just the first style, it clearly showed that he had grasped its essence, reaching the Subtle Realm.


    A cultivator''s understanding of sword techniques is divided into five realms: entry-level, skilled, proficient, subtle, and Divine Transformation.


    She had also been practicing the Ling Feng Thirteen Swords, but although it had taken her three months just to barely achieve proficiency in the first three styles, Xu Nian had reached the Subtle Realm in just three days.


    "How... how is this possible?" Murong Xue said incredulously.n/?/vel/b//jn dot c//om


    Although Xu Nian possessed Emperor Level talent,bat skill cultivation relied on understanding, which was unrted to talent. Xu Nian mastering the Ling Feng Thirteen Swords to the Subtle Realm so quickly demonstrated a Demon-Level understanding.


    However, what happened next almost made Murong Xue''s eyeballs pop out; Xu Nian executed the second, third, and fourth styles of the Ling Feng Thirteen Swords.


    Three consecutive swords blocked three arrows, all still within the Subtle Realm.


    Murong Xue felt her heart couldn''t take it anymore. She had cultivated for three months but had only mastered the first three styles to proficiency. The next ten styles were merely at the level of proficiency. Now, Xu Nian had performed four styles all at the Subtle Realm, which shocked her immensely.


    Even if Xu Nian had started cultivating thisbat skill from the moment he entered the academy, that would have only been about twenty days. To reach such a level was absolutely a Demon Level enlightenment.


    "What a monster!" Murong Xue muttered to herself.


    But right after she uttered those words, she instantly regretted them.


    It wasn''t that she thought Xu Nian didn''t deserve the title of monster, but that the title of monster didn''t deserve Xu Nian.


    Suddenly, Xu Nian''s figure burst out like a gust of wind, in an instant covering a distance of ten meters, and in two or three steps, he vanished into the jungle.


    Gale Dragon Step!


    Murong Xue recognized at a nce that the body skill Xu Nian used was the Qinglin Academy''s unique Gale Dragon Step.


    As someone who visited the Scripture Pavilion every month, she was very familiar with thebat skills on the first floor of the pavilion, including the Gale Dragon Step which she had also cultivated. However, despite six months of cultivation, she had still only achieved proficiency.


    But Xu Nian... his Gale Dragon Step was of the Subtle Realm, making Murong Xue feel a strong sense of being struck hard.


    In three days, he had mastered both Ling Feng Thirteen Swords and the Gale Dragon Step to the Subtle Realm. This was no longer describable as monstrous, but downright perverse.


    "How strong is his enlightenment exactly, and how many of the Ling Feng Thirteen Swords can he perform in the Subtle Realm?" Murong Xue gazed in the direction where Xu Nian had disappeared, her face nk.


    "Xue,e help me!"


    Just then, Lu Morning''s voice suddenly interrupted Murong Xue''s thoughts.


    It turned out that Lu Morning was facing that donkey-faced man, Tie Donkey, who was a level above him in cultivation. He was already struggling to fend off the attacks.


    On another front, Lin Feng was also hard-pressed, as he and Yu Feng together barely managed to deal with the crew-cut man''s Iron Axe.


    Seeing this, Murong Xue did not hesitate, quickly drew her long sword, and went to aid Lu Morning, which relieved some of his pressure.


    "Ha ha, useless! When my brother finishes off that guy, all of you will die. He''s a three-star Warrior," the donkey-faced manughed loudly.


    Hearing this, both Murong Xue and Lu Morning were startled. If that archer was indeed a three-star Warrior, wasn''t Xu Nian walking into certain death?


    Lin Feng and Yu Feng also had solemn expressions, clearly perturbed by this news for them.


    "Ha ha, scared now? But don''t worry, my beauty, I won''t kill you. Just obediently do as I say, and I guarantee your safety," the donkey-faced man said as he fought, his gaze towards Murong Xue filled with lewdness.


    "In your dreams!" Murong Xue''s eyebrows furrowed instantly, a sh of disgust crossing her eyes.


    "Dreaming? Ha ha, do you think I''m dreaming? With your strength, how long do you think you can hold against me? Moreover, my brother will be here soon, and once he joins the battle, what chances do you think you have?" The donkey-faced man swung his battle saber,ughing wildly.


    Murong Xue and Lu Morning both had grave expressions, clearly acknowledging the truth in the donkey-faced man''s words. If another three-star Warrior came, they would all be doomed.


    "Sorry, your brother won''t being!"


    However, just then, a chilly voice suddenly came from afar.


    Everyone halted their fighting and looked towards the source.


    They saw Xu Nian walking towards them step by step, his clothes stained with blood, holding a long sword in one hand and a head in the other, his eyes as sharp as sword light.


    The donkey-faced man and the crew-cut man''s eyes widened in shock as they both cried, "Gangzi!"


    Murong Xue and Lin Feng, among others, were also dumbstruck, staring in disbelief at the approaching Xu Nian.


    They suddenly felt that the figure approaching them wasn''t Xu Nian, but a yer of thousands!

 Chapter 23 Lin Fengs Killing Intent

    The donkey-faced big man and the crew-cut brawny man looked at the severed head in Xu Nian''s hands in disbelief, their eyes reddening instantly.


    "Fuck, you actually killed Gangzi! I''m going to kill you!" The donkey-faced young man exploded in rage, roaring as he swung his battle saber towards Xu Nian.


    Leaping forward, his saber swung down like it was splitting heaven and earth, savagely aiming for Xu Nian''s brow.


    The saber was covered with an overwhelming Spiritual Energy; a single strike could split a tree with a diameter of one meter in two.


    Murong Xue was startled, her face immediately flushing with tension.


    Yet Xu Nian stood motionless as a mountain, his eyes piercing as he watched the donkey-faced big man charging with his saber.


    "Ling Feng Thirteen Swords, Seventh Style: Sword Swinging Mountains and Rivers!"


    With a light cry, Xu Nian''s sword edge swiftly turned, and a fierce Spiritual Energy covered the long sword in his hand.


    "Whoosh!"


    He executed the Gale Dragon Step to perfection, his form like a phantom, brushing past the donkey-faced big man.


    Everyone watched the scene in astonishment, eager to know what had just happened in that instant, and who had won the battle.


    "Thud!"


    As everyone was puzzled, the donkey-faced big man suddenly knelt, a vacant look in his eyes filled with disbelief, as a fine line of blood on his neck slowly widened.


    "No... Impossible!" The donkey-faced big man managed to grind out three words from his throat before he fell to the ground, dead.


    The people around were also dumbstruck, their faces nk, not understanding how Xu Nian had done it.


    Only Xu Nian himself knew that in that instant he didn''t use a single sword technique but two. First, he blocked the donkey-faced big man''s earth-shattering strike with the Seventh Style, then with his long sword he unleashed the Hand-off Tornado Eighth Style, severing the neck of the donkey-faced big man.


    Both sword techniques were executed subtly to connect so seamlessly.


    The Hand-off Tornado involved letting the sword leave the hand for an instant, circling the enemy''s neck. It was an extremely sharp and tricky technique, capable of astonishing results when used unexpectedly.


    Murong Xue, who had also practiced Ling Feng Thirteen Swords, finally realized what Xu Nian had just done, but she was even more shocked upon this realization.


    Executing two Subtle sword techniques in an instant, and connecting them so smoothly?


    This was not something achievable with three days of cultivation¡ªit clearly required three years to reach this level of skill.


    What was most shocking was that Xu Nian was only a Seven-star Warrior, and he had just killed two Three-star Warriors. Though it was based on the element of surprise, this deed would be considered shocking and extraordinary if word got out.


    Xu Nian ignored everyone''s stunned gazes and turned his attention to the crew-cut brawny man.


    At that moment, the crew-cut brawny man''s eyebrows were furrowed to the extreme, with two brothers dead, his heart was filled with unbearable pain.


    "Speak. Who sent you guys?" Xu Nian suddenly asked.


    "Hmph, why should I tell you? You killed our two brothers. I, Tie Shan, swear not to rest until I have my revenge," the crew-cut brawny man said fiercely.


    They had gone through life and death together so many times as three brothers, yet they had never expected to fall here.


    "Looks like someone did send you after all. Let me guess, was it Qin Hen, or Ouyang Tian?" Xu Nian sneered, his eyes sharply observing the buzz-cut burly man.


    Realizing he had been tricked into talking, the buzz-cut burly man felt a surge of anger. Surveying the watchful crowd around him, he let out a cold snort and then fled towards the dense forest nearby.


    Yu Feng and the others wanted to give chase but were stopped by Lin Feng.


    Xu Nian seemed to suddenly lose all his strength and copsed to the ground. After performing several sword moves in a row, his body''s spiritual energy was drained. Although he still had Gang Qi to protect his body, he needed to put on an act to avoid suspicion.


    "Xu Nian, are you okay?" Murong Xue hurried over to him and asked as she saw Xu Nian fall.


    "I''m fine, just overused my spiritual energy. I''ll recover after a while," Xu Nian replied with a smile.


    Murong Xue immediately breathed a sigh of relief upon hearing this, and the tension on her pretty face eased.


    However, Lin Feng witnessed her anxious expression, which sparked a strong sense of jealousy in his heart.


    Originally, Lin Feng didn''t consider Xu Nian a threat, but the strength Xu Nian had just disyed had taken everyone by surprise. Although it involved opportunistic tactics, being able to consecutively kill two Three-star Warriors indicated that he possessed the strength to fight on par with a Two-star Warrior.


    For a Seven-star Warrior to have strengthparable to a Two-star Warrior, from any perspective, it made Lin Feng envious.


    "Xu Nian, thank you. If it hadn''t been for you, we probably would all have been doomed here," Lin Feng said to Xu Nian with a smile, yet his smile held a hint of coldness.


    "It''s nothing, Captain. I''m also a member of the Wind Snow Team, so it''s only right that I do my part. However, I might not have the energy to fight anymore for the time being," Xu Nian responded with a smile.


    "That''s okay, rest well. The rest of us will take care of things," Lin Feng said with a smile. After finishing, he turned and left, but a sh of killing intent crossed his eyes the moment he turned around.


    Although Xu Nian didn''t see the killing intent in Lin Feng''s eyes, how could he not feel the falseness in Lin Feng''s concern? He knew his disyed prowess had aroused Lin Feng''s jealousy, and with Murong Xue''s attention added to the mix, if Lin Feng didn''t harbor ill intentions towards him, Xu Nian would write his name backwards.


    Yet, Xu Nian didn''t care. If Lin Feng dared toy a finger on him, he wouldn''t mind giving the Wind Snow Team a new captain.


    For the remaining time, Xu Nian feigned illness to rest, while Murong Xue stayed faithfully by his side, as if deeply afraid some sudden danger would injure Xu Nian. While pleased, Xu Nian also felt a bit helpless about it.


    Ever since he had saved her, Murong Xue''s concern for him had increased. Perhaps she was simply grateful to Xu Nian for saving her life.


    As for the possibility of Murong Xue having feelings for him, Xu Nian thought it was too soon for that, especially since she still had ''him'' upying her heart.


    However, Murong Xue''s concern only deepened Lin Feng''s hatred for Xu Nian. On the road, Xu Nian caught Lin Feng looking back at him with a chilling gaze at least three times.


    Later on, Lin Feng even secretly discussed something with Yu Feng, who was casting covert nces at Xu Nian, a sly smile on his lips.


    Seeing this, Xu Nian knew these two were nning how to deal with him, creating a cold feeling in his heart.


    As for Lu Morning, he not only stopped looking down on Xu Nian but actually changed his attitude significantly, genuinely treating Xu Nian as a team member, which in turn made Xu Nian view him in a more favorable light.


    "Alright, here we are! That ahead is the Earth Dragon''sir!"


    After sneaking and battling their way through, they had finally arrived at their destination.


    Everyone''s expressions turned grave, for they knew a tough battle awaited them next.n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om

 Chapter 24 The Goddamn Egg Thief

    Earth Dragon Nests are generally located within hard rock caves, so the canyon ahead is an ideal ce for an Earth Dragon to reside.


    ording to the map provided by the Academy, the marked location of the Earth Dragon Nest was indeed the canyon ahead, where a female Earth Dragon that had recentlyid her eggs was living.


    And sure enough, there was a hole about three meters in diameter on the hard rock walls of the canyon.


    If their guess was correct, that should be the site of the Earth Dragon Nest.


    At this moment, Xu Nian and the other four members of his team were crouched under a tree in front of the canyon, discussing their strategy. Facing a Nine-star level Earth Dragon, they could only outsmart it, not fight it head-on.


    "Earth Dragons prefer solitude, onlying together to mate. Now that the female hasid the Earth Dragon Egg, the male should have already left. That means only the female Earth Dragon is in the cave. If we can lure her out, engage her, and have someone enter the Earth Dragon Nest to take the Earth Dragon Egg, then we won''t have to confront the female Earth Dragon directly and can get the egg," Lin Feng began exining.


    Everyone nodded; it was the most sensible approach.


    "But who should sneak into the Earth Dragon Nest to steal the egg?" Murong Xue inquired.


    "I will!" Lu Morning immediately volunteered.


    Yet Lin Feng shook his head and looked towards Xu Nian, saying, "Junior Brother Xu Nian, you should go. Your Gale Dragon Step has reached a Subtle level, as swift as the wind, making you the least likely to be detected by the Earth Dragon. I also have some Dragon Rock Powder here. When the timees, you can sprinkle it on yourself to mask your scent. The Earth Dragon will definitely not discover you."


    With that, he reached into his bosom and handed a Jade Bottle over to Xu Nian.


    Xu Nian, upon seeing the Jade Bottle, couldn''t help but sneer inwardly.


    Dragon Rock Powder?


    True, Dragon Rock Powder could conceal one''s scent, but that was only before entering the cave. Once inside the dark, damp cave, the moisture would cause the powder on his body to emit a fragrance simr to ambergris, which to Demon Beasts with Dragon Bloodline, was an irresistible lure.


    Most people only knew of the scent-concealing attributes of Dragon Rock Powder, unaware of its ability to attract Dragon n creatures.


    So Lin Feng wasn''t helping him but harming him. He nned to use Xu Nian to steal the egg and also to eliminate him, killing two birds with one stone.


    "Alright, I''ll steal the Earth Dragon Egg!"


    Nevertheless, Xu Nian readily grabbed the Jade Bottle filled with Dragon Rock Powder and nodded.


    In fact, even if Lin Feng hadn''t suggested that he go steal the Earth Dragon Egg, he would have volunteered himself.


    He came to the Demon Beast Forest not just toplete the quest but also to seek out Dragon Bloodline. Although the Earth Dragon Bloodline was far inferior to the legendary Nine Great Ancestor Dragon Bloodline, it would still somewhat benefit his Nine Dragons Body.


    He wouldn''t have been able to defeat the mature Earth Dragon, but the egg was something he could dly take, as the Bloodline Power contained within was by no means inferior to that of a mature Earth Dragon.


    The arrangement made by Lin Feng was exactly what he desired. As for Lin Feng''s intention to use the Earth Dragon to kill him, how could Xu Nian allow him to seed so easily? It was still up in the air as to who would be the real ''mantis stalking the cicada''.


    Upon hearing Xu Nian''s agreement, both Lin Feng and Yu Feng''s faces broke into a triumphant grin, clearly believing Xu Nian had fallen for their ploy.


    Murong Xue, who had been somewhat concerned at first and had wanted to apany Xu Nian, was reassured upon seeing his confident demeanor and thus said no more.


    Following this, they began to carry out Lin Feng''s n.


    Lin Feng, along with Murong Xue, Yu Feng, and Lu Morning, set out to attack the Earth Dragon Nest, drawing out the Earth Dragon.


    "Roar!"


    The Earth Dragon let out a piercing roar and crawled out of its nest.


    Its massive body, six meters in length, resembled that of a crocodile, covered in a dull yellow Scale Armor. With powerful limbs and razor-sharp ws, it slinked along the ground. Each step left a deep impression, and its horrific teeth were both vicious and terrifying.


    Seeing that they had seeded in luring the Earth Dragon out, Lin Feng and the others did not linger. They feinted a few attacks at the beast before sprinting at full speed towards the forest.


    The Earth Dragon, enraged, let out another roar and pursued them madly.


    Despite its sizable form, its speed was deceptively quick. It charged into the forest, crashing through countless trees. It was these very trees that provided enough obstruction for Lin Feng and his group to evade the Earth Dragon''s onught.


    Xu Nian, seeing that the Earth Dragon had moved far away, no longer hesitated. After sprinkling himself with the Dragon Rock Powder, he dashed toward the nest.


    The Earth Dragon''s cave was vast, stretching up over ten meters with several glowing crystals suspended from above, bathing the entire cave in light.


    However, the cave''s dampness had begun to alter the scenting off Xu Nian''s body.


    "There''s not much time; we need toplete the n before the Earth Dragon returns," Xu Nian muttered to himself. Then he began to search around, finally discovering three silvery-white Earth Dragon Eggs hidden deep within the grass of the dragon''s nest.


    These Earth Dragon Eggs were not small; each was asrge as Xu Nian''s head.


    Upon seeing the eggs, Xu Nian was overjoyed. Without a moment''s hesitation, he stepped forward, cracked one of the Earth Dragon Eggs open, and began to gulp down its contents.


    The liquid inside the Earth Dragon Egg shone with a crystal-clear luster, containing extremely potent power that made Xu Nian''s blood and Qi surge rapidly within him.


    "Awesome!"


    With one breath, Xu Nian swallowed an entire Dragon Egg and spat out a single word.


    He could feel the Dragon Egg enter his body, making his whole being seem to boil with energy, showing signs of breakthrough in his Body Cultivation, which had already reached the First-star of Star Realm.


    Xu Nian was inwardly ecstatic, promptly cracking open another Dragon Egg and pouring it into his belly.


    "Roar!"


    Just as Xu Nian had consumed over half of the second Dragon Egg, a furious roar erupted from outside.


    Xu Nian knew that the Earth Dragon had caught the scent of its broken egg and was rushing back.


    Without the slightest hesitation, Xu Nian grabbed the half-drunk Dragon Egg with one hand and the remaining intact one from the ground with the other, and dashed toward the cave exit.


    He couldn''t let the Earth Dragon trap him inside the cave; that would truly be a dead end.


    The moment Xu Nian fled from the Earth Dragon Nest, he saw the dragon burst out from the forest.


    Xu Nian and the Earth Dragon locked eyes. When the dragon nced at the egg in Xu Nian''s arms, its eyes instantly turned blood red with rage, and it let out a fearsome roar as it charged frantically towards him.


    Frightened, Xu Nian hastily fled in another direction through the forest; if he didn''t escape now, the Earth Dragon would likely tear him to pieces.


    Avenging the death of its child!


    The Earth Dragon''s eyes werepletely bloodshot as it relentlessly pursued Xu Nian.


    Lin Feng and the others, who had already turned back and observed the scene, were shocked. The Earth Dragon was pursuing Xu Nian with a ferocity more than ten times greater than when it chased them, as if it were fighting for its life.


    "Why is the Earth Dragon chasing Xu Nian like mad? Even if a Dragon Egg was stolen, it shouldn''t be this extreme, right?" whispered Yu Feng to Lin Feng.n/?/vel/b//jn dot c//om


    "Who cares? That''s the power of ambergris at work; not every member of the Dragon n can resist its lure. With the Dragon Egg in our hands, the Earth Dragon will continue to chase after Xu Nian," Lin Feng said with a coldugh.


    After speaking, he pursued in the direction of Xu Nian.


    "Xu Nian, hurry, throw the Dragon Egg here; if you do, the Earth Dragon will stop chasing you," Lin Feng called out to Xu Nian as he took a shortcut to catch up.


    "But... but what about you? I can''t betray you like that!" Xu Nian pretended to be torn.


    "It''s fine, I have my ways to escape; if we continue like this, we''ll both die," Lin Feng urged hastily, but inwardly sneered, "What about me? Once you throw the Dragon Egg, the Earth Dragon will still chase after you, and you can wait to be devoured alive by it!"


    "Alright then, take care!" Xu Nian, feigning difficulty, relented and then tossed one of the Dragon Eggs he was holding.


    Seeing Xu Nian throw the Dragon Egg, Lin Feng felt a rush of delight and quickly reached out to catch it.


    Having caught the Dragon Egg, Lin Feng''s joy grew. Just as he was about to ask Xu Nian to throw the other egg, he heard the Earth Dragon let out a furious roar and saw it charging towards him like an avenger seeking blood.


    "How... how could this be?" Lin Feng''s eyes widened as he watched the crazed Earth Dragon pounce, confusion filling his mind.


    The Earth Dragon should have been attracted by the scent of ambergris and continued chasing Xu Nian, not turning back to pursue him.


    But now, with the Earth Dragon swiftly approaching, Lin Feng had no time to ponder and turned to run.


    As he fled, Lin Feng felt a liquid spraying from the Dragon Egg onto his body. Looking down, his vision darkened, and he nearly stumbled and fell.


    On the surface of the Dragon Egg was a hole the size of a thumb, and less than half of the egg liquid was left inside.


    He finally realized why the Earth Dragon had pursued Xu Nian with such madness. At this moment, he only had one thought in his mind.


    "Damn it, what on earth did Xu Nian do?"

 Chapter 25 Xu Nians Killing Intent

    Lin Feng was truly miserable. He couldn''t understand why there was a hole in the egg, and why most of the egg fluid inside was missing.


    "It must have been Xu Nian''s doing!" Lin Feng thought of it over and over and could onlye to one conclusion ¡ª he had been tricked by Xu Nian.


    Originally, he wanted to trap Xu Nian to his death, but unexpectedly, Xu Nian had turned the tables on him. This made Lin Feng''s rage surge to the Heavenly Gate, and he desperately wanted to find Xu Nian and tear him into a thousand pieces.


    However, he was now being relentlessly pursued by an Earth Dragon that had gone mad with rage, seeming intent on chasing him to the ends of the earth.


    Helplessly, Lin Feng could only flee for his life, prioritizing his survival above all else.


    Xu Nian stood far off, perched on arge tree branch, watching Lin Feng, who was being chased by the Earth Dragon, flee in all directions. A cold smile curled the corners of his mouth.


    Yes, Dragon Rock Powder, when exposed to humidity, released Dragon Saliva Fragrance, which hugely attracted Earth Dragons, but it wasn''t the genuine Dragon Saliva Fragrance. Once out of the cave, blown by the wind, the scent on Xu Nian had faded.


    The damage to the Earth Dragon Egg was what truly enraged the Earth Dragon. Now that Lin Feng''s body was soaked with the egg fluid, even if Lin Feng discarded the Earth Dragon Egg, the beast would still relentlessly pursue him, believing him to be the killer of his child.


    Xu Nian watched Lin Feng and the Earth Dragon growing distant. He withdrew his gaze and looked at thest Earth Dragon Egg in his hands, swallowing hard, suppressing the urge to smash and consume it.


    Having absorbed a one and a half Earth Dragon Eggs, Xu Nian''s internal strength had boiled to an unprecedented peak. If he were to consume thisst Earth Dragon Egg now, he would undoubtedly break through to the Second-star of the Divine Demon Star Realm.


    However, thisst dragon egg needed to be handed in toplete the mission, so Xu Nian reluctantly set aside that n.


    Even though consuming the Earth Dragon Eggs didn''t allow Xu Nian to break through directly, he could feel that among his Nine Great Dragon Veins, one vein had birthed a trace of Dragon Energy.


    Although this trace of Dragon Energy was as thin as a hair, Xu Nian could feel its immense power.


    Now, whenever Xu Nian employed his Divine Demon Gang Qi, this trace of Dragon Energy would merge into it, increasing the ferocity of the Divine Demon Gang Qi.


    "With this trace of Dragon Energy enhancing my strength, I''ve taken another step up. Even if I encounter a Fourth-star of the Star Realm now, I would have the power to fight." A faint smile appeared on Xu Nian''s lips, the sensation of power thrilling him indescribably.


    "I should go find Murong Xue and the others first!" Xu Nian put away his excitement, holding the Earth Dragon Egg and quickly moved toward where Murong Xue and her group should be.


    The Earth Dragon possessed the lowest grade of Dragon n bloodline among the Demon Beasts. If Xu Nian couldn''t even defeat an Earth Dragon, he stood no chance against other Dragon n Demon Beasts. To obtain an Earth Dragon Egg was sheer luck; anything else would have to wait until his strength improved.


    Xu Nian leaped along, quickly arriving at their agreed rendezvous point.


    However, the scene before him made his eyebrows furrow instantly.


    There was Yu Feng, pinned to arge tree by his own longsword through his forehead. Beside him, Lu Morning had also sustained severe injuries, soaked in blood, barely clinging to life, except Murong Xue was nowhere to be seen.


    It was done by humans!


    That was Xu Nian''s first reaction. If not for humans, Yu Feng wouldn''t have been left with an intact corpse, much less killed by his own sword.


    "Who did this?" Xu Nian approached Lu Morning and infused him with his Spiritual Energy.


    Originally faint, Lu Morning gradually regained consciousness, clutching Xu Nian, he strained to say, "Quick¡­ go quickly¡­ save Xue. She was taken by that burly man earlier¡­ He said to meet him at the entrance of the Demon Beast Forest, and if you don''te, you''ll never see her again."


    Xu Nian''s eyes turned red instantly, filled with a strong killing intent.


    It was that guy named Tie Shan who did it, after he escaped, he never gave up. He secretly followed Xu Nian and others, and when they were dispersed, he made his move on Lu Morning and Murong Xue, all to force Xu Nian to find him.n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om


    It was impossible for him to have no feelings for Murong Xue.


    Ever since he had rescued Murong Xue years ago, she had left a mark in his heart. Seeing her again now, he was even more captivated by her elegant demeanor. Now that Tie Shan had captured Murong Xue, how could he not be furious?


    Moreover, it was obvious that Tie Shan was targeting him specifically. If Murong Xue encountered any misfortune because of this, he would feel guilty for the rest of his life.


    "Tie Shan, if you dare hurt a single hair on Murong Xue, I''ll make sure you die a worse death than your two brothers," Xu Nian clenched his fists, his killing intent rampant.


    Behind him, his ck hair moved without wind, like a Killing God emerging.


    Beside him, the injured Lu Morning was shocked by this scene.


    For some reason, he felt that the current Xu Nian was unfathomable, and his strength was something he could not contend with.


    "Is he hiding his strength? How is that possible, he clearly has the cultivation of a Seven-star Warrior!" Lu Morning was shocked, thinking he was hallucinating.


    But by the time he realized it, he saw Xu Nian looking at him.


    He came to a realization and said, "Don''t worry about me. I practice Body Cultivation, and my strength recovers quickly, I can protect myself. Go save Murong Xue!"


    "Be careful then!" Xu Nian hesitated for a moment, nodded, handed the Earth Dragon Egg in his hand to Lu Morning, and then, like a gust of wind, he rushed out and disappeared into the jungle with a few quick moves.


    Lu Morning, watching Xu Nian''s departing figure, was momentarily dazed.


    Suddenly, he seemed to remember something, and just as he was about to ask where Lin Feng had gone, he realized Xu Nian was already out of sight, so he decided to cling to the Earth Dragon Egg and took refuge in a big tree in the distance.


    His body was covered in blood, which could easily attract the attention of Demon Beasts, so right now, he needed to mask the scent of his blood.


    As for the body of Yu Feng, he couldn''t worry about it. Sooner orter, it would be a meal for the Demon Beasts. Carrying him might actually endanger himself.


    ...


    On the other side, Xu Nian executed the Gale Dragon Step to its limit, his figure darting like an incredibly agile leopard towards the entrance of the Demon Beast Forest.


    At this moment, his mind was filled with Murong Xue''s voice and appearance. The thought of Tie Shan possibly hurting Murong Xue fueled his relentless killing intent.


    What he hated most was when others used the people he cared about to threaten him. Although he hadn''t truly fallen in love with Murong Xue yet, he would not allow her to be harmed.


    The actions of Tie Shan at this moment had touched his Reversed Scale, igniting a strong killing intent in his heart.


    "Tie Shan, and the people behind you, I will make you regret your actions today for the rest of your lives!" Xu Nian''s eyes turned colder, and his speed increased.


    Xu Nian trod lightly on the breeze, moving swiftly, but his body emitted an ice-cold, bone-piercing chill.

 Chapter 26 The Power of One Punch

    At the entrance of the Demon Beast Forest, two people were standing, a man and a woman.


    The woman''s hands were bound by ropes, and a trace of blood hung from the corner of her beautiful lips. Her white dress also bore several bloodstains. Clearly, she had fought fiercely before being subdued, but unfortunately, she had been defeated in the end.


    Next to the woman stood a burly man with a buzz cut, resembling an Iron Tower. His exaggerated muscles, under his dark skin, appeared even more robust. His nearly two-meter stature made him look like a giant, and behind him hung a huge Iron Axe.


    The Iron Axe was ck yet thick, obviously heavy.


    "You don''t need to wait anymore, Xu Nian won''te," the woman''s beautiful face showed an unyielding spirit.


    She knew that the burly man had brought her here to draw Xu Nian, but Xu Nian had no rtionship with her. Why would he risk his life to save her?


    The burly man was a Four-star Body Cultivator in the Star Realm, and even if Xu Nian possessed strength beyond his own, he definitely could not match this burly man, so she did not hope for Xu Nian toe and die here.


    "Hmph, how do you know he won''te? Thatd took an arrow for you; he clearly cares about you a lot. Do you think he can disregard your life and death? Aren''t you afraid I will vite you?" the buzz-cut burly man said coldly, his eyes filled with mockery.n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om


    Murong Xue was momentarily stunned hearing the young man''s words.


    Did Xu Nian truly care about her so much that he woulde to save her?


    Murong Xue recalled the moments she had spent with Xu Nian. She discovered the enigmatic young man.


    More often, it was she who cared about him, not Xu Nian caring for her.


    Xu Nian''s ruthlessness, madness, and his high talents andprehension without ever being arrogant deeply attracted her, continuously shocking her.


    If her heart hadn''t already been taken by someone else, she believed that with time, she might have fallen for Xu Nian, since he was the most outstanding among her peers.


    Perhaps he wasn''t dazzling now, but someday he would stand at the summit of East Field County, even trampling the entire Tianhen Empire under his feet.


    "No, Xu Nian absolutely must note here; he still has a long road to walk and cannot die here," thought Murong Xue anxiously.


    She did not want Xu Nian toe here. If Xu Nian died trying to save her, she would feel guilty for a lifetime.


    "It seems you do harbor some feelings for thatd. Since that''s the case, I will let him die before youter. I''ll see if you shed tears," Tie Shan said coldly with a sneer.


    Although initially, he had sought to kill Xu Nian for a reward, Xu Nian had now killed two of his brothers, and he hated Xu Nian to the bone, so he definitely wouldn''t let Xu Nian die easily.


    "You won''t seed!" Dered Murong Xue, determination clear in her attractive eyes. She resolved in her heart that even if she died, she couldn''t let Xu Nian die here.


    "Swoosh!"


    Just then, a faint sound came from the distance.


    The buzz-cut burly man immediately smirked and looked at Murong Xue, saying, "Look, your little lover hase."


    Murong Xue, hearing this, also quickly looked toward the direction of the sound. Indeed, a figure dashed out from the forest and appeared before them.


    Who could it be but Xu Nian?


    The moment Murong Xue saw Xu Nian, her eyes instantly welled up. Xu Nian had truly rushed over for her, deeply touching her heart.


    Suddenly, as if remembering something, she quickly shouted, "Xu Nian, run away, you''re no match for him!"


    However, Xu Nian, as if he hadn''t heard Murong Xue''s words, looked toward the buzz-cut young man and said, "Tie Shan, I''m here now. Can you release mypanion?"


    "Release her? Xu Nian, are you joking? Do you think you still have the right to negotiate with me? You killed my two brothers, and today you must pay for that debt," Tie Shan said coldly, his eyes filled with immense anger as he stared at Xu Nian.


    Xu Nian''s eyes remained icy as he looked directly at the crew-cut burly man and said, "They brought it upon themselves; they deserved to be killed!"


    "You''re seeking death!" The crew-cut burly man flew into a rage.


    He didn''t expect that Xu Nian, facing his imminent death, still refused to bow his head, which instantly stoked the mes of anger in his heart.


    Murong Xue was also astonished, not understanding why Xu Nian would provoke the crew-cut burly man at this time.


    "If you want to avenge your two brothers, juste at me. If you can avenge them, I, Xu Nian, will call you ''grandfather,''" Xu Nian taunted.


    "I''m going to kill you!" Upon hearing this, Tie Shan''s anger surged like a tidal wave, and steam billowed from his nostrils as he pulled the giant axe from behind his back and charged at Xu Nian.


    Xu Nian, seeing this, a sh of cold light sparked in his eyes. He swiftly drew his long sword from his waist and confronted Tie Shan''s mighty axe blow head-on.


    "ng!"


    The giant axe collided with the steel sword, creating a shower of brilliant sparks.


    Both men were forced a step back by the force transmitted through their weapons.


    Tie Shan was somewhat surprised that someone could actually withstand his giant axe head-on, but he didn''t think much of it and swung his giant axe down at Xu Nian again.


    This time, Xu Nian did not sh directly but instead used the Gale Dragon Step while simultaneously executing the Ling Feng Thirteen Swords.


    From the First Sword to the Ninth Sword, Xu Nian''s sword moves were a myriad of illusions, effectively suppressing Tie Shan''s giant axe with his swordy.


    Especially the Ninth Sword, Glinting Shadows!


    Xu Nian''s sword light was agile and elusive, continuously meeting Tie Shan''s giant axe blows.


    Every time Tie Shan chopped with his axe, Xu Nian struck out ten swords in an instant. The tenfoldyered swords directly repelled Tie Shan''s giant axe.


    However, after the Ninth Sword, Xu Nian''s internal spiritual energy began to fluctuate wildly, and he soon lost the capability to execute any more sword moves.


    "It seems that without using Gang Qi, it is impossible to defeat Tie Shan," Xu Nian muttered to himself.


    He was currently using only his spiritual cultivation. The reason he could fight against Tie Shan was due to the exquisiteness of his swordsmanship. Although he had mastered only the first nine of the Ling Feng Thirteen Swords, and could perform thetter four, they were not subtle andcked the power of the earlier nine.


    Moreover, the spiritual energy reserves of a Seven-star Warrior were simply too low. After the nine swords, Xu Nian hardly had any spiritual energy left.


    "Ha ha, boy, you''ve used up all the spiritual energy in your body. I want to see what you can do to resist my Iron Axe now," Tie Shan remarked with a ferocious smirk, swinging his giant axe and charging toward Xu Nian.


    Another mountain-cleaving blow came down, the figure surging skyward, shing horizontally with the force of a thousand jun.


    Beside him, Murong Xue''s pretty face instantly tensed up, looking at Xu Nian''s figure with great concern.


    However, Xu Nian''s lips curled into a cold smile, then he made a move that shocked Murong Xue.


    Xu Nian nted his notched steel sword into the ground and abruptly looked up, his eyes zing fiercely. He leaped up like a cheetah,nding a punch directly on Tie Shan''s chest.


    Tie Shan, along with his axe, flew horizontally, crashing into arge tree behind him and spitting out a mouthful of fresh blood.


    Murong Xue''s eyes went nk in an instant, her pretty face filled with shock.


    Tie Shan, clutching his chest, wore an expression of disbelief, unable to ept that this was real; yet the pain in his chest made him realize that everything was indeed true.

 Chapter 27 Killing Intent Surges to the Skies

    Injuring a Fourth-star of Star Realm Body Cultivator with a single punch¡ªhow could that possibly be something a Seven-star Warrior could do, especially considering this Seven-star Warrior''s Spiritual Energy waspletely depleted? It was absolutely impossible to deliver such a powerful punch.


    "You... you''re a Body Cultivator," Tie Shan said with widened eyes, struggling to stand up, but the pain in his chest was so intense when he moved, it was like his heart was being torn apart, twisting his facial expression grotesquely.


    Beside him, Murong Xue, upon hearing this, also looked at Xu Nian in shock, trying to confirm whether what Xu Nian said was true.


    However, Xu Nian''s gaze was cold as he walked towards Tie Shan. Since Tie Shan had touched his Reversed Scale, there was only one path left for him: death.


    "Yes, I am indeed a Body Cultivator. My Body Cultivation is far more superior than my Spiritual Cultivation, but it''s a bitte for you to find out now," Xu Nian replied with a cold smirk, already standing in front of Tie Shan.


    Thetter was kneeling in front of him, his face a mix of unwillingness and rage.


    "I''ll give you onest chance¡ªtell me who sent you, and I''ll let you die quickly," Xu Nian said coldly to Tie Shan, who was kneeling before him.


    "In your dreams!" Tie Shan roared, trying to muster the strength to rise and give Xu Nian a fatal punch.


    Yet, his intentions were seen through by Xu Nian early on. The corner of Xu Nian''s mouth curved in a chilling smile, Gang Qi swirling in his hand, and with a sound like a dragon''s roar, he struck Tie Shan''s top of the skull with a palm.


    Immortal Touching the Top!


    Forcefully, Tie Shan was smashed kneeling onto the ground, blood streaming across his forehead, and then he copsed onto the ground, eyes dull.


    The top of his skull was shattered, with his brain turned to mush; he was dead beyond dead.


    Murong Xue, who witnessed this scene, had a look of utter stupefaction on her lovely face, staring at Xu Nian in disbelief.


    She had originally thought that Xu Nian would be no match for Tie Shan, but it was Tie Shan who ended up falling.


    Xu Nian didn''t nce at the corpse of Tie Shan but walked back to his original spot, pulled out the jagged sword stuck in the ground like a dog chewed it and approached Murong Xue, cutting her ropes.


    "Are you okay? Are you hurt?" Xu Nian asked with a smile.


    "No!" Murong Xue shook her head, still not quite recovered from her shock.


    "I hope you can keep my Body Cultivation a secret," Xu Nian said with a smile. "If the word gets out, it would be quite disadvantageous for me."


    "Okay! But howe you have such strong Body Cultivation that even someone from the Fourth-star of the Star Realm is no match for you?" Murong Xue asked, astounded.


    "It''s not as exaggerated as you think. My strength is more or less at the Four-star Level of the Star Realm. I could easily defeat Tie Shan because I caught him off-guard. If he had known from the start that I had Body Cultivation, it''s uncertain who would have won," Xu Nian exined with augh.


    Murong Xue nodded in understanding, although her heart was still incredibly shocked.


    A genius from Spirit Academy possessing such extraordinary Body Cultivation¡ªif the Academy were to find out, it would surely cause a huge sensation.


    "Let''s go, Lu Morning is also injured; we need to hurry back," Xu Nian said with a smile, his gaze unblinkingly on the beautiful face so close to him.


    Murong Xue''s expression of shock was somewhat adorable, her eyes twinkling like stars, her snow-white, delicate skin¡ªand those cherry-red lips in particr¡ªmade Xu Nian''s heart race.


    "Okay!" Murong Xue felt somewhat ufortable under Xu Nian''s stare, her cheeks blushing as she obediently nodded.


    "Be careful!"N?v(el)B\\jnn


    However, at that moment, Murong Xue''s face suddenly turned pale with shock, and she pushed Xu Nian away.


    ```


    "Pfft!"


    The very next moment, a sharp sword instantly pierced through Murong Xue''s chest.


    Blood spurted out, sshing directly onto Xu Nian''s face.


    "No..." Xu Nian roared in disbelief, his eyes instantly moistening, bloodshot with fury.


    He embraced Murong Xue as she fell backward, choking up, "Why... why?"


    Had it not been for Murong Xue pushing him away just a moment ago, that sword would have pierced through Xu Nian''s heart.


    "You saved my life... I finally get to... to repay you," Murong Xue said with a tragic smile, blood continuously pouring from her wound, staining her dress red.


    "No... no, you owe me more than one life, back then in that cave, you also owed me your life, so you can''t die." Xu Nian looked at the dying Murong Xue, his hands trembling uncontrobly, tears streaming down his face.


    It was only at this moment that he realized that this breathtakingly beautiful girl had left an indelible mark in his heart a year ago.


    Seeing Murong Xue on the brink of death, his heart felt as though it was being torn apart, an unbearable pain.


    Surprise filled Murong Xue''s eyes, her face wearing an expression of disbelief as she looked at Xu Nian, but she soon burst into a smile.


    "So it was you... Heaven has treated me... not... not so unfairly, *cough* *cough*... even letting me see you again before I die, I''m content. Xu Nian, I... I like you," Murong Xue managed to say with great effort.


    Her captivating eyes gazed at the grief-stricken face of Xu Nian, a faint smile appearing on her lips.


    Her beautiful yet pale face at this moment was like a blossoming flower, radiantly beautiful and soul-stirring.


    "No... I don''t want you to die." Xu Nian held Murong Xue tightly, tears flowing freely, his heart feeling empty.


    He regretted not confessing his feelings to Murong Xue sooner, and regretted not noticing that sudden sword thrust.


    "Here, this is for... for you, back to its rightful owner." Murong Xue struggled to pull off the jade pendant hanging in front of her chest and handed it to Xu Nian, thenpletely lost consciousness.


    The ck jade pendant, stained with Murong Xue''s blood and still retaining her warmth, made Xu Nian even more heartbroken.


    "p, p, p!"


    Yet at this moment, a round of apuse came from deep within the forest, followed by a mocking voice from afar.


    "What a touching scene, Xu Nian. I didn''t expect you to be so lucky with women, to have ady from the Beauty List willingly die for you."


    Two figures slowly emerged from the depths of the forest, an old man and a young one. It was the apuding youth who had spoken.


    The youth had a yful smile on his lips, his face filled with scorn, while an elder with greying hair followed behind him.


    However, the old man''s eyes were piercing, and his presence was extraordinarilymanding.


    "It''s you, Ouyang Tian!"


    In an instant, Xu Nian red at the neers, his eyes fiery red, his fingers curled into ws, and his killing intent overwhelming.


    Only now did he finally understand that all of this was Ouyang Tian''s doing, the sword that struck just now was wielded by the elder beside him.


    Thinking of this, the killing intent within Xu Nian surged like the endless waters of the Yangtze River.


    ```

 Chapter 28 The Demon God Appears

    Ouyang Tian saw Xu Nian with a look of fury and couldn''t help but snort a coldugh, "Xu Nian, you needn''t look at me with that gaze. In a moment, I''ll send you down to apany her. How does that sound, are you scared? Haha, beg me, and if I''m in a good mood, I might leave you a whole corpse!"


    Xu Nian''s eyes were frosty as he stared at Ouyang Tian. The killing intent in his heart had reached a pinnacle and was about to burst forth. At this moment, Ouyang Tian''s sneering face was bit by bit, provoking his heart.


    "Die!"


    Xu Nian hung the jade pendant, still warm, on his chest and then spat out a single word.


    A word heavy as ten thousand jun!


    At that moment, all of Xu Nian''s rage converged into that one word. His hair flew wildly as the Gang Qi within his body, like thunder roaming, burst out violently.


    With one step he covered thirty feet, and in the blink of an eye, he was in front of Ouyang Tian.


    The broad-ded steel sword was also shed down in an instant, emitting a fearsome Sword Qi, and the sword light piercingly cold to the heart.


    Ouyang Tian was taken aback, not expecting Xu Nian to arrive so swiftly. Subconsciously, he stepped back, and for a moment, he actually forgot to defend himself.


    However, just as Xu Nian''s sword was about to cleave Ouyang Tian apart, the elder who had been standing behind Ouyang Tian suddenly shed in front, blocking Ouyang Tian.


    His palm struck out, like a flood dragon emerging from its cave.


    Xu Nian had no time to react and was hit by the palm on his chest, sent flying backward, vomiting blood.


    "Silver Moon Battle Sect!"


    Xu Nian crashed heavily to the ground, eyes fixated on the elder who had suddenly stepped in front of Ouyang Tian, never expecting the elder who suddenly made a move to be a warrior of the Silver Moon Battle Sect Level.


    "Haha, Xu Nian, you still want to kill me? I suggest you give up on that notion. Grandpa Ouyang is a One-star Battle Sect. No matter how powerful you are, it''s impossible to be Grandpa''s opponent, so today you''re as good as dead," Ouyang Tianughed loudly, his eyes filled with ridicule as he looked at Xu Nian.


    Xu Nian''s brows furrowed tightly upon seeing this scene.


    His fists clenched, his fingernails digging into his flesh, blood flowing freely.


    His nemesis was right before him, but he was powerless to seek revenge, filling him with unbearable indignation and endless rage.


    "Buzz!"


    However, just then, a scorching heat emanated from Xu Nian''s chest like a raging fire.


    "Ah..."


    Xu Nian clenched his teeth and cried out in pain, ripping open his shirt to see, only to find the Jade Pendant had disappeared, followed by a surge of unprecedentedly powerful force erupting from his chest.n/?/vel/b//jn dot c//om


    "Grandpa Ouyang, kill him! Let him know that our Ouyang Family is not to be trifled with by a castoff like him."


    At the same time, Ouyang Tian alsomanded the elder before him, looking spiteful.


    "Yes, Young Master!" The elder responded, his voice low and hoarse yet resolute.


    After speaking, the elder turned to Xu Nian, flung his sleeve, and shot out with incredible speed. His movement brought a fierce wind, and his palm, imbued with powerful Spiritual Energy, ruthlessly aimed at Xu Nian''s face.


    However, Xu Nian seemed not to notice, his eyes tightly closed.


    Just as the elder''s palm reached an inch before Xu Nian''s brow, Xu Nian suddenly opened his eyes, which were pitch-ck.


    A boundless killing aura surged from him, like ck mes zing intensely.


    And the elder''s palm seemed impeded by an invisible force, suspended right in front of Xu Nian''s forehead, and couldn''t move any further by even a hair''s breadth.


    "How can this be?" The elder eximed in shock, unable to believe his eyes as he looked at the young man before him. But at the moment their gazes met, he felt as if his heart was being seized, and his spirit was shaken.


    "Kill!"


    Xu Nian roared a word from his throat, his voice swallowing mountains and rivers, echoing like the roar of a tiger and the chant of a dragon, shaking the forest.


    The white-haired elder was sent flying by Xu Nian''s roar, his face filled with shock as he was tossed backward.


    But everything was far from over. The young man, shrouded in dark energy, suddenly leaped up and shed in front of him.


    "Boom!"


    His fist, like a copsing mountain, hammered into the elder''s chest. In an instant, the elder''s ribs shattered and his internal organs shifted.


    The elder looked as if his three souls and seven spirits had been expelled from his body, his face nk and filled with horror.


    "Roar!"


    Xu Nian didn''t cease his attack. With a ferocious bellow, hended a knee strike on the elder''s face.


    Immediately, the elder''s teeth were scattered, and blood sprayed everywhere.


    Gathering momentum, Xu Nian followed through, stomping down with a force akin to thousands of pounds, crushing the elder''s face into the ground and creating a deep pit.


    The elder''s face was unrecognizable, his breathing in but not going out; he died on the spot.


    Xu Nian stood like a demon god, killing intent swirling around him.


    His ck hair danced wildly without wind, as if snakes writhing in chaos, intimidating all directions.


    Ouyang Tian, standing nearby, was dumbfounded, swallowing hard, his heart shocked beyond words.


    This was the Silver Moon Battle Sect!


    Wasn''t Xu Nian just a Seven-star Warrior? How could he ughter a member of the Silver Moon Battle Sect as if it were nothing?


    Suddenly, his heart shuddered, wanting to turn and run. However, he found his legs wouldn''t obey, and a boundless fear swallowed him whole.


    Because he saw that Xu Nian''s gaze had turned toward him, his eyes filled with endless murderous aura and intent.


    "Xu... Xu Nian, you... you can''t kill me. If you do, the Ouyang Family will never..." Ouyang Tian stuttered out fearfully.


    However, before he could finish, he realized that Xu Nian had already appeared in front of him, his hand reaching out like a demon from hell, gripping his throat.


    "Don''t... don''t kill me, please... I beg you!" Ouyang Tian felt the fear of death, his face full of horror and pleas.


    Yet, Xu Nian showed not an ounce of sympathy, his other hand punching directly into Ouyang Tian''s abdomen.


    "Pu!"


    Ouyang Tian spat out a mouthful of fresh blood, his eyes filled with despair, as Xu Nian''s punch had destroyed his Dantian.


    "Boom!"


    Another heavy punch smashed into Ouyang Tian''s chest, instantly caving it in, his eyes bulging, and blood vessels in them bursting.


    But the painful torment didn''t end there. Xu Nian abruptly released his arm, and in the moment Ouyang Tian''s body was suspended in air, his fists pummeled the man''s chest like a torrential storm.


    Ouyang Tian''s body kept retreating until it crashed into arge tree behind him, breaking it and falling to the ground.


    Blood gushed out uncontrobly, his eyes nk with despair.


    Xu Nian''s attack had shattered his heart and lungs. Even a Daluo Golden Immortal couldn''t save him now.


    "Buzz!"


    However, at the moment of Ouyang Tian''s despair, a sudden sound of a sword being drawn rang out.


    A jagged sword flew through the air and quickly erged in front of his eyes, finally piercing through his brow and nailing him against the broken tree behind him.


    With hisst breath, Ouyang Tian''s eyes widened, unable to believe that he had met his death at the hands of Xu Nian.

 Chapter 29 The Mysterious Old Woman

    After he had killed Ouyang Tian, Xu Nian seemed to suddenly lose all his strength and fell to the ground.


    "I... What''s happening to me?" Xu Nian mumbled to himself as he watched the dark, evil aura gradually dissipating from his body.


    "It''s because you''ve been possessed by the evil aura," an ancient voice rang out.


    Xu Nian''s body jolted, and he hurriedly looked towards the direction of the voice, only to find that an old crone had appeared next to Murong Xue at some point.


    This was a white-haired, wrinkled, hunchbacked old woman.


    At that moment, she was squatting next to Murong Xue, apparently examining her body.


    "Who are you? What are you trying to do?" Xu Nian asked warily.


    The sudden appearance of the old woman gave him a dangerous feeling; even though she was not emitting any aura, Xu Nian still felt a powerful oppressive force.


    Hearing Xu Nian''s question, the old woman lifted her head to nce at him before looking down again.


    In that brief moment she had lifted her head, Xu Nian saw clearly that the woman''s pupils were gray, which scared him into unconsciously taking a step back.


    However, luckily, the old crone seemed to harbor no ill will and spoke, "Youngd, no need to worry. I am saving this young girl''s life. If you do not wish for her to die, then do not disturb us."


    Upon hearing this, Xu Nian first froze and then eagerly asked, "Senior, are you saying... there''s still hope for her?"


    However, this time, the old crone did not respond to Xu Nian''s question, but her actions provided Xu Nian with an answer.


    The old woman lifted Murong Xue with one hand, while the other hand surged with a stream of sky-blue spiritual energy. Guided by this energy, the sword embedded in Murong Xue''s chest was slowly pulled out.


    "Whoosh!"


    The old woman suddenly flung her arm, and the sword that had pierced through Murong Xue''s chest was thrown out, embedding itself in a nearby tree.


    When the sword was removed, there was no blood flowing from Murong Xue''s chest wound, clearly a result of the old woman''s efforts.


    After a long while, the old woman retracted her spiritual energy and turned to Xu Nian, "I''ve used my spiritual energy to protect her vital channels. Her life is no longer under any threat. You may rest assured now."


    Relieved, Xu Nian respectfully said, "Thank you, senior, for your assistance!"


    But the old woman shook her head and said, "There''s no need to thank me. I am saving her for my own reasons. This young girl has an Innate Yin Body. Should she join my sect, she could surely be a generational prodigy. To leave her talent buried in a backwater like this would be a waste."


    "Senior, you intend to take her away?" Xu Nian''s brows immediately furrowed.


    "What, if I wish to take her as my disciple, is there a problem?" the old woman said with a teasing smile, looking at Xu Nian.


    Hearing this, Xu Nian''s frown deepened as he replied, "There is no problem, but at least, senior, you should respect her wishes. Isn''t it better to wait until she wakes up and ask if she is willing?"


    "Hmph, there''s no need for that. Even if she is unwilling now, one day she will be grateful to this old crone," the old woman said coldly, and after speaking, she picked up Murong Xue.


    "No, I won''t let you take her away today no matter what," Xu Nian clenched his fists and charged towards the old woman, attempting to take Murong Xue back.


    However, the old woman scoffed, waved her sleeve, and Xu Nian was blown away.


    Xu Nian crashed into arge tree behind him, spitting out a trickle of fresh blood and struggling to stand, but just couldn''t manage it.n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om


    "Hmph, little brat, I am sparing your life today for her sake, but let me remind you, you''d better forget about her. Once she joins the ranks of Tiancang Sect, you two will be worlds apart. Her future achievements are beyond anything you can imagine. When the timees, I will seal her memories, and she will never recall your existence in this lifetime. So, you''d better give up on this notion," the old crone sneered. Having said that, she picked up Murong Xue and transformed into a streak of light that vanished into the horizon.


    Flying?


    Xu Nian''s heart jolted, his fists clenched tightly, filled with intense reluctance.


    Being capable of flying meant that this old crone was a martial artist of Marquis Level. Such experts, in the entirety of East Field County, were forces to be reckoned with.


    With such a person intent on taking Murong Xue away, even if he had a hundred lives, he wouldn''t be able to stop her¡ªhe was alive only because the old crone had shown mercy.


    However, the silver lining was that Murong Xue was at least saved because of this. Otherwise, he would have regretted it for life.


    "Tiancang Sect, I, Xu Nian, will remember this name. One day, I will step into your sect myself and take Murong Xue away. If you dare to stop me, don''t me me, Xu Nian, for being ungrateful," Xu Nian murmured resolutely, staring in the direction where the old crone had disappeared.


    Since he had set his heart on Murong Xue, as long as she lived, he would go to any lengths to find her again, no matter how many mountains and rivers stood in his way.


    Whosoever dared to obstruct him, he would kill.


    No matter how powerful the Tiancang Sect was, he held no fear.


    Xu Nian leaned on arge tree and slowly stood up. Although the old crone had been merciful, her strike had not been light; his injuries now would take at least a few days to heal.


    Fortunately, Xu Nian practiced the Divine Demon Refining Body technique. Even with severe injuries, once the cultivation technique was circted, he could move freely.


    Xu Nian walked over and picked up the sharp sword that had been pulled from Murong Xue.


    His own steel sword had been destroyed, and this sword was clearly much more durable and sharper than his own. It would serve perfectly as his new sidearm.


    Not long after he picked up the sharp sword, two figures approached from the distance.


    They were none other than Lu Morning and Lin Feng.


    Lin Feng had been chased for a long time by an Earth Dragon but hadn''t died.


    It turned out that Lin Feng had inadvertently fled into the territory of a Taigu Demon Ape. The Earth Dragon ended up fighting the Taigu Demon Ape, and Lin Feng took the opportunity to escape.


    Upon seeing Xu Nian, Lin Feng was about tosh out in anger, but as Xu Nian red at him, he recoiled in fear.


    Not for any other reason, but because at that moment, Xu Nian''s gaze was terrifying, a look that could chill someone to the bone.


    Of course, there was something more shocking to them¡ªthe bodies lying next to Xu Nian, among them Tie Shan and Ouyang Tian, both of whom they recognized.


    Although they didn''t know why Ouyang Tian was here, it seemed he had been in by Xu Nian.


    The thought of Ouyang Tian''s identity sent a shiver down their spines.


    They couldn''t believe that Xu Nian was responsible, daring to kill even the second young master of the Ouyang Family.


    Was he not afraid of provoking the wrath of Ouyang Chengfeng?


    However, Xu Nian behaved as if nothing had happened, not even bothering to conceal the act.


    The incident was instigated by Ouyang Tian to begin with. Even if the Ouyang Family sought revenge, he wasn''t the least bit afraid.

 Chapter 30 Inverting Beings

    It had already been ten days since Xu Nian returned to the academy.n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om


    During these ten days, Xu Nian had experienced quite a few troubles.


    First was Murong Xue''s disappearance; Xu Nian had no choice but toe forward and exin.


    However, the academy elders had never heard of the so-called Tiancang Sect, and it was ultimately the mysterious Dean who finalised the decision, confirming that there indeed was an ancient sect called the Tiancang Sect in the Tianhen Continent.


    Additionally, Murong Xue''s father, Murong Tianhai, verified that Murong Xue''s Lifebound Crystal Stone was still glowing, proving that Murong Xue had not died, which led them to believe Xu Nian''s words were true.


    However, no sooner had Murong Xue''s incident passed than Ouyang Tian''s body was discovered, with suspicions directed immediately towards Xu Nian.


    Xu Nian didn''t foolishly admit to anything but revealed that Ouyang Tian had sent people to assassinate him, and then he shifted all the me onto an elderly white-haired woman from the Tiancang Sect.


    It wasn''t that he feared death, but admitting it would expose many of his secrets and cause the Ouyang Family to act against him directly, something even the academy couldn''t prevent.


    Even though Xu Nian shifted all the me onto the white-haired old woman, the Ouyang Family didn''t give up so easily and tried to pressure the academy to hand over Xu Nian, but they were blocked by the enigmatic Dean of Qinglin Academy.


    The Ouyang Family was at fault initially andcked concrete evidence that Xu Nian was the killer of Ouyang Tian, so they had to let the matter go.


    Of course, Xu Nian knew that once he left the gates of Qinglin Academy, the Ouyang Family would make a move against him.


    Moreover, inside the academy, he would face suppression from Ouyang Chengfeng.


    Xu Nian didn''t mind this; as long as the Ouyang Family didn''t confront him directly, he wasn''t afraid.


    Now, his strength was not yet mature; he needed time to grow. Once he grew stronger, if the Ouyang Family dared toe, he wouldn''t mind ensuring they had no way back.


    The night was deep and silent.


    Xu Nian was currently sitting cross-legged in his own courtyard.


    However, he wasn''t in a state of cultivation but instead was introspecting his Dantian.


    Floating there was a piece, a ck jade pendant¡ªto be precise, the same ck jade pendant that had disappeared from his chest earlier.


    It was this ck jade pendant that released a strong malevolent force, allowing Xu Nian to triumphantly defeat the Silver Moon Battle Sect, but Xu Nian couldn''t understand how the pendant had ended up in his Dantian.


    "Never mind, let''s set it aside for now, and focus on cultivating the ''Dan Sea Species Green Lotus''," Xu Nian muttered to himself.


    Putting aside the matter of the ck jade pendant, he closed his eyes and started to circte the Combat Technique that was reputed to be impossible to cultivate.


    "Hum!"


    As Xu Nian circted it, a stream of Spiritual Energy gathered in his Dantian through the pathways in his body.


    But this Spiritual Energy had barely entered the Dantian when it dissipated away.


    Xu Nian tried several more times, but the results were the same each time.


    "What''s going on? Why can''t the Spiritual Energy gather? Could it be that this Combat Technique really can''t be cultivated?" Xu Nian opened his eyes and murmured.


    "It''s not that you can''t cultivate it; you''re just clumsy!" However, just then, a cold female voice came.


    "Who? Who''s speaking!" Xu Nian was so startled he jumped up from the ground, looking around with a vignt face.


    His courtyard waspletely enclosed; how could there be someone else''s voice, and even a woman''s voice at that?


    "Could it be an illusion?" Xu Nian looked around, but there was nobody in the courtyard, leading him to believe he was hallucinating.


    "Hmph, really as dumb as one could be, not even realizing where I am. I really wonder how this ck God Jade Pendant chose you as its master." However, just as Xu Nian thought he was hallucinating, that cold voice sounded again.


    Xu Nian''s mind jolted, and he suddenly looked towards his Dantian.


    This time he heard it very clearly; the voice had indeede from his Dantian.


    "You¡­ you are the Jade Pendant?" Xu Nian asked, wide-eyed with surprise.


    "You''re the Jade Pendant, I am the Supreme God Emperor. If it weren''t for my Divine Soul having slept for a hundred thousand years, trapped within this ck God Jade Pendant, why would I bother speaking to a mortal ant like you?" A cold snort came from the ck Jade Pendant once again.


    Xu Nian was stunned for a moment, but he quickly understood.


    Supreme God Emperor?


    His physical body waspletely destroyed, and his Divine Soul greatly damaged, having slept in this jade pendant for a hundred thousand years.


    Now, since he had acknowledged the jade pendant as his master, it had allowed her to reappear in the human world.


    Does this mean this jade pendant is an extremely precious treasure?


    After Xu Nian sorted out his thoughts, the more he thought about it, the more terrified he became¡ªhe didn''t know exactly what level a God Emperor was, but anything associated with the word "god" must be an absolutely supreme existence.


    "Buzz!"


    At that moment, a ck light flew out from Xu Nian''s body, and then a shadowy figure in ck appeared before him.


    Xu Nian was instantly dumbstruck!


    Beauty!


    Indescribable beauty!


    She was a woman in her twenties, with a stunningly beautiful face, crescent brows, bright eyes, and teeth like stars. Her thousands of strands of hair cascading down her back like waterfalls, and she wore a ck dress that outlined breathtaking curves. She stood there like an exquisitely unparalleled painting.


    However, the woman''s expression was cold, and her gaze seemed to disdain the whole world, exuding an aura of supreme majesty that made Xu Nian feel an impulse to kneel.


    "You¡­ who are you?" Xu Nian asked instinctively.


    The woman who had suddenly appeared was more beautiful than any other woman he had ever seen.


    Murong Xue could be described as a heavenly being, so this woman could be described as a goddess descending to the mortal world.


    "Hmph, I am Ye Tian, the Divine Emperor. You may address me as Lord Ye Tian," the woman in ck said to Xu Nian, her eyes proud like the distant stars.


    Xu Nian was stunned, and he immediately realized that this woman was the one who had spoken from the jade pendant. However, he hadn''t expected the Goddess from within the jade pendant to be this beautiful and even capable of materialization.


    It was clear that this woman was not of flesh and blood, but formed from a transformed Divine Soul.


    But just that alone made Xu Nian find her irresistibly beautiful¡ªhe couldn''t even imagine how beautiful she would be if she were a real person.


    "Boy, I didn''te out to y games with you. Since you have be the master of the ck God Jade Pendant, from today onwards, I will guide your cultivation until you are strong enough to condense a new body for me," the Ye Tian Divine Emperor said coldly.


    "Eh? Guide my cultivation?" Xu Nian was shocked, followed by a surge of ecstasy.


    To be guided by a person of the God Emperor Level was akin to having a master of the God Emperor Level, wasn''t it?


    However, Ye Tian Divine Emperor''s next words extinguished all of Xu Nian''s excitement, even making his scalp tingle.


    "Don''t be too happy too soon. My guidance won''t be easy. If you cannotplete the tasks I set within the specified time, then just wait for your death!"


    A cold smile appeared on the stunningly beautiful face of Ye Tian Divine Emperor, yet it was captivatingly alluring.

 Chapter 31 The Arrogant Dragon God

    Over the next month, Xu Nian furiously cultivated under the guidance of Emperor Ye Tian.


    The "Dan Sea Species Green Lotus," which no one had ever sessfully cultivated, was also mastered by Xu Nian, after all, his realm had directly broken through to the Eight-star Warrior Realm.


    Originally, the reason no one was able to cultivate this "Dan Sea Species Green Lotus" was that a crucial element of the Combat Technique had been altered by someone. It was only perfected after Emperor Ye Tian corrected it.


    At first, Xu Nian wanted Emperor Ye Tian to teach him some more powerful Combat Techniques, but to his surprise, Emperor Ye Tian said that the "Dan Sea Species Green Lotus" was not inferior to her own Combat Techniques and that it was created by an ancient Divine Emperor known as the Green Emperor, possessing endless wonderful uses.


    At first, Xu Nian did not believe it, but after he truly started cultivating the technique, he realized that Emperor Ye Tian had not deceived him, and the technique was indeed more magical than he had imagined.


    Now, although his cultivation was only at the level of an Eight-star Warrior, the storage of Spiritual Energy inside his body was already no less than those First-star Warriors of the Star Realm. Xu Nian could hardly imagine what kind of miraculous changes would ur when he broke through to a One-star Warrior and condensed his Spirit Sea.


    During this month, Xu Nian also pushed all the moves of the Ling Feng Thirteen Swords to the Subtle Realm, and even the first three moves of the thirteen reached the Realm of Divine Transformation.


    Now, even if he were to use his Spiritual Cultivation to face Tie Shan, although he might not kill him, it was certainly not impossible for him to give Tie Shan no advantage at all.


    A month of hard cultivation greatly improved Xu Nian''s cultivation.


    As for his Divine Demon Refining Body Cultivation, although it did not progress, it became more solidified and had reached the peak of the First-star of the Star Realm.


    "Bang, bang, bang!"


    Just as Xu Nian was preparing to continue secluded cultivation, his door was knocked upon.


    Without thinking, Xu Nian knew it must be Chen Wudi.


    Sure enough, when Xu Nian opened the door, he saw Chen Wudi standing outside with an urgent expression.n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om


    "What''s up? Has a beauty from the Beauty List made an appearance again?" Xu Nian jested.


    Chen Wudi couldn''t help but give Xu Nian a white look and said, "Cut the nonsense,e with me quickly, this is a big deal. Our Basic-level students from the Spirit Academy are being bullied."


    "By whom?" Xu Nian asked in surprise.


    It wasmon for fights to happen between the Spirit Academy and Body Institute, usually among students of the same level.


    Since the gap between students of the same level wasn''t significant, it was rare for one academy topletely overpower another in these fights. Now that Chen Wudi was saying the Basic-level students of the Spirit Academy were being bullied, Xu Nian grew curious.


    "Who else could it be? Obviously, that Dragon God," Chen Wudi said angrily.


    "Which Dragon God?" Xu Nian was stunned.


    "Which other Dragon God could it be, but the one from the arena, that Dragon God. He''s been boasting about his Basic Nine Stars strength, having defeated more than a dozen of our Nine-star Warriors from the Spirit Academy, and he even imed that all our Basic-level students from the Spirit Academy are useless!" Chen Wudi said indignantly.


    Hearing this, Xu Nian suddenlyughed.


    Interesting!


    That Dragon God was none other than himself. Now someone was impersonating him. He knew that many from the Body Institute had dreaded this code name, and yet now someone dared to step forward and impersonate the Dragon God.


    "Aren''t there many One-star upperssmen looking for him? How does that guy dare toe out?" Xu Nian said with a chuckle.


    "Hmph, that guy is so cunning¡ªhe said that when ites to the rivalry between the two academies, only warriors of the same level should duel each other, forbidding higher-level seniors from intervening, or it would be considered a vition of the rules. If a mid-level senior really wants to challenge him, he should go to the arena to issue a challenge. He won''t ept any challenges from mid-level seniors anywhere else," Chen Wudi said with a cold snort.


    "Ptui!"


    Xu Nian almost spat out a mouthful of blood.


    This was seriously a trap, wasn''t it? It was clear that this was meant to turn people against him!


    By issuing a challenge in the arena, the person being challenged would be the real Dragon God, not this impostor. As long as Xu Nian, the real Dragon God, didn''t step forward, that guy would continue to swagger around under the name of the Dragon God.


    Xu Nian didn''t want his alias to be ruined by this guy, so he said to Chen Wudi, "Let''s go meet this ''Dragon God.''"


    Upon hearing Xu Nian''s words, Chen Wudi was overjoyed andughed heartily, "Haha, with you, Xu, making a move, that so-called ''Dragon God'' will surely have to change his name to ''Insect God!''"


    Xu Nian''s mouth twitched involuntarily, but he didn''t know how to retort to Chen Wudi''s words.


    ...


    At the za where the basic-level students of the Spirit Academy were gathered, arge crowd had formed.


    The crowd was divided into two groups, each wearing the same white academy robes with a single character embroidered on the chest. One group had the character ''Body'' while the other bore the character ''Spirit.''


    Indeed, those wearing robes with the ''Body'' character were students of the Body Institute, and those with the ''Spirit'' character were from the Spirit Academy. The white academy robes represented their status as basic-level students.


    A few steps away stood several students in green attire, some from Spirit Academy, some from Body Institute. They were just watching from the sidelines and didn''t intervene, since it was against the rules for higher-level students to interfere in the disputes of lower-level ones.


    The atmosphere on the field was particrly intense at the moment, with three Spirit Academy basic-level students lying on the ground, their clothes disheveled and in utter disarray.


    Standing in the middle of these three Spirit Academy students was a Body Institute basic-level student with an arrogant demeanor. Looking down at the three defeated underlings writhing on the ground, he sneered, "What a bunch of trash, three of you can''t even beat me alone. I don''t understand how there can be such a gap between us when we''re all at the basic nine stars. It seems to me that the basic-level students of Spirit Academy are nothing but waste."


    As soon as these words came out, the basic-level students of Spirit Academy all bristled with indignation, their eyes burning with rage.


    The Body Institute basic-level students, on the other hand, wore proud and mocking expressions, clearly delighted to have crushed the prestige of Spirit Academy.


    "Dragon God, don''t get too cocky. When the number one genius of our basic-level Spirit Academy students arrives, you''ll get what''sing to you. Don''t think you''re the only one who can defeat a One-star Warrior of the Star Realm at the nine-star level. Our Xu Nian can do just the same," a Spirit Academy basic-level student shouted defiantly.


    "Yes, when Xu Nianes, let''s see how arrogant you are then. He''s the top among us basic-level students of Spirit Academy."


    As that student shouted, a chorus of voices chimed in, instantly elevating Xu Nian to the position of number one among the basic-level students of Spirit Academy.


    "Xu Nian? Fine, let hime out. I want to see if he dares to im to be the number one in Spirit Academy''s basic level in front of me, Dragon God. I bet he won''t dare show up; otherwise, why hasn''t he appeared yet? Some ''number one of Spirit Academy,'' I say he''s nothing but a turtle hiding its head," the self-proimed Dragon God from the Body Institute scoffed.


    His words immediately drew raucousughter from the students of the Body Institute behind him.


    The students from Spirit Academy, meanwhile, all had ashen faces, feeling aggrieved.


    "It''s probably you who wouldn''t dare call yourself the Dragon God in front of me!"


    Just then, a mockingugh came from afar.


    The students of Spirit Academy all turned toward the source of the voice, and as they caught sight of the neer, their faces lit up with joy.

 Chapter 32 Beating You Until Even Your Mother Wont Recognize You

    Indeed, the neer was none other than Xu Nian, who had followed Chen Wudi.


    The Basic-level students of the Spirit Academy made way for Xu Nian as he approached, their expressions excited.


    Xu Nian walked slowly through the crowd, but his gaze fell on the "Dragon God" from the Body Institute.


    He almost burst outughing at the sight.


    The Dragon God, after all, was ugly to an extreme degree. Other than having a simr height and build as Xu Nian, that face could only be described as an eyesore.


    A square, broad face adorned with several moles, the most prominent feature being a ck mole the size of a fingernail at the corner of his mouth,plete with a hair sprouting from it. In a word, it was a blight on the Academy''s image.


    Yet, while Xu Nianughed, he also felt a twinge of anger.


    This guy was ruining his reputation by bearing his title, thus damaging his image as well. With this guy meddling, the title of Dragon God would have a hard time attracting the female students'' attention.


    As Xu Nian scrutinized this "Dragon God," the Dragon God appraised him in return, his face filled with disdain.


    "You''re the Dragon God?" Xu Nian asked coldly.


    "Yes, I''m the Dragon God, no doubt about it, you''re Xu Nian? I heard you''re the top among the Spirit Academy''s Basic-level students. How about it, got the guts to fight me, the Dragon God? If not, kneel down and call me Grandpa three times," the "Dragon God" sneered coldly, his eyes yful as he looked at Xu Nian.


    He believed that Xu Nian''s ability to defeat a One-star Warrior was entirely due to luck and that his real strength was not up to par.


    Since he had defeated their Body Institute''s top contender, Long Aotian, he was confident that no one among Qinglin Academy''s Basic-level students could be his match, except for the real Dragon God. Naturally, he did not take this so-called top student of the Spirit Academy seriously.


    The crowd around heard the "Dragon God''s" words and all turned towards Xu Nian, especially those from the Spirit Academy, who clenched their fists, hoping that Xu Nian would ept the challenge and reim honor for their Spirit Academy.n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om


    Xu Nian found it increasingly amusing. This guy had some nerve, impersonating him and even daring to provoke the true Dragon God¡ªit was clear he had no idea what "dead" meant.


    "Fine, if it''s a fight you want, it''s a fight you''ll get, but let me warn you, don''t regret itter," Xu Nian said, his lips curling into a slight smile.


    "Hmph, you''ll be the one regretting," the "Dragon God" scoffed, then took a step forward and charged at Xu Nian.


    With fierce momentum, unstoppable like bamboo!


    Admittedly, this "Dragon God" had some skill, no wonder he was so arrogant¡ªhe wasn''t far behind those First-star Warriors of Star Realm, but unfortunately, he was up against Xu Nian.


    Seeing the rushing "Dragon God," Xu Nian just smiled slightly, standing still without moving or drawing his sword, just waiting from a distance.


    Seeing this, the students from the Spirit Academy became anxious.


    Spirit Cultivation Warriors usually fight Body Cultivators with weapons to maintain a distance, for if a Body Cultivator closed in, defeat was certain.


    At this moment, seeing Xu Nian letting the "Dragon God" draw near, many from the Spirit Academy sighed, thinking the duel was already decided.


    "Ha-ha, what kind of top student from the Spirit Academy? You''re just trash, watch me knock out your teeth!" the "Dragon God"ughed loudly, already closing in on Xu Nian, his iron fist smashing towards Xu Nian''s mouth.


    "p!"


    However, just when everyone thought Xu Nian would be blown away by the punch, a loud resounding p echoed around them.


    Everyone was stunned, turning their shocked faces towards the center of the scene.


    They couldn''t believe their eyes; Xu Nian, instead of being knocked away, had sent the rushing "Dragon God" flying backward, teeth scattering, blood sttering.


    "How... how is this possible, did I see it wrong? He actually pped the Dragon God away with a single p."


    "You didn''t see wrong, I saw it too, it was incredibly fast."


    ¡­


    The crowd around was shocked and started discussing.


    That scene just now was too shocking.


    At the critical moment, Xu Nian suddenly extended one hand, his palm emanating a green spiritual energy, and harshly pped the ''Dragon God'' across the face¡ªnot only neutralizing the ''Dragon God''s attack but also sending him flying.


    And throughout, Xu Nian didn''t move his feet at all, his right hand always behind his back.


    The ''Dragon God'' heavily fell to the ground, his mouth almost entirely devoid of teeth from that p, and his whole left cheek swollen like a steamed bun.


    "It can''t be, how could his movement be so fast?" the ''Dragon God'' muttered unwillingly to himself, his eyes filled with rage as he looked at Xu Nian.


    "Whoosh!"


    However, at this moment, a gust of wind blew, and he found Xu Nian already in front of him.


    "p!"


    Another crisp p rang out.


    The Dragon God was utterly dazed, his whole head buzzing with noise.


    "Speak, are you really the Dragon God or not?" Xu Nian asked coldly.


    "I am the Dragon¡­" the ''Dragon God'' instinctively responded.


    But before he could finish, another pnded on his face.


    "Speak, are you or aren''t you?" Xu Nian demanded harshly.


    "No¡­ no, I''m not. I''m an impostor, my name is Wang Ergou." The ''Dragon God'' suddenly started crying, choking on his words.


    These ps from Xu Nian were too fierce; by now all his teeth had fallen out, and his whole face had swollen like a pig''s head¡ªnow even his own mother standing in front of him wouldn''t recognize him.


    "p!"


    However, Xu Nian did not stop there; another pnded on the ''Dragon God''s face.


    This p was terrifying in its strength, directly knocking the ''Dragon God'' unconscious.


    Right before the ''Dragon God'' passed out, ten thousand curses raced through his mind, not understanding why he was still being hit after admitting he wasn''t the Dragon God.


    At this point, the people around werepletely petrified and dumbstruck.


    Is this even a fight between equals?


    This was simply a brutal one-sided thrashing!


    Of course, the basic-level students from the Spirit Academy, especially those Nine-star Warriors who had been beaten by the ''Dragon God,'' felt incredibly relieved seeing this and began looking at Xu Nian with newfound respect.


    Initially, they thought it would be impressive enough if Xu Nian could beat this ''Dragon God.'' Now, they found it thrilling that he could make someone unrecognizable with just a few ps.


    The basic-level students from the Body Institute, on the other hand, looked at Xu Nian as if they had seen a ghost, each one too scared to speak, as if fearing Xu Nian would turn to them next and give them a simr beating.


    Xu Nian, however, did not pay attention to the surprised looks from the crowd; his gaze was fixed on a young man in the distance.


    Because from that young man, he sensed a strong killing intent!

 Chapter 33 Ouyang Chengfeng

    Xu Nian coldly looked at the youth in the distance, and that youth also stared back at Xu Nian with an icy gaze.


    Their eyes met, both hiding a murderous intent.


    Ouyang Chengfeng!


    A name popped into Xu Nian''s mind.


    The youth before him was probably around twenty years old, with handsome features that bore a resemnce to Ouyang Tian, tall and slender, and exuding a heroic spirit in his purple Academy Robe.


    Xu Nian had long anticipated that he would eventually face Ouyang Chengfeng, but he hadn''t expected it to happen so soon.


    "Look quick, isn''t that Ouyang Chengfeng from the Azure Dragon List, ranked tenth? What''s he doing here?" a male Basic-level student pointed at Ouyang Chengfeng and asked in surprise.


    "Don''t you know? Xu Nian killed Ouyang Chengfeng''s younger brother, Ouyang Tian. It''s pretty obvious Ouyang Chengfeng is here for revenge against Xu Nian," another male Basic-level student replied.


    "Hmph, what nonsense. Ouyang Tian was clearly killed by a mysterious person, what does that have to do with our Xu Nian? Our Xu Nian just happened to be present at that time," a female Basic-level student immediately countered, her gaze toward Xu Nian filled with admiration.


    ...


    A hushed buzz of private conversations started all around.


    Xu Nian''s handsome appearancebined with his formidable strength had attracted the admiration of many female students, so when they heard other male students badmouth Xu Nian, these female students would retort without hesitation.


    Of course, there were also some female students who were drawn to Ouyang Chengfeng, their gazes towards him bing infatuated.


    Ouyang Chengfeng slowly walked towards Xu Nian, every movement exuding an air of authority.


    "Kid, be careful with this one, he has reached the Peak of Eight-Star in the Star Realm," the voice of Emperor Ye Tian resonated in Xu Nian''s mind.


    "Nine-star Peak Fighter?" Xu Nian murmured to himself in surprise.


    Although he had surmised that Ouyang Chengfeng would not be weak, he hadn''t expected that the other had already reached the strength of a Peak Eight-Star Warrior.


    At Nine-star Peak, one would be at the highest level within Qinglin Academy. Once a student broke through to the Silver Moon Battle Sect Realm, it would mean graduation from the Academy.


    After graduation, one could choose to join the Battle Mansion of East Field County or opt to stay at the Academy as an Elder. The students entering the Battle Mansion would undoubtedly be the cream of the crop of the Academy.


    Ouyang Chengfeng, who managed to reach the Peak of Eight-star in the Star Realm at just twenty, without a doubt possessed Emperor Level talent, seen only once in a hundred years.


    If nothing unexpected happened, his entry into the Battle Mansion was all but assured.


    Ouyang Chengfeng quickly approached Xu Nian, stopping about ten paces away and spoke with an extremely cold and domineering tone, "I give you three days to cripple your Cultivation and leave Qinglin Academy."


    "Cripple my Cultivation?" The surrounding crowd gasped upon hearing Ouyang Chengfeng, taken aback that he would demand Xu Nian to cripple his own Cultivation. Wasn''t that a bit too tyrannical?N?v(el)B\\jnn


    A cold smile appeared at the corner of Xu Nian''s mouth, and a strong sense of pride welled up inside him.


    Cripple my Cultivation?


    What arrogance. Did he truly believe that just because he, Ouyang Chengfeng, said a word, Xu Nian would have to throw away all his hard-earned Cultivation?


    "And if I won''t?" Xu Nian coldly retorted with a sneer.


    "Then I will make every day you spend at the Academy a living hell, like purgatory," Ouyang Chengfeng''s gaze was sharp as a hawk''s, fierce and domineering, leaving no room for resistance.


    The people around were startled upon hearing this, feeling pity for Xu Nian.


    Given Ouyang Chengfeng''s influence within the Academy, if he truly wanted to deal with Xu Nian, then Xu Nian''s life would indeed be extremely difficult.


    "Haha, what a joke, really a joke!" However, Xu Nian burst intoughter and looked at Ouyang Chengfeng with a cold sneer, "What are you, Ouyang Chengfeng, to speak of? Others might fear you, but I, Xu Nian, am not afraid in the least. If you have the guts, kill me today, or else I, Xu Nian, will be your worst nightmare!"


    The moment these words were spoken, the whole audience was in an uproar.


    Everyone stared nkly at Xu Nian; they couldn''t believe that Xu Nian would dare to say "What are you, Ouyang Chengfeng, to speak of?"


    After all, who else in the academy dared to speak such words?


    "Well said!"


    Chen Wudi stood among the crowd, pping and cheering, looking like he wanted the world to be in chaos. For a moment, the people beside him looked at him as if he were a fool.


    "Court death!" Ouyang Chengfeng''s expression also turned icy in an instant, his gaze towards Xu Nian filled with intense murderous intent.


    His figure shed and appeared directly in front of Xu Nian, striking out a palm on Xu Nian''s chest.


    Xu Nian couldn''t even react before being sent flying backward like a kite with its string cut.


    "Ignorant fool!" Ouyang Chengfeng sneered with a sweep of his sleeve.


    A basic-level student dared to demean Ouyang Mansion like this; it was the first time in his twenty years of life that someone dared to speak to him with such audacity.


    Xu Nian''s figure crashed dozens of meters away, blood trickling from the corner of his mouth.


    Yet his eyes were filled with unwavering determination, staring intently at the distant Ouyang Chengfeng and coldly sneered, "What''s the matter? Angry? Your brother was jealous and tried to kill me time and again? And now you want to cripple my cultivation without knowing the full story, Ouyang Chengfeng, you really hold yourself in too high regard. In less than three months, I, Xu Nian, will certainly trample you under my feet, and this blow of yours will be returned doubly."


    Xu Nian''s voice resonated powerfully, shocking everyone present.


    "Trample the tenth-ranked Ouyang Chengfeng on the Azure Dragon List underfoot in three months? Did I... did I hear that wrong?"


    "Yes, I heard it too. Has Xu Nian gone mad? How dare he challenge Ouyang Chengfeng?"


    "I think he must be insane. Look at him, a mere eight-star warrior, daring to challenge Ouyang Chengfeng at the peak of Eight-star Star Realm! There''s a whole major realm between them. In three months, even if he cultivates really quickly, at most he could break through to the Star Realm!"


    ...


    The surroundings erupted like a pot boiling over; everyone thought Xu Nian was seeking death.


    Ouyang Chengfeng was somewhat surprised as well.


    But he soon revealed a sneer at the corner of his mouth and spoke, "Fine, since you''re courting death, I shall give you three months. Do you dare to meet me at the Life and Death tform in three months?"


    "The Life and Death tform? My God! This is a fight to the death!" The people around suddenly widened their eyes, unable to believe it.


    The Life and Death tform was a ce left by the academy for students to settle personal grievances; once on the Life and Death tform, life and death were of no concern.


    Everyone looked at Xu Nian, hoping that he would not ept, because in their view, if Xu Nian agreed, he was destined to die on the Life and Death tform.


    "Why shouldn''t I dare!" Xu Nian''s icy reply came, his eyes full of determination.


    As soon as these words were out, everyone sighed and shook their heads, all thinking that Xu Nian was being too hotheaded.


    Xu Nian''s talent was not low; if he knew how to bide his time, his future achievements might not be lower than Ouyang Chengfeng''s. But now, he had actually agreed to meet Ouyang Chengfeng at the Life and Death tform in three months; wasn''t this tantamount to seeking death?


    At that moment, everyone began to feel disappointed in Xu Nian.


    But the corners of Ouyang Chengfeng''s mouth curled into a cold smile as he looked at Xu Nian and said, "I hope in three months, you don''t get scared and fail to show up, or else I will make your death all the more unsightly."


    Having said that, Ouyang Chengfeng swept his sleeve and turned to leave.


    Xu Nian watched Ouyang Chengfeng leave, his fists clenched tight.

 Chapter 34 Taking the Fire Spirit Pill

    Three monthster, the news of Xu Nian''s decisive battle with Ouyang Chengfeng quickly spread throughout the entire Qinglin Academy, and suddenly Xu Nian became a sensational figure in the entire academy.


    Who is Ouyang Chengfeng?


    That''s a high-level student from the Spirit Academy, with Emperor Level talent, first on the Hidden Dragon List, and tenth on the Azure Dragon List¡ªa prominent figure.


    Now, Xu Nian, a Basic-level student at the Eight-star Warrior level, was actually challenging him, how could this not create a sensation throughout the entire Qinglin Academy.


    Although Xu Nian had set a three-month deadline at the time, three months was really too short for these cultivators¡ªperhaps three years would be more realistic.


    At once, everyone believed Xu Nian was bound to lose, with only a very few people thinking that Xu Nian might create a miracle, including Chen Wudi.


    "Are you really going to fight Ouyang Chengfeng to the death in three months?"


    In the small courtyard where Xu Nian was staying, Chen Wudi asked.


    Xu Nian nodded. It wasn''t that he wanted to do this, but that he had to. Even if he hadn''t proposed this wager, Ouyang Chengfeng would not have let him off.


    Rather than that, it was better to fight for a three-month deadline.


    Chen Wudi understood this principle and didn''t dwell on this issue, instead he asked, "So what do you n on doing next?"


    "I haven''t thought it through in detail! But I n on making another trip to the Demon Beast Forest," Xu Nian answered.


    Although he had guidance from Yetian God Emperor, there were no miracles for certain.


    It was very difficult for him to reach the strength to fight Ouyang Chengfeng in a mere three months, so the Demon Beast Forest was the best choice. Only by obtaining a powerful Dragon n bloodline could his Body Cultivation improve swiftly.


    Xu Nian had thought it through very clearly, his Spiritual Cultivation Talent was about the same as Ouyang Chengfeng''s, and in terms of cultivation resources, he was even less robust than Ouyang Chengfeng; it could be said to be extremely difficult for him to catch up with Ouyang Chengfeng in Spirit Cultivation, unless he stumbled upon a great fortune that would rapidly advance his cultivation.


    But such fortuitous encounters weren''t things one could simply wish for, so the focus still had to be on Body Cultivation. As long as he obtained a powerful Dragon n bloodline, his Body Cultivation would soar, which was the heaven-defying aspect of his Nine Dragon Supreme Body.


    "Entering the Demon Beast Forest? I''ll go with you!" Chen Wudi quickly said.


    Xu Nian, however, shook his head.


    This time he would have to go deep into the Demon Beast Forest, and taking Chen Wudi with him would be inconvenient.


    Seeing Xu Nian refuse, Chen Wudi didn''t insist, but instead took out a Jade Bottle from his bosom and handed it to Xu Nian, "These are three Fire Spirit Pills. I was originally saving them for when I break through to the Warrior Realm in the Star Realm, but you need them more now, so I''m giving them to you."


    "Yellow-level Top Grade Pill, Fire Spirit Pill?" Xu Nian was surprised.n/?/vel/b//jn dot c//om


    Pills were extremely precious, and although these Fire Spirit Pills were just Yellow-level Top Grade, if one were to exchange for them in the Academy, they would cost ten thousand points each; now Chen Wudi was actually giving him three Fire Spirit Pills. Moreover, how could Chen Wudi have such valuable pills?


    "I can''t take this pill, it''s too precious," Xu Nian said, trying to decline.


    However, Chen Wudi firmly said, "It''s just three Fire Spirit Pills, are they worth more than the brotherhood we''ve had before? With them, you''ll have a much better chance in the Demon Beast Forest."


    After speaking, he turned and left Xu Nian''s courtyard without giving Xu Nian a chance to refuse again.


    Seeing this, Xu Nian was deeply moved.


    Though Chen Wudi and I didn''t have too many trials and tribtions together, I could feel that he was truly sincere towards me. Otherwise, who would willingly give away the pill crucial for their breakthrough to someone else?


    Chen Wudi, now also at the peak of an Eight-star Warrior, could have used this Fire Spirit Pill to break through to the First-star of the Star Realm. Yet, he gave this opportunity to me, Xu Nian.


    "Young man, yourpanion doesn''t seem as simple as you think. There seem to be many secrets hidden within him," said Emperor Ye Tian, suddenly appearing behind Xu Nian.


    Regardless of what secrets Chen Wudi has, I trust that he harbors no ill intentions towards me. Moreover, if he ever needs me, Xu Nian, I will be there for him at a moment''s notice," Xu Nian didn''t turn around and instead, clutched the Jade Bottle in his hand tightly and spoke with conviction.


    Respect me by an inch, and I''ll respect you by a yard.


    Offend me by a yard, and I''ll destroy you for ten thousand miles.


    This was Xu Nian''s unchanging principle. Thus, he would firmly keep Chen Wudi''s kindness in his heart. As for Chen Wudi''s secrets, he opted not to pry, believing that one day Chen Wudi would share everything with him.


    Rarely, Emperor Ye Tian didn''t mock Xu Nian. Instead, he looked at Xu Nian''s not-so-broad back, seeing the young man in a new light for the first time.


    Night fell quickly, and the sky was filled with stars.


    Emperor Ye Tian stood in the courtyard, gazing into the starry expanse with profound eyes.


    Xu Nian, on the other hand, sat cross-legged on a meditation cushion in the courtyard, taking out the three Fire Spirit Pills given to him by Chen Wudi.


    The Fire Spirit Pills glowed crimson, each containing an immensely mighty spiritual energy, a pill low-level Cultivators dreamt of obtaining.


    Without hesitation, Xu Nian popped a Fire Spirit Pill into his mouth.


    The pill melted upon contact, spicy to the taste but soon, Xu Nian felt a strong force burning in his belly like a me.


    Without an ounce of hesitation, Xu Nian quickly began to circte the Combat Technique "Dan Sea Species Green Lotus."


    As the technique flowed, the power from the pill was absorbedpletely into the Qi Sea within Xu Nian''s Dantian.


    "Boom!"


    With a humming sound, after Xu Nian absorbed more than half of the pill, his Cultivation broke through to the realm of a Nine-star Warrior.


    The Qi Sea roiled and spiritual energy curled around him.


    With the aid of the pill, Xu Nian''s Cultivation stabilized at the peak of a Nine-star Warrior.


    "This Fire Spirit Pill truly is extraordinary, just one has taken me to the peak of the Nine-star," Xu Nian inwardly eximed with joy.


    Originally, it would have taken him at least a month to attain the peak of the Nine-star, but now the Fire Spirit Pill had saved him an entire month''s effort.


    "Swallow the remaining two pills together and break through to the Star Realm in one fell swoop," Emperor Ye Tian suddenly turned to Xu Nian and said in a heavy tone.


    "Ah?" Xu Nian blinked in surprise, but upon seeing the piercing gaze of Emperor Ye Tian, he could only nod in agreement and down the remaining two Fire Spirit Pills together.


    That turned out to be a huge mistake. The release of spiritual energy from one Fire Spirit Pill was just the right amount for Xu Nian to handle. Now having consumed two at once, the spiritual energy inside his body erupted like a volcanic explosion, causing an unruly inferno within him.


    "Aaah..." Xu Nian let out a painful scream, his meridians searing as if on fire, on the verge of breaking at any moment.


    Yet, Emperor Ye Tian remained unperturbed next to him, coldly watching Xu Nian writhe in pain on the ground, and uttered, "Calm your mind, let your breath sink and transform it into the ocean."

 Chapter 35 Great Progress in Cultivation

    After hearing Emperor Ye Tian''s words, Xu Nian also endured the burning pain within his veins and meridians and sat up again, beginning the challenging cirction of the "Dan Sea Species Green Lotus" Combat Technique.


    As Xu Nian circted his Combat Techniques, he was surprised to find that the burning sensation in his body gradually weakened, and his absorption speed for Spiritual Energy actually increased dramatically.


    "How... How is this happening? Why has my Spiritual Energy cirction sped up?" Xu Nian muttered to himself in amazement.


    "Kid, it seems you''ve noticed. That''s right, this is the unique utility of this cultivation technique. It strengthens when met with strength; any Spiritual Energy that enters your body will bepletely absorbed without a trace, and the greater the stimulus from the outside world, the stronger your absorption speed will be. Now take another look, see if there''s any change in your meridians?" Emperor Ye Tian said.


    Xu Nian quickly introspected, turning his gaze to his own meridians.


    This nce immediately surprised him; he found that his meridians had widened by an entire circle.


    "Now you know why it''s said that practicing this technique can enhance a cultivator''s talent, right?" Emperor Ye Tian spoke again.


    Suddenly, Xu Nian had a moment of realization in his heart.


    He had read the introduction of the Combat Technique before, which did indeed mention that it could improve one''s talent. At first, he didn''t believe it, but now he found it to be true.


    His meridians had been remodeled, and his cultivation speed was much faster than before. The Spiritual Energy released from the Fire Spirit Pill was once againpletely absorbed by Xu Nian without any loss.


    The "Dan Sea Species Green Lotus" Combat Technique was incredibly defying; not an iota of Spiritual Energy from the pills was wasted. Others could, at best, absorb only forty percent, but Xu Nian could achieve a full one hundred percent.


    After the absorption of Spiritual Energy from two pills, the Spiritual Energy in Xu Nian''s Dan Sea Qi Sea reached an unprecedented peak.


    Now, he just needed to gather this energy to form a Qi Sea, and he could break through to the Star Realm in one fell swoop.


    However, the Star Realm achieved through the "Dan Sea Species Green Lotus" was different from the ordinary Star Realm. The Qi Sea formed was obviouslyrger, with pure and rich Spiritual Energy.


    "Hum!"


    The Combat Technique in Xu Nian''s body began to operate rapidly, and his Qi Sea started spinning quickly.


    To condense the Dan Sea, the Spiritual Energy in the Dantian had to be liquefied; only whenpletely liquefied could it form into a Dan Sea.


    And to liquefy Spiritual Energy, one had to rely on continuouspression; only then would the Spiritual Energy be transformed into Spiritual Liquid.


    As Xu Nian continually executed his Combat Technique, the Spiritual Energy within his body was progressivelypressed.


    A vast ocean gradually formed within his Dantian, a boundless sea with raging waves.


    "Huh!"


    Finally, sess!


    About eight hourster, Xu Nian sessfully condensed the Dan Sea and fully broke through to the First-star of Star Realm as a Warrior.


    Xu Nian felt the surging Spiritual Energy within his Dan Sea and was overwhelmed with excitement.n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om


    His newly entered Star Realm''s Dan Sea wasparable to that of a Fourth-star of Star Realm, meaning Xu Nian''s Spiritual Cultivation now matched that of a Four-star of Star Realm without losing the slightest bit. If he relied on his mastery ofbat skills, he could even give a Five-star Warrior a run for their money.


    There was a significant gap between the Four-star and Five-star levels, so for Xu Nian to be able topete with a Five-star Warrior, at just a One-star cultivation, attested to his exceptional talent.


    "Ha ha! If I had a few more of these Fire Spirit Pills, maybe I wouldn''t need three months to challenge Ouyang Cheng Feng," Xu Nian said excitedly, feeling a surge in his power.


    "Bullshit!"


    However, his words were barely out when they were bluntly refuted by Emperor Ye Tian beside him.


    Xu Nian''s face fell; he hadn''t expected Emperor Ye Tian to curse.


    Yet Emperor Ye Tian didn''t bother with that and looked at Xu Nian, snorting coldly, "You think consuming a few more of these trash pills will let you match that guy? You''re dreaming. Not to mention that the Fire Spirit Pill has a very poor effect on the Star Realm, but even if your Cultivation reaches the Fifth-star or even Six-star of Star Realm, you may not necessarily be a match for Ouyang Cheng Feng."


    "Why?" Xu Nian asked, puzzled.


    "You think you''re the only one improving? Ouyang Cheng Feng isn''t? It''s clear that his Cultivation has reached the Peak of Eight-star, and in a month, he will break through to Nine-star. In the remaining two months, he will definitely consolidate his Cultivation at the Peak of Nine-star. Moreover, although his Combat Technique isn''t as good as yours, it won''t be far off; in terms of Combat Skills, you''re way behind him," Emperor Ye Tian said unceremoniously.


    As a Divine Emperor, she naturally possessed insight beyond the reach of others. With just one nce, she could determine the true strength of Ouyang Cheng Feng.


    "So you''re saying that I need to improve not just my Cultivation but my Combat Skill as well?" Xu Nian asked, suddenly enlightened.


    Although he had mastered the Ling Feng Thirteen Swords to a divine level, after all, it was only a Yellow-level Combat Skill. As he surmised, the Combat Skill cultivated by Ouyang Cheng Feng was at least Xuan-level Middle Grade, if not Xuan Level Top Grade.


    "Kid, don''t expect me to give you powerful Combat Skills. Even if you were ten thousand times stronger, you might not be able to practice the skills I have, so you can only rely on yourself," Emperor Ye Tian said once again.


    Hearing this, Xu Nian was instantly disappointed.


    He had indeed hoped Emperor Ye Tian would generously share a few powerful Combat Skills, but Emperor Ye Tian''s level was simply too high. Perhaps even Heavenly Level or Divine-level Combat Skills would not catch her eye.


    Thus, Xu Nian had to go to the Scripture Pavilion himself to choose the Combat Skills he wanted.


    The next morning, Xu Nian went to the Scripture Pavilion, and under the guidance of Emperor Ye Tian, he chose a set of Xuan-level Middle Grade sword technique "Gale Sword," spending his five thousand points in one go.


    However, in Emperor Ye Tian''s words, those five thousand points were well spent because, with just a few adjustments from her, the "Gale Sword" instantly reached Earth-level Low-quality.


    To know that an Earth-level Low-quality Combat Skill would cost at least one hundred thousand points, now that Xu Nian had gotten it for just five thousand, it was a huge bargain.


    Originally, Xu Nian had nned to go to the arena to earn more points and then return to the Scripture Pavilion to exchange for more Combat Techniques for Emperor Ye Tian to enhance. However, Emperor Ye Tian said it was a waste of time and told Xu Nian to get ready quickly and head to the Demon Beast Forest.


    Without another option, Xu Nian had to leave Qinglin Academy overnight and set out for the Demon Beast Forest once more.

 Chapter 36 Encounter Assassination

    Xu Nian left Qinglin Academy overnight to avoid his traces being discovered and a pursuit ensued.


    Yet he hadn''t expected that just as he entered the Demon Beast Forest, a group of people stopped him.


    What surprised Xu Nian was that the pursuers were not from the Ouyang Family, but from the Qin Family.n/?/vel/b//jn dot c//om


    "Interesting, they say even a fierce tiger won''t eat its cubs, but your father is truly ruthless. Are you really Qin Yuanshan''s own son?" Emperor Ye Tian teased.


    Xu Nian gave a self-deprecatingugh and didn''t respond to Emperor Ye Tian, but as he faced the five assassins before him, his heart turned ice cold.


    He recognized all five men, each an elite chosen from the coteral branches of the Qin Family.


    They had always been covertly nurtured by the family to support and reinforce the next generation of family heads.


    The leader, Qin Shan, was Qin Tiann''s elder brother. At twenty-eight, he had reached the Eighth-star of Star Realm Level, making him a standout among the Qin Family''s coteral members.


    Behind him were Qin Feng, Qin Yu, Qin Lei, and Qin Dian; Qin Feng was the highest in cultivation at the Seventh-star of Star Realm, Qin Yu and Qin Lei both at the Six-star, while Qin Dian was the weakest at the Fifth-star.


    These four had long been trained by the Qin Family as assassins, and Xu Nian never expected that the Qin Family would also send them, clearly valuing his threat.


    "Xu Nian, you have vited the n rules, and the Family Head has sent us to clean up. Will you kill yourself, or shall we do it?" Qin Shan said coldly, his eyes filled with killing intent.


    Xu Nian had crippled his brother and had even caused his brother to miss Qinglin Academy''s assessment. Qin Shan had long wanted to settle this score with Xu Nian but had never had the chance.


    Now that the Family Head had ordered a cleanup, he eagerly volunteered to lead the team, both to aplish the mission and to avenge his brother.


    "Vited n rules, cleanup? I''m no longer a member of the Qin Family, what right do you have to clean up?" Xu Nian scoffed, his eyes icy cold.


    "Hmph, you offended the Ouyang Family, that was your mistake. The Family Head has ordered that your head be taken and delivered to the Ouyang Family as an apology," Qin Shan retorted coldly, his gaze filled with scorn.


    Xu Nian''s eyes instantly turned frostier, his heart surging with a torrent of killing intent.


    "Such audacity, taking a man''s head to apologize to the Ouyang Family. The day Qin Yuanshan shattered my Dantian and drove me out of the Qin Family, I severed all ties with the Qin Familypletely. What right does Qin Yuanshan have to take my head for an apology?" Xu Nian clutched the hilt of his sword, his intentions murderous.


    Qin Shan''s words pushed Xu Nian''s already icy heart to freezing extremes.


    "Hmph, whether he has the right or not, you can tell that to the King of Hell," Qin Shan sneered, then his Spiritual Energy surged as he prepared to strike at Xu Nian.


    However, Qin Dian, standing aside, coldly said, "Elder Brother Qin Shan, why bother yourself with such scum? Let me handle it."


    "Fine, take action then, but leave him breathing. I want him to know the cost of injuring my brother," Qin Shan responded, his Spiritual Energy retracting as he sneered.


    They had already learned before arriving that Xu Nian only possessed the cultivation of an Eight-star Warrior, withbat skills at bestparable to a One-star Star Warrior. Qin Dian, being a Fifth-star Star Warrior, would naturally have no problems dealing with Xu Nian.


    "Don''t worry, Elder Brother Qin Shan, I will take good care of him for you," Qin Dian replied with a cold sneer, then leered at Xu Nian gleefully.


    Qin Feng, Qin Yu, and Qin Lei also shared cold sneers, watching the scene with the attitude of spectators enjoying a show.


    Xu Nian saw this scene and felt a surge of joy in his heart.


    If Qin Shan had made a move just now, his only path would have been death, but now that Qin Dian took the initiative, it might be a turning point.


    "Xu Nian, I heard that not only did you repair your shattered Dantian, but you also possess Emperor Level Spiritual Cultivation Talent. Life at Qinglin Academy seems to be going quite well for you, huh?" Qin Dian looked at Xu Nian with a cold smile, holding a short de in his hand, his gaze yful.


    "Qin Dian, if you want to kill me, then kill me. Where is all this nonsenseing from?" Xu Nian coldly snorted as he spoke, gathering Spiritual Energy in his arms, nning to crush Qin Dian and seize the opportunity to escape.


    "Oh, so eager to die already, Xu Nian? Don''t you want to know how your mother is doing now?" Qin Dian sneered.


    "What has happened to my mother?" Xu Nian''s eyes sharpened as he asked harshly.


    "Haha, looking at your reaction, it''s actually not much¡ªjust that you injured Qin Hen, and after he returned, he whipped your mother with a riding crop. I hear she endures pain every day and still has to wash clothes; it''s quite pitiful." Qin Dian said with a malicious grin.


    "Qin Hen, I will kill you." Xu Nian gritted his teeth, his heart filled with a surging killing intent, and he deeply regretted not havingpletely dealt with Qin Hen in the past.


    "Haha, I love this angry look on your face. Want to kill Qin Hen? I guess you''ll never have the chance in this lifetime." Qin Dian burst outughing and, after speaking, his figure instantly dashed out, lunging toward Xu Nian.


    He was an assassin trained by the Qin Family, naturally having killed countless people. However, he took pleasure in killing; he enjoyed watching his enemies die with resentment. That''s why he spoke those words before taking action, to provoke Xu Nian and savor the pleasure of killing.


    However, he never anticipated that this foolish act would cost him his life.


    Originally only intending to crush Qin Dian and flee, Xu Nian was now filled with a killing intent.


    "Die!"


    Xu Nian spat out a word, and his long-umted sword edge suddenly cleaved out in that instant.


    Qin Dian was greatly shocked but it was already toote. He only saw a sh of sword light before his eyes, followed by a blood-red sh appearing on his neck.


    "How... how is this possible?"


    Qin Dian''s eyes widened, unable to believe that he could actually die under Xu Nian''s sword.


    Actually, his strength was not weaker than Xu Nian''s, but he had underestimated his opponent. Additionally, since Xu Nian had been gathering strength for a long time and struck with murderous intent, a fatal strike was inevitable.


    The other four members of the Qin family were also instantly stunned, unable to believe that what they were seeing was real.


    Meanwhile, Xu Nian, after delivering that sword strike, took advantage of everyone''s shock, swiftly darted into the jungle, and executed the Gale Dragon Step to its limit, disappearing in the blink of an eye.


    "Quick, we can''t let him escape!"


    Qin Shan and the others finally snapped to their senses and chased after Xu Nian frantically.


    Xu Nian had just killed Qin Dian right in front of them; this was a tant mockery. If the family found out, they would definitely face severe punishment.


    If they let Xu Nian escape again, they might not die when they returned, but they would certainly be skinned.


    However, when they chased in the direction Xu Nian had gone, they realized that his speed was not much slower than theirs, and they nearly lost him several times.

 Chapter 37 Luring Qin Shan

    Xu Nian''s Gale Dragon Step, after being modified by Emperor Ye Tian, had been upgraded from Yellow-level Top Grade to Xuan Level Top Grade, directly doubling Xu Nian''s speed.


    In fact, it wasn''t that Emperor Ye Tian couldn''t upgrade thebat skill''s grade even higher, but ording to Xu Nian''s cultivation, the Xuan Level Top Grade was the most suitable.


    Not only that, but the Ling Feng Thirteen Swords had also reached the Xuan Level Top Grade under the modifications made by Emperor Ye Tian, which was why Xu Nian was able to kill Qin Dian with a single strike.


    Even though Xu Nian''s body skill level had significantly increased, his own cultivation was still a bitcking.


    Only with the dual assistance of spiritual energy and Gang Qi was he able to barely avoid being caught by Qin Shan and the others.


    Xu Nian, like a fleeing serpent, swiftly burrowed deeper into the Demon Beast Forest.


    With Emperor Ye Tian''s detection, he avoided every demon beast as much as possible, even though those low-level demon beasts probably couldn''t pose the slightest threat to him, but they could still hinder him.


    If he were obstructed, he might be caught up by Qin Shan and the others behind him.


    "Damn it, how can this guy be so fast?" Qin Lei cursed inwardly as he speedily weaved through the terrain.


    "It seems we were misinformed, Xu Nian''s strength should be around the peak of Five-star Peak Warrior, and it''s clear his body technique is exceptional, that''s why he can match our speed," said Qin Feng, analyzing aloud with narrowed eyes and a grave expression.


    "How could his strength have increased so quickly? He''s been away from the Qin Family for less than three months, and he managed to go from a Four-star Warrior to the strength of a Five-star Warrior. Even with Emperor Level talent, that should be impossible, right?" Qin Yu also asked in amazement.


    They were thoroughly shocked by the strength Xu Nian had demonstrated.


    "If my guess is correct, he must have encountered some extraordinary fortune; otherwise, it''s not possible for his strength to have increased so fast. And think about it, wasn''t the sudden recovery of his dantian due to some extraordinary fortune?" Qin Feng analyzed once again.


    "Extraordinary fortune?" Qin Shan, who had been silent up to that point, narrowed his eyes, a glint of greed shing deep within them.


    If he could obtain such a fortune, his status within the Qin Family would undoubtedly rise even higher. At that point, apart from Qin Tian, no one among the younger generation of the Qin Family would be able topare with him; he might even surpass Qin Tian and gain preeminence over the whole East Field County.


    "I must get my hands on this fortune!" Qin Shan vowed inwardly, then he said to Qin Feng and the others beside him: "He''s trying to enter deep into the Demon Beast Forest. Once he gets inside, it will be even harder to kill him. I''ll chase him down first, you guys follow upter."


    After saying this, he stepped onto a tree trunk and burst forth, his speed soaring once again as he pursued Xu Nian ahead.


    Meanwhile, Xu Nian, looking at the increasingly ancient trees ahead, showed a hint of joy on his face.


    "Just ahead is the inner part of the Demon Beast Forest. Then they will probably not dare to pursue any further," Xu Nian muttered to himself.


    The inner part of the Demon Beast Forest was home to incredibly powerful demon beasts, typically of the Silver Moon Level and above, and there were even demon beasts at the Xuantian-level Battle General.


    A slightpse could lead to an intrusion into these demon beasts'' territories and being devoured alive by these powerful creatures.


    Normally, even the Silver Moon Battle Sect wouldn''t dare to venture easily into the inner parts of the Demon Beast Forest, and for Star Level warriors to enter was akin to walking a path of certain death. Therefore, Xu Nian reckoned they wouldn''t dare to follow him into the Demon Beast Forest.


    Xu Nian was an exception, though, as he had the perception of Emperor Ye Tian and could avoid powerful demon beasts in advance, thus greatly reducing the danger.


    "Not good!"


    Suddenly, Xu Nian''s face changed drastically, and his body forcefully flipped in mid-air, narrowly avoiding a sword that came at him out of nowhere.n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om


    The sword edge nearly grazed past his nose, almost cleaving his entire body in two.


    Xu Nian''s body fell to the ground and rolled, barely neutralizing the formidable energy within him.


    However, before he could stabilize himself, another extremely fierce sword strike followed closely.


    "Qin Shan!"


    Xu Nian, recognizing the assant, drew his sword in an instant and met the opponent''s strike head-on.


    "ng!"


    With a clear and ringing tremor, Xu Nian was sent flying backward, sword in hand, mming into a tree behind him, his arm numb and blood trickling from the corner of his mouth.


    Although Xu Nian had employed every tactic at his disposal and possessed the strength of a Five-star Warrior, he still faced a sizable gappared to Qin Shan, who was at the Eight-star Warrior Level. Moreover, as Qin Shan was clearly fighting ruthlessly, how could Xu Nian possibly withstand him?


    "Hmph, Xu Nian, you think you can escape our clutches? You must be dreaming," Qin Shan scoffed as he watched Xu Nian sent flying by his sword.


    Xu Nian red back, saying nothing in response to Qin Shan''s words, but inside, he was scheming his escape.


    He knew that Qin Feng and the others must be on their way. He couldn''t dy any longer; once Qin Feng and the rest caught up, escape would be impossible.


    "Xu Nian, hand over the fortune you''ve found, and I may grant you a swift end. Otherwise, I will make you wish you were dead," Qin Shan demanded again coldly, his eyes exuding an unquestionable authority.


    "Fortune?" Xu Nian was momentarily stunned, then quickly came to a realization.


    So Qin Shan had pursued him alone, not just to kill him but also to monopolize the fortune Xu Nian carried.


    The fortunes Xu Nian held included his mentor who taught him the Divine Demon Refining Body Technique, the Jade Pendant of Emperor Ye Tian, and, beyond that, his own natural constitution and extraordinary aptitude.


    But how could he possibly surrender these things?


    However, he could use this opportunity to trick Qin Shan.


    "You want the fortune on me? Alright then, follow me," Xu Nian said to Qin Shan, then turned as if to leave.


    "Stop! You think I don''t know you''re trying to deceive me and use this chance to flee," Qin Shan bellowed, his sharp sword pointing at Xu Nian.


    Xu Nian merely sneered, scoffing, "Believe it or not, but this is your only chance. I discovered an ancient cave in the Demon Beast Forest. Why else would I leave the safety of the Academy and venture here? Moreover, if you don''t hurry, Qin Feng and the others will arrive soon. Do you really want to share my fortune with them?"


    At these words, Qin Shan''s expression wavered, clearly hesitating over whether Xu Nian''s im was true or not.


    Upon seeing this, Xu Nian sneered again and headed straight into the depths of the Demon Beast Forest without looking back.


    "Fine. If I find out you''re lying, I''ll make you understand what ''worse than death'' truly means," Qin Shan said with a cold snort, quickly pursuing Xu Nian.


    He was aware that Xu Nian might be deceiving him, but his suspicious nature drove him to give it a try. If he actually found a strong warrior''s cave as Xu Nian suggested, the profit would be immense.


    Moreover, he believed that with absolute strength on his side, there was no way Xu Nian could slip away from him.


    As Xu Nian saw Qin Shan following, a disdainful smirk appeared on his face, hidden from Qin Shan''s view.

 Chapter 38 From Now On, Integrity is Just a Bystander

    Xu Nian sped all the way and finally stopped at an entrance to a cave.


    Qin Shan was initially worried since they were already deep within the Demon Beast Forest, where a careless step could lead them to encounter a formidable Demon Beast.


    But when he saw the cave entrance before him, his eyes immediately lit up.


    The entrance was ancient¡ªit clearly had some age to it and looked very much like a Cultivation Mansion left by a mighty being.


    However, Qin Shan did not let his guard down but instead said to Xu Nian fiercely, "You go in front, I''ll follow behind you. If I find out you''re ying tricks, I''ll kill you with a sword."


    Xu Nian smiled, offered no resistance, and directly swept towards the cave.


    Seeing this, Qin Shan quickly followed, his heart pounding with excitement.


    However, what Qin Shan didn''t expect was that just as Xu Nian was about to reach the entrance, he suddenly turned around and sprinkled a bottle of powder over him.


    "What are you doing?" Qin Shan shouted, and then he swung his sword towards Xu Nian.


    However, Xu Nian stomped on the ground and quickly created a distance between them, sneering, "Good luck!"


    Qin Shan was puzzled. Just as he was about to chase Xu Nian, his whole body suddenly stiffened, and his neck stiffly turned around, only to get a fright upon what he saw.


    A massive head emerged from the pitch-ck cave, its eyes intently fixed on Qin Shan.


    "Dark Demon Ape?" Qin Shan subconsciously swallowed, overwhelming fear filling his heart.


    At the same time, raging hatred toward Xu Nian surged within him.


    Damn, this was nowhere near a mighty being''s Cultivation Mansion; it was clearly their of the Dark Demon Ape.


    What was a Dark Demon Ape? It was a Demon Beast possessing the bloodline of the Dark Demon Dragon from the Dragon n and had a Cultivation akin to the Peak of Silver Moon when mature.


    Although this Dark Demon Ape was not yet mature, it wouldn''t be long until it was, and its strength was at least of the Eight-star Silver Moon Battle Sect.


    At this moment, Qin Shan felt like tearing Xu Nian into pieces, yet the Dark Demon Ape kept its greedy gaze fixed on him.


    "Damn, it must be something Xu Nian sprinkled on me that excited the Dark Demon Ape so much." Swearing inwardly, Qin Shan turned and fled.


    The Dark Demon Ape let out a roar and chased after Qin Shan furiously.


    As he ran, the trees as thick as two people''s embrace around him were snapped by his force.


    Xu Nian stood at a distance, sneering at the unfolding scene.


    What he had sprinkled on Qin Shan was not something random, but the Dragon Rock Powder that Lin Feng had given him, and on the way here, Xu Nian had intentionally collected dew. Thus, when he sprinkled the powder, it was instantly moistened by Xu Nian and began to emit ambergris.


    Having the ck Demon Dragon bloodline, the Dark Demon Ape naturally had a strong desire for the ambergris.


    As for how he knew there was a cave here housing a Dark Demon Ape, that credit went to Emperor Ye Tian.


    "Kid, you better run now; your Dragon Rock Powder won''tst long. Once Qin Shanes back, you''re dead," the voice of Emperor Ye Tian rang in Xu Nian''s mind.


    Upon hearing this, Xu Nian hesitated no more and darted into the dense forest, disappearing from sight.


    He hadn''t expected the Dark Demon Ape to kill Qin Shan since the Dragon Rock Powder wasn''t real ambergris; a breeze might scatter it anytime. Once the scent disappeared, the Dark Demon Ape wouldn''t chase Qin Shan anymore, and Qin Shan would surelye back looking for him.


    Several miles from the spot where Xu Nian had disappeared, a young man leaned against the trunk of arge tree, gasping heavily.


    Damn!


    Half his life was already gone.


    Who else could it be, if not Qin Shan, who was chased by the Dark Demon Ape?


    "Xu Nian, I, Qin Shan, will not rest until I have killed you!" Qin Shan bellowed, his voice echoing through the mountains and forests.


    At this moment, his hatred for Xu Nian had reached an extreme¡ªHe had almost perished at the mouth of the Dark Demon Ape.


    ...


    After leaving, Xu Nian continued deeper into the Demon Beast Forest.


    Now, the interior of the Demon Beast Forest was the safest ce for him. Qin Shan and the others must be guarding the periphery of the Demon Beast Forest, waiting for him to leave. But inside, as long as the Ye Tian Divine Emperor was there, there would be no problem at all.


    "Young man, not far ahead there is a waterfall. Go there," the Ye Tian Divine Emperor suddenly spoke.


    "A waterfall?" Xu Nian paused slightly, though he did not understand why the Ye Tian Divine Emperor wanted him to go to the waterfall, he still followed themand and headed towards it.


    As Xu Nian progressed, he indeed heard the thunderous sound of the water pouring down.


    Soon, Xu Nian arrived at the edge of the waterfall. It was a towering waterfall, about three hundred feet tall, with a huge pool below where the water constantly poured down from above, hitting the pool and producing a deafening roar.


    But the next moment, Xu Nian''s eyes widened, and a rush of blood surged within him.


    Because in that pond, there was a young and beautiful woman bathing.


    Through the misty haze, Xu Nian could see that the woman was extremely beautiful, with skin that was incredibly pale and a body that was slim and graceful.


    Three thousand strands of ck hair hung down to her waist, and she wore only a thin, translucent silk garment that outlined her body''s perfect curves.


    Xu Nian felt his blood boil and lust surge.


    "Do you like what you see?" the voice of the Ye Tian Divine Emperor resounded in Xu Nian''s mind.


    "Yes!" Xu Nian replied instinctively.


    "And are they big?" the voice of the Ye Tian Divine Emperor came again.


    "Big!" Xu Nian said without a second thought.


    But after he spoke, he realized something was amiss and, chuckling sheepishly, asked, "Predecessor, did you bring me here just... just to watch someone bathe?"


    However, his eyes could not move away from the woman at all.


    "Hmm, you wish. I would not be so idle as to just let youe and watch a woman bathe," the Ye Tian Divine Emperor responded with a cold snort.


    "Then what does the predecessor mean?" Xu Nian asked, puzzled.


    "Do you see the clothes that woman ced on the rock?" the Ye Tian Divine Emperor asked again.n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om


    Xu Nian looked in the direction indicated by the Ye Tian Divine Emperor and saw arge rock by the edge of the pool, on which the woman''s dress was ced.


    "The predecessor means..." Xu Nian boldly guessed.


    "Yes, I want you to go steal that woman''s clothes. But let me remind you, you must not be discovered by that woman. Although she looks not much older than you, her cultivation is of the Three-star Silver Moon Battle Sect. If you get caught, no one can save you," said the Ye Tian Divine Emperor.


    The corners of Xu Nian''s mouth twitched, and he was speechless.


    The Ye Tian Divine Emperor actually wanted him to steal a woman''s clothes, and not just any woman''s, but those of a Silver Moon Battle Sect-level woman. How could this task sound socking in integrity?

 Chapter 39 Jade Dragon Marrow

    Xu Nian still chose to heed the words of Emperor Ye Tian and stealthily approached the woman''s dress.


    Still, as Xu Nian actually went about doing so, he remained uneasy inside.


    He truly feared being caught halfway while stealing the clothes and then being pursued by the naked woman.


    Tsk tsk, the thought of that scene was unimaginable.


    Xu Nian tiptoed toward therge rock, but he painfully discovered that there was no cover near therge rock, which meant he had to take the clothes in a sh while the woman was not paying attention.


    But the woman was from the Silver Moon Battle Sect¡ªwas that even possible?


    "Divine Emperor, do I really have to do this sleazy task?" Xu Nian asked again for confirmation.


    "If you don''t want to, that''s fine. However, I must remind you, this is a great opportunity to rapidly increase your Cultivation; if you give up, and Ouyang Chengfeng kills youter, then your mother..." Emperor Ye Tian said.


    "Fine, I''ll do it!" Xu Nian gritted his teeth.


    To save his mother, he was willing to do a sleazy thing like this, even sacrificing his own life if needed.


    The sooner he increased his Cultivation, the less his mother would suffer.


    Having made up his mind, Xu Nian hesitated no longer; as he saw the stunning girl turning her head while bathing in the pond, he rushed out like a swift gust of wind.


    Xu Nian''s movements were quick and silent, and he reached therge rock in one breath.


    However, just as Xu Nian was about to touch the woman''s dress, the bathing beauty''s gaze suddenly sharpened, and she turned her head to fiercely call out, "Who?"


    At the same moment as she spoke, that slender jade hand pped the water surface, causing water to ssh; the woman then immediately pulled out a long whip made entirely of condensed water from the water.


    The long whip flew up and instantly curled around Xu Nian''s neck.


    A pull!


    Xu Nian plunged into the water.


    It was over!


    The moment Xu Nian fell into the water, an army of Divine Beasts charged through his mind.


    With a cold huff, the woman pped the water and was about to exit the water surface;


    However, just as she was about to fly to therge rock on the shore to dress, a hand suddenly shot out from the water, grabbed her fair ankle, and dragged her back into the water.


    "Ah..."


    The woman let out a miserable scream and was submerged by the water.


    Indeed, the person who suddenly struck was Xu Nian.


    He knew he definitely couldn''t let this woman get dressed; once she managed to put on her clothes, he would be doomed.


    Underwater, Xu Nian and the stunning girl were tightly entangled together.


    The sunlight was bright, and the pond water was clear.


    What should be seen, what shouldn''t be seen; what should be touched, what shouldn''t be touched.


    In that moment, Xu Nian did it all; he even tore apart the woman''s thinyer of clothing.


    Of course, Xu Nian''s fate was very grim; he was almost thrown out of the water.


    But coincidentally, hended right on arge rock.


    Xu Nian''s eyes lit up as he clutched his painfully aching chest, grabbed his dress, and took off running.


    The woman did not emerge from the water again, obviously knowing that chasing after Xu Nian now would only result in her body being exposed once more.


    Xu Nian ran for ten miles before he finally stopped, coughing up a mouthful of fresh blood, leaning on arge tree, and taking deep breaths, his gaze vacant.


    That scene was the most thrilling experience he had gone through in his entire life.


    Sensual, tense, thrilling, and of course, there was a sense of guilt and remorse.


    Xu Nian subconsciously raised his sinful right hand and looked at it, his lips curling into a bitter and sleazy smile.


    "Do you feelfortable?" Emperor Ye Tian''s voice resounded.


    "Comfortable!" Xu Nian replied instinctively, his smile growing sleazier.


    But just after answering, Xu Nian realized something was off and quickly covered his chest, coughing, "Cough, cough, ufortable, my chest was struck by three palms, it hurts terribly."


    "You''re quite clever,d. If you hadn''t done that just now, you might have truly been finished. But even now, you''re hardly better off. Once that woman dresses herself, she will undoubtedly kill you. That young girl''s identity is obviously not simple; she probably holds a high status in An Yuan County. If you encounter her again, you might be in a lot of trouble," Emperor Ye Tian said in a calm voice.


    Xu Nian felt speechless; was it not Emperor Ye Tian who had instigated him to end up in this situation?


    "Senior Divine Empress, why exactly did you make me steal that woman''s dress?" Xu Nian asked.


    "Just look at the bag attached to that dress," the Divine Empress''s voice answered.


    Xu Nian paused, then noticed a small, exquisite purple bag tied to the woman''s dress.


    The Qiankun Bag!


    Xu Nian was shocked, not expecting a Qiankun Bag to be attached to the woman''s dress.


    Like the storage ring, Qiankun Bags are used for storing items and have unimaginably vast spaces inside.


    Generally speaking, storage rings are much more valuable than Qiankun Bags. The Xu Family Elders might have Qiankun Bags, but only the patriarch has a storage ring.


    However, the storage bag before him was clearly different, seeming to be meticulously crafted, unlike ordinary storage bags.


    "Kid, this is no ordinary storage bag. This is called the Hundred Treasure Bag, which not only has muchrger space than ordinary ones but can also store living creatures and preserve medicinal herbs," Emperor Ye Tian''s voice exined.


    Xu Nian showed a look of surprise. Able to store living creatures? Probably even storage rings couldn''t do that, no wonder this woman of such status carried this Qiankun Bag instead of a storage ring.


    In fact, Xu Nian didn''t know that the woman not only carried this Hundred Treasure Bag but also had a concealed storage ring on her hand; he just hadn''t seen it.


    Watching the Hundred Treasure Bag, Xu Nian felt both shocked and delighted, but soon became frustrated. If only he had known Emperor Ye Tian wanted the bag, he would have stolen just the bag instead of the woman''s clothes.


    "Never mind, when we meet next time, I''ll find a chance topensate her. Let''s see what''s inside first," Xu Nian muttered to himself.


    Having stolen her belongings and seen her undressed, this sleazy and despicable behavior was indeed inappropriate. But since he had done it, he would just have topensate next time.


    When Xu Nian opened the bag, he immediately understood why Emperor Ye Tian had him do such a base task.


    Inside the bag, therey not only many precious herbs but also all kinds of miraculous spirit pills, and what caught Xu Nian''s attention the most was a piece of Jade Bottle.


    Inside this bottle, there was a crystal-clear liquid that emitted a faint strange fragrance, within which emanated a distinctive Dragon Energy.


    "Jade Dragon Marrow?" Xu Nian couldn''t help but tremble, his face showing extreme excitement.


    Jade Dragon Marrow was the essence of at least Battle General Level Dragon n Divine Beasts after their deaths, meaning this small bottle essentially contained the entire Bloodline Power of a Battle General Level Dragon n Divine Beast.


    With it, Xu Nian''s Body Refining Cultivation would surely skyrocket!n/?/vel/b//jn dot c//om

 Chapter 40 Black Gold Divine Eagle

    Xu Nian was ecstatic, the Jade Dragon Marrow was incredibly useful to him.


    With this Jade Dragon Marrow, his chances of catching up to Ouyang Chengfeng greatly increased.


    Xu Nian did not hesitate and directly poured the Jade Dragon Marrow into his mouth.


    With Emperor Ye Tian present, he didn''t need to worry about Demon Beasts suddenly attacking; he just needed to focus on his breakthrough.


    As the Jade Dragon Marrow entered his stomach, it initially felt cool, but soon it turned excruciatingly painful, like moltenva.


    Xu Nian clenched his teeth and desperately circted the Divine Demon Refining Body Technique, frantically absorbing the Bloodline Power in the Jade Dragon Marrow.


    However, the Jade Dragon Marrow proved more fierce than Xu Nian expected, as the Dragon Energy inside condensed into dragon shapes, rampaging wildly within his body, asionally emitting roars.


    "How formidable the Dragon Energy is, this must be the Bloodline of the Taigu Blood Dragon, ranked sixth among the Nine Dragons," Xu Nian mused to himself.


    The Taigu Nine Dragons also had rankings; previously, the Earth Dragon Bloodline Xu Nian consumed was rankedst among the Nine Great Ancestor Dragons.


    The ck Iron Eagle''s Dark Demon Dragon Bloodline ranked eighth among the Taigu Nine Dragons, but even so, the eighth and ninth Ancestor Dragons were exceptionally strong, and any associated with their bloodline would possess strength surpassing that of other Demon Beasts of the same tier.


    Now that Xu Nian had snagged the Bloodline Power of the sixth-ranked Taigu Blood Dragon descendant, how could he not be thrilled?


    Dragon Energy lingered within his body, and strands of Blood Qi were extracted from the Jade Dragon Marrow, assimted into his own dragon veins.


    Xu Nian was of the Nine Dragon Supreme Body, having nine dragon veins corresponding to the Nine Great Ancestor Dragons within him.


    Thus, once this strand of Dragon Energy infused his dragon veins, another dragon vein within Xu Nian was activated.


    However, these were only bloodlines of Ancestor Dragon descendants, not the true Ancestor Dragon Bloodline. Once Xu Nian absorbed the essence blood of all Nine Great Ancestor Dragons and attained perfection in all nine dragon veins, he would be invincible.


    Yet, this day seemed far too distant for Xu Nian, who was now engrossed in absorbing the Blood Dragon descendant''s bloodline.


    The Bloodline Power of this Blood Dragon descendant was evidently a bit more substantial than the previous Nether Dragon Blood Qi. At this moment, as the Dragon Energy and Bloodline Power were absorbed, the flesh and blood in Xu Nian''s body continuously strengthened, and his Gang Qi became denser.


    Second Level of Star Realm!


    Third Level of Star Realm!


    Fourth Level of Star Realm!


    Xu Nian''s Divine Demon Refining Body Cultivation soared rapidly with the absorption of the Jade Dragon Marrow''s power.


    "Boom!"


    Finally, as the Jade Dragon Marrow''s absorption ended, Xu Nian''s Cultivationpletely stabilized at the peak of Four-star of the Star Realm.


    "What a powerful force!"


    Xu Nian felt the power contained within his flesh and was tremendously excited.


    "Boom!"N?v(el)B\\jnn


    He punched arge tree with a girth of two men''s arms, and with a ''crack,'' the tree broke in response.


    Seeing this, Xu Nian grew even more thrilled, as his physical strength alone might nowpare to a normal Six-star Body Cultivation of the Star Realm.


    However, this still wasn''t Xu Nian''s ultimate strength.


    Xu Nian subtly raised the corners of his mouth, and the Blood Dragon''s Dragon Energy surged from his dragon veins, instantly infusing his arm.


    "Buzz!"


    Then Xu Nian''s right hand began to change, a blood-colored dragon scale boxing glove directly covered his right hand, and once again he punched out with double the strengthpared to before.


    "How interesting, Dragon Energy Transformation Form, boy, I didn''t expect your Nine Dragons Supreme Body had such marvelous uses. This is just the lowest level of Blood Dragon Qi. If in the future you obtain the real Ancestor Dragon Qi, won''t the power be even stronger?" Emperor Ye Tian''s ethereal figure appeared beside Xu Nian, looking at the dragon scale fist on Xu Nian''s hand and eximed in surprise.


    Yes, the blood-colored dragon scale trap on Xu Nian''s hand was indeed transformed from the Dragon Energy extracted from the Blood Dragon Descendant Bloodline within his body.


    When he had extracted the blood-colored Dragon Energy just now, he felt its marvelous utility.


    Each Ancestor Dragon''s Dragon Energy has different marvelous utilities, for example, Nether Dragon''s Dragon Energy merges into the Gang Qi, making the power of Gang Qi much stronger, and this Blood Dragon''s Dragon Energy is clearly a form of Dragon Energy Transformation.


    However, since the Dragon Energy was sparse, Xu Nian could only condense a boxing glove''s size, but as more blood-colored Dragon Energy umtes over time, he could condense more objects.


    "I wonder what other marvelous uses the seven types of Dragon Energy have." Xu Nian felt a surge of anticipation in his heart.


    Absorbing the Dragon n Bloodline not only enhances Cultivation but also has these nine different marvelous uses. It''s simply a perfect physique.


    "Now Qin Feng, Qin Yu, and Qin Lei are no match for me, killing them is easy, even Qin Shan, using Dragon Energy, I might not be able to kill him but there''s no way he could kill me. However, there''s still a considerable distance from Ouyang Chengfeng, but there''s still plenty of time before the three months are up." Xu Nian clenched his fist and murmured to himself.


    The enhancement in his Divine Demon Refining Body Cultivation had made him increasingly confident that perhaps when the three-month period arrives, he might be able to battle Ouyang Chengfeng without relying on Body Cultivation.


    "Chirp!"


    Just then, a high-pitched cry suddenly came from the sky.


    Next, Xu Nian felt the sky above him being obscured; a huge ck Iron Eagle with a wingspan of six meters dove toward Xu Nian, its iron ws, like steel, directly grabbed at him.


    Its sharp and piercing eyes revealed a greed, obviously attracted by the Dragon Energy emanating from Xu Nian''s body.


    "Six-star Level Demon Beast, ck Iron Eagle?" Xu Nian slightly startled, then without any hesitation, immediately mobilized the Blood Dragon Qi in his body, condensed Dragon Scale Fist, and went head-to-head with the ck Iron Eagle''s talons.


    "ng!"


    The Dragon Scale Boxing Gloves on Xu Nian''s fist collided with the sharp talons of the ck Iron Eagle, producing a piercing friction noise. However, those talons that could pierce through steel could not prate Xu Nian''s boxing gloves, but instead were pushed back by Xu Nian.


    "Chirp!"


    The ck Iron Eagle, missing its strike, did not give up and circled above Xu Nian''s head, seemingly preparing for another strike.


    Xu Nian then drew the sharp sword from his waist, constantly vignt of the ck Iron Eagle.


    Normally, a Six-star Level Demon Beast would have its bones broken by his punch, but this ck Iron Eagle was merely pushed back, its talonspletely unharmed. This left Xu Nian quite amazed.


    "Eh, there is such a Demon Beast?" Just as Xu Nian was shocked that he hadn''t managed to injure the ck Iron Eagle, Emperor Ye Tian by his side let out a light eh.


    "What kind of Demon Beast, isn''t this a normal ck Iron Eagle?" Xu Nian asked in surprise.


    Although he also sensed that the ck Iron Eagle in front of him was extraordinary, its appearance was exactly the same as a normal ck Iron Eagle. Now, hearing Emperor Ye Tian say this made him even more puzzled.


    "Boy, you are simply too ignorant. This is not any ck Iron Eagle, but an Ancient Golden Crow Divine Eagle. It specializes in feeding on dragons, one of the few Demon Beastsparable to the Ancestor Dragon," Emperor Ye Tian said with a firm gaze.


    Xu Nian also looked up at the ck Iron Eagle in the sky, filled with surprise.


    This is the ck Gold Divine Eagle?


    It looks no different from a ck Iron Eagle, and why would such a Divine Eagle be so weak?


    However, Xu Nian didn''t have much time to think as the ck Iron Eagle in the sky was already gathering strength for another dive.


    Emperor Ye Tian, standing beside him, said excitedly, "Quick, don''t let it escape. You must subdue it. In the future, it will be a great asset to you."

 Chapter 41 Taming the Little Golden Crow Divine Eagle

    Comparable to the ancient Ancestor Dragon?


    Feasting on an Ancestor Dragon?


    Xu Nian''s heart was also shocked to the core. If he really managed to subdue this future Super Divine Beast, wouldn''t he have a Super Divine Beast as his enforcer in the future?


    At this thought, Xu Nian felt his blood boiling, and his sword met the ck Hawk swooping down from the sky without hesitation.


    However, this time, the ck Hawk did not w at Xu Nian but shed at him with its ck, hard feathers.


    Xu Nian''s eyes sparkled with determination as he immediately executed the Ling Feng Thirteen Swords.


    The sword light was cold and emitted a trembling sound.


    Xu Nian''s sword directly collided with the ck Hawk''s feathers, making a ng as if two fine metals struck each other!


    But still, the immense force from the wings pushed Xu Nian back dozens of steps.


    "Boom!"


    A nearbyrge tree was directly struck by the ck Hawk''s wings, instantly cut into two neat halves.


    "How fast, and how hard those feathers are!" Xu Nian marveled in his heart.


    This ck Hawk was truly out of the ordinary. The feathers of an ordinary ck Iron Eagle were also very hard, but they certainly weren''t sharp and tough enough to contend with Xuan Iron.


    Yet, when this ck Hawk''s feathers collided with the Xuan Iron Sword in Xu Nian''s hand, not a single mark was left.


    One could imagine just how hard those ck feathers were.


    "Whoosh!"


    The ck Hawk, repelled, attacked Xu Nian again.


    The incredibly sharp feathers met a ck long knife, continuously shing towards Xu Nian.


    Xu Nian relied on his Gale Dragon Step to continuously dodge, and the trees and ground around him were covered with ravines, all created by the ck Hawk''s feathers.


    Of course, Xu Nian also fought back, but the Xuan Iron Sword hacking at the ck Hawk had no effect whatsoever, meaning that the ck Hawk couldpletely ignore his attacks.


    "Kid, try to get on the back of that ck Hawk. Its neck is its weakest point," Emperor Ye Tian''s voice echoed in Xu Nian''s mind.


    Currently, Emperor Ye Tian had returned to the Jade Pendant, and Xu Nian''s battle was entirely within her view.


    "Alright!" Xu Nian agreed decisively.


    At the same time, the ck Hawk swooped towards Xu Nian from afar, its wings outstretched and shing horizontally at him.


    "Perfect timing!"


    Seeing this, the corner of Xu Nian''s mouth revealed a cold smile. He then sheathed his Xuan Iron Sword at his waist, and took advantage of the ck Hawk''s iing attack to leap,nding directly on the back of the ck Hawk.


    But it wasn''t as simple as Xu Nian thought. The ck Hawk''s back was much smoother than he had imagined, so the moment he jumped on, he immediately face-nted into the ground. Had it not been for Xu Nian''s quick reaction, grabbing onto a feather covered with Dragon Energy with his palm, he might have fallen right off the ck Hawk''s back.


    "Chirp!"


    The ck Hawk, realizing that a human had jumped onto its back, let out a high-pitched and clear call, obviously unable to tolerate a human stepping on its back, and thus it raced through the forest at high speed, seemingly trying to shake Xu Nian off.


    But Xu Nian held onto the ck Hawk''s neck for dear life, refusing to let go.


    At the same time, Xu Nian''s fist greeted the ck Hawk''s neck with a series of thunderous punches.


    The ck hawk constantly let out screams of agony, clearly in excruciating pain from Xu Nian''s attack.


    "Get down!"


    Xu Nian smashed and shouted at the same time.


    Right now, he was in the air, many of his techniques were restricted; only by making this ck hawknd could he fully unleash his abilities to subdue the Demon Beast.


    "Cheep!"


    The ck hawk issued a piercing cry, seemingly protesting against Xu Nian, its body continuously twisting and turning in the air, trying to throw Xu Nian off its back.n/?/vel/b//jn dot c//om


    However, Xu Nian''s one hand was firmly gripping its neck, while the other hand clenched into a fist, releasing a burst of Divine Demon Gang Qi in a fierce barrage of blows.


    Blood soon began seeping through the hawk''s feathers, indicating it had sustained significant injuries.


    Although Xu Nian couldn''t break through those tough feathers, the formidable power of his punches still passed through to the ck hawk''s body. Soon, it could no longer withstand Xu Nian''s attacks and crashed onto the ground.


    Seeing this, Xu Nian was overjoyed; he let go of one hand and continued pounding, pinning the struggling ck eagle firmly to the ground.


    What of a super Divine Beast?


    It was still incredibly weak now, and besides, Xu Nian''s cultivation was that of a Divine Demon Body Refiner, whose strength was no less than that of a Divine Beast.


    "Cheep..."


    The ck hawk uttered a series of pitiful cries before finally falling to the ground, unable to get up.


    Xu Nian breathed a sigh of relief; the relentless pounding had also taken a huge toll on him. For an ordinary Body Cultivation practitioner, even an eight-star in the Body Cultivation Star Realm might not have been able to subdue this ck hawk.


    "Young man, take out the Demon Beast Ring from your Hundred Treasure Bag; it''s specifically designed to subdue Demon Beasts," the voice of Emperor Ye Tian rang out once again.


    Upon hearing this, Xu Nian did not hesitate, opened his Hundred Treasure Bag, and took out the Demon Beast Ring. He bit his finger and let his fresh blood drip onto the Demon Beast Ring.


    The Demon Beast Ring immediately emitted a dazzling light, enveloping the ck hawk under Xu Nian.


    After struggling a few times in reluctance, the ck hawk was absorbed into the light from the Demon Beast Ring.


    The moment the ck hawk entered the Demon Beast Ring, Xu Nian instantly felt a new connection forming in his mind with the ck hawk, realizing he could now control its life and death.


    At the same time,


    "Ow... ow..." a childish, whiny voice sounded in Xu Nian''s mind.


    "Huh?" Xu Nian was baffled, but he quickly realized that it was the voice of the ck hawk ¨C he had never imagined it to be a mere fledgling.


    "Little ck Hawk, what''s your name?" Xu Nianmunicated with the hawk using his mind.


    Now that he had formed a master-servant contract with the ck hawk, they couldmunicate telepathically, just as he did with the Yetian God Emperor.


    "I... don''t have a name. I was born in this forest, alone and hungry," the ck hawk replied in its childish voice, timidnessced within.


    Xu Nian was taken aback by this revtion, the ck hawk, like him, was an orphan.


    "How about this? From now on, I''ll be your big brother, and I''ll give you a name, okay?" Xu Nian cajoled as if luring a child.


    "Okay!" the ck hawk answered in its youthful voice.


    "My surname is Xu, so you''ll share it. How about Xu Yu?" Xu Nian suggested with a smile through his mental transmission.


    "Good, good, good, I have a name now! Big brother, I''m really hungry, can we go find something to eat?" the Little Golden Crow Divine Eagle said.


    Xu Nian couldn''t help but give a wry smile ¨C why did it feel like he hadn''t subdued a super Divine Beast, but had actually picked up a son?

 Chapter 42 Marquis Level

    Over the next ten days, Xu Nian spent almost all his time with Little Xu Yu.


    Through ten days of bonding, Xu Nian became very familiar with Little Xu Yu.


    Xu Nian was astonished to discover that Little Xu Yu, as a Super Divine Beast with pure bloodlines, possessed its own pride; yet it was incredibly affectionate towards him.


    Although arge part of this was due to the function of the Demon Beast Ring, a smaller part was because Xu Nian had genuinely touched the heart of Little Xu Yu.


    At the same time, Xu Nian also learned from Emperor Ye Tian that Little Xu Yu, though a Super Divine Beast, had not undergone Bloodline Awakening and thus could not be considered a true Divine Beast.


    However, once its bloodline awakened, it would fully disy its formidable Divine Beast capabilities, and its strength would soar at a terrifying rate. By then, Xu Nian would gain a superbat force.


    Xu Nian looked forward to this, but through his time with Little Xu Yu, he truly came to regard it as a younger brother.


    Of course, every time he saw this "younger brother" eating, Xu Nian would still be dumbfounded.


    A Hundred-meter-long Seventh-star of Star Realm Rock Snake was swallowed whole by it, and what was more terrifying was that a Ten-ton Bloodthirsty Pig was enough for only one meal for Little Xu Yu.


    Every time he saw Little Xu Yu consume flesh and blood, Xu Nian felt the urge to vomit.


    Eventually, he couldn''t bear it any longer and cooked the food for Little Xu Yu, letting it eat cooked meals.


    At first, Little Xu Yu resisted, but when it tasted the vor of the Gale Wolf cooked by Xu Nian, it excitedly kept bringing more Demon Beasts to Xu Nian to roast, each stronger than thest.


    As Little Xu Yu continued to feast, Xu Nian noticed that its cultivation broke through to the Seventh-star of Star Realm, and its size increased significantly, standing up to three meters tall.


    Xu Nian dared not believe this was still the juvenile Little Xu Yu; if it reached adulthood, howrge could it possibly be?


    During this time, Xu Nian also ate some of the Demon Beasts'' flesh and blood, and he realized that as he ate, his physical strength also improved, although the pace of this improvement wasn''t fast.


    Conversely, when he absorbed the Crystal Cores of those Demon Beasts, his Spiritual Cultivation surged dramatically.


    Thus, Xu Nian was even more willing to let Little Xu Yu hunt Demon Beasts¡ªLittle Xu Yu would eat the meat, and he would absorb the Crystal Cores.


    If outsiders knew that Xu Nian could directly absorb the power of Demon Beast Crystal Cores, they would certainly be shocked.


    The power of Demon Beast Crystal Cores cannot be absorbed directly and can only be used to refine pills¡ªa fact known to all, as the power within is too fierce, leading to deviation if absorbed.


    And even in pill refining, only less than thirty percent of the power from a Demon Beast Crystal Core could be utilized.


    Yet Xu Nian was unharmed and was able to absorb every bit of power from those Crystal Cores, which, if known, would definitely cause a sensation across the entire Tianhen Empire.


    The reason Xu Nian could do this was thanks to the marvels of the Dan Sea Species Green Lotus Battle Technique.


    epting all rivers, able to contain any form of energy¡ªthis was the strength of the Dan Sea Species Green Lotus Battle Technique.


    After ten days and absorbing a total of six Demon Beast Crystal Cores, Xu Nian''s Spiritual Cultivation had improved, advancing directly from the First Level of Heaven of Star Realm to the Third Level of Heaven. This increase in his battle power was significant.


    And his Divine Demon Refining Body, after consuming those flesh and blood, broke through directly to the Five Stars Star Realm.n/?/vel/b//jn dot c//om


    A Three-star Warrior of the Star Realm and a Spiritual Cultivator, a Five Stars Star Realm Body Cultivator, and having honed the modified "Ling Feng Thirteen Swords" to the Realm of Divine Transformation, Xu Nian was now a match for even Eight-star Warriors.


    Little Xu Yu''sbat power was equally strong; she could even burst forth with enough strength to contend with a Nine-star Warrior.


    In just under a month, Xu Nian believed that if this rate of growth continued, in three months'' time, he might be able to fight Ouyang Chengfeng without resorting to his Divine Demon Refining Body Cultivation.


    "Boom!"


    Shortly after Xu Nian and Little Xu Yu had shared the carcass of a Red me Demon Tiger that measured five meters in length, a thunderous roar abruptly sounded in the distance.


    Faintly, there were also the mighty roars of beasts.


    "Is someone fighting?" Xu Nian was suddenly startled, his face revealing a guarded expression.


    With a thought, he quickly ced Little Xu Yu back into the Demon Beast Ring.


    With the Demon Beast Ring secured on his arm, Xu Nian leaped into the jungle like an agile cat, moving toward the direction of the sound.


    The battle had clearly not been just between Demon Beasts, but involved humans fighting.


    This ce was deep inside the Demon Beast Forest; hunters usually only ventured around the outskirts of the Demon Beast Forest, never daring to set foot within its depths. Anyone capable of entering was sure to have no insignificant Cultivation.


    Moreover, the fact that this person dared to cause such amotion indicated even more extraordinary Cultivation.


    Xu Nian was very curious to see who was involved in the battle.


    But before he got close, another wave of earth-shattering beast roars burst from afar.


    Xu Nian''s heart leaped, his face showing a look of shock.


    "That''s the roar of a Battle General Level Demon Beast, the Grade sounds quite high; who has provoked such a being?" Xu Nian murmured in amazement, his curiosity about what was happening ahead growing even stronger.


    Thus, he quickened his pace, but as he approached the center of the noise, he was still stunned by the scene before him.


    It was a vast canyon, devoid of any trees, forming a natural, giant square.


    And there, in the middle of the square, stood a Fiery me Demon Tiger, nearly five meters tall and twelve meters long.


    The Fiery me Demon Tiger, fiery red all over with Scale Armor covering its body and terrifying Red mes rising from its paws as if treading on fire, had a long, one-meter horn on its forehead. If it pierced through someone, it would mean certain death.


    However, the Fiery me Demon Tiger was covered in wounds, bloodstains everywhere, and its eyes angrily red at the enemy in front, filled with bloodthirsty Killing Intent; the previous roar clearly came from it.


    Xu Nian involuntarily inhaled sharply, shocked at who could possibly injure a Fiery me Demon Tiger to such an extent, rivaling the peak of a Xuan Tian-level Battle General.


    Following the gaze of the Fiery me Demon Tiger, Xu Nian looked over and felt a jolt in his heart.


    He saw a stunningly beautiful woman in a blue dress, wielding a long sword and standing in mid-air, her slender and graceful figure exuding an outstanding elegance.


    Her stunning features, indifferent temperament, cold eyes, and themanding presence that she naturally exuded made Xu Nian''s heart throb.


    "Marquis... Marquis Level powerhouse," Xu Nian mumbled to himself as he gazed at the figure standing in the air.

 Chapter 43 The Intense Battle

    Xu Nian never imagined he would encounter a Marquis Level powerhouse here, let alone that it would be a peerlessly beautiful woman.


    The woman appeared to be around thirty years old, exuding a mature charm. Her perfect curves and proud demeanor strongly stimted Xu Nian''s heart.


    "Kid, look at yourself barely keeping your eyes in their sockets. You''re just an ant who has barely stepped into the Marquis Level. How could youpare to this emperor? How about I let you see my beauty?" Emperor Ye Tian''s mischievousughter echoed in Xu Nian''s mind.


    Xu Nian bitterly smiled.


    Yes, Emperor Ye Tian was beautiful, transcendentally so, but her beauty felt unreal, something to be admired from afar.


    Yet, the Marquis Level woman before him seemed within reach, as if he could touch her if he just extended his hand.


    That was why Xu Nian disyed such a foolish expression. He wouldn''t dare entertain any disrespectful thoughts toward Emperor Ye Tian, so he chose to ignore her words like they were wind by his ear.


    Through their time together, Xu Nian had discovered a wicked streak in Emperor Ye Tian, which often led her to suggest mischievous tasks.


    For example, she would encourage Xu Nian to peek at women bathing, when he could just steal their Hundred Treasure Bags, and yet she urged him to take their clothes as well.


    Therefore, Xu Nian wouldn''t be surprised if this beauty with a heart that didn''t match her appearance would suggest some shameless act next.


    Sure enough, Emperor Ye Tian''s next sentence made Xu Nian spurt a mouthful of blood.


    "Kid, do you want to have that woman? If you do, I can help you. I guarantee you''ll win her over. Besides, this woman has a high status. If you really get her, you''ll find unexpected benefits."


    "..."


    If Xu Nian could beat Emperor Ye Tian, he probably would have told her to shut up long ago.


    To think of taking down a Marquis Level woman, only she coulde up with such an idea. If he really tried, he''d probably be killed by that woman''s sword before he could even touch her clothes.


    Next, Xu Nian confirmed his suspicion; the Marquis Level woman in front of him was indeed terrifyingly powerful.


    The woman held an exquisite long sword, her eyebrows sharp like ink drawings, and she coldly addressed the Fiery me Demon Tiger, "Fiery me Demon Tiger, I do not wish to kill you. Just hand over the Red me Fire Gold, and I will spare your life."


    "Roar!"


    The Fiery me Demon Tiger let out a roar that shook the forest, nearly deafening, as if protesting the beautiful woman''s ultimatum.


    A Demon Beast of this level had developed its own Spiritual Wisdom, and if a Demon Beast reached the Saint Level, it could even speak thenguage of humans.


    Although this Fiery me Demon Tiger was only at the Peak of Battle General, being so close to breaking through to the Marquis Level, it naturally had its own pride.


    Red me Fire Gold?


    Xu Nian was somewhat surprised; he hadn''t expected the woman to be after Red me Fire Gold.


    Red me Fire Gold was a peculiar metal guarded by the Red me Demon Tiger, known for its extreme hardness and considered a top material for weapon crafting.


    On the Tianhen Continent, weapons were categorized ording to the level of the materials used to craft them.


    Materials were generally divided into five types: steel, Xuan Iron, Meteorite Iron, peculiar metals, and Divine Iron.N?v(el)B\\jnn


    The better the material, the more powerful the weapon that could be forged, which in turn could greatly enhance a cultivator''s capabilities.


    For instance, weapons forged from Divine Iron would be considered Divine Weapons, with immense power.


    Of course, it was said that above Divine Weapons there were Spiritual Artifacts which could even achieve unity between the man and the weapon, but Xu Nian had never seen one before.


    In An Yuan County, let alone Divine Weapons, even weapons forged from Meteorite Iron were exceedingly rare.


    Xu Nian owned only a longbow crafted from Meteorite Iron, which had always been treasured and kept in the Xu Family''s Treasure Pavilion. Having merely nced at it from afar, he could feel the wild and domineering aura emanating from the bow.


    So Xu Nian was naturally very shocked when he heard that this woman was actually here for the Red me Fire Gold.


    Such exotic metals as Red me Fire Gold were priceless treasures throughout An Yuan County.


    However, considering that to obtain such an exotic metal it must be taken from the hands of a Peak of Battle General-level me Lion King, the Red me Fire Gold was indeed worth the price.


    "Since you are unwilling to hand over the Red me Fire Gold, then I have no choice but to take it myself," said the green-clothed woman with a cold snort, as her sword shed out in an instant, shing directly at the Fiery me Demon Tiger.


    The sword gleamed menacingly, a green Sword Radiance suddenly crossed the sky like a green rainbow, cutting straight towards the Fiery me Demon Tiger.


    The fierce aura from it could tear everything apart.


    "What a terrifying strike!"


    Even from a hundred meters away, Xu Nian could feel the ferocity of this sword. He feared that if he were to face this sword, just a touch of it might reduce him to ashes.


    "Roar!"


    The Fiery me Demon Tiger was no herbivore, though; it let out a roaring hiss and spat a huge fireball from its mouth.


    The fireball soared into the sky, directly colliding with the green Sword Radiance.


    The terrifying temperature of the fireball could melt Xu Nian''s Xuan Iron Sword in his hand, causing even Xu Nian, a hundred meters away, to feel his skin burning and forcing him to retreat a few more steps.


    "Boom!"


    With a loud explosion, the green Sword Radiance and the Red me fireball collided, creating a deafening sound.


    Fire illuminated the sky as ck smoke curled upward.


    "ng!"


    A piercing sword chime rang out, and the peerless woman swung her sharp sword again with a flourish, in a blink of an eye transforming one sword into nine. Like a torrential downpour, the Sword Radiance hammered down towards the Fiery me Demon Tiger.


    The Demon Tiger''s cultivation was ultimately a little weaker. Despite its desperate effort to spew mes to block the sword strikes, it was still pierced by three of them and copsed to the ground, letting out a miserable wail.


    The sword-wielding woman in the sky looked satisfied as she sheathed her sword, gracefully making her way towards the Demon Tiger''s cave.


    However, just as the woman quickly reached the cave''s entrance, suddenly a sound of breaking through the air came.


    The spike on the Fiery me Demon Tiger''s forehead was wrapped in terrible mes, and it sped towards the sword-wielding woman, aiming straight for her heart with such speed and ferocity that the woman hadn''t anticipated.


    Her eyes narrowed in an instant as she hastily brandished her sword.


    The sword edge and the spike collided, creating an intense tremor.


    Yet the woman still couldn''t block the spike''s attackpletely, though she managed to alter its direction.


    "Pfft!"


    The woman''s left shoulder was prated, blood blooming like flowers, and she was jolted dozens of meters to the side by the impact.


    Blood trickled from the corner of her mouth, her face pale as death.


    What worried her even more was that in the distance, the Fiery me Demon Tiger was rising to its feet again, pouncing fiercely towards the green-clothed woman.


    Its vicious ws traced a strange arc in the air, seemingly ready for a desperate final strike.


    The green-clothed woman bit her red lip, a determined glint shed across her beautiful face, and she forcefully pulled the spike from her shoulder. At the same time, her right hand swung her sword, shing towards the Fiery me Demon Tiger.


    Watching this scene from a distance, Xu Nian was extremely shocked.

 Chapter 44 Saving a Life

    Xu Nian was shocked beyond belief, he hadn''t expected the battle to be so fierce.


    Originally, the woman could have won aplete victory, but due to a moment ofpassion, she ended up being sneak attacked by the Red me Demon Tiger and was seriously injured.


    The spikes on the forehead of the Red me Demon Tiger could perform a detached attack, but it could only be used once in a lifetime, and its power was immense.


    If it had been a frontal confrontation, the woman might have been able to dodge or block it, but now caught off guard by the sneak attack, she could only end up seriously injured.


    Of course, this did not hinder the ultimate oue of the battle.


    "Buzz!"


    Sword light filled the sky, like a long rainbow sweeping through the air.


    The sharp sword in the woman''s hand, in the moment of colliding with the Fiery me Demon Tiger, directly beheaded the Fiery me Demon Tiger.


    After doing all this, the woman spewed another mouthful of fresh blood, then suddenly looked towards Xu Nian.


    "Not good!"


    Xu Nian was instantly startled, the instant the woman looked his way, he distinctly felt a strong killing intent.


    However, just as Xu Nian was about to flee, the green-clothed woman suddenly tilted her body and fell down.


    This stunned Xu Nian.


    What was going on?


    Even with her shoulder pierced through, with the woman''s strength, she shouldn''t have fainted.


    "The spikes are poisoned, the spikes of the Fiery me Demon Tiger are affixed with strong fire poison. Just now, if she had immediately sat down to force the poison out after being poisoned, she might have been alright, but she instead used her Spiritual Energy to forcefully act to kill the Fiery me Demon Tiger, the fire poison has already traveled throughout her body via her blood," the voice of Emperor Ye Tian echoed in Xu Nian''s mind.


    "Oh? Does she have a life-threatening danger?" Xu Nian asked.


    "It''s hard to say, if the fire poison is not neutralized in time, she will die from fiery agony within 24 hours, but if she is left here, perhaps she won''tst 24 hours before she''s dead in the belly of a Demon Beast," Emperor Ye Tian''s coldughter sounded.


    Xu Nian frowned slightly upon seeing this scene.


    At that moment, roars of beasts wereing from afar, and not just one.


    Clearly, the scent of the Fiery me Demon Tiger''s blood had already attracted the nearby Demon Beasts, and some powerful Demon Beasts had started to converge in this direction.


    "Forget it, I''ll save her life!" Xu Nian hesitated for a moment, then made a move.


    However, he did not directly save her but first went to the cave of the Fiery me Demon Tiger to retrieve the Red Scorching Fire Gold that the woman wanted and also packed the body of the Red me Demon Tiger into the Hundred Treasure Bag before approaching the extraordinarily beautiful woman.


    Now approaching the green-clothed woman, he found her even more beautiful than he had seen from afar.


    Her eyebrows were like green hills, her eyes like stars; her skin was as white as snow, delicate to touch.


    Her pale face from the fire poison still had a hint of blush, making her look even more delicate and charming.


    Xu Nian was seeing a woman nearing thirty with such a stunning figure for the first time; recalling the proud bearing of the woman holding her sword in the Void earlier, his heartbeat quickened even more.


    "Roar!"


    But soon, the roars from a distance shattered Xu Nian''s reverie, snapping him back to reality.


    He hesitated no longer, lifted the woman from the ground, directly summoned Little Xu Yu, and rode on its back to flee.


    Soon, a thunderous roar echoed from the valley below; terrifying Demon Beasts were howling at them.


    Seeing this, Xu Nian then breathed a sigh of relief.


    But before he could breathe a second sigh, the woman hugged him.


    He saw the originally unconscious woman had opened her eyes, her seductive gaze resting on Jiang Han.


    "Hey¡­earlier¡­senior, no, sister... wake up, what are you trying to do?" Xu Nian widened his eyes in disbelief.


    He was panicking, his face stupefied, but the softness of the woman''s body quickly stirred a wicked fire in his heart.


    "What¡­ what is happening?" Xu Nian urgently asked towards Emperor Ye Tian.


    However, a sinisterugh from Emperor Ye Tian resounded in his mind: "Heh heh, boy, you''re in luck, the fire poison has now transformed into the Love Poison, and she is nowpletely controlled by the Love Poison. If it isn''t released in time, she might notst 24 hours before she''spletely gone."


    "Fire poison transformed into Love Poison?" Xu Nian stared wide-eyed at the woman in front of him, noticing her originally fair skin had nowpletely turned fiery red, her body temperature much higher than that of normal people.


    Damn, what the hell is this?


    When Emperor Ye Tian previously mentioned that he should return with a beauty, he thought Emperor Ye Tian was just joking, but now it seemed all too real.


    Thus, Xu Nian quickly signalled Little Xu Yu to find a cave to stop in.


    Finally, Xu Nian stopped in an abandoned cave on a cliff.


    But as soon as they entered the cave, the woman threw herself at Xu Nian.


    Left with no choice, Xu Nian, with the mentality of saving a life being better than building a seven-story pagoda, reciprocated.


    Xu Nian felt his blood boil immediately.


    Yet at that moment, the green-clothed woman somewhat sobered up, whispering in Xu Nian''s ear: "You¡­ if you dare touch me, I will kill you!"


    After she said this, her eyes became misty again, her breath like orchids in Xu Nian''s ears.


    At this moment, Xu Nian felt like swearing. He was caught in a dilemma, unsure whether to remove his hand or continue undressing.


    "Coward, since you dare not, I''ll help you!" But just then, the sinisterughter of Emperor Ye Tian echoed in Xu Nian''s mind.


    The next moment, Xu Nian''s consciousness also began to blur.


    So, very soon, the two of them werepletely entangled.


    He only felt as if he was in a dream, warm andfortable.


    He didn''t know how long it had been when he woke up from the dream.


    The moment Xu Nian opened his eyes, the warmth of the dream disappeared, reced by the cold, sharp edge of a sword and those eyes, like stars.n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om


    However, deep within those star-like eyes, there were mixed emotions: anger, coldness, struggle, and shyness!

 Chapter 45 Prey and Hunter

    Xu Nian looked at the exquisite woman in front of him, her cheeks still flushed with the remnants of her previous madness, and his head swelled with realization of what he had just done.


    As he carefully recalled, he found the details of just now had be very blurry, but that feeling was crazily real.


    "Uh, I didn''t mean to happen... I''ll take responsibility," Xu Nian opened his mouth and finally managed to say.


    "Take responsibility? How will you take responsibility, is it okay if I ask you to die?" the exquisite woman said coldly.


    "Okay!" Xu Nian, not knowing where his courage came from, uttered a word.


    Upon hearing Xu Nian''s words, the exquisite woman''s eyes suddenly sharpened, her sword ready to end the man in front of her who had taken her body.


    But in the end, she couldn''t bring herself to do it; the de brushed past Xu Nian''s neck, leaving only a shallow cut.


    "Just go, consider it repayment for saving your life. But after today, I hope you forget all this, keep your mouth shut, or I, Leng Yanran, will surely take your head," the exquisite woman said as she turned her body, her figure casting an extremely cold shadow.


    Xu Nian took a deep breath; in that moment, he had walked a circle by the gates of hell.


    He looked at the cold, enchanting figure in front of him, opened his mouth but didn''t know what to say, so he just ced the Red me Fire Gold on a nearby rock and then leaped onto Little Xu Yu''s back and left the cave.


    Leng Yanran felt Xu Nian had gone far, so she turned around, preparing to leave. But just as she turned, she saw the Red me Fire Gold on the rock, glowing faintly.


    Her delicate hand trembled as she slowly picked up the peculiar metal, overwhelmed with emotion.


    For this metal, she had nearly died and paid the greatest price of her life.


    Was this price worth it or not?


    ...


    At this moment, Xu Nian was sitting on a ck eagle''s back, his mind equally troubled.


    He knew that his loss of reason was definitely rted to Emperor Ye Tian.


    "Kid, are you still ming me? Just look at the Spiritual Energy inside your body," Emperor Ye Tian''s voice echoed in Xu Nian''s ears.


    Xu Nian was slightly stunned and cluelessly probed into his Dantian; the check almost made him fall off the ck eagle''s back.


    "Six... Six-star Warrior, what on earth is going on?" Xu Nian asked, wide-eyed.


    He was still a three-star Warriorst night; how had he suddenly be a Six-star Warrior? Could it be that he had consumed some miraculous spirit pill?


    "Hmph, kid, you benefit yet still y innocent, I''ve told you before that getting that woman would greatly benefit you. She has a Xuanyin Physique, naturally suitable for Yin and Yang Dual Cultivation. Once engaged in the act, it is immensely beneficial to both you and her, it''s just that your Cultivation was too low to be of significant help to her. Later when your Cultivation increases, find her, and naturally, you can repay her," Emperor Ye Tian''s words echoed in Xu Nian''s mind.


    Xu Nian was momentarily stunned. So there were such good benefits?


    A slight smile returned to the corner of his mouth as he shook his head and muttered, "What a pity..."


    If Leng Yanran happened to hear these three words from Xu Nian now, one wonders if she would regret her earlier kindness in letting Xu Nian go.


    "Sadly, I lost consciousness at that moment," Xu Nian reflected to himself.


    Had he remained awake, the scene would have been marvelous.


    "Leng Yanran, that name I will remember," Xu Nian silently told himself, his eyes brimming with determination.


    He knew he was exceedingly insignificant at the moment, and any far-fetched desires were out of the question. Only by bing stronger could he truly grasp what he wanted.


    In the following days, Xu Nian let Little Xu Yu devour the corpse of the Fiery me Demon Tiger, keeping only a small piece for himself.


    Yet even this small piece solidified his Divine Demon Refining Body Cultivation at the Fifth-star Star Realm level, with even a trend of shooting toward the peak.


    After devouring all the flesh of the Fiery me Demon Tiger, Little Xu Yu fell into a deep sleep.


    Xu Nian knew that Little Xu Yu might break through to the Silver Moon Battle Sect level or at least reach the Peak of Star Realm, so he let it focus on breaking through in the Demon Beast Ring.


    As for the Crystal Core of the Fiery me Demon Tiger, Xu Nian dared not ingest it. Although his Dan Sea Species Green Lotus could ingest anything, his cultivation had risen fast enough. Hastening another breakthrough could cause a fluctuation in Spiritual Energy, so Xu Nian nned to let his Spiritual Cultivation consolidate for a while before devouring it.


    Over the next month, Xu Nian hunted Peak-level Star Realm Demon Beasts in the Demon Beast Forest to refine his swordsmanship.


    Now, his "Ling Feng Thirteen Swords" had fully reached the Realm of Divine Transformation, and the "Gale Sword" under Xu Nian''s refinement had reached the entry-level.


    It wasn''t that Xu Nian wasn''t capable, but the "Gale Sword" modified by Emperor Ye Tian was profoundly intricate, taking Xu Nian a month to master the basics, whereas others might need at least a year.


    *ng!*


    Xu Nian''s sword gleamed sharply as it pierced an Eighth-star of Star Realm Level Earth Dragon, instantly ying it.


    Looking at the Earth Dragon before him, a flicker of joy passed through Xu Nian''s eyes.


    A few months ago, he was madly chased by an Earth Dragon of roughly the same strength.


    Now, merely as an eight-star Star Warrior, he had be far too formidable for his opponents. If he were to unleash his full power, even Peak of Star Realm opponents might not gain any advantage against him.


    "It''s about time to return to the Academy, but first, it seems I have some debts to collect. I hope certain people haven''t left," Xu Nian said, his lips curling into a slight smile, his eyes twinkling with mischief.


    A little over a month ago, he was hunted down by Qin Shan and others, and had it not been for his wit, he might have been killed.


    Now, it was time to take his revenge!


    He believed that Qin Shan and the others were definitely waiting for him on the outskirts of the Demon Beast Forest, as they wouldn''t leave.


    Their task was iplete, and they had lost a man to Xu Nian. Returning as they were would make it impossible for them to report back, so Qin Shan and his group must be watching, waiting for him to emerge.


    This suited Xu Nian perfectly.


    "I wonder what Qin Shan''s face will look like when he sees me again; I hope it''s quite a sight," Xu Nian smirked, then vanished into thin air, heading toward the outskirts of the Demon Beast Forest.n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om


    He, Xu Nian, had once said, "Offend Xu Nian by an inch and I''ll retaliate by a thousand miles," otherwise, he wouldn''t be called Xu Nian.


    At this very moment, far on the outskirts of the Demon Beast Forest, Qin Shan and his group could never have imagined that in just over a month, the roles of the hunter and the hunted had invisibly reversed.

 Chapter 46 Xu Nians Sword

    Outside the Demon Beast Forest, on an empty plot ofnd, four people were seated.


    These four individuals were none other than Qin Shan and his group.


    At this moment, their facial expressions clearly showed some urgency, as it was a great concern to them that they hadn''t caught Xu Nian after such a long time.


    "Big brother Qin Shan, do you think Xu Nian could have escaped, or was he eaten by a Demon Beast? Otherwise, why hasn''t hee out from the depths of the Demon Beast Forest for so long?" Qin Yu couldn''t help but ask.


    It had already been over two months, and his patience hadpletely worn thin, genuinely suspecting that Xu Nian might have been devoured by a Demon Beast.


    "Let''s wait a bit longer. Xu Nian''s duel with Ouyang Chengfeng is almost three months away, and if he still wants to prove himself against Ouyang Chengfeng, he will definitelye out from inside the Demon Beast Forest," Qin Shan said.


    Mentioning Xu Nian ignited a surge of anger in him, forst time, Xu Nian had tricked him terribly, and he had almost been killed by a Dark Demon Ape, a grudge that had been festering in his heart, growing angrier as time passed.


    "Hmph, if he dies inside a Demon Beast, it serves him right. If I catch him, I will definitely tear him limb from limb," Qin Lei coldly snorted.


    He and Qin Dian had been close friends since childhood; now that Qin Dian was killed by Xu Nian, his fury towards Xu Nian was imaginable.


    "Yes, I won''t let him off either. Originally, we four¡ªQin Yu, Qin Lei, Qin Dian, and I¡ªhad ns to make a name for ourselves together. Now that Qin Dian is dead, it''s like a p in the face to us," Qin Yu added, also coldly snorting, with killing intent evident in his eyes.


    Not just Qin Lei and Qin Yu, even Qin Feng''s eyes carried a hint of chill.


    "Are you looking for me?"


    At that moment, a frivolous voice suddenly sounded.


    "Xu Nian!"


    The four men quickly turned towards the direction of the voice and suddenly leaped up from the ground, their eyes zing with an intense gleam.


    "Does this kid really dare to show up? Is he seeking death?"


    "Quick, don''t let him escape!"


    Qin Shan and the others eximed in surprise and immediately surrounded Xu Nian, deeply afraid that Xu Nian would escape.


    Xu Nian, however, stood in ce with no intention of running, his lips curved in a mocking smile.


    "Haha, as they say, ''you avoid the way to heaven, yet you barge into Hell Non-Gate,'' Xu Nian. I didn''t expect you to walk right into my trap," Qin Leiughed heartily, looking at Xu Nian as if he were a sure catch, his eyes filled with amusement.


    Qin Feng and Qin Yu also looked on with a mocking expression, their faces full of triumph.


    Although Qin Shan was somewhat puzzled, thinking back to thest time when Xu Nian had deceived him made him stop pondering; anyway, this time, he wouldn''t let Xu Nian escape by any means.


    Xu Nian looked at the four people in front of him as if they were certain of their victory, his smile growing clearer as he said, "Do I look like someone who''s about to run? After being hunted tragically by you before, now it''s my turn. I give you three seconds to run¡ªit''s still not toote."


    Xu Nian''s words were arrogant and yful, yet none of Qin Feng and the others believed him.


    "Idiot, us run? I think you''re the one who''s going to die. Take this!" Qin Lei roared as he drew the Long Spear from behind him and immediately attacked Xu Nian.


    Xu Nian responded with a cold chuckle as his sword shed out of its sheath.


    The sword light shed, sending a burst of coldness.


    Then, everyone saw Qin Lei, along with his spear, getting sliced into two.


    "How...how fast that sword is!"


    Qin Lei''sst thought shed through his mind before he died on the spot, his head rolling to the ground, his face full of shock and disbelief.


    The people surrounding them were also instantly stunned, unable to react to the speed of that sword strike.


    They only saw a sh of cold light, and then Qin Lei was thoroughly dead on the spot.


    "You... you killed Qin Lei?" Qin Yu''s face was extremely agitated, filled with disbelief.


    Qin Lei and he were both Six-star Warriors. How could it be possible that Qin Lei couldn''t withstand a single move from Xu Nian?


    "This kid is tricky; let''s take him on together!" Qin Shan also noticed something amiss about Xu Nian and, with a great sense of foreboding, ordered an attack on Xu Nian.


    Three people charged at Xu Nian from three directions, their swords shing towards him.


    Upon seeing this, Xu Nian merely chuckled lightly, his gaze instantly sharp, as he executed Gale Dragon Step.


    "Swoosh!"


    Like a gust of wind blowing past, Xu Nian''s figure suddenly appeared right in front of Qin Yu.


    Qin Yu''s face paled in fright, his sword changing direction to strike at Xu Nian.


    "You move too slowly, thinking you can kill me like that? You''re too full of yourself." However, Xu Nian let out a coldugh, his de turning to directly sever the sword-wielding arm of Qin Yu.


    "Ah..." Qin Yu''s scream was utterly miserable as his arm was chopped off, blood spurting like a fountain.


    Qin Shan and Qin Feng, who had already charged over, also widened their eyes in disbelief upon seeing this scene.


    Xu Nian nced at Qin Feng and Qin Shan behind him, his lips curling into a slight smile. Without another look at Qin Yu, he swung his Xuan Iron Sword, cutting down Qin Yu.


    Blood sshed, and Qin Yu fell with intense reluctance.


    At that moment, in the eyes of Qin Shan and Qin Feng, Xu Nian seemed like a true Killing God.


    Effortlessly killing two men.n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om


    Even Qin Feng and Qin Shan were stunned.


    Xu Nian looked at the two remaining men and sneered coldly, "I already gave you a chance to run away; you didn''t cherish it. Whose fault can you me?"


    "Xu Nian, how could your strength have increased so rapidly?" Qin Shan asked with a furrowed brow.


    From the attack just now, Xu Nian''s strength was evidently no longer below his, and might even be above. This shocked him greatly.


    Just a month ago, Xu Nian was no match for him, yet now he had surpassed him.


    "Want to know? Come on, defeat me, and I''ll tell you. You want my adventure, don''t you? My strength increased so rapidly because of that adventure," Xu Nian said with a coldugh.


    "Adventure!" Qin Shan''s eyes immediately lit up, thinking that if he could get the same adventure that allowed Xu Nian to grow so quickly within a month, wouldn''t he be able to surpass Qin Tian?


    "Since you''re courting death, I''ll grant it to you." Xu Nian''s words tempted Qin Shan, who roared and charged to attack Xu Nian.


    Seeing this, Xu Nian''s lips curled into a faint smile as he muttered softly, "Ling Feng Thirteen Swords, the eleventh sword, Wind Song!"


    Buzz!


    At that moment, Qin Shan seemed to hear the melody of the wind by his ear, and the next moment, a sword light too fast for him to react crossed his neck.


    "How... How is this possible?" Qin Shan was shocked, his face filled with disbelief.


    Qin Feng stood by,pletely stunned, unable to utter a word.


    One sword!


    Just one sword had killed the Eight-star Warrior, Qin Shan.


    What the hell was Xu Nian''s strength?

 Chapter 47 Chen Yaos Determination

    Qin Shan''s murder hadpletely eroded Qin Feng''s confidence. Now, as he caught Xu Nian''s gaze, his eyes were filled with nothing but fear.


    However, after taking a nce at him, Xu Nian turned around and chuckled, "I won''t kill you!"


    Qin Feng was slightly startled, clearly not expecting Xu Nian to spare him.


    "Why... why not?" Qin Feng asked somewhat puzzled.


    "First, you never bullied me in the past, and second, I''m leaving you alive so you can deliver a message to the Qin Family," Xu Nian spoke seriously.


    "What message?" Qin Feng instinctively inquired.


    "I want you to tell the Family Head Qin that if a single hair on my mother''s head is missing, the day I, Xu Nian, knock on their door will be the day the Qin Family is annihted," Xu Nian said, word by word.


    Qin Feng''s body jolted violently, a strong chill shooting up his spine to the top of his skull.


    What a domineering statement about annihting the Qin Family.


    Had it been anyone else, Qin Feng would have scoffed at their arrogance, but for some reason, he felt it was only naturaling from the young man before him.


    When Qin Feng looked at the young man again, he found that he had disappeared without a trace. ncing at the corpses of his threepanions lying beside him, his heart was flooded with a myriad of emotions.


    Five of them had set out to kill one person, confident of victory, but now it seemed that they had lost miserably.


    ...


    Shortly after leaving Qin Feng, Xu Nian stopped in his tracks, for someone had blocked his path.


    This person was none other than the woman he had seen by the waterfall that day.


    At this moment, the woman was ring at Xu Nian with fury, obviously having waited for him for a long time.


    "Uh... sorry!" Xu Nian stammered, looking at the angry and delicate face before him, at a loss for what to say.


    After all, he was in the wrong; he had stolen someone else''s clothes and seen her naked body.


    "Is sorry supposed to be enough? You scoundrel, I''m going to kill you today," the stunning woman huffed coldly, and then a sharp sword appeared in her hand and she lunged at Xu Nian.


    Xu Nian was shocked and hastily dodged.


    The woman''s sword was incredibly fast; with a single sh, the sword radiance was fierce, making Xu Nian''s scalp tingle.


    At the Silver Moon Battle Sect Level, Spiritual Energy can leave the body, so right now the woman''s Sword Radiance followed one after another, forcing Xu Nian to flee desperately.


    "Beauty, listen to me, I really didn''t mean to, yes, I shouldn''t have stolen your things, but I had no choice," Xu Nian pleaded while running for his life, desperately trying to exin.


    "Hmph, so you peeking at me taking a bath was also unintentional? And you wanted to steal my clothes too? I''ve seen many scoundrels like you, always trying to wriggle out of it," the woman didn''t listen to Xu Nian''s exnation at all, her sword sending out relentless streaks of radiance, determined to cut Xu Nian down.


    Anger welled up in Xu Nian''s heart. Even though he was in the wrong, the woman''s unforgiving attitude still infuriated him.


    "Don''t push it too far. I''ve said I''ll make it up to you. If you refuse to cease this, then don''t me me for being rude," Xu Nian retorted coldly.


    "Hmph, rude? What makes you think you have the right to be rude? If you can defeat me today, then I, Chen Yao, might as well give in to you," the beautiful woman scoffed disdainfully.


    "Those are your words," Xu Nian''s pride surged.


    The woman before him was incredibly arrogant, looking down on him so much. Well, it was time to let her witness his abilities.


    "Xu Yu,e out!"


    Xu Nian let out a loud shout within his heart, and then a high-pitched cry rang directly from the sky.


    At this moment, Xu Yu had fully ascended to the Silver Moon Battle Sect Level, his feathers pitch-ck and glossy, and his size had grown considerably again.


    "A Silver Moon Level Demon Beast?"n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om


    Chen Yao''s face also showed astonishment when she saw the ck eagle.


    But she had no time to hesitate as the ck eagle was already swooping towards her swiftly.


    Chen Yao''s eyes hardened, and she immediately swung her sword towards the ck eagle. With one sh, a fierce Sword Radiance instantly streaked across the sky, aiming for the ck eagle.


    However, the ck eagle did not dodge or evade, and simply blocked Chen Yao''s Sword Radiance with its wings.


    "How is this possible?" Chen Yao''s eyes widened in disbelief.


    But just then, a figure suddenly shot out from the ck eagle, pinning her beneath him.


    The figure''s arrival was too sudden, and even Chen Yao could not react in time, so she, along with her sword, was knocked to the ground.


    Xu Nian pinned down Chen Yao, feeling the soft and slender body beneath him, and a restlessness surged within his heart.


    Fortunately, he didn''t lose his reason and quickly drew his long sword, pointing it at the beauty''s neck beneath him.


    Chen Yao never imagined she would end up pinned beneath this young man, the ambiguous posture and bodily contact making her face flush with embarrassment.


    "What do you say? Do you submit now?" Xu Nian asked with a cold smile as he looked at the beauty beneath him.


    Admittedly, he was no match for Chen Yao, but with Xu Yu by his side, teaming up to deal with her was much easier.


    "Hmph, you can kill or skin me, as you wish. However, if you kill me, you won''t survive either." Chen Yao red at Xu Nian with unyielding eyes, still unwilling to concede.


    Xu Nian''s head ached; this girl was truly stubborn.


    He felt no choice but to say, "Actually, I didn''t mean to steal your clothes on purpose. Here, I''m returning your Hundred Treasure Bag, but the Jade Dragon Marrow inside has been used by me. If I ever have the chance in the future, I will definitely repay you."


    After speaking, Xu Nian took the Hundred Treasure Bag from his waist and ced it beside Chen Yao.


    Chen Yao wore aplex expression, her face a mix of emotions.


    Seeing this, Xu Nian instantly breathed a sigh of relief.


    However, Chen Yao''s next words left Xu Nian nearly choking.


    "I, Chen Yao, keep my word. You''ve won against me, so I am at your mercy. Whatever you wish to do with me, just proceed," Chen Yao dered with a resolute glint in her eyes, and tightly closed them.


    Xu Nian was stunned, he really hadn''t expected the woman before him to be so true to her promise.


    But as he saw Chen Yao''s trembling eyshes, he knew just how conflicted and frightened the woman before him was. He feared that if he truly did something to her now, she would lose all will to live afterward.


    Enough, enough!


    Suppressing the impulse in his heart, Xu Nian pinched her face fiercely before rising to his feet.


    Chen Yao had waited with trepidation, not expecting to be pinched on the face by Xu Nian. She opened her eyes in disbelief, only to find that Xu Nian had already risen and leapt onto the back of the eagle, soaring away.


    Chen Yao watched the young man sitting on the back of the mighty eagle, her eyes filled withplicated emotions.


    Yes, she had been braced for death a moment ago.


    If Xu Nian had indeed touched her, she was absolutely determined to take both of them to their doom in the final moment of their bliss.

 Chapter 48 The Arrogant Lin Feng

    Time flew by, and Xu Nian had been back at Qinglin Academy for five days, and in another three days, it would be the day of his life-and-death tform battle with Ouyang Chengfeng.


    During these five days, Xu Nian had been in his small courtyard, studying the Gale Sword Technique.


    However, he had not yet mastered the Gale Sword Technique to a proficient level; it was indeed too profound.


    As Xu Nian walked on the small paths of Qinglin Academy, the people around him all pointed and murmured.


    Obviously, the day of his decisive battle with Ouyang Chengfeng was fast approaching, and the news had spread throughout the entire academy, with all the students discussing the matter.


    Xu Nian, however, was unfazed by this. With his current strength, it was not difficult to confront Ouyang Chengfeng, but defeating him would not be easy either. Of course, there were still three days left, and the oue was an unknown.


    "Yo, isn''t this Junior Brother Xu Nian? After three months of seclusion, you''ve finally deigned to emerge?"


    Just then, a frivolous voice rang out, and everyone around turned to look in their direction, pointing and whispering.


    Xu Nian turned to look at the neer, who was none other than Lin Feng, the one he had carried out a mission with.


    Since few knew of Xu Nian''s venture into the Demon Beast Forest, people at the academy believed that he had been in closed-door cultivation this whole time. Seeing Lin Feng approaching Xu Nian now, everyone showed a keen interest in the ensuing drama.


    Lin Feng had now donned the purple academy robe of a high-level student, clearly indicating that he had broken through from a four-star warrior to a five-star warrior in this period and had sessfully ascended to the ranks of the high-level students.


    Xu Nian, however, hadn''t filed for a rank advancement, so he still wore the green robe of a basic-level student at the academy. Seeing Lin Feng approach, he knew he was intentionally looking for trouble over the incident when Xu Nian had yed a trick on him.


    "How about it, Junior Brother Xu Nian, three days from now is your life-or-death battle with Brother Ouyang. Are you confident?" Lin Feng walked up to Xu Nian and asked with a light chuckle.


    Seeing Xu Nian still in the green robe of a basic-level student, the ridicule in Lin Feng''s eyes grew even stronger.


    Xu Nian, unconcerned with Lin Feng''s arrogant demeanor, replied indifferently, "There''s no need for you to worry about that, Brother Lin Feng. Just enjoy the battle when the timees." To him, Lin Feng was now no more than an ant that could be crushed with ease.


    However, Lin Fengcked this self-awareness and continued to mock, "Oh, so confident? It seems that Junior Brother Xu Nian has already broken through to be a Star Warrior. Why not go to the academy and apply to be a mid-level student then?"


    The surrounding people whispered among themselves, clearly aware that Lin Feng was ridiculing Xu Nian, mocking that he probably hadn''t broken through to the Star Realm yet.


    Even if he had broken through to the Star Realm, how could hepare to Ouyang Chengfeng? It was impossible for him to defeat Ouyang Chengfeng.


    Xu Nian obviously understood Lin Feng''s intentions and said with a lightugh, "Thank you for your concern, Brother Lin Feng, but these things are secondary. True strength is what matters. Being skilled with words is useless, don''t you agree, Brother Lin Feng?"


    Lin Feng''s face immediately turned cold; Xu Nian was obviously showing off. This made him recall how Xu Nian had tricked him in the Demon Beast Forest, and anger surged in his heart.


    "Hmph, Xu Nian, don''t refuse the face I''m giving you. I''ll see how you die at Ouyang Chengfeng''s hands in three days. Don''t say I didn''t warn you, Ouyang Chengfeng broke through to a nine-star warrior a month ago. You dreaming of winning against him is just that, a dream."


    "A nine-star warrior, is it? Just as I thought!" Xu Nian paused, reflecting that Ouyang Chengfeng had indeed reached the nine-star warrior realm as he had anticipated.


    Lin Feng thought Xu Nian had be afraid and continued to taunt, "Haha, it seems you know fear after all, but it''s toote to regret now. Who asked you to be so arrogant, daring to challenge Ouyang Chengfeng to a fight? The Ouyang Family has already spread the news. Not only will theye, but so will all the reputable powers in the vicinity, including the Qin Family that cast you out. Even if you wanted to run now, you couldn''t escape."


    Lin Feng burst intoughter, looking at Xu Nian with an expression that screamed ''you''re as good as dead.''


    The people around became even more heated in their discussions, clearly, they had also heard about the event. In three days'' time, the confrontation between Xu Nian and Ouyang Chengfeng would attract many powers. Led by the Ouyang Family, these forces would descend upon Qinglin Academy, and even the Academy would be unable to suppress the situation.


    Xu Nian was astonished in his heart; he had not expected the matter to escte so greatly.


    "Interesting? Truly interesting. The Ouyang Family wants to use me to establish their power in front of all these forces. But I''m afraid they''ll end up losing even more miserably," Xu Nian said, the corner of his mouth revealing a light smile, his gaze bing yful.


    Seeing Xu Nian actually smiling, Lin Feng waspletely taken aback, his brows furrowing at once.


    In his view, Xu Nian should be showing a look of panic and horror, so why would he smile?


    Right then, Xu Nian turned his gaze toward Lin Feng, still wearing that faint smile.


    The people around also saw this and wore puzzled expressions.


    "Hmph, you''re still smiling at death''s door, Xu Nian. I think you''re tired of living," Lin Feng felt somewhat intimidated by Xu Nian''s gaze and immediately snorted coldly to boost his own morale.


    However, Xu Nian approached Lin Feng with a smile, his eyes gleaming with mischief.


    Lin Feng instinctively took a step back; he couldn''t fathom why, but he felt that Xu Nian''s presence was like a fierce tiger at this moment,pelling a fear within him.


    "Senior Brother Lin Feng, thank you for telling me all this. In three days, you will witness a most spectacr fight," Xu Nian said, patting Lin Feng''s cheek with a smile, then brushed past him, leaving him behind.


    Lin Feng was dumbfounded, and so were the people around.


    Xu Nian had actually patted his cheek with his hand. What was this?


    This was a downright humiliation. How could he have not resisted just now?n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om


    Lin Feng roared inwardly, yet as he was about to yell for Xu Nian to stop, he found that Xu Nian, now several meters away, suddenly turned back, and that piercing gaze made his heart shudder, and the anger that was about to erupt vanished in an instant.


    By the time Lin Feng came to his senses, he found that Xu Nian had already walked away, and the people around were all pointing at him, talking among themselves.


    Lin Feng''s face turned livid; he knew the surrounding people were mocking him, sneering that he was scared stiff by a basic-level student, aplete loss of face for him.


    "Xu Nian, you just wait. I want to see how arrogant you can be in three days," Lin Feng bellowed, his rage surging like a turbulent river.


    The distant Xu Nian heard these words and his mouth curved into a slight grin; he clenched his fist and continued walking.


    In three days, he would let everyone know that he, Xu Nian, would be the Ouyang Family''s nightmare!

 Chapter 49 The Feast Arrives

    The sky was full of stars as Xu Nian continuously executed the sword moves of the "Gale Sword Technique" in the courtyard.


    Under the illumination of the moonlight, the sword light kept flickering, like dancing spirit snakes.


    The main secret of the Gale Sword Technique lies in a single word: "swift."


    The sword must be fast, so fast that it forms afterimages.


    Three afterimages are considered entry-level, reaching six afterimages is proficient, and nine afterimages would mean mastery.


    When the afterimages reach twelveyers, it is the time when the Gale Sword Technique reaches the Subtle Realm.


    At present, even with all his might, Xu Nian could only disy three afterimages and could not manage to disy the fourth.


    ording to Emperor Ye Tian, the time when Xu Nian couldbine twelve afterimages into one would be the moment when the "Gale Sword Technique" truly achieved Divine Transformation.


    However, forming twelve afterimages was easier said than done, even the fourth afterimage already baffled Xu Nian.


    It is worth noting that the original "Gale Sword Technique" could only disy five afterimages. Forming an afterimage was already considered entry-level; two afterimages signified proficiency, three afterimages were considered mastery, four afterimages reached the Subtle Realm, and five afterimages meant Divine Transformation.


    Xu Nian, able to practice three afterimages in just a month, had already matched what others would achieve in a year of hard training.


    Yet, Xu Nian was not satisfied; he had to reach the proficient stage of the Gale Sword Technique within these three days so that he would have a greater chance of winning on the Life and Death tform.


    His Xuan Iron Sword continuously swung in his hand, one stroke after another, the sword light dazzling to the eyes.


    Below, his feet performed the Gale Dragon Step, moving like a dragon and a snake, constantly changing, making his form elusive.


    "Buzz!"


    Xu Nian struck a nearby wooden post with his sword, and with a scraping sound, he left three deep sword marks and one shallow sword mark on the post.


    One stroke better than four¡ªthis was the formidable aspect of the Gale Sword Technique.


    Xu Nian looked at the four sword marks on the post, gasping for air, an expression of disappointment enveloping his heart.


    Now, he could only barely manage the fourth afterimage; such shallow sword marks had virtually no offensive effect.


    "Kid, your swordsmanship is really too lousy. Having trained for so long and still not reaching the proficient stage, you''re losing face for me," stated the figure of Emperor Ye Tian, appearing in front of Xu Nian with a stern face.


    Xu Nian could only offer a bitter smile.


    Compared to other disciples, his speed was already incredibly outstanding, but in the eyes of Emperor Ye Tian, Xu Nian''sprehension was just mediocre.


    However, Xu Nian knew that with the high standards of Emperor Ye Tian, having seen many more talented individuals than him, it was normal that he did not catch his eye.


    Of course, he was not disheartened; he believed that one day, he would make Emperor Ye Tian look at him with new respect.


    "Kid, give me your sword. I''ll demonstrate this sword technique for you, but I''ll only do it once. How much you canprehend depends on your own understanding," Emperor Ye Tian suddenly said.


    Xu Nian was taken aback for a moment, then overjoyed; without any hesitation, he tossed his Xuan Iron Sword over.


    Although Emperor Ye Tian was not truly flesh and blood, her Divine Soul was advanced enough that she could still pick up the long sword like a real person.


    "Buzz!"


    As soon as the Xuan Iron Sword reached Emperor Ye Tian''s hands, Xu Nian felt that the sword had changed.


    Following that, Emperor Ye Tian began to move, and in an instant, the sound of the sword rang out, with countless sword shadows, and the sword light became dazzling under the moonlight.


    At that moment, Emperor Ye Tian''s figure also transformed, as if suddenly dozens or hundreds of Emperor Ye Tians appeared in the courtyard, each Emperor Ye Tian brandishing a sword, each de producing hundreds or thousands of sword shadows, yet it seemed like only one sword.


    Xu Nian was stunned. Was this still the Gale Sword Technique that he had cultivated?


    Why could Emperor Ye Tian wield such miraculous power with it?


    Xu Nian couldn''t help but close his eyes, striving to recall every move Emperor Ye Tian had made.N?v(el)B\\jnn


    Gradually, Xu Nian seemed to enter a certain state, and in his mind, the small courtyard disappeared instantly, all the trees and rocks vanished as well, and even the heavens and the earth ceased to exist at that moment; all he could see were Emperor Ye Tian and his sword-dancing figure.


    Every move, every detail of Emperor Ye Tian, was observed by him meticulously.


    In this way, Xu Nian immersed himself repeatedly.


    Beside him, Emperor Ye Tian had already ced the sword next to Xu Nian''s feet and watched Xu Nian falling into a certain state without speaking out.


    Because she knew, this state was called enlightenment, and the longer itsted, the better it was for him, so she wanted to see what exactly Xu Nian would realize.


    After an unknown amount of time had passed, Xu Nian, who had been standing still, suddenly opened his eyes and grabbed the Xuan Iron Sword beside him, starting to dance with it.


    The sword sang like a phoenix, and the sword qi surged, creating a gale throughout the courtyard.


    And the sword in Xu Nian''s hands started moving too, the long sword swaying, splitting into nine, forming nine trails of Sword Intent, each sword shadow exceptionally clear, fierce, and rapid.


    "ng!"


    The Xuan Iron Sword shed past a stone post, leaving nine three-inch deep ravines on it.


    Xu Nian, seeing this scene, immediately rejoiced and said that it was like sword traces, meaning he had skipped the proficient level directly to the master level, and the next step would be Subtle Realm.


    And the power of this one sword was also three times greater than before, with nine sword shadows ovepping, creating tremendous power.


    "Not bad, barely eptable!" Emperor Ye Tian''s voice sounded from the side.


    Hearing this, a more brilliant smile appeared on Xu Nian''s face.


    Getting praise from Emperor Ye Tian was incredibly difficult, and for her to speak such words now was already quite a feat, which meant he really had done very well.


    Now that the "Gale Sword Technique" had reached the mastery level, it was time to absorb the Fiery me Demon Tiger''s Demon Crystal.


    Currently, his Spiritual Cultivation was that of a Six-star Warrior, and after this Cultivation session, there would probably be a rapid improvement, and his cultivation would shock the entire Academy.


    "Hum!"


    Thinking this, Xu Nian no longer hesitated, took out the Fiery me Demon Tiger''s Crystal Core, and began to absorb it.


    Although he had returned the Hundred Treasure Bag to Lin Yao, he had kept the Fiery me Demon Tiger''s Crystal Core, so now, absorbing the power of the Demon Beast Crystal Core also expanded the Dan Sea in his Dantian bit by bit.


    Time swiftly moved on to the morning of the third day, and the entire Academy suddenly burst into excitement, everyone flocking to the Life and Death tform.


    And at that moment, the Academy attracted various powers, and important figures from surrounding cities arrived one after another, including the Ouyang Family, Qin Family, and the Tianhai City Lord, among others, who were usually awe-inspiring powers that rushed to Qinglin Academy.

 Chapter 50 Gathering of Storms

    Qinglin Academy, on the spectator stands of the Life and Death tform, over a thousand people had already gathered, with the number still increasing.


    In the very center of these stands, there sat a dozen or so figures, who were the leaders of various factions.


    Sitting among them was Chen Hong, the person in charge of Spirit Academy at Qinglin Academy, an old man both wise and valiant, with white hair and sharp eyes. He often burst into heartyughter while talking with the people around him.


    To his left was Murong Tianhai, the City Lord of Tianhai City, a very dignified and vigorous middle-aged man, who carried an aura ofmanding authority without showing anger.


    To the right of Chen Hong was Family Head Ouyang, Ouyang Tian, also the father of Ouyang Chengfeng. He had a handsome face but with a hint of coldness, especially his sometimes slightly narrowed eyes which gave him a cunning look.


    Lastly, to his right was Family Head Qin, Qin Yuanshan, who at this moment had a very ufortable expression. He dared not make it too obvious, and the surrounding conversations made his face turn even more ashen.


    "Haha, Family Head Ouyang, your Ouyang Family has truly produced a genius. Being so young and already promoted to the Azure Dragon List of Qinglin Academy, he also possesses Emperor Level talent. His future is boundless!" a family head said with augh.


    "Yes, I also heard that your distinguished son has broken through again recently, reaching the Peak of Star Realm. He will soon graduate from Qinglin Academy and entering the Battle Mansion is almost a done deal. Once Young Master Ouyang secures his position in the Battle Mansion, the Ouyang Family is likely to ascend another level," another family head said, ttering with a smile.


    "Haha, you all tter him too much. My son merely has good luck and decent talent, plus he''s willing to make an effort. It''s natural for him to achieve some results. But still, people look down on him, otherwise why would someone dare to challenge him to a duel to the death on this Life and Death tform?" Ouyang Tianughed heartily, and did not forget to nce at Qin Yuanshan while speaking.


    Seeing this, the people around all looked meaningfully at Qin Yuanshan.


    Qin Yuanshan forced a bitter smile and addressed the crowd, "Family Head Ouyang, it''s my fault for not disciplining him well. In a moment, I''ll have that rebellious son apologize to your distinguished son directly. If you still feel unsatisfied, I''ll tie him up and deliver him to the Ouyang Family for Brother Ouyang to deal with."


    "No, Brother Qin, doing so would make the Ouyang Family lose face. People would say we bully the weak and forced the Qin Family into submission. It would also look bad for Chengfeng, as people would say he can''t take a loss. Are you trying to harm us?" Ouyang Tian said with a coldugh.


    "Yes, yes, you''re right; I didn''t think it through. So, Brother Ouyang, what do you suggest?" Qin Yuanshan asked with a smile.


    "Since they have already agreed to a life-and-death duel, let them sort it out by themselves. We should not get involved. The children have their ways of resolving things. As for the oue, it depends on their own abilities. We definitely won''t hold the other party ountable afterwards. What do you think, Brother Qin?" Ouyang Tian asked coldly with a smile.


    "Okay, let them resolve it themselves. We absolutely will not intervene. Besides, based on my son''s cultivation, he''s no match for Nephew Ouyang at all. Even if Nephew Ouyang really ends up killing him, our Qin Family will absolutely not have anyints," Qin Yuanshan said with a smile.


    Upon hearing this, Ouyang Tian burst intoughter.


    The surrounding people also whispered among themselves, clearly remarking on how ruthless Qin Yuanshan was, to not even care about his own flesh and blood.


    Chen Hong, who had been observing all this, did not express any stance. Although he also believed that Xu Nian was no match for Ouyang Chengfeng, Qin Yuanshan''s attitude made him very displeased.


    A father who didn''t care about his son''s life and death, even seeming to wish for his son to be killed, left a very negative impression in his mind about Qin Yuanshan.


    "Family Head Qin, I''ve heard that you drove Xu Nian out of the family and even crippled his Dantian. Is that true?" Chen Hong thought for a moment before finally asking.


    "Yes, that rebel vited our n rules and naturally had to be punished. Thus, I drove him out, and no one expected that he would immediately offend Young Master Ouyang," Qin Yuanshan said hastily.


    "So, since you''ve already driven Xu Nian out, what right do you have to make decisions for him?" Chen Hong asked with a smile.


    Qin Yuanshan was stunned on the spot, his face turning from green to white, not expecting Chen Hong to take Xu Nian''s side.


    Ouyang Tian also furrowed his brows slightly, clearly dissatisfied with Chen Hong speaking up for Xu Nian at this moment.


    Seeing Qin Yuanshan at a loss, Chen Hong smiled and did not say anything more; he simply could not stand Qin Yuanshan''s hypocrisy¡ªa man who could abandon his own son was contemptible no matter how powerful he was.


    ¡­


    In a corner of the spectator stand, two men and a woman, all young, stood.


    The woman was stunningly beautiful, with a graceful figure and enchanting allure; every smile and frown carried an effortless seductiveness¡ªshe was the epitome of allure without frailty.


    The two men were also handsome and spirited, with well-proportioned and lean bodies, clearly extraordinary individuals.


    Their appearance caused a stir among the surrounding people, whose looks were filled with admiration and awe.


    Indeed, these young men were Yuu Fei and Lin Xifeng, ranked fifth and fourth on the Azure Dragon List, respectively, and the charming woman was Yun Lan, second on the Azure Dragon List.N?v(el)B\\jnn


    "What''s so interesting about this duel, a Basic-level student could never be a match for Ouyang Chengfeng. The opening day of Jade Cave Heaven is almost upon us, and you still find time toe here for entertainment," Yuu Fei disdainfully said.


    However, Lin Xifeng smiled and replied, "I find it quite interesting. A Basic-level student daring to challenge a High-level student, and not just any High-level student but Ouyang Chengfeng, who is tenth on the Azure Dragon List. Don''t you find that curious?"


    "Pfft, what''s there to be curious about? Let alone a Basic-level student¡ªOuyang Chengfeng himself is far behind us. Even if he has now advanced to a Nine-star Warrior, he is still only a three-move opponent in my eyes. You should know that we could have broken through to Silver Moon Battle Sect long ago, but we deliberately suppressed our breakthrough," Yuu Fei said with scorn.


    "You''re wrong there. Ouyang Chengfeng is only twenty years old after all, and his potential is limitless. It''s said he''s still hiding his true strength. I actually want to take this opportunity to see how strong he really is," Lin Xifeng said with a smile.


    Yuu Fei remained dismissive, believing that Ouyang Chengfeng, even with hidden strength, was still no match for them.


    "As much as you talk about Ouyang Chengfeng, I''m actually more interested in this Xu Nian guy. A Basic-level student challenging a high-ranking figure on the Azure Dragon List must be a first in the Academy''s history!" Yun Lan said with a seductive smile.


    Her beguiling smile caused the male students around them to pause, their expressions turning to infatuation.

 Chapter 51 The Show Begins

    Lin Xifeng nodded in agreement, curious about what set Xu Nian apart.


    But Yuu Fei at his side was dismissive, with a look that said, ''prepare to be disappointed.''


    "Quick, look, Chengfeng is here!"


    Just then, an exmation arose from the crowd, and suddenly the stands became abuzz.


    Especially the female students, each one''s face lit up with excitement, staring at Chengfeng like infatuated fans.


    Within Qinglin Academy, Chengfeng was a figure that created quite the storm, not only because he was tenth on the Azure Dragon List, but also because he was first on the Hidden Dragon List.


    Being just twenty, he had already reached the peak of the Star Realm, a true genius.


    With such talent, it was no wonder the female students idolized him, not to mention Chengfeng''s decent appearance, which naturally caused a sensation as soon as he appeared.


    "s, who do you think will win this duel?" a Spiritual Academy disciple couldn''t help but ask.


    "Isn''t that obvious? It''s certainly Chengfeng. How could a Seven-star warrior hope to defeat Chengfeng, a Nine-star Warrior, in just three months? Impossible," a female student immediately retorted.


    Her words quickly led to a chorus of nods around her, clearly sharing the same sentiment.


    "Perhaps a miracle could happen. I''ve heard this Xu Nian is also exceptional," another female student chimed in with a sliver of hope.


    However, the crowd around her just shook their heads in disbelief.


    ...


    Chengfeng stood on the battle tform, looking at the crowded spectators'' stands, a slight smirk appearing on his lips.


    He had never taken this fight seriously; to him, Xu Nian was no more than a non-issue.


    This duel was only going to solidify his standing at the Academy, and Xu Nian would ultimately fall to his sword.


    Time ticked by, and still, Xu Nian didn''t appear.


    "Could this guy be too scared to show up?"


    "I think so. Showing up would be a dead end for him; likely, he''s too frightened to even appear."


    The spectators began to specte, convinced Xu Nian was too frightened to make an entrance.


    Standing amongst the crowd, Lin Feng, witnessing this scene, couldn''t hide a hint of scorn in his eyes.


    Just three days ago, Xu Nian was boasting in front of him, and now he was too scared to show up, which filled him with contempt.


    "Hmph, after today, even if you dodge this bullet, you won''t be able to hold your head up in Qinglin Academy. Then I''d like to see how you''d have the face to stay," sneered Lin Feng, picturing Xu Nian beneath everyone''s derisive gaze.


    On the side, Yun Lan watched Yuu Fei smirk proudly at hispanions, "Didn''t you say you were rooting for him? Heh, now he''s too scared to evene. Let''s go back, so we don''t waste more time."


    Lin Xifeng and Yun Lan both frowned slightly, seemingly surprised by this oue.


    The same scene unfolded in the VIP stands.


    "Brother Qin, your son seems to have gotten cold feet, quite aware of the need to stay alive," Ouyang Tian sneered at Qin Yuanshan.


    Qin Yuanshan could only offer an awkward smile, but a glint of cold light shed deep in his eyes. Xu Nian''s absence not only left the Qin family''s grudge with the Ouyang Family unresolved, but their family''s reputation was also lost, which ignited a fierce killing intent within him.


    Spiritual Academy Dean Chen Hong also sighed and shook his head. He had nned to intervene for Xu Nian''s sake, regardless of the oue, but now he felt a strong sense of disappointment.


    "Not daring toe? How boring!" Chengfeng, standing in the center of the battle tform, sneered before preparing to leave.n/?/vel/b//jn dot c//om


    However, just at that moment, a voice broke through the noise, bringing the surrounding discussions to an abrupt halt.


    "Sorry everyone, I''mte. I was held up after making a trip to thetrine," Xu Nian said as he approached from a distance, his voice ringing through the air mixed with Spiritual Energy.


    Those around were left dumbfounded.


    Held up by a trip to thetrine?


    It''s a life-and-death battle, and you''ve got the nerve to take a dump?


    Aren''t you a little too rxed?


    Yun Lan, sitting in the spectator''s stand, couldn''t help butugh at Xu Nian''s words, "This kid is interesting; he doesn''t seem the least bit nervous by the looks of it."


    "Hmph, I think he''s just trying to get attention. He doesn''t realize death is knocking at his door," Yu Fei said disdainfully.


    Lin Xifeng didn''t share his opinion; instead, he eyed Xu Nian closely, trying to see through him. However, he found Xu Nian to look quite ordinary, with nothing particrly special about him.


    Ouyang Chengfeng also stopped in his tracks to stare at the approaching Xu Nian, a sh of Killing Intent shining in his eyes.


    Xu Nian deliberately nced in the direction of the central stand, and when he saw that familiar figure sitting high upon the tform, his eyebrows instinctively furrowed.


    But the moment he met the other''s cold gaze, his eyebrows smoothed out again, and a light smile yed upon his lips.


    Still the same cold and heartless Family Head Qin!


    Xu Nian sneered inwardly. Since that was the case, he would show everyone just how foolish the Qin Family''s decision had been.


    "Xu Nian, I didn''t think you''d dare to show up; I thought you''d be too scared toe," said Ouyang Chengfeng, d in a purple Academy robe that rustled attractively in the breeze.


    Xu Nian, in his usual white Academy robe, looked at Ouyang Chengfeng and smiled, "Why wouldn''t Ie? For me, this is a battle I''m bound to win. What do I have to worry about?"


    At his words, the audience erupted in surprise.


    Bound to win?


    Xu Nian sure is unbearably arrogant¡ªdespite the situation, he still dares to boast so wildly.


    Ouyang Chengfeng also smiled, but his smile contained a hint of anger as he looked at Xu Nian, "Oh? Are you really that confident you can defeat me?"


    "No, I''m not just confident about defeating you, I''m confident about killing you," Xu Nian replied with a smile, his eyes gleaming with determination.


    Ouyang Chengfeng''s eyes narrowed instantly, filled with brewing Killing Intent.


    Three months ago, this kid before him had no chance to fight back, and he didn''t believe that in just these three months, the kid could surpass him.


    "I was thinking that if you begged for mercy, perhaps I''d spare your life in the end. But since you''re so ignorant, you can go to hell!" Ouyang Chengfeng snorted coldly, and the aura of a Nine-star Warrior was released without reservation.


    The air surged, his robes billowed, and his figure stood proud like a Long Spear pointing to the heavens.


    This scene elicited excited cheers from the female students in the stands, awakening their admiration.


    Xu Nian just smiled, stepping forward his own aura suddenly burst forth explosively!


    A sudden gust wrapped around Xu Nian, his formidable presence not the least bit inferior to Ouyang Chengfeng''s and even faintly surpassing it.


    "Eight... Eight-star Warrior?"


    Everyone in the stands was stupefied.


    Even Chen Hong, seated at the center of the tform, stood up abruptly, his expression both shocked and excited.

 Chapter 52 Youre Not Worthy of My Drawing the Sword

    "No... impossible, how could this be possible?" Lin Feng stood among the audience, his face nk, refusing to believe that everything before his eyes was real.


    However, the aura emanating from Xu Nian at the moment was indeed real, striking his heart like a heavy hammer, deeply affecting him.


    "Interesting, more and more interesting," Yun Lan said with a seductive and enchanting smile as she watched Xu Nian surrounded by gusting winds. "It''s said that he was a Seven-star Warrior three months ago, wasn''t he?"


    "Yes, indeed a Seven-star Warrior. To advance such a great realm in three months is truly unexpected!" Chen Xifeng also remarked with a sense of wonder.


    Yuu Fei furrowed his eyebrows tightly, unusually not showing his scornful expression.


    On the high tform, Ouyang Tian''s eyebrows were tightly locked, and he red fiercely at Qin Yuanshan beside him.


    Qin Yuanshan gave a forced smile, where a hint of chill also passed through the depths of his eyes as he looked at Xu Nian, feeling both shocked and displeased.


    Originally, he had sent Qin Shan and others to chase and kill Xu Nian, hoping to solve a future problem for the Qin Family. But unexpectedly, only Qin Feng returned. At that time, he did not take Qin Feng''s words seriously, thinking they were just excuses. But now, it seemed that it might really be as Qin Feng had described.


    But if that were the case, the speed of this traitor''s growth was terrifying!


    "No, he must not be allowed to live; otherwise, my Qin Family will face great disaster," Qin Yuanshan''s eyes darkened to the extreme, his killing intent hadpletely arisen at this moment.


    He knew that there was no possibility to redeem Xu Nian now, so to eliminate future troubles, he must kill Xu Nian.


    Ouyang Cheng Feng was also surprised as he nced toward Xu Nian, his eyebrows suddenly knitted together, obviously not expecting Xu Nian''s cultivation to improve so rapidly.


    But soon his eyebrows rxed, and killing intent burst forth in his eyes.


    Only at this moment did he feel the threat that Xu Nian posed to him, and he absolutely would not allow Xu Nian to live any longer.


    Xu Nian, sensing Ouyang Cheng Feng''s cold killing intent, showed a slight smirk at the corner of his mouth, and then under everyone''s watchful eyes, he made a disdainful gesture toward Ouyang Cheng Feng.N?v(el)B\\jnn


    "Seeking death!" Ouyang Cheng Feng bellowed in rage, with a roar, he lunged to kill.


    One could see Ouyang Cheng Feng''s ws formed, spiritual energy surged, and purple spiritual energy instantly gathered in his palms, making his ws extremely vicious and sharp.


    "Is this the Xuan Level Low Gradebat skill, Xuanyin Bone w?"


    Someone in the stands immediately recognized thebat skill Ouyang Cheng Feng was using and couldn''t help but exim.


    The crowd, hearing this, showed surprised expressions as Ouyang Cheng Feng used hisbat skills right from the start, indicating his clear intention to kill Xu Nian.


    However, Xu Nian stood still, motionless, as if he was indifferent to Ouyang Cheng Feng''s attack.


    "Whoosh!"


    Ouyang Cheng Feng''s figure shed, and he was immediately in front of Xu Nian. His fierce bone ws reached straight for Xu Nian''s heart, covered with a cold spiritual energy that, if it broke through, would cause pain from the invasion of this energy.


    Just at thest moment, Xu Nian finally moved, his lips curling into a slight smile. Without the slightest dodge, he threw a punch directly.


    Xu Nian''s punch was incredibly swift, hitting Ouyang Cheng Feng straight in the chest.


    Striking after the opponent, before Ouyang Cheng Feng''s bone ws could even touch Xu Nian''s clothes, he was blown away by this punch.


    The surrounding crowd gasped in shock at this scene, clearly beyond all their expectations.


    "Too slow, and you still dream of killing me!" Xu Nian chuckled lightly, then stepped forward, his figure startlingly pursuing further.


    The crowd was again in an uproar as Xu Nian actually called Ouyang Cheng Feng''s movements slow.


    Oh Lord!


    "This is defying the heavens!"


    Yet, the next scene further shocked their minds and elerated their heartbeats.


    Just then, Xu Nian''s figure, like a gust of wind, instantly caught up with the backward-flying Ouyang Chengfeng. His torso tensed like Mystical Skill, powerful as a thousand jun, a knee strike fiercelynding on Ouyang Chengfeng''s abdomen.


    "Puh!"


    Blood spurted wildly from Ouyang Chengfeng''s mouth, his face showing shock.


    The surrounding crowd subconsciously swallowed their spit, stunned.


    Xu Nian did not stop there. With a tip of his toe on the ground, he sprung up again, delivering another flying kick that violently sent Ouyang Chengfeng tumbling through the air.


    As he kicked, Xu Nian cursed, "Hmph, trash, to think of killing me like that, you''re dreaming."


    Silence enveloped the area, everyone''s face nk with astonishment as Xu Nian''s sudden outburst thoroughly shocked them.


    High up in the stands, Ouyang Tian clenched his fists, his face as pale as pork belly, previous arrogance wiped clean.


    Xu Nian stood proudly on the battle tform, his eyes on Ouyang Chengfeng, who was sprawled on the ground, a light smile hanging on his lips.


    He knew such a level of attack couldn''t really hurt Ouyang Chengfeng, but it was sufficient to disgust him.


    Sure enough, Ouyang Chengfeng stood up furiously, his hair disheveled, his handsome appearance now utterly disheveled, especially his eyes, cold as the Nine Nether Ice Spring.


    "It seems I really underestimated you. However, this is good, killing an ipetent trash brings no pleasure, but killing a genius like you is enjoyable. Since that''s the case, let me show you my true strength," Ouyang Chengfeng said with a grin, his expression instantly turning fierce.


    He then walked to the edge of the tform and pulled up the Purple me Spear, grabbing the long spear, his entire aura transforming instantly.


    An overwhelmingly domineering air enveloped him in a moment.


    "My goodness, Ouyang Chengfeng is even resorting to the Purple me Spear, he must be truly enraged!"


    "Yes, everyone knows Ouyang Chengfeng''s real prowess lies in his spear technique. Ouyang Chengfeng with a spear ispletely different from Ouyang Chengfeng without one. The oue of this fight is still very hard to predict!"


    ¡­


    The audience once again started whispering. The shock initially caused by Xu Nian''s brutal beating of Ouyang Chengfeng dissipated the instant Ouyang Chengfeng grasped his spear, as the crowd again looked favorably upon him.


    "Bring out your weapon! Otherwise, you will die a gruesome death," Ouyang Chengfeng coldly said to Xu Nian, his voice like that of a general who could block a thousand armies, looking down on the world.


    Yet, Xu Nian scoffed contemptuously and spoke a sentence that shocked everyone present.


    "Right now, you don''t have the qualification to make me draw my sword. When you finally make me feel you''re worthy, then it won''t be toote for me to draw my sword," Xu Nian arrogantly dered.


    The spectator stands erupted into an uproar.


    Arrogant, starkly arrogant.


    Ouyang Tian also clenched his teeth, ring fiercely again at Qin Yuanshan nearby as if to say, look at the son you''ve raised.


    Qin Yuanshan''s face turned a steel blue, his eyes even colder.


    Of course, the ugliest expression belonged to Ouyang Chengfeng; never had he faced such humiliation, fueling his rage to erupt in an instant.


    "Xu Nian, if I do not kill you today, I will not consider myself a man!"


    With a loud shout, Ouyang Chengfeng then swung his long spear, charging at Xu Nian.

 Chapter 53 Sword Point Knocks on Immortality

    The long spear was like a dragon, roaring like a furious wind, apanied by several purple phantoms aiming straight for Xu Nian''s forehead.


    It had to be said that Ouyang Chengfeng''s spear technique was truly exceptional; his control over it had reached the state of absolute perfection. Without even resorting to his spearbat technique, he wielded immense power.


    With a single thrust, the spear could definitely pierce through a boulder.


    Although Xu Nian was verbally arrogant, he hadn''t been careless in the slightest. With an outstretched palm, spiritual energy swirled around, and a sudden breeze coalesced in the center of his palm. Clenching his fist, the collision of air produced a loud explosive sound.


    Then, in an instant, he executed the Gale Dragon Step, his entire being as elusive as a swimming fish. Ouyang Chengfeng''s long spear couldn''t touch him in the slightest, each attack narrowly dodged by a hair''s breadth.


    The onlookers were stunned, jaws agape. They had thought Xu Nian wouldunch a powerful counterattack or directly sh with Ouyang Chengfeng''s long spear, but instead, he was merely evading. This made them inwardly curse Xu Nian for his shamelessness.


    Ouyang Chengfeng was also seething with anger. The guy had spouted wild boasts before, and now here he was, refusing to confront him head-on, making Ouyang Chengfeng feel like he was punching the air impotently.


    "Hmph, I want to see how long you can dodge," fumed Ouyang Chengfeng internally. His hands quickened the pace of the long spear again, its power bing even more fierce and domineering.


    Upon seeing this, a slight smile appeared on Xu Nian''s lips. His right hand, which had been gathering momentum, suddenly emitted the sound of a sword''s cry.


    "Ling Feng Thirteen Swords, third sword, Wind st!"


    In the moment he evaded Ouyang Chengfeng''s fierce thrust, Xu Nian let out a low shout and flicked his fingers, directly striking the tip of Ouyang Chengfeng''s spear.


    "ng!"


    A crisp sound rang out, like thunder exploding in that instant.


    Ouyang Chengfeng''s long spear trembled violently, and he was forced back three steps, the spear nearly slipping from his grip. Despite that, his wrist still went numb from the shock, his eyes filled with disbelief as he looked at Xu Nian.


    High up on the tform, the Spiritual Academy Director''s face also showed a look of surprise, clearly taken aback by Xu Nian''s move.


    Actually using a Yellow-level Top Grade Sword Technique to achieve the power of a Profound Level Middle Grade, and the key point is he executed it with his hands. This kid is remarkable!" Chen Hong thought to himself in shock.


    As the Spiritual Academy Director, his insight was extremely astute; he naturally saw what was extraordinary about Xu Nian''s finger-sword technique.


    Transforming decay into magic, it must be destiny''s craftsmanship!


    In Chen Hong''s view, Xu Nian had already brought the "Ling Feng Thirteen Swords" to the Realm of Divine Transformation.


    Simrly, the trio from Yun Lan were also visibly shocked. While the regr students down below might not have grasped the intricacies, they were anything but ordinary.


    "Xifeng, you also practice wind-style swordsmanship. Can you execute a sword attack of the same degree?" Yun Lan asked Chen Xifeng.


    Chen Xifeng revealed a wry smile and shook his head, "You''re giving me too much credit. With a sword, perhaps I could achieve a simr effect, but to do it with my fingers is something I simply can''t match, and even the number one on the Azure Dragon List might not be able to."


    Upon hearing this, Yun Lan showed no change in her expression, but internally, her heart was already being battered by stormy waves. Her gaze toward Xu Nian, down below, suddenly became even more spirited.


    Of course, the most shocked of all was naturally Ouyang Chengfeng, who had just taken the brunt of Xu Nian''s finger-sword technique. In that moment, he distinctly felt a terrifying force explode through his chest via the spear, its power immeasurably vast.


    ```


    "How could he execute such formidable sword moves, using a finger as a sword, and yet possess such power?" Ouyang Chengfeng was utterly shocked. At this moment, he finally calmed down.


    It was not until this moment that he realized he had made a major mistake; he had not taken this opponent seriously at all.


    From the beginning, he had thought Xu Nian was not even worthy of battling him. Even though Xu Nian had revealed his astonishing strength step by step, deep inside, Ouyang Chengfeng had remained disdainful. But now, Xu Nian had proven him terribly wrong with facts; the youth before him had long since changed from what he once was.


    Ouyang Chengfeng took a deep breath, suppressing the rage in his heart, and his gaze toward Xu Nian turned icy yet calm again.N?v(el)B\\jnn


    "Xu Nian, I admit I underestimated you before and did not truly see you as my opponent. Now, I will let you truly understand that my spear isn''t as simple as you think," Ouyang Chengfeng said word by word, his aura soaring to an even higher level, bing more domineering and pure.


    Seeing this, Xu Nian couldn''t help but be slightly surprised, a light smile on his lips as he said, "Now you''re actually worth drawing my sword against!"


    With those words, he drew the Xuan Iron Sword from his waist, pointing it at Ouyang Chengfeng.


    Ouyang Tian naturally recognized that the sword was from their Ouyang Family. The already angry look on his face suddenly turned even angrier.


    "Come on then, let me see just how powerful your sword is, to see whether you will die by my spear or if I will fall to your sword," Ouyang Chengfeng shouted fiercely, as a purple Spiritual Energy burst forth unrestrained, faint traces of purple energy even swirling around him.


    "Exterior release of Spiritual Energy! Wasn''t he said to have just advanced to a Nine-star Warrior? And yet he can already release Spiritual Energy to such an extent."


    "Indeed, Ouyang Chengfeng has been practicing the Zi Yang Battle Technique of the Ouyang Family. The advantage of this technique lies in its robustness and control over Spiritual Energy, which is evident even from Ouyang Chengfeng, who has just entered the Nine-star Warrior level."


    "With this, it will be extremely difficult for Xu Nian to win. Exterior release of Spiritual Energy is not to be trifled with; its power will increase manifold, and for sure Ouyang Chengfeng still has some aces up his sleeve. It''s hard to predict who will win this battle."


    The spectators in the stands were abuzz with discussion, their blood boiling as they watched the fight. They were now even more eager to see who would win, and the victor was bound to be famous throughout Qinglin Academy and even all of East Field County.


    The atmosphere on the field was explosive.


    Ouyang Chengfeng, holding his long spear surrounded by purple energy, stood like an invincible War God.


    On the other hand, Xu Nian held his long sword, his robes fluttering without wind, ethereal like a Sword Immortal.


    The surrounding audience held their breath in concentration, knowing that the real battle was just about to begin.


    "ng!"


    The sound of shing swords suddenly rang out.


    Xu Nian and Ouyang Chengfeng moved at the same time.


    Ouyang dragged his spear, its sharp tip creating a trail of splendid sparks on the stone bs of the battle tform and leaving behind a deep gouge.


    Xu Nian, too, moved as if riding the fierce wind, covering ten meters in a single step, crashing into Ouyang Chengfeng in just two or three steps.


    "ng!"


    Xu Nian''s long sword and Ouyang Chengfeng''s long spear collided without reserve, making an incredibly crisp sound. A powerful gust of wind also burst forth from under their feet, sweeping around them.


    ```

 Chapter 54 Shocking the Entire Audience (Fourth Update)

    The following battle was exceptionally intense.


    Xu Nian, with his Ling Feng Thirteen Swords in hand, unleashed one move after another, sword intent crisscrossing, continuously without end.


    Ouyang Chengfeng, wielding his long spear, waved it ceaselessly; their Ouyang Family''s mid-grade Xuan-level Battle Technique, the Overlord Spear Technique, was disyed by him with gut-wrenching effectiveness.


    The weapons in their hands shed repeatedly, and each collision inevitably caused a gust of wind.


    The crowd watching the match was also filled with surging excitement, cheering continuously.


    Whether it was Xu Nian''s swordsmanship or Ouyang Chengfeng''s spear technique, both earned their admiration.


    For a time, the looks given to the two of them were filled with respect, especially toward Xu Nian, who was regarded with renewed esteem.


    "ng!"


    A crisp collision sound rang out, and both Xu Nian and Ouyang Chengfeng were forced back ten steps by the rebounding force, their eyes filled with fighting spirit.


    This time, Ouyang Chengfeng held back his spear, notunching another attack, but instead watched Xu Nian with a cold, mocking smile.


    "Your swordsmanship is indeed not bad. To be able to fight me to this extent shows that your mastery in swordsmanship is indeed profound. However, if this is the extent of your ability, then I''m very sorry, but today you will ultimately die under my spear," Ouyang Chengfeng said with an overbearing tone, his gaze as arrogant as ever.


    Although he had been humiliated by Xu Nian previously due to his own underestimation and consequently began to take Xu Nian seriously, his pride was inherent in his bones. Now, after the fierce battle, he realized that while Xu Nian''s strength was impressive, it wasn''t yet enough to shake him. He was tired of ying now and ready to end it all.


    "Oh? So, you mean to decide the victor with one final blow?" Xu Nian asked with a light smile on his lips.n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om


    Ouyang Chengfeng might have a trump card he hadn''t used yet, but wasn''t Xu Nian also holding back his full strength?


    "Yes, next I will show you just how powerful Ouyang Chengfeng''s spear really is," Ouyang Chengfeng snorted coldly. With a flick of his spear, there was suddenly the sound of a dragon''s roar.


    Then, a purple dragon seemed to coil around the surface of the Purple me in Ouyang Chengfeng''s hand, its aura overwhelmingly domineering, shocking the entire dueling ground.


    "Purple Dragon Spear Technique! That''s the top-grade Xuan-level Battle Technique, the Purple Dragon Spear Technique. I never imagined that Ouyang Chengfeng had mastered a technique of this level."


    Someone in the crowd immediately eximed.


    A top-grade Xuan-level Battle Technique!


    That was a high-level martial art requiring 50,000 points to exchange for, and such a technique was extremely difficult to cultivate. Even reaching entry-level could take nearly a year''s time, yet it was clear from Ouyang Chengfeng''s stance that he had reached a proficient level.


    "Family Head Ouyang, it seems that Young Master Ouyang will win this duel. The power of a top-grade Xuan-level Battle Technique is extraordinary. There seems to be no suspense about the oue of this battle," a family head said with a smile, looking at Ouyang Tian at the high tform.


    "Ha ha, the fight isn''t over yet; it''s still too early to say. However, Cheng Feng has indeed put a lot of effort into mastering this technique. There really aren''t many who canpare to his aptitude in spear technique!" Ouyang Tianughed heartily, not forgetting to nce at Qin Yuanshan as he spoke.


    Qin Yuanshan, seeing Ouyang Tian look his way, quickly forced a smile and said, "This battle is certain to end in victory for Young Master Ouyang. My unworthy son has never cultivatedbat skills. Even at Qinglin Academy, he wouldn''t have been able to obtain a top-grade Xuan-level Battle Technique within a few short months. So, this battle is undoubtedly a sure loss for my son."


    Hearing this, Ouyang Tian smiled coldly and said nothing more.


    But Chen Hong and the Tianhai City Lord both frowned at this; Qin Yuanshan''s words were rather grating, as if he''d rather his own son died by someone else''s hand. Did he not feel any heartache or guilt at all?


    Meanwhile, on the side of Yun Lan, the usually silent Yu Fei spoke up again: "Ultimately, he falls a bit short. Although Xu Nian is very talented and hisprehension is very good, even if he perfects the Ling Feng Thirteen Swords, it can at best match a mid-grade Xuan-level Battle Skill and could never be an opponent for a top-grade Xuan-level Battle Skill. In the end, this battle will still be won by Ouyang Chengfeng."


    "I think not!" retorted Yun Lan with a smile, looking quite optimistic about Xu Nian''s chances.


    Chen Xifeng, however, remained silent and expressed no opinion.


    But the entire spectator stand had already erupted into uproar, evidently convinced that Xu Nian had already lost the battle.


    "Xuan-level top-grade Battle Technique, huh?"


    Xu Nian watched the dragon swimming along Ouyang Chengfeng''s long spear, a slight smile curling at the corner of his mouth.


    "Hum!"


    A powerful sword intent burst forth from Xu Nian in an instant, and with the cleansing sweep of this sword intent came an aura from Xu Nian that reached a terrifying degree.


    Ouyang Chengfeng''s soaring momentum was actually suppressed by Xu Nian at this moment, even showing signs of copsing.


    "This aura¡­ could it be¡­"


    The audience on the stands suddenly stood up, one after another, all staring at Xu Nian with eyes wide open and mouths agape.


    Not only them but even some of the family heads on the high tform also revealed expressions of shock, all looking at the imposing Xu Nian.


    "Earth-level¡­ Earth-level Battle Technique, how¡­ how is this possible?" Ouyang Tian muttered in shock, then fiercely red at Qin Yuanshan.


    Qin Yuanshan hurriedly waved his hand: "No, no, it''s not my Qin Family''sbat skills. Our family only has one Earth-levelbat skill, and it is a fist technique at that."


    Only then did Ouyang Tian withdraw his gaze, his eyes filled with confusion.


    Chen Hong and Yann Tianhai were also curious, clearly somewhat disbelieving that Xu Nian could actually disy an Earth-level Battle Technique.


    Earth-level Battle Techniques, which in any family would be considered treasured heirlooms, yet a student who was cast aside by his family and had only been in the Academy for a few months could unleash an Earth-level Battle Technique.


    "This boy is extraordinary!" Yann Tianhai couldn''t help but exim.


    Yun Lan and the other two were also extremely surprised at this moment, especially Yuu Fei, who looked as if he had been pped hard across the face, his expression ashen. However, Yun Lan''s smile as she looked at Xu Nian became even more seductive.


    Ouyang Chengfeng''s brow furrowed tightly; he had originally thought that by unleashing a Xuan-level top-grade martial art, he could settle this fight.


    But now, Xu Nian had actually disyed an Earth-level Battle Technique, which was like a tant p in his face!


    "Hmph, I don''t believe you trulyprehend an Earth-level Battle Technique. Die, Purple Dragon Fierce me Spear!" Ouyang Chengfeng shouted loudly, and his long spear thrust out in an instant.


    As the spear thrust forward like a purple dragon emerging from its den, it intimidated all around.


    However, Xu Nian''s lips curled up into a light smile, and the Xuan Iron Sword in his hand swiftly came to life.


    "ng!"


    A high-pitched sword cry suddenly rang out, sounding like a phoenix singing to the nine heavens.


    "Not good!"


    Upon hearing the sword cry, Ouyang Tian''s face changed drastically, and he leapt straight off his chair.


    But it was toote; Xu Nian''s Xuan Iron Sword swept forward, bringing up several dazzling sword shadows, directly grinding the Purple Dragon''s Fierce me to shreds, and at that moment, Xu Nian''s sword mercilessly swept across Ouyang Chengfeng''s waist.


    "Shwick!"


    Cut at the waist!


    Ouyang Chengfeng was cleaved into two halves by this one stroke.


    Everyone''s mouth was wide open in shock, unable to speak, with only one thought in their minds: That sword was too damn fast.

 Chapter 55 Heavens Fury

    Ouyang Chengfeng could never have imagined that he would die by the sword of the young man before him!


    His body severed in two, Ouyang Chengfeng''s face was full of shock and regret, regretting that he had not dared to provoke this youth, regretting that he should have killed him with a single palm strike three months before, rather than giving him those three months of respite.


    All his pride and dreams shattered in that moment, utterly obliterated.


    Those in the spectator stands were jolted by the sight of Ouyang Chengfeng falling to the ground, speechless with astonishment.


    The once-proimed top talent of Qinglin Academy, Ouyang Chengfeng, had met his demise just like this.


    Lin Feng stood among the crowd in the spectator stands, his face now ashen.


    He had seen the entire battle unfold before his eyes, and now he didn''t even have the courage to look at Xu Nian; recalling the moment Xu Nian pped his face, he actually felt some relief that Xu Nian had not used that sword to sh at his neck.


    Yu Fei, standing in a corner, was also silent; such an oue was truly beyond his expectations.


    However, Yun Lan''s gaze toward Xu Nian grew even more fervent, a bewitching luster indescribable in her eyes.


    Of course, there were those who rejoiced, and those who mourned!


    "Feng... Feng''er, you can''t die!"


    Ouyang Tian had already made his way to the forefront of the fallen Ouyang Chengfeng.


    As he looked upon Ouyang Chengfeng, split into two and utterly breathless, his face instantly flooded with immense grief, and his eyes turned bloodshot.


    "You dare kill my son, I''ll kill you!"


    Suddenly, Ouyang Tian bellowed, unleashing his peak Silver Moon Battle Sect Cultivation in an instant, and then charging towards Xu Nian.


    With a terrifying spiritual energy cloaking his palm, emitting an extremely dazzling purple light, the fluctuations it sent out were so dreadful they made hearts palpitate.


    "Stop!"


    Seeing this, Chen Hong in the stands immediately realized something was amiss, and shouted desperately as he darted out in a sh.


    However, the stands were still at some distance, and with Ouyang Tian''s killing intent erupting so suddenly, it took everyone by surprise and there was no stopping him.


    Xu Nian hadn''t expected Ouyang Tian to strike so abruptly; the terrifying aura washed over him, about to pulverize himpletely in the next moment.


    Without the slightest hesitation, Xu Nian wielded his Xuan Iron Sword resolutely.


    With one stroke, seven streaks of sword light appeared abruptly, shing directly with Ouyang Tian''s palm strike.


    "Boom!"


    Xu Nian''s sword light was immediately shattered, and Ouyang Tian''s palm struck Xu Nian''s chest in an instant.N?v(el)B\\jnn


    "Spurt!"


    Xu Nian spat out a mouthful of blood, and his body, like a kite with its string cut, flew backward, crashing into the wall of the spectator stands outside the Life and Death tform, emitting a dull sound and even shattering the wall itself.


    The surrounding audience burst into uproar; they had not expected Ouyang Tian to act so despicably.


    One should know that Xu Nian''s battle with Ouyang Chengfeng was a life or death duel, and whoever lived or died had to assume that risk. But now, Ouyang Tian, unable to bear his son''s death, had attacked a junior, a move that was utterly contemptible.


    Such a fierce palm strike¡ªXu Nian''s life was likely lost on the spot. Could it be that today, Qinglin Academy would lose two great talents?


    ```


    "Cough cough!"


    ```


    However, just as everyone felt sorry for Xu Nian, a cough suddenly echoed, followed by a familiar figure slowly rising from the billowing dust.


    When the crowd saw this figure, they all let out an exmation, "Damn, he didn''t die?"


    Xu Nian heard what the people were saying and also revealed a bitter smile at the corner of his mouth while subconsciously ncing at his chest.


    Therey a piece of crimson dragon scale which had taken most of the force from Ouyang Tian''s attack, allowing him to survive by a fluke. However, the remaining power had still shattered several of his ribs.


    Xu Nian''s gaze was fixed on Ouyang Tian in front, chilling to the extreme.


    Ouyang Tian was also somewhat surprised; he hadn''t expected this kid to withstand his full-powered palm strike without dying and was about to make a move again.


    But before he could act, Chen Hong''s figure drifted in front of Xu Nian, coldly staring at Ouyang Tian and said, "Ouyang Tian, what are you trying to do? Once you enter the Life and Death tform, life and death are out of our hands. These are the rules of Qinglin Academy. Are you trying to make enemies with our Qinglin Academy?"


    Now that Ouyang Chengfeng was dead, their Qinglin Academy had already lost a great talent. They absolutely could not let Xu Nian suffer more damage; otherwise, their Qinglin Academy would greatly weaken.


    Ouyang Tian''s brows furrowed tightly, but he did not make another move, knowing that doing so would break the rules of Qinglin Academy. However, he was not willing to let things go. How could he be content?


    The death of both his sons was rted to this kid before him. If he didn''t kill Xu Nian, not only would the Ouyang Family decline, but they would also be aughingstock forever, something he absolutely couldn''t tolerate.


    Suddenly, an idea seemed to strike him, and he looked up at Qin Yuanshan in the stands, "Qin Yuanshan, if your Qin Family does not give our Ouyang Family an exnation today, then brace yourselves for our Ouyang Family''s revenge!"


    Upon hearing this, Qin Yuanshan''s face instantly showed embarrassment.


    The thing he feared most had finally arrived; their Qin Family was originally not as strong as the Ouyang Family.


    If the Ouyang Family insisted on taking revenge, their Qin Family would undoubtedly suffer a heavy blow and might even end uppletely devastated, which he most certainly did not want to see.


    "You beast, why don''t youmit suicide in front of Family Head Ouyang to apologize for your sins?" Qin Yuanshan red at Xu Nian and bellowed with a voice that resounded throughout the venue.


    Upon these words, everyone was left open-mouthed in shock.


    Wasn''t Xu Nian the son of Qin Yuanshan?


    Now a father was actually asking his son tomit suicide in front of others to apologize?


    For a moment, they all doubted if their ears had deceived them!


    Xu Nian''s body also shook violently, and his eyes turned bloodshot as he looked towards Qin Yuanshan, hardly able to believe that these words were uttered by Qin Yuanshan.


    How could he be so heartless?


    "What are you standing there for? Do you want me to do it myself?" Qin Yuanshan''s voice rose again, merciless and cold, without a trace of sorrow.


    Xu Nian locked eyes with Qin Yuanshan, and seeing that indifferent gaze of his, Xu Nian felt as cold as the Nine Nether Ice Spring. Thest bit of hope in his heart shattered in that instant.


    "Ha ha!" Suddenly, Xu Nian burst intoughter, and everyone wore puzzled looks.


    "What are youughing at?" Qin Yuanshan asked, perplexed.


    Xu Nian responded to Qin Yuanshan, word by word, "I''mughing at what kind of thing you, Qin Yuanshan, are. You expect me tomit suicide because you say so? Do you think you are still my father?"


    Xu Nian''s voice rang across the venue, shaking the surroundings.


    As he spoke, a bolt of lightning suddenly exploded in the sky, as if heaven was angry at Xu Nian''s unfilial act.


    Yet in the hearts of the people, for some reason, they all inwardly cheered for Xu Nian!

 Chapter 56 Creating Legends

    Qin Yuanshan''s eyes widened in disbelief, unable to believe that Xu Nian would utter such words, his face alternating between shades of green and white.


    "Family Head Qin," Ouyang Tian sneered with a snort from the sidelines, "it seems they don''t even consider you a father."


    At this, Qin Yuanshan''s face became even more embarrassed, and with a stern look in his eyes, he bellowed, "Rebel! Today, I shall clean up my house myself!"


    He then swooped toward Xu Nian, and the aura of the Silver Moon Battle Sect burst forth from his body, seemingly determined to settle the score with Xu Nian on the spot.


    The sky, unnoticed, had also gathered rolling dark clouds, as if a downpour were imminent.


    The atmosphere of the scene was oppressively tense, creating a suffocating sensation.


    Chen Hong moved in front of Xu Nian, seeming prepared to block Qin Yuanshan''s attack, but Xu Nian''s words took Chen Hong by surprise.


    "Dean Chen, please step aside. This is between him and me. Let me handle it myself, thank you for your kindness," Xu Nian said to Chen Hong with a smile.


    Chen Hong''s eyebrows instinctively furrowed, and after a moment''s hesitation seeing Xu Nian''s calm yet resolute gaze, he moved to one side.


    His mind was made up, however, that if Xu Nian truly faced a life-threatening danger, he would definitely intervene to protect him.


    Chen Hong''s action instantly caused an uproar among the onlookers¡ªXu Nian was dismissing Dean Chen''s help; was he courting death?


    Ouyang Tian watched the scene, snorted coldly through his nostrils, then lifted the body of Ouyang Chengfeng and began to walk down slowly from the Life and Death tform.


    As he stepped off the tform, he suddenly turned his head and dropped a sentence at Qin Yuanshan, "Family Head Qin, take care of yourself," and then walked straight off the Life and Death tform.


    On hearing this, Qin Yuanshan''s eyes narrowed once more, his gaze toward Xu Nian turning cold.


    Xu Nian met Qin Yuanshan''s gaze, neither servile nor overbearing, filled with an unyielding spirit.


    "It seems your wings are truly hardened," Qin Yuanshan said to Xu Nian with a chilly smile, his voice repressing anger, "you dare to confront me directly now. Do you even regard me as your father? Or perhaps, do you dare to strike at me?"


    Xu Nian heard this and his face showed a self-mocking smile as he gazed at Qin Yuanshan with anguish, "Father? Do you know how foreign that word is to me? Search your heart and tell me, have you ever shown me a father''s love since I was a child, have you ever shown me kindness? That day when you shattered my Dantian and drove me out of the Qin Family, did you ever consider that you were still my father?"


    Qin Yuanshan''s expression was dark, and he did not respond to Xu Nian''s words, however, his eyes carried a tinge of disdain.


    Seeing this, Xu Nian''s self-mocking smile deepened. He took a deep breath and said to Qin Yuanshan in a cold voice, "Since you want to kill me, then today, I''ll give you that chance. Ten moves! If you, Qin Yuanshan, can kill me within ten moves, I guarantee Qinglin Academy will not hold you ountable."


    "What? Ten moves? Is he seeking death?" The spectators in the stands were shocked. "No matter what, Qin Yuanshan is still the head of the family, at the Peak of Silver Moon. Not to mention ten moves¡ªif Qin Yuanshan gives it his all, even a single move could kill him."


    Even Yun Lan and Lin Xifeng stood up, their faces tense with worry.


    Xu Nian''s proposition of ten moves was tantamount to suicide. Moreover, seeing how Qin Yuanshan was acting, there seemed to be no intention to show mercy at all.


    Dean Chen''s frown deepened. While a fair fight might have allowed him to save Xu Nian in a critical moment, as it stood, now that Xu Nian had put forth the challenge of ten moves, Chen no longer had any reason to intervene, which left him feeling anxious and frustrated.


    On the other hand, Ouyang Tian scoffed coldly, looking at Xu Nian with an expression that seemed to mock his death-seeking behavior.


    Qin Yuanshan didn''t hurry to respond, but waited for Xu Nian''s next words.


    Indeed, Xu Nian''s phoenix-like eyes narrowed, and he continued to address Qin Yuanshan, "But if you cannot kill me within ten moves, then you and I, father and son, graciousness! Break! Righteousness! Severed!"


    Xu Nian bit down particrly heavy on thest four words, as if they weighed a thousand pounds.


    At the same time, another thunderp exploded in the sky, and a torrential downpour began to fall.


    "Good! I agree, today I will personally put an end to you, so you''ll no longer be able to wreak havoc upon the world," Qin Yuanshan said without hesitation.


    Upon hearing these words, Xu Nian''s lips also curled up into a smile, though it was a smile with an indescribable vor.


    "Buzz!"


    At that moment, Qin Yuanshan made his move. The aura of the Peak of Silver Moon Battle Sect surged forth without reservation, even causing the pouring rain to be pushed aside by the Spiritual Energy emanating from his body.


    "Swoosh!"


    With a single leap forward, his figure instantly became a blur of green afterimages. In the next instant, he was right in front of Xu Nian, with a palm covered in thick green Spiritual Energy mming toward Xu Nian''s face without hesitation.


    "How vicious!"


    Everyone present cursed inwardly; if that palm struck true, Xu Nian''s entire head might just explode. This man was not acting like a father but seemed even more eager than an assassin.


    Coldness flickered in Xu Nian''s eyes. The sound of his sword suddenly rose, and he immediately shed at Qin Yuanshan.


    The de cut through the curtain of rain, carrying seven shadows of the sword, fiercely meeting Qin Yuanshan''s palm strike.


    "ng!"


    However, Qin Yun''s sword was still neutralized by Qin Yuanshan''s palm. The long sword flew out of his hand and fell outside the Life and Death tform.


    Despite this, Xu Nian was saved, as the force of the rebound allowed him to put some distance between himself and Qin Yuanshan.


    "His sword has flown away; how is he going to fight now?" The crowd around them began to worry for Xu Nian. Although he had barely deflected this first move, there were still nine more moves toe, and these were not to be taken lightly.


    Qin Yuanshan, looking at Xu Nian, did not hurry to make another move. There seemed to be a hint of surprise in his eyes that Xu Nian''s sword could actually block one of his strikes.


    "You might as well just kill yourself now. Without your sword, you stand no chance of blocking even one of my moves," Qin Yuanshan said coldly once again.


    A cold smile appeared on Xu Nian''s lips as he looked at Qin Yuanshan and said, "Do you really think that without my sword, I have no fighting power? Then you''re seriously underestimating me."


    As he spoke, a strong surge of Gang Qi burst forth from Xu Nian''s body, and with this current of Gang Qi, he stomped on the stone b of the Life and Death tform.


    "Crack!"


    The stone bs of the Life and Death tform instantly shattered.


    "What, Gang Qi! Am I seeing things?"


    Exmations of shock immediately rose from the crowd, with everyone feeling as if their eyes were ying tricks on them.


    However, the truth was that they had not seen wrong; Xu Nian had indeed summoned Gang Qi, and its power was incredibly strong.


    Chen Hong, Murong Tianhai, and others also revealed looks of surprise, staring incredulously at Xu Nian on the tform, unable to believe that this Xu Nian had hidden his strength even while defeating Ouyang Chengfeng.n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om


    "I remember now; he''s the Dragon God. I recognize that silhouette," someone in the stands suddenly eximed.


    As soon as these words came out, the whole ce was abuzz, and the way they looked at Xu Nian had changedpletely!


    Legend!


    The young man before their eyes was about to create the greatest legend in the history of Qinglin Academy!

 Chapter 57 Undying and Unyielding

    The top genius of the Spirit Academy was actually the Dragon God from the Body Institute, which shocked everyone.


    No wonder they dug through the Body Institute and couldn''t find out who the Dragon God was; it turned out he wasn''t from the Body Institute at all. This revtion left everyone deeply moved.


    "Looking at his momentum, he must have already reached the sixth-star Body Cultivation level of the Star Realm," Yuu Fei couldn''t help saying.


    "Wow, dual Spirit Body cultivation, with an eight-star Spiritual Cultivation level in the Star Realm and a six-star Body Cultivation level¡­ This is defying the heavens. How long has he been in our Academy to achieve such feats?" Chen Xifeng also couldn''t help feeling emotional, his look towards Xu Nian bingplicated.


    "Don''t forget his terrifyingprehension towards Sword Cultivation," Yun Lan interjected.


    Chen Xifeng was momentarily speechless. Excelling in any one of these would make a person stand out, yet Xu Nian managed to excel in all three in such a short period. It was nothing short of a miracle.


    The audience in the stands also showed expressions of utter amazement, as just a few months ago the Dragon God was merely at the Basic Nine Star Level, and now his Body Cultivation had already reached the sixth-star of the Star Realm.


    Though his Spiritual Cultivation hadn''t increased as terrifyingly, it was still enough to shock the world. After all, advancing in Body Cultivation was much more difficult than Spirit Cultivation, and Xu Nian was advancing in both simultaneously, which was enough to give anyone goosebumps.


    For a moment, everyone looked at Qin Yuanshan as if he were an idiot.


    Damn, you refuse to acknowledge such a talented son and are instead bent on killing him with your own hands? What else could you be but an idiot?


    Qin Yuanshan felt as if he had been pped by Xu Nian, his face ashen.


    But at this moment, he was already in too deep to back out and could only push forward. The stronger Xu Nian''s demonstrated talents were, the bigger the threat to the Qin Family in the future would be. This only made Qin Yuanshan''s resolve to kill even firmer.


    "Hmph, even if you have Body Cultivation, how will you handle the remaining nine moves? You still won''t be able to catch them," Qin Yuanshan snorted coldly. Then, a terrifying aura surged from his body once again, apanied by a fierce wind rushing directly toward Xu Nian.


    Seeing this, Xu Nian''s expression turned fierce in an instant.n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om


    The sound of a dragon''s roar resounded within him, and then the blood-colored Dragon Scale fist directly covered his palm, not hesitating to meet Qin Yuanshan''s punch head-on.


    "He''s actually taking it head-on!" The surrounding crowd all showed shocked expressions.


    "Boom!"


    With a booming sound, Xu Nian was sent flying backward.


    However, Xu Nian didn''t fall down. His ws dug into the ground, his fingers covered by the Dragon Scale fist prating the earth, dragging out a long trace as he offset the terrifying force, though blood still spilled from his mouth.


    The crowd was utterly shocked. Not only did Xu Nian take the blow head-on, but he also managed to withstand it.


    If it were someone else, even if they didn''t die, their arm would definitely bepletely wrecked.


    Qin Yuanshan was also somewhat astonished; he hadn''t expected Xu Nian to take his blow head-on.


    In fact, Xu Nian was able to withstand this blow precisely because of the Dragon Energy in his body. His Divine Demon Gang Qi, bolstered by his two types of Dragon Energy, rivaled that of a one-star Silver Moon Martial Sect member. Thus, although Qin Yuanshan''s blow was powerful, it was still not enough to kill him.


    Xu Nian held his chest, and if it weren''t for the immense spiritual energy and Gang Qi in his body, he likely wouldn''t even be able to stand.


    But this was only the second move; there were still eight more to go, and the pain he would have to endure was still toe.


    However, his eyes remained unyieldingly firm, showing not a trace of retreat.


    Everyone was moved by Xu Nian''s unyielding spirit, cheering him on in their hearts.


    "If this child survives this ordeal, he will surely ascend to the skies as a dragon!" Yann Tianhai couldn''t help but speak out.


    Around him, everyone nodded in agreement, clearly very approving of his talent,prehension, and temperament. They could not imagine any other young man who couldpare to him.


    If he had been their son, they would probably be so happy they couldn''t sleep for ten days. Yet now, Qin Yuanshan was about to personally destroy his own son, a truly absurd turn of events in the human world.


    Seeing that he had failed to kill Xu Nian with two moves, Qin Yuanshan''s face grew utterly gloomy. He had to quickly finish off Xu Nian. Discover hidden tales at empire


    "Whoosh!"


    Thinking this, Qin Yuanshan no longer hesitated. With a sweep of his robe, the surrounding rainwater suddenly swirled up, instantly forming a huge water dragon that roared into existence, radiating terrifying fluctuations.


    "Die!"


    Qin Yuanshan snorted coldly, and the water dragon fiercely charged towards Xu Nian.


    "People are actually using martial arts, Qin Yuanshan really has a heart of stone!" the people around eximed, bing worried for Xu Nian.


    Seeing this, a resolve shed through Xu Nian''s eyes.


    Gang Qi and Spiritual Energy both covered his palms as he clenched his fist and smashed it towards the water dragon.


    "Boom!"


    A loud explosion urred, and a crack was heard from Xu Nian''s arm, followed by him being sted back by the impact of the water dragon, mming into the wall of the spectators'' stand behind him.


    Blood was dripping all over his body, making him look utterly miserable.


    However, what shocked everyone was that Xu Nian still hadn''t fallen. Clutching his arm, he kneeled in the rain curtain, his cold gaze piercing through the hazy mist, causing palpitations in the viewers.


    The audience in the stand all fell silent in shock; regardless of the oue of the battle, that cold and resilient gaze would forever be etched in their minds.


    Yun Lan watched Xu Nian''s figure, her enchanting face clouding over as she clenched her delicate fists tightly.


    Seeing this scene, Qin Yuanshan was not shaken in the slightest and even gathered another water dragon, hurling it towards Xu Nian.


    This time, Xu Nian took the full impact of the water dragon with his chest, the terrifying force shattering several of his ribs, leaving him in excruciating pain.


    Blood continuously coughed up from his mouth, but his gaze remained undying and resilient.


    Four moves!


    In the blink of an eye, Xu Nian actually withstood four moves from a Peak of Silver Moon powerhouse. At this moment, his figure waspletely tottering, and the next moment he wouldpletely fall.


    "Die!" Qin Yuanshan roared loudly, gathering the water dragon a third time, hurling it at Xu Nian.


    The people around him furrowed their brows, knowing that Xu Nian was now at the end of his strength, and it would be impossible for him to withstand another hit from the water dragon; if he got hit, he would undoubtedly die.


    Chen Hong also prepared to take action, as he was unwilling to let Xu Nian die like this.


    "Chirp!"


    However, the moment Chen Hong prepared to intervene, a piercing cry suddenly resounded.


    Then, an immenselyrge ck hawk appeared above Xu Nian, hard-crashing into the water dragon.


    "Silver Moon Level Demon Beast!"


    The people in the stands were shocked, their eyes wide as they watched the scene in disbelief.

 Chapter 58 The Stubborn Little Black Hawk

    The sudden appearance of the ck Hawk shocked everyone.


    No one had imagined that Xu Nian actually had a Battle Pet, and it was of the Silver Moon Battle Sect Level.


    It was one thing for his own cultivation to increase so rapidly, but to have a Battle Pet of Silver Moon Battle Sect Level was defying the heavens!


    "Boom!"


    The ck Hawk collided with the Water Dragon, creating a huge noise.


    The enormous body of the ck Hawk was immediately sent flying by the terrifying Water Dragon, crashing into the viewing stand''s wall and smashing a big pit.


    Although Little Xu Yu had broken through to the Silver Moon Level, he was, after all, only a One-star Silver Moon Martial Sect; he had sensed Xu Nian''s danger and thus chose to take the initiative to protect his master.


    "Big brother, he''s very strong; I''m no match for him, but I won''t let him hurt you," Little Xu Yu''s voice echoed in Xu Nian''s mind.


    His voice was still youthful, yet his speech was noticeably more coherent than before.


    On hearing this, Xu Nian''s heart filled with emotion; he and Little Xu Yu hadn''t known each other for long, but because both had no one else to rely on, they leaned on each other, and now their interactions had built a profound bond.


    Therefore, when Little Xu Yu spoke these words, it wasn''t just because he was his Battle Pet, but more so because he didn''t want to see Xu Nian die.


    "Chirp!"


    Amidst Xu Nian''s emotional turmoil, Little Xu Yu emitted a piercing cry, and his massive body took off, charging towards Qin Yuanshan.


    The Water Dragon had been mightily powerful, but Little Xu Yu''s defense was also terrifyingly strong, so he hadn''t been too seriously injured. Now barreling towards Qin Yuanshan, he clearly intended a desperate fight.


    "Hmph, just an animal of One-Star Silver Moon dares seek death?" Qin Yuanshan coldly huffed, a glint of cold light shing in his eyes, followed by the sound of a tiger''s roar emanating from his body.


    The Qin Family''s Xuan-level top-grade Battle Technique, Overlord Tiger Shocking Fist!


    "Boom!"


    Qin Yuanshan unleashed a punch, and it was as if a tiger roared through the forest; the surrounding rain curtain was shattered by the force, and a punch imprint shot forth, smashing towards Little Xu Yu.


    Positioned mid-air, Little Xu Yu rapidly pped his wings, instantly conjuring a whirlwind in front of himself.


    "Boom!"


    The fist imprint struck the whirlwind, only holding it at bay for a second before shattering it; the same punch mmed into the ck Hawk''s wing, sending him flying yet again.


    Little Xu Yu crashed heavily onto the ground, feathers shed from his wings, with the left wing evidently fractured and no longer able to take flight, its cries sounding in anguish.


    However, the ck Hawk didn''t give up; he dragged his fractured wing and stumbled back towards Qin Yuanshan in another charge.


    "Little Yu, stop, he''ll kill you," Xu Nian screamed in desperation within his heart.


    Yet Little Xu Yu seemed not to hear at all, his sharp eagle eyes met death unflinching.


    The crowd in the stands was stupefied.


    What the hell was going on?


    Your next journey awaits at empire


    It was one thing for Xu Nian''s character to be resilient, but even the character of his eagle was this unyielding? How demoralizing.


    Qin Yuanshan watched the stumbling yet still charging ck Hawk, the killing intent in his eyes growing even more intense.


    "Since you seek death, I shall oblige you!"


    Qin Yuanshan bellowed, spiritual energy bursting within him, the tiger''s roar sounded again as heunched another punch at Little Xu Yu.


    The punch flew out, shaking the surroundings with more force than before.


    The hearts of the onlookers immediately rose to their throats, and they all tensely sweated for Little ck Hawk.


    "Chirp!"


    However, just when everyone thought Little ck Hawk would be severely injured by this punch, the ck Hawk''s gaze suddenly turned sharp, and it spat out a streak of purple thunder from its beak.


    As the purple thunder erupted, it exploded thunderously, colliding directly with the terrifying fist imprint.


    "Boom!"


    A loud noise ensued, and the fist imprint was shattered by the attack of the purple thunder.


    "What, it actually blocked it? How is this possible?"


    The people around all showed surprised expressions, as a One-Star Silver Moon Level Demon Beast actually blocked an attack from a Nine-Star Peak Silver Moon Battle Sect, which seemed impossible to them.


    "How can this ck Iron Eagle be so strong?" On the stands, Yuu Fei asked in surprise.


    "That purple thunder just now was extraordinary. Although this ck Hawk looks somewhat like a ck Iron Eagle, its defense, attack, and even intelligence are much stronger than that of ordinary ck Iron Eagles," Chen Xifeng said with a slight frown, his gaze fixed on Little Xu Yu, pondering something.


    Yun Lan, however, did not speak, but her expression revealed her extreme astonishment.


    The same conversation was also happening on the high tform. People like Yann Tianhai, with their perceptive eyes, naturally noticed the extraordinary nature of Little ck Hawk.


    "ck Iron Eagle? What a joke. Have you ever seen a ck Iron Eagle of Silver Moon Battle Sect Level? And how many Demon Beasts that can control thunder are ordinary?" Yann Tianhai, hearing the other Family Heads discussing Little ck Hawk, let out a cold, mocking smile.n/?/vel/b//jn dot c//om


    But even with his knowledge, he could not discern exactly what kind of Demon Beast Little ck Hawk was.


    Little ck Hawk''s spitting of thunder naturally caused a stir among the onlookers, and once again, their gaze towards Little ck Hawk changed.


    There was a consensus on Tianhen Continent that any Demon Beast associated with thunder was far from ordinary. Now that Little Xu Yu could spit thunder proved the fact that it had the power to control thunder.


    Not only were the others surprised, but even Xu Nian did not expect Little Xu Yu to have this trick up its sleeve.


    When he had fought it initially, Little Xu Yu hadn''t disyed this move; obviously, this ability was something it obtained after breaking through to Silver Moon Battle Sect Level.


    At this moment, Qin Yuanshan''s brow was deeply furrowed. He had already used seven moves, and not only was Xu Nian still alive, but even the Demon Beast in front of him had not been killed, which filled him with sudden anger.


    "Hmph!"


    Qin Yuanshan snorted from his nostrils as the spiritual energy inside his body circted to its peak, and his body was then covered with ayer of green patterns.


    "What? Qin Yuanshan actually used the Green Pattern Battle Skill. This is the only Earth-level Battle Technique of the Qin Family!" Even Yann Tianhai on the stands eximed at this moment.


    The Green Pattern Battle Skill was a well-known Qin Familybat skill, and it was unexpected that Qin Yuanshan would be pushed to use it.


    Seeing this, Xu Nian''s eyes also widened in an instant.


    Suddenly, as if realizing something, he rushed to shout at Little Xu Yu, "Little Yu, run fast!"


    "Hmph, toote to run now!"


    But before Xu Nian''s voice could fall, Qin Yuanshan''s figure had already appeared above Little Xu Yu, and his terrifying fist smashed down directly onto Little Xu Yu''s chest.


    "Boom!"


    Little Xu Yu, unable to react in time, was struck by the punch. Its entire body plummeted like a meteorite to the ground, creating a massive pit on the Life and Death tform.


    Lying in the pit, Little Xu Yu was bloodied and convulsing, unable to move at all.


    Seeing this, anger surged to the top of Xu Nian''s skull, and his eyes instantly reddened with killing intent.

 Chapter 59 The Despicable Qin Yuanshan

    Anger!


    Endless fury surged from the depths of his heart.


    Little Xu Yu had brought him a lot of joy in the time they had spent together, and in Xu Nian''s heart, Little Xu Yu had long since be someone as dear as family.


    Now, Little Xu Yu had been seriously injured because of him, a fact Xu Nian could not bear no matter what.


    "Emperor Ye Tian, lend me your power," Xu Nian said solemnly in his heart.


    Even the usual term of respect ''senior'' was omitted at this moment.


    However, Emperor Ye Tian did not pursue the matter and simply said, "You should know the consequences of borrowing my power. Do you really want to do this?"


    Xu Nian nodded, his eyes exceptionally fierce.


    Emperor Ye Tian was slightly surprised; he hadn''t expected Xu Nian to dare ask her for strength again.


    Thest time in the Demon Beast Forest when he was ambushed by Ouyang Tian, Xu Nian had borrowed her power once before, but the end result was that Xu Nian suffered full-body pain for three whole days, an agony so intense it felt like death.


    She had originally thought that after experiencing such pain, Xu Nian would never ask to borrow her power again, but now she realized she had underestimated the determination of the young man before her.


    For the ones he cared about, he would spare no cost.


    "Fine! I will lend you my power, but you''re already seriously injured. My power can only sustain you for three minutes. You must resolve this within three minutes; once they''re up, your injuries will immediately worsen, and you should know what the consequences will be," the voice of Emperor Ye Tian resonated in Xu Nian''s mind.


    "Thank you!" Xu Nian replied with gratitude.


    Emperor Ye Tian sighed helplessly and then released a powerful force.


    As this force emerged, Xu Nian''s body seemed to ignite with ck mes, even his pupils turned pitch-ck, and that overwhelmingly powerful aura instantly transformed into a storm that swept across the entire venue.


    The raindrops in the sky were all dispersed by the shock at this moment, and the entire square seemingly became a vacuum in an instant, making one''s chest feel tight.


    "What... what''s happening to him?" The people in the stands cried out in shock, gaping at Xu Nian who seemed to be bathed in ck mes.


    Yann Tianhai and Chen Hong on the high tform also had their hearts skip a beat; at this moment, they actually felt a tinge of fear, staring at Xu Nian in disbelief.


    Qin Yuanshan, who was initially about to act andpletely annihte Little ck Hawk, froze at this moment, staring at the changes in Xu Nian with eyebrows knitted to the extreme.


    The change in Xu Nian was very strange, and most crucially, the aura emanating from Xu Nian''s body was even above his own, which he found inconceivable.


    "Bang!"


    A loud explosion.


    Xu Nian''s foot stamped on the ground, creating a deep crater in the stone pavement; in an instant, he shot forward like a streak of lightning.


    He was before Qin Yuanshan in the blink of an eye, the fist carrying the terrible ck deathly aura smashing straight towards Qin Yuanshan''s chest.


    Qin Yuanshan was rmed, his palms flipped, gathering Spiritual Energy to meet Xu Nian''s punch.


    "Boom!"


    The Spiritual Energy exploded, but Xu Nian stood as stable as Mount Taishan.


    Qin Yuanshan, however, was like a kite with its string cut, rapidly flying backward, traveling a full fifty meters before dissipating the force and spitting out a trickle of blood from his mouth, his face filled with disbelief as he looked toward Xu Nian.


    He had made eight moves and had not been able to kill him.


    Now, with one move, Xu Nian had pushed him back fifty meters!


    This stark contrast was almost beyond belief.


    The people around werepletely petrified, eyes widened, the venue silent, yet their hearts were boiling with excitement.


    Stay tuned for updates on empire


    "Excellent!"


    Someone unknown cried out, and suddenly the whole viewing tform erupted, resounding with a session of thunderous apuse.


    Qin Yuanshan, who was already very depressed, now looked as if he had been pped in the face, his face as pale as pork belly.


    However, Xu Nian remained with a face of icy coldness. His gaze, like that of the Nine Nether Ice Spring, induced a chilling sensation in Qin Yuanshan''s heart. At this moment, he even harbored an absurd sense of dread.


    "Bang!"


    Another thunderous explosion echoed as Xu Nian''s figure once again shot out like lightning, striding forward three steps in session, with each step exponentially increasing in speed.


    By the time Xu Nian reached Qin Yuanshan, the momentum gathered within him had already reached its peak. With no fanciful moves, there was only one punch.


    But this punch was like thunder tearing through the night sky, carrying an immensely terrifying force towards Qin Yuanshan.


    Qin Yuanshan''s face was stricken with horror, hastily mobilizing all of his Spiritual Energy to defend. However, his Spiritual Energy was like paper mache before Xu Nian, directly shattered by Xu Nian''s fist, whichnded with brutal certainty on Qin Yuanshan''s chest.


    "Boom!"


    Qin Yuanshan''s body was sent flying straight back, crashing into the wall of the stands behind him, creating a huge crater, as blood spurted wildly from his mouth, and he tumbled to the ground.


    Now seriously injured, Qin Yuanshan struggled to stand, his eyes filled with an unwillingness to lose as he looked at Xu Nian.


    Xu Nian stood, proud and aloof. His dark eyes were frighteningly palpable, his aura as if possessed by a demonic god, supremely dominant.


    At this moment, not a single person spoke. Even if Xu Nian now struck down Qin Yuanshan, they would think it justified, considering that Qin Yuanshan had first disowned his own son.


    However, Xu Nian took a deep breath and looked at the tottering Qin Yuanshan, speaking in a cold voice, "Leave. From this day forward, I, Xu Nian, sever all ties with the Qin Family. You and I are no longer father and son. As long as the Qin Family does not trouble my mother, and you release her, I swear I will not seek trouble with the Qin Family. But, you''d better be wary!"


    With those words, Xu Nian turned and walked towards Little Xu Yu.


    The audience on the stands let out a sigh of relief upon seeing this. Although it would not have been unjustified for Xu Nian to kill Qin Yuanshan, such an act would have seemed overly ruthless. Xu Nian''s action instead earned their deep respect.


    But Qin Yuanshan''s expression had turned utterly dark. A man of immense pride, he now realized he could no longer stand in East Field County. Thinking of this, a profound Killing Intent surged within him.


    Xu Nian didn''t look back at Qin Yuanshan. As he returned Little Xu Yu to the Demon Beast Ring, his own body was already at its limit.


    His hands and feet trembled, and he was on the verge of copsing to the ground.


    "Be careful!"


    Just then, an rmed cry rang out from the stands, causing everyone to cover their mouths involuntarily.


    Hearing this shout, Xu Nian knew it was bad. As he turned his head, he saw Qin Yuanshan''s ferocious face. At this moment, he had no strength left to fight back.


    Despicable!


    Everyone cursed inwardly, but it was already toote to intervene.


    Neither Chen Hong nor Yann Tianhai could react in time, never having expected Qin Yuanshan tounch a surprise attack after defeat.


    If Xu Nian were struck by Qin Yuanshan now, he would undoubtedly die.


    "Hmph!"


    Just when everyone thought Xu Nian was doomed, a cold snort suddenly echoed from the sky.


    Then, everyone saw a dazzling long sword fly swiftly from beyond the heavens, crashing down between Xu Nian and Qin Yuanshan.


    As the long sword embedded itself into the stone, the power that burst forth from it hurled Qin Yuanshan away, mming him into the wall once more, spewing blood profusely.n/?/vel/b//jn dot c//om


    Xu Nian was also affected by this powerful surge of Spiritual Energy, his body thrown backward. But just then, a stunningly beautiful and familiar figure appeared from afar, gliding through the air to catch Xu Nian in an embrace.


    Xu Nian looked at the stunning woman who had appeared so suddenly with a face full of shock, filled with incredible astonishment.

 Chapter 60 The Number One on the Beauty List

    The woman before him wasn''t Leng Yanran whom Xu Nian had encountered in the Demon Beast Forest, then who was she?


    Yet Xu Nian could have never anticipated that Leng Yanran would appear here, and moreover, would save him at this moment.


    Xu Nian leaned into Leng Yanran''s embrace, the soft sensation on his cheek giving him an indescribablyfortable feeling, prompting him to subconsciously nuzzle closer.


    It was still that familiar faint fragrance, identical to the scent she had emanated in the cave before.


    Leng Yanran seemed to sense Xu Nian''s movement, scoffing with a hint of a blush shing across her beautiful face before she descended onto the Life and Death tform and then tossed Xu Nian onto the ground.


    Xu Nian, who was already severely injured, nearly got smashed to a pulp by Leng Yanran''s throw, grimacing in pain yet not daring to utter a single word ofint.


    All around, the spectators in the stands burst into discussion, seemingly trying to deduce the identity of this woman.


    Walking on air, that was a feat of Marquis Level powerhouses!


    How could such a formidable person appear here?


    However, Yann Tianhai and others at his side''s expressions turned exceedingly respectful, while Ouyang Tian''s face showed difort, clearly the arrival''s identity was making him apprehensive.


    "Dean, I hadn''t expected you toe here in person," said Chen Hong as he stepped forward, his face brimming with utmost respect.


    "Dean?" At this, everyone''s eyes widened in shock, it only then dawned on them that there was an elusive Dean above the Spirit Academy and Body Institute.


    They had long heard of such a person''s existence but had never seen them; to think it was a woman, and moreover, a stunning beauty.


    "Psh, you bunch of idiots, do you not know who tops the Beauty List? It''s none other than our esteemed Dean!" someone in the know immediately took this opportunity to show off.


    "What? The Dean is actually the number one on the Beauty List?" The surrounding students were immediately in an uproar.


    They all knew that the top woman on the Beauty List belonged to their academy, but no one had ever seen her. They had not expected it to be their academy''s female Dean.


    However, considering Leng Yanran''s beauty coupled with the lofty and aloof temperament she carried, being top of the Beauty List was indeed fitting.


    From the moment Leng Yanran made her entrance, she captivated the hearts of every male student present, making all admire her without end.


    Yet, no one dared to harbor any disrespectful thoughts, for the woman before them exuded a chilling beauty that made her difficult to look at directly.


    Xu Nian at this moment was also petrified where he stood, unable to believe that all of this was real.


    Leng Yanran was their academy''s Dean?


    And also the number one on the Beauty List?


    Did that mean he not only had rtions with their academy''s Dean but also with the top beauty of their school''s Beauty List?


    This result left Xu Nian not knowing whether to cry orugh.


    If those on the stands knew that he had been with the most beautiful Dean of their academy, they might very well wish to strangle him.


    The most legendary student ever, without equal!


    The first person in the thousand-year history of Qinglin Academy who dared to bed a Dean!


    Thinking of these titles, Xu Nian felt as though he had done something earth-shatteringly significant, simply shier than defeating ten Qin Yuanshans.


    Noticing Xu Nian''s sleazy grin, Leng Yanran unceremoniously nced at Xu Nian.


    Xu Nian''s body immediately shuddered, promptly ying dead with an agonized expression.


    Leng Yanran let out a coldugh, then averted her gaze to look towards Qin Yuanshan, who had already stood up in front of her. She said icily, "Since we agreed on ten moves, we must honor that agreement. You''ve already used ten moves, so that sneak attack just now counts as breaking the agreement. Family Head Qin, you wouldn''t be a man who goes back on his word, would you?"


    Qin Yuanshan''s face turned awkward upon hearing these words. Although he was unwilling, he dared not strike again.


    Seeing Qin Yuanshan''s response, Leng Yanran snorted coldly again, "Although he is your son, he is also a student of our Academy. I, Leng Yanran, have long stated that I absolutely will not allow our students to suffer any humiliation. Your actions today have angered me, and should there be a next time, I, Leng Yanran, will surely visit the Qin Family myself to have a word with Qin Hong!"


    "There won''t be! Absolutely not!" Qin Yuanshan hurriedly replied.


    Who is Qin Hong?


    Of course, he was the Qin Family Ancestor.


    The Qin Family Ancestor was only at the Xuantian-level Battle General Rank, while the dean before him was a Marquis Level power. A power like her personally visiting the Qin Family meant they would stand no chance, even if the entire family took action.


    However, Qin Yuanshan was somewhat puzzled. Why would the Dean openly pressure the Qin Family for the sake of a single student? Could it really just be because she saw potential in Xu Nian?


    If not for this reason, Qin Yuanshan really couldn''t think of any other.


    The surrounding crowd was also surprised, but in the end, they all thought that Leng Yanran helped Xu Nian because she saw his potential.


    Of course, Leng Yanran''s remark was also meant for Ouyang Tian to hear.


    The Life and Death tform, a ce to decide life or death, was a rule she had established. Since Ouyang Chengfeng had stepped onto the Life and Death tform, his family, the Ouyang Family, should be prepared to ept the result.


    A warning by striking the mountain to terrorize the tiger!


    Ouyang Tian naturally understood the principle, but his heart was still filled with reluctance. However, with Xu Nian under Leng Yanran''s protection now, nobody could do anything to him.


    Thus, under the deration of Leng Yanran, this turmoil came to an end with a final stroke!


    Of course, the aftermath of this incident was far from over. Whether it was Xu Nian defeating Ouyang Chengfeng, shing with Qin Yuanshan, or Leng Yanran''s heart-stirring final words¡ªall became a hot topic among the students.


    In no time, the name Xu Nian swept through the entire student body like a storm.


    After this, a battle for possession broke out between Spiritual Academy Director Chen Hong and Dean of Body Institute Xie An, and the reason for the dispute was: to recruit Xu Nian!


    After hearing that Xu Nian was the Dragon God and possessed the Sixth-star of Star Realm in Body Cultivation, the Dean of Body Institute came directly to poach him.


    How could Spiritual Academy Director Chen Hong let him go so easily? And so, the two deans had a fierce argument within the Academy, even almosting to blows.


    In the end, this matter naturally reached Leng Yanran, causing her quite a headache.


    In fact, Leng Yanran had been present that day as well but had stood in the distance watching. Xu Nian''s performance had also shocked her. She intervened partly because Xu Nian had a connection with her, and the other half because she was moved by Xu Nian''s performance and tenacity.


    To prevent the two deans from arguing further, Leng Yanran made a decision¡ªto make Xu Nian her Direct Disciple.


    Hearing this decision, the two old men stopped arguing, but they harbored great resentment towards Leng Yanran. If they had known the oue earlier, they would have settled the matter privately, even if it meant fighting until they were bloody. Better that than both missing out.


    Seeing the two men''s reactions, Leng Yanran was also speechless, thinking to herself whether Xu Nian was really that popr?


    However, the news spread quickly, and it caused a sensation throughout the Academy.


    One must know that thest Direct Disciple was from three hundred years ago. Whoever became a direct disciple, aside from having extraordinary talent, must possess exceptional character.


    Now, Leng Yanran had unexpectedly made Xu Nian her Direct Disciple, and this simply caused all the students, especially the male students, to be green with envy.


    However, when Xu Nian heard the news, he immediately jumped out of bed and yelled, "I refuse!"N?v(el)B\\jnn


    His instinctual first reaction was that Leng Yanran wanted to use this to get back at him.


    Besides, he had already slept with Leng Yanran. How could he still respect her as his master?

 Chapter 61 Jade Cave Heaven

    In a grand hall at the summit of Qinglin Academy, Leng Yanran sat on the main seat, watching the restrained young man before her with cold eyes.


    Although the young man was restrained, his gaze was bold. He looked directly into Leng Yanran''s eyes without ncing at her graceful figure.


    The two of them locked eyes for a full ten minutes, neither uttering a word as if whoever spoke first would lose.


    Finally, Leng Yanran gave in. She looked at the young man and asked coldly with a sneer, "I''ve heard you''re quite unwilling to be my direct disciple, that you even publicly refused, causing everyone in the Academy to know about it?"


    Upon hearing this, a bitter smile appeared on the young man''s face.


    Indeed, when Chen Wudi told him this news, he did say he wouldn''t do it, but he never expected that Chen Wudi, the loudmouth, would spread the news throughout the entire Academy.


    As a result, the whole Academy was talking about how impressive Xu Nian was; he had actually refused the coveted status of a direct disciple.


    In reality, Xu Nian didn''t want to be a direct disciple; he was simply afraid of Leng Yanran''s revenge.


    But Leng Yanran''s next words nearly made Xu Nian spit out a mouthful of blood.


    "You don''t want to be a direct disciple, do you? You don''t want to see me, do you? Fine, today I insist you be my direct disciple. Furthermore, you must move into this Qingtian Hall and live with me!" Leng Yanran said with a malicious smile.


    Xu Nian''s eyes widened, disbelief written all over his face.


    He never imagined that this cold and unbeatable Leng Yanran could have such a yful side.n/?/vel/b//jn dot c//om


    And that statement: live with me!


    The more he thought about it, the more it seemed off. Was she proposing they cohabit?


    Could it be they were going to lead a happy life under the guise of master and disciple, but in reality husband and wife?


    Seemingly noticing Xu Nian''s wild thoughts, Leng Yanran red fiercely at him. This gesture added an indescribable charm to her originally icy and stunning demeanor.


    Seeing this, Xu Nian was somewhat dazed, finally understanding why this woman, who was clearly in her twenties, could top the Beauty List. The allure thaty deep within her bones was tremendously lethal.


    "Also, in ten days, the Jade Cave Heaven will open. At that time, anyone ranked in the top ten of the Azure Dragon List is qualified to participate. Having defeated Ouyang Chengfeng, you''re now ranked tenth on the Azure Dragon List, which naturally includes you. So, you''d better get ready in the next ten days," Leng Yanran suddenly said.


    "Jade Cave Heaven? What''s that?" Xu Nian asked, puzzled.


    "Jade Cave Heaven is an extraterritorial space obtained by our Qinglin Academy from an Ancient Sect. It is also a trial ground left by the Ancient Sect. Within this space, there are not only immense dangers but also great opportunities. Every three years, our Academy''s Jade Cave Heaven opens once, and those students on the Azure Dragon List have not chosen to break through to the Silver Moon Battle Sect because they were waiting for this chance to enter the Jade Cave Heaven," Leng Yanran exined.


    Upon hearing this, Xu Nian''s face revealed an expression of sudden realization.


    Extraterritorial space?


    Ancient Sect?


    This piqued Xu Nian''s interest in the Jade Cave Heaven.


    You should know that during Ancient Times, cultivators flourished to a far greater extent than now, and many powerfulbat skills andbat techniques were lost in the passage of time, breaking the line of transmission.


    Take, for example, the lineage of the Ancient Demons. Nowadays, probably the only inheritor of the Divine Demon lineage left is Xu Nian.


    As for the Divine Demon Gang Skill, it has long since vanished without a trace. Common Gang Skills simply cannot unleash the true power of Divine Demon Body Refinement, which is also the reason Xu Nian has never cultivated a Gang Skill.


    "Actually, you haven''t yet grasped what I mean by ''opportunity.''" said Leng Yanran, "Do you think if it were only powerfulbat skills and Gang Skills, they would really let those students on the Azure Dragon List suppress their realms without breaking through? If that were the case, why wouldn''t they just enter the Battle Mansion, where the resources are even richer?"


    Seeing that Xu Nian seemed to have not understood the true meaning of her words, Leng Yanran spoke up to give him a hint.


    Xu Nian suddenly froze.


    Right, the Battle Mansion is the most powerful force in East Field County, havingbat techniques and skills certainly not inferior to an Ancient Sect, and there must be something else attracting these geniuses to willingly suppress their realms without breaking through.


    "Is there some other important treasure in Jade Cave Heaven?" Xu Nian asked.


    A light smile yed on Leng Yanran''s lips as she looked at Xu Nian and said, "Not too slow on the uptake, that''s correct. There indeed lies an item within Jade Cave Heaven that draws them in, and this item is also the greatest value of Jade Cave Heaven. Not to mention those students, even those Marquis Level powerhouses are extremely envious, some abandon Tianhen Academy and join Qinglin Academy just for it."


    "What is so enticing?" Xu Nian''s curiosity grew even stronger.


    "Golden Crow Fruit!" Leng Yanran uttered three words.


    Xu Nian''s eyes instantly widened in surprise.


    He had never expected that such a thing as the Golden Crow Fruit would exist within Jade Cave Heaven.


    The Golden Crow Fruit is an incredibly rare and extraordinary fruit tree, bearing fruit only once every three years, and each time, only a single fruit.


    Once a person consumes the Golden Crow Fruit, although it doesn''t increase cultivation, it can help open the Mud Ball Pce and condense Spiritual Sense.


    Spiritual Sense is an indication of the strength of a cultivator''s soul, and normally, cultivators can only condense Spiritual Sense when they reach the Saint Level. However, with the Golden Crow Fruit, regardless of realm, one can condense Spiritual Sense.


    What use is condensing Spiritual Sense?


    The benefit is significant. A person''s insight is rted to the strength of the soul, and a soul with condensed Spiritual Sense is incredibly strong, making progress in cultivatingbat skills and techniques at a speed several or even dozens of times faster than others.


    Not only that, once Spiritual Sense is condensed, one can cultivate soul-basedbat skills. These kinds ofbat skills are fatally effective against average cultivators, absolutely serving as a trump card.


    Most crucially, condensing Spiritual Sense also means that one has the potential to step into the Saint Level, a feat even Marquis Level powerhouses can only envy.


    Now he finally understood why those students are willing to suppress their realms to enter Jade Cave Heaven¡ªthe allure of the Golden Crow Fruit alone is enough to attract all powerhouses below the Saint Level.


    "Since Jade Cave Heaven is restricted by powerful prohibitions, only those below the Silver Moon Battle Sect can enter. Therefore, our Academy has set a rule that anyone who makes it into the top ten of the Azure Dragon List will be qualified to enter Jade Cave Heaven topete for the Golden Crow Fruit. Hence, I hope you can secure that fruit this time. It will greatly aid your future cultivation," Leng Yanran said to Xu Nian, her eyes unexpectedly filled with hope.


    Xu Nian was taken aback for a moment, then nodded his head.


    Although he did not know why Leng Yanran suddenly had such high hopes for him, he chose to ept.


    Even for his own sake, he had to obtain the Golden Crow Fruit!

 Chapter 62 Azure Dragon List Masters

    Over the next ten days, Xu Nian stayed inside Qingtian Hall.


    And Leng Yanran also spent all her time instructing Xu Nian in his cultivation, from Combat Techniques to Combat Skills, wherever Xu Nian had doubts, Leng Yanran made it a point to exin everything one by one.


    Although Xu Nian had the guidance of Emperor Ye Tian, Emperor Ye Tian''s realm was simply too high, and she considered the problems Xu Nian encountered as idiotic, deeming them not worthy of exnation, and letting Xu Nian figure them out on his own.


    Thus, Leng Yanran''s pointers turned out to be just right for Xu Nian. With her Marquis Level cultivation, she was able to offer answers from a high vantage point in the simplest and most straightforward way, which was extremely beneficial to Xu Nian.


    After ten days, although there wasn''t a significant increase in Xu Nian''s realm, he had gained a higher understanding ofbat skills and Combat Techniques, which would save him from taking many detours in his future cultivation journey.


    Through these ten days of interaction, Xu Nian also found that Leng Yanran was actually a warm person beneath her cold exterior.


    Although she appeared aloof on the surface, deep down she was still a sensual woman.


    A few times, when Xu Nian sneakily checked out her figure and she caught him, her sultry demeanor almost made Xu Nian''s eyes pop out.


    This made him regret even more that he wasn''t sober that day.


    Every time he thought about what Emperor Ye Tian had said, that Leng Yanran had the Xuanyin Physique, he felt a surge of heat in his heart.


    The ten days quickly passed, and the day when Jade Cave Heaven opened had suddenly arrived.


    The entire Academy erupted into excitement, and although only the top ten on the Azure Dragon List could enter Jade Cave Heaven, it was a rare grand asion for the entire student body.


    Because during the ten days when the students from the Azure Dragon List entered Jade Cave Heaven, the Academy would use the Xuantian Mirror to broadcast all their movements, allowing every student to watch.


    To them, this was a rare learning opportunity, so how could they not be excited?


    When Xu Nian learned of this news, he felt depressed.


    Darn, being monitored with every move he made meant that anything he obtained in Jade Cave Heaven would be known to others, which made Xu Nian feel somewhat unhappy, but there was nothing he could do about it.


    What made Xu Nian even more frustrated was that Little Xu Yu couldn''t be brought into Jade Cave Heaven, which meant he would be without a significant source of strength.


    In the end, Xu Nian could only leave Little Xu Yu in Qingtian Hall, to be cared for by Leng Yanran.


    Qinglin Academy, in the depths of the dense forest behind the mountains,y a massive tform.


    Atop this tform, there stood a huge and ancient Stone Gate, and in front of the Stone Gate at this moment, stood ten young men and women, clearly the top ten students on the Azure Dragon List, who had gathered here awaiting the opening of Jade Cave Heaven.


    Xu Nian stood amidst the crowd, looking at the other nine young men and women beside him, filled with emotion.


    A few months ago, he had listened to Chen Wudi talk about how formidable the top ten on the Azure Dragon List were; now, unexpectedly, he had also be one of them.


    "Xu Nian, let me introduce myself, I''m Yun Lan!"


    Just as Xu Nian was lost in thought, a stunningly beautiful woman approached him and with a charming smile said,


    and also extended her delicate, fair hand.


    Xu Nian hurriedly reached out and shook the woman''s hand. The moment his hand touched hers, Xu Nian felt as if he was holding a warm ball of mutton-fat jade, exceptionally smooth.


    Although reluctant to let go, holding on for too long would seem creepy, so Xu Nian had no choice but to withdraw his hand with reluctance.


    The woman saw that look on his face, which made herugh, her body shaking like the branches of a flower in the breeze.


    "Do you know me?" Xu Nian, with an embarrassed face, hurriedly changed the subject and asked.


    "Of course, I know you. I was there the day you fought on the Life and Death tform. Besides, news about you has spread throughout the whole Academy. Just ask anyone here who doesn''t know you." Yun Lan said with a smile.


    Xu Nian scratched his head in embarrassment and looked around, indeed, noticing others also sizing him up.


    Suddenly, Xu Nian remembered the woman''s identity in front of him, Chen Wudi had told him before, the woman ranked second on the Beauty List and fifth on the Azure Dragon List was none other than Yun Lan.


    Xu Nian hadn''t expected that this charming and graceful woman in front of him was actually Yun Lan, nor had he thought that she would have watched his duel that day.


    Just then, two young men approached; one was tall and burly, while the other looked elegant and handsome.


    Yun Lan quickly said with a smile, "Let me introduce you, this is Yu Fei, ranked fourth on the Azure Dragon List, a Body Cultivator who is skilled in Spear Technique."n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om


    "Nice to meet you. I was impressed by your fight that day!" the tall and burly Yu Fei walked up to Xu Nian, pped him on the shoulder, and said with a smile.


    "Senior brother, hello!" Xu Nian nodded in greeting.


    "This is Chen Xifeng, ranked third on the Azure Dragon List, a Spirit Cultivator who is as skilled in Swordsmanship as you." Yun Lan introduced again.


    "My Swordsmanship isn''t as formidable as Junior Brother Xu; achieving the Divine Transformation in wielding Sword Point to execute the Wind st is something I have never seen before," Chen Xifeng said with a smile.


    "Senior brother is too kind, I am just more practiced in that particr set of Swordsmanship," Xu Nian humbly replied.


    Chen Xifeng smiled, clearly pleased with Xu Nian''s modest attitude.


    "Yo, isn''t that Yu Fei and Chen Xifeng? What''s this, making friends with the junior brother so quickly?" Just then, a discordant voice rang out.


    The crowd turned toward the direction of the voice to see a tall, dark-skinned young man walking over with another youth behind him, both with smirks on their faces.


    "Lin Han, what I do is none of your business. Just because you''re second on the Azure Dragon List, don''t think that we are afraid of you. Brother Xifeng only lost to you by a slight margin; you''ve got no reason to be so arrogant," Yu Fei said with a sudden loss of good cheer and a cold huff as he saw the neer.


    Xu Nian sized up the arrival with a hint of surprise in his eyes.


    Lin Han, second on the Azure Dragon List and also a Body Cultivator, had strength simr to Chen Xifeng''s, only slightly stronger.


    This Lin Han had always shed with Chen Xifeng and Yu Fei,rgely because they were both close to Yun Lan, while Lin Han was one of Yun Lan''s suitors.


    As for the person behind him, that was Xie Feng, ranked seventh on the Azure Dragon List, also a Body Cultivator, and brother in arms with Lin Han.


    "Losing by a half move? Still lost. If you''re so capable, let''s see you beating Lin Han by half a move," Xie Feng retorted with a snideugh.


    For a moment, Yu Fei was rendered speechless, obviously knowing what Xie Feng said was true, although his face showed he was unwilling to admit it.


    However, Lin Han didn''t pay any more attention to Chen Xifeng and Xie Feng; instead, he turned to Xu Nian with a cold smirk and said, "So you''re the Xu Nian who defeated Ouyang Chengfeng? Do you know that Ouyang Chengfeng is my cousin?"


    Upon hearing this, Xu Nian''s expression changed immediately, and he became alert.

 Chapter 63 Dugu Jingcheng

    Lin Han is actually Ouyang Chengfeng''s cousin?


    This came as some surprise to Xu Nian, but of course, he was not afraid.


    If Lin Han wanted to seek revenge, he, Xu Nian, was ready for it.


    Thus, Xu Nian met Lin Han''s sharp gaze without any hint of avoidance, with not a trace of fear in his eyes.


    Such a provocative action was naturally noticed by Lin Han, causing anger to surge within him.


    "You''ve got guts, Xu Nian, but sometimes, guts alone are not enough. Junior Brother Xu Nian, although the rtionship between Cheng Feng and me isn''t that close, after all, he is my cousin. If you are willing to cripple your own Dantian and dissipate all your Cultivation, I could let bygones be bygones," Lin Han said with a coldugh, looking down upon Xu Nian with disdain.


    Cripple my own Dantian?


    That''s a bit too harsh, isn''t it?


    The crowd around them suddenly disyed expressions of shock, and Yun Lan and others frowned deeply, obviously feeling that Lin Han''s demand was excessive.


    "Cripple my own Dantian? That line again. I originally thought that the person ranked second on the Azure Dragon List would have some standards, but I didn''t expect you to be exactly like Ouyang Cheng Feng," retorted Xu Nian coldly, his gaze steady and fearless as he looked at Lin Han as if he were not intimidated at all.


    At this, the crowd around them was taken aback.


    They hadn''t expected Xu Nian to be so bold as to confront Lin Han.


    Lin Han''s face also turned furious. He had not expected Xu Nian to dare to openly defy him.


    "Hmph, Xu Nian, right? I''ll remember you. On the uing trip to Jade Cave Heaven, I will make you understand the consequences of offending me," Lin Han huffed coldly, then turned and walked away.


    Xie Feng also sneered at Xu Nian and gave him a mocking look, then followed Lin Han.


    Xu Nian responded with a cold smile, unconcerned by the threats from Lin Han and Xie Feng.


    "However, you need to be careful with this Lin Han. Now that you''ve offended him, he will definitely cause trouble for you," warned Yun Lan from the side.


    "Yes, Lin Han is known to hold grudges. You''ve humiliated him today; he will surely find a chance to embarrass you. Plus, he''s somewhat cunning, so you better be careful. And there''s Xie Feng, that man is a petty person, but if they bully you,e to me," Yuu Fei said, patting Xu Nian on the shoulder.


    Xu Nian smiled and nodded, feeling a bit more fond of Yuu Fei.


    However, if Lin Han really came after him, Xu Nian wouldn''t actually seek Yuu Fei''s help, since their rtionship hadn''t reached the point of sharing trials and tribtions together.


    "Who is that person?" Xu Nian pointed to a young man in white, standing alone in a corner in the distance.


    The young man appeared to be about twenty-two years old but had a pair of sharp and unusuallyposed eyes. His whole being seemed to merge with the universe around him, giving an impression of being invincible.


    Moreover, the people around him consciously or unconsciously maintained a certain distance from him, their gazes filled with respect.


    "You mean him? He''s the prodigy ranked first on the Azure Dragon List, Dugu Jingcheng!" Chen Xifeng nced at the white-clothed young man Xu Nian was pointing at and said with a wry smile.


    "He''s Dugu Jingcheng?" Xu Nian couldn''t help but take another look at the white-clothed youth.


    He had heard about the top-ranked individual on the Azure Dragon List, an absolute prodigy the likes of which Qinglin Academy had never seen before.


    His talent, though not considered high and merely ordinary King-level, hid an unparalleled discernment within the Academy''s history in the field of swordy.


    Of course, that was before Xu Nian came onto the scene, now known as the second to Dugu Jingcheng.


    "Yes, his mastery of swordy is truly beyond ourparison, it''s said he has reached the realm of ''Man and Sword as One'' in swordsmanship," Chen Xifeng eximed once again.


    "Man and Sword as One?" Xu Nian was momentarily stunned, then showed a look of astonishment.


    Be it swordsmanship, spear techniques, or the mastery of other weapons, there exists a ranking system based on the understanding of Sword Intent.N?v(el)B\\jnn


    There are four levels in this ranking system: Man and Sword as One, Sword Intent Transformation, Unity of Heaven and Man, and Seeking Truth with Sword.


    The so-called Man and Sword as One is the unity of the individual and the de, using the sword to express one''s will, like how Gudu Jingcheng, solitary and aloof, wields his sword with a lone fierceness and incredible power.


    The realm of Sword Intent does not conflict with the mastery ofbat skills. One pertains to control over the sword techniques, while the other is about the sublimation of the Sword Heart.


    One focuses on form, the other on spirit¡ªboth are mutually reinforcing!


    Xu Nian had not expected that Gudu Jingcheng''sprehension of Sword Intent had already reached the realm of Heavenly Human Unity. Reaching such a state at a young age was exceedingly rare.


    You see, many practice the art of the sword, but those capable of reaching Man and Sword as One are extremely scarce, hardly one in a thousand; as for Sword Intent Transformation, even rarer still.


    "How terrifying exactly is Gudu Jingcheng''s sword?" Xu Nian turned and asked Chen Xifeng once again.


    Upon hearing this, Chen Xifeng smiled, exchanged nces with Yuu Fei and Yun Lan beside him, and then looked back at Xu Nian replying, "You saw Lin Han just now, didn''t you? You should be able to sense his strength."


    Xu Nian nodded. Lin Han was indeed strong. Although he did not care about Lin Han''s retaliation, Xu Nian was not so arrogant as to disregard him. He could affirm that, even with all his might, he might not necessarily be Lin Han''s match.


    However, what Chen Xifeng said next left Xu Nian at a loss for words.


    "A year ago, after Lin Han defeated me, he thought he was invincible under the heavens and then challenged Gudu Jingcheng," Chen Xifeng paused.


    "And what happened?" Xu Nian eagerly asked.


    Yun Lan, standing aside, shook her head and added, "As a result, Gudu Jingcheng only needed three swords to leave Lin Han severely injured, with the first two merely probing shots. Essentially, it could be said he did it with a single strike."


    "A single strike?" Xu Nian''s eyes widened as he looked at the white-clothed young man, his eyes revealing an indescribable astonishment.


    At that moment, the white-clothed young man seemed to feel Xu Nian''s gaze, turned his head towards Xu Nian, and the perpetually icy face remained cold, but his eyes shone with a hint ofbativeness.


    "Eh, is he challenging me?" Xu Nian internally eximed with shock.


    Gudu Jingcheng had actually revealed a fighting intent to him¡ªshould others hear of this, it would surely be considered a shocking and outrageous event.


    However, Gudu Jingcheng quickly turned his gaze away, missing this scene entirely.


    Xu Nian also turned his attention in another direction and saw Leng Yanran leading a group of Academy Elders slowly walking their way.


    All ten students, witnessing this, felt a surge of excitement, and couldn''t help feeling nervous as well.


    They knew that Jade Cave Heaven was about to open!

 Chapter 64 Enemies Meet on a Narrow Road

    "Ladies and gentlemen," Leng Yanran began, "I''m sure you''re all aware that today is the day Jade Cave Heaven opens. For the next ten days, you will all be in Jade Cave Heaven, and every move you make will be observed by us through the Xuantian Mirror."


    Everyone was already aware of this, so their faces showed no signs of surprise.


    Leng Yanran continued, "There are a few points I need to emphasize. First, the Academy does not allow killing each other in Jade Cave Heaven. Competing for treasures is allowed, but killing is not. Next is about the Golden Crow Token. If you encounter unavoidable dangers, just crush the Jade Token, and you can exit Jade Cave Heaven. Lastly, the Golden Crow Fruit."


    As soon as the Golden Crow Fruit was mentioned, everyone''s expressions grew solemn; evidently, the Golden Crow Fruit was also their target in entering Jade Cave Heaven.


    "The Golden Crow Fruit will ripen on the tenth day, and once it''s ripe, you will have only two hours topete for it. If you cannot pluck the Golden Crow Fruit within that time, it will be absorbed by the Golden Crow Tree. Remember, you have only two hours," Leng Yanran said.


    Two hours?


    The expressions on everyone''s faces grew more somber¡ªobtaining the Golden Crow Fruit within two hours was certainly no easy task.


    You should know that it''s not just you in Jade Cave Heaven. There are many Exotic Beasts, and this Golden Crow Fruit is also highly attractive to them. Thus, obtaining it will be no easy feat.


    "Furthermore, this iteration of Jade Cave Heaven is special. A monthter is the Academy''s grandpetition. Hence, I will select three out of you ten to participate in the grandpetition. The selection will be based on the points you earn. Killing a First-star Exotic Beast from Star Realm earns you one point, Two-star earns two points, and so forth, up to Nine-star, which earns nine points. Killing a First-star Exotic Beast from Two-star Silver Moon War Sect earns a hundred points, Two-star earns two hundred points, likewise, and the top three scorers will qualify topete in the grandpetition," Leng Yanran announced.


    The crowd was instantly abuzz with excitement at this revtion, everyone eager to try.


    Xu Nian was also somewhat surprised. He had heard of this grandpetition before, reportedly the rewards were exceedingly generous,parable even to the Golden Crow Fruit, and participating provided a chance to win those coveted awards.


    "It seems this trial in Jade Cave Heaven will be exceptionally intense," Xu Nian murmured to himself.


    Yet, he was interested in the Exotic Beasts mentioned by Leng Yanran. They seemed not to be ordinary Demon Beasts, though it was unclear how theypared in strength.


    "Alright, I''ve said everything that needs to be said. What follows is up to your own performance," Leng Yanran said. After finishing her speech, she waved her sleeve, and ten Golden Crow Tokens flew into the hands of Xu Nian and others.


    Xu Nian grasped his own Golden Crow Token; it was a jade token, simr to the Academy''s Identity Token, bearing his name and under it a number: zero.


    Once Xu Nian killed an Exotic Beast, this number on the token would increase until he crushed the token and left Jade Cave Heaven.


    Seeing that everyone had received their Identity Tokens, Leng Yanran no longer hesitated. She summoned all her Spiritual Energy, pressed a hand on the ancient and massive Stone Gate behind her.


    With Leng Yanran''s action, the ancient Stone Gate began to tremble violently, eventually slowly opening.


    A dazzling light shone through the Stone Gate, carrying with it an ancient aura.


    Xu Nian and the others were momentarily blinded by the dazzling light, unable to see clearly whaty beyond the Stone Gate.


    "Go!" Leng Yanranmanded coldly.


    Then, Gudu Jingcheng was the first to step through the Stone Gate and vanished from sight.


    Seeing Dugu Jingcheng enter the Stone Gate, Lin Han snorted coldly and followed suit, and one by one, everyone surged through the Stone Gate.


    "Let''s go," Yun Lan said, turning to Xu Nian.


    Xu Nian nodded and followed.


    As thest of the students entered, the Stone Gate also began to close slowly.


    "Move!" Leng Yanran said to Chen Hong and Xie An behind her before leading them towards the za in front of the mountain.


    ...


    At this moment, thousands had already gathered in the za in front of the mountain.


    These were all students, for whom Jade Cave Heaven was not only a trial for the Azure Dragon List students but also a great learning opportunity.


    Currently, ten Xuantian Mirrors hovered above the za, each corresponding to one Azure Dragon List student, allowing spectators to see every move they made.


    Above the Mirrors floated a golden leaderboard disying the names of the ten students, each with a zero score next to their name.


    Yes, these zeroes represented the scores of the ten trialists.


    As the figures of the Azure Dragon List students appeared on the Xuantian Mirror, the crowd began to buzz with excitement, especially the female students who screamed continuously at the sight of Dugu Jingcheng.


    Everyone on the Azure Dragon List was celebrated in the Academy, naturally attracting the admiration of many female students.


    Of course, the two female trialists among the ten also drew much admiration from the male students.


    Outside of Yun Lan, there was another woman among the ten.


    This woman ranked ninth on the Azure Dragon List, and fourth on the Beauty List, named Han Xin. She too had high poprity among the male students.


    The crowd attentively supported and cheered for their favorite top contenders from the Azure Dragon List.


    "Ah, look over there!"


    Just then, a shout of rm suddenly arose.


    Everyone turned to look in the direction indicated, and their exmations followed suit.


    They saw that the second and tenth Xuantian Mirror disyed the same scene¡ªtwo students facing each other.


    One with a stern gaze, the other with a mocking expression.


    "Are they going to fight? They just entered Jade Cave Heaven, could someone already be facing elimination?" the crowd spected.


    "This Xu Nian really has bad luck, just entering and already encountering Lin Han. Lin Han is Ouyang Chengfeng''s cousin. Xu Nian killed Ouyang Chengfeng; will Lin Han let him off?" someone who knew the backstory spoke up.


    Upon hearing this, everyone looked at Xu Nian with sympathy.


    Although Jade Cave Heaven did not permit killing, normal fighting was still allowed.N?v(el)B\\jnn


    Merely forcing an opponent out of Jade Cave Heaven was not against the rules, and clearly, Lin Han was intending to do just that.


    In Jade Cave Heaven, Xu Nian was also feeling frustrated.


    He hadn''t expected that upon entering, everyone would be scattered to different ces, yet he and Lin Han ended up in the same location.


    He even wondered if Jade Cave Heaven was ying a trick on him!

 Chapter 65 Life-breaking Cliff

    Lin Han looked at Xu Nian not far away with a mocking smile, his gaze carrying a yful coldness.


    Coming across Xu Nian at the same ce was a bit of a surprise for him, but it was more of a delight.


    Previously, when Xu Nian was at the entrance of Jade Cave Heaven, he had provoked Lin Han. Now was the perfect opportunity to take revenge.


    "Are you leaving on your own, or do I need to make a move?" Lin Han said, looking at Xu Nian with a cold smile, his gaze lofty and filled with scorn.


    The spectators at the scene heard this and also showed expressions of surprise.


    It seemed just as they had guessed, Lin Han was nning to directly eliminate Xu Nian.


    For a moment, everyone''s look towards Xu Nian turned to one of sympathy and pity. Although Xu Nian had previously defeated Qin Yuanshan of the Nine-star War Sect, many people could tell that Xu Nian had borrowed some external power.


    Such power usually wouldn''tst long, and was likely a one-off; if it were about true strength, Xu Nian, who ranked tenth on the Azure Dragon List, still had quite a gappared to Lin Han, who was second on the list.


    "So you''re certain you can defeat me?" Xu Nian responded coldly.


    Although he knew he was likely not a match for Lin Han, Lin Han''s arrogant attitude still infuriated him.


    Xu Nian had never been one to back down. Since Lin Han intended to confront him head-on, he would let Lin Han know that even if Lin Han tried to bite him to death, he would break all his teeth.


    "Looks like you don''t n to leave on your own? That''s fine by me; it spares me the feeling of being unfulfilled. You dared to insult me before entering Jade Cave Heaven, now I''ll let you know that I, Lin Han, am not someone you can afford to provoke."


    As Lin Han said thest word, his eyes suddenly sharpened.


    His figure burst forth in a sh, swinging his fist towards Xu Nian in an attempt to crush him.


    The Fist Wind was swift and fierce like a tiger, with terrifying Gang Qi aimed directly at Xu Nian''s chest.


    He had always been a person who was ruthless and decisive. Since he was dealing with Xu Nian, he would absolutely not give Xu Nian any chance to breathe. Derations of victory could wait until he had Xu Nian underfoot.


    Xu Nian was also surprised, not expecting Lin Han to strike so decisively.


    Without the slightest hesitation, he immediately channeled the Divine Demon Gang Qi within him. Nether Dragon Qi and Blood Dragon Qi were both activated, one infused within the Gang Qi and the other condensing into a Dragon Scale Fist, boldly meeting Lin Han''s punch.


    "Boom!"


    A loud bang echoed, Lin Han was forced back three steps, while Xu Nian was sent retreating a full ten steps.


    It had to be said, Lin Han''s mastery in Body Refinement was indeed profound. The Body Refining Cultivation at the Peak of the Star Realm had been tempered by him to the utmost, his muscles as hard as steel.


    Even with the power of two great Dragon Energies, Xu Nian was still at a disadvantage, showing just how formidable he was.


    Of course, there were also three stars difference between the realms of the two men. Had Xu Nian been at a nine-star cultivation level right now, that punch might have been enough to break Lin Han''s arm.


    "Interesting. No wonder you could defeat Ouyang Cheng Feng, being able to take one of my punches head-on. But do you really think that''s enough to contend with me? That''s far too arrogant. I only used half my strength for that punch," Lin Han said, his eyes showing slight amazement, but he quickly let out a scornful chuckle.


    The audience in the square, upon hearing these words, sighed in awe.


    Such a fierce punch had only used half of his strength; it was no wonder he stood second on the Azure Dragon List. It seemed Xu Nian, the dark horse, was likely going to fall here.


    Xu Nian also rubbed his numb arm, his mind filled with amazement. Lin Han before him was indeed stronger than he had imagined.


    He couldn''t believe just how strong Dugu Jingcheng, who had defeated Lin Han with only three swords a year ago, must be.


    "Hmph, die!"


    Just as Xu Nian was feeling emotional, Lin Han charged at him again with an even more rapid and fierce Gang Qi on his fist, the crimson energy actually seeping through his skin to cover his fist.


    To know that without reaching the Silver Moon Level, neither Body Cultivation nor Spirit Cultivators could possibly achieve the release of Spiritual Energy externally, but Lin Han was able to release Gang Qi through his skin at the Peak of Star Realm, which clearly showed his mastery over Gang Qi was impable.


    To break through to the Silver Moon Level for him was just a matter of minutes.


    Watching Lin Han charging again, Xu Nian no longer chose to confront him head-on with his Divine Demon Refining Body technique but instead unsheathed the long sword from his waist with his usual ease.


    "ng!"


    The sound of the sword cry arose, and Xu Nian''s sleeves and the purple Academy Robe also rustled as if moved by an invisible wind.


    "Ling Feng Thirteen Swords, Ninth Sword, Wind Fury!" Xu Nian shouted, swinging the Xuan Iron Sword in his hand.


    In an instant, his Xuan Iron Sword seemed to whip up a raging wind, shing towards Lin Han.


    Ling Feng Thirteen Swords!


    The first ten swords were: Wind Chime, Wind Roar, Wind st, Wind & Rain, Wind & Sand, Wind Shaking, Wind Trace, Wind Extreme, Wind Fury, Wind Kill!


    The final three swords were: Wind Song, Wind Roar, Wind Shaking Heaven.


    After the modifications by the Yetian Divine Emperor, each sword contained infinite profundity and could exert tremendous power.


    In battles against different foes, different techniques could also have unexpected effects.


    "ng!"


    Lin Han''s fist and Xu Nian''s Xuan Iron Sword shed fiercely, emitting an extreme tremor.


    This time, Lin Han was actually forced back ten steps by that strike, a look of surprise appearing on his face.


    He had used seventy percent of his strength in that punch but hadn''t expected not only to fail to defeat Xu Nian but to be pushed back even more.


    The audience in the arena was also dumbstruck, as Xu Nian blocked Lin Han''s attack once again.


    Of course, it wasn''t easy for Xu Nian either; the terrible recoil from the sword made the corner of his mouth bleed.


    But at this moment, he couldn''t care about that and quickly fled towards the distance, propelled by the rebound.


    Nonsense, if he didn''t escape now, he was really waiting to be eliminated by Lin Han.


    Being embarrassed was one thing, but if he lost not only the qualification to participate in the Academy''s grandpetition but also the opportunity to contend for the Golden Crow Fruit, Xu Nian wouldn''t have been that foolish.


    Among all the stratagems, fleeing was the best tactic.n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om


    However, he, Xu Nian, noted this grudge today, and next time they met, he would definitely seek his revenge tenfold or a hundredfold.


    But how could Lin Han possibly let Xu Nian escape so easily? If he did, how could he still have the face to mix in the Academy?


    "Thinking of escaping? In your dreams!" Lin Han roared, and his figure burst forth crazily, each step he took leaving deep pits in the ground.


    This Jade Cave Heaven was not a t in; it was no different from the Demon Beast Forest, overgrown with weeds and full of rugged rocks.


    Thus Xu Nian and Lin Han began to chase each other through this primal forest, one after the other.


    On the elevated tform in the outside za, the Academy Elders and Leng Yanran and others watched the scene, all frowning deeply.


    Because at this moment, the direction Xu Nian was escaping toward was the most dangerous ce in Jade Cave Heaven: Life-breaking Cliff!

 Chapter 66 Its All Because My Heart is Too Soft

    "Ha ha, Xu Nian, didn''t expect you to flee desperately to Life-breaking Cliff, did you? It seems the heavens want to end you."


    On the edge of Life-breaking Cliff, Lin Han looked at Xu Nian standing at the cliff''s edge, burst intoughter, his eyes filled with both amusement and mockery.


    The audience before the Xuantian Mirror also gasped in shock,menting Xu Nian''s bad luck for ending up by the edge of Life-breaking Cliff.


    Now with no way out, he probably could only resort to crushing the Golden Crow Token.


    Sitting in the main seat, Leng Yanran also frowned tightly, her gaze ice cold.


    Life-breaking Cliff was the only deadly ce in Jade Cave Heaven, and not a single Academy student who entered there had evere out alive.


    Most crucially, they didn''t know what was at the bottom of Life-breaking Cliff, because it was the only ce the Xuantian Mirror couldn''t probe.


    Seeing Xu Nian end up by Life-breaking Cliff now, she too felt a surge of disappointment.


    But she knew it wasn''t Xu Nian''s fault; it was just his terribly bad luck.n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om


    However, at this moment, Xu Nian, hearing Lin Han''s words by Life-breaking Cliff''s edge, actually chuckled.


    Fleeing desperately?


    Was it really so?


    With Emperor Ye Tian around, how could Xu Nian possibly fail to find the best escape route?


    If it wasn''t for Emperor Ye Tian directing him to Life-breaking Cliff, Lin Han wouldn''t have been able to catch him even if he chased him for ten days and nights.


    "Kid, have you thought it through? What lies beneath is truly a matter of life and death. If you jump, I can''t guarantee you''ll survive, but if you do, you''ll be no weaker than Dugu Jingcheng," the voice of Emperor Ye Tian echoed in Xu Nian''s mind.


    "Jump, why wouldn''t I jump? If it can give me a chance to surpass Dugu Jingcheng, I''ll risk my life to try," Xu Nian responded mentally.


    From the battle with Lin Han just now, he had already thought it through clearly. If he just continued to follow the typical path of treasure hunting in Jade Cave Heaven, unless by a miracle, he might barely surpass Lin Han but surpassing Dugu Jingcheng would be unlikely.


    Unable to defeat Dugu Jingcheng, obtaining the Golden Crow Fruit would be incredibly difficult. Instead, it was better to take the risk.


    Emperor Ye Tian did not speak further, obviously agreeing with Xu Nian''s thoughts.


    The path of cultivation was inherently a defiance of the heavens; without the resolve to risk one''s life, one eventually couldn''t achieve the Great Tao, so she didn''t interfere with Xu Nian''s thinking and even began to admire him.


    "However, before jumping down, I should do something to avoid giving the impression that I jumped because I was cornered like a homeless dog with no escape," Xu Nian said to Emperor Ye Tian in his mind.


    "Ha ha, brave and wise, worthy of someone I would choose. Alright, since you put it that way, I''ll lend you a hand. In a moment when you confront that guy Lin Han with punches, I''ll secretly intervene, and the oue won''t disappoint you," the heartyughter of Emperor Ye Tian resounded in Xu Nian''s mind.


    Xu Nian, hearing this, was overjoyed.


    With Emperor Ye Tian willing to take action, things would be much easier.


    He didn''t ask Emperor Ye Tian what she nned to do, but he trusted that she wouldn''t let him down.


    "Hmph, facing death, and you still dare tough! Xu Nian, if you kneel down and beg me now, maybe I''d soften my heart and let you go. Otherwise, you can only crush your Golden Crow Token and wait to be eliminated!" Lin Han, seeing Xu Nianugh at this time, coldly scoffed.


    Xu Nian, hearing this and far from restraining his smile, looked at Lin Han and retorted coldly, "Kneel and beg you? When your mother knelt and begged me back then, only because I softened my heart, do you now exist as such an unfilial son."


    "What?" Lin Han was taken aback and couldn''t make sense of it quickly.


    What did this have to do with his mother?


    However, the za outside at that moment erupted in a burst of uproar.


    Nima, this is a sheer intellectual overwhelm!


    At the same time, everyone admired Xu Nian''s audacity for daring to insult Lin Han like that, and even dragging Lin Han''s mother into the insults¡ªdid he not know who Lin Han''s mother was?


    Lin Han now finally grasped what Xu Nian had meant, his eyes turning bloodshot as he red at Xu Nian.


    "I will kill you!" Lin Han roared, and then he mobilized all the Gang Qi in his body, sting it toward Xu Nian.


    Seeing this, the crowd on-site felt their hearts jump to their throats¡ªit was right at the edge of Life-breaking Cliff after all; a fall could be fatal.


    However, facing this, Xu Nian remainedpletely calm. Focusing his gaze, he rallied all his strength to counter Lin Han''s punch.


    "Boom!"


    A loud sound erupted, and Xu Nian was shaken back step by step from the force, stopping only when he reached the cliff''s edge, half a foot dangling in midair.


    The onlookers outside the arena gasped in rm, feeling the peril for Xu Nian.


    On the other hand, Lin Han stood firmly on his spot, like an immovable mountain.


    "Ha ha, Xu Nian, you only have your mouth to show off, now let''s see if you dare to insult me again," Lin Hanughed heartily.


    Xu Nian justughed, looking at Lin Han and said, "Is that really so?"


    Lin Han furrowed his brows subconsciously; he sensed a hint of scheming in Xu Nian''s smile, yet he couldn''t pinpoint what was off.


    "Bang!"


    Just then, a loud noise erupted.


    Following that, Lin Han felt a chill across his body, then his whole body was mercilessly exposed to the sting wind.


    Lin Han covered his privates the moment his clothes burst open, but his reaction was still a bit slow.


    The audience outside saw everything that shouldn''t have been seen.


    "Wow!"


    The spectators outside widened their eyes and eximed, staring at the exposed body in the Xuantian Mirror, covering their mouths andughing loudly.


    Xu Nian also watched Lin Han''s body, shaking his head and sighing, "Ah, what a pity!"


    Hearing this, the onlookers outside burst intoughter.


    Lin Han''s face turned deathly pale; although he didn''t know why his clothes had shattered, he knew it definitely had something to do with the Xu Nian in front of him.


    Thinking about how his body was now exposed to the entire Academy, he felt an urge to find a hole to crawl into, and his gaze filled with killing intent when looking at Xu Nian.


    "I will kill you!" Finally, Lin Han threw caution to the wind, abandoning any cover, and charged at Xu Nian.


    However, Xu Nian just chuckled lightly, stepped on the edge of the cliff, and jumped off ahead of him.


    "Is he... crazy?"


    The spectators outside were all stunned, their smiles freezing instantly. They ignored Lin Han''s half-naked scrambling and stared intently at Xu Nian jumping off the cliff.


    They never expected Xu Nian to give up crushing the Golden Crow Token and just leap off Life-breaking Cliff?


    Seeing this scene, Leng Yanran also suddenly stood up from her high seat, her delicate fists clenched tightly, her eyes aplex mix of emotions.

 Chapter 67 Beneath the Life-breaking Cliff

    Crowds on the square had waited anxiously for a long time, yet Xu Nian''s figure never appeared. At that moment, the Xuantian Mirror where Xu Nian was located had darkened, and his figure could no longer be seen.


    Everyone''s heart sank¡ªhad Xu Nian truly fallen into Life-breaking Cliff and died?


    If he had really crushed the Golden Crow Token, he should have appeared on the square long ago.


    But since he hadn''t appeared until now, only one thing could be exined, Xu Nian had truly jumped off Life-breaking Cliff.


    Leng Yanran also sat back down on her chair, but her expression was somewhat vacant. The moment Xu Nian jumped, she distinctly felt her heart wrench painfully and then felt an emptiness inside as if she had lost something.


    This feeling made Leng Yanran feel very ufortable. Was it because of that night of intimacy that she had started to develop feelings for him?


    Or was it his unyielding face when facing Qin Yuanshan that struck her heart?


    If not, why else would she keep him by her side under the pretense of taking him as a Direct Disciple?


    And now that she had seen him jump off Life-breaking Cliff, why did it tug at her heartstrings so?


    At this moment, Leng Yanran''s heart was in turmoil, and her limbs were ice-cold.


    ¡­


    While viewers outside felt pity and confusion over Xu Nian''s actions, Xu Nian himself was dangling from the edge of Life-breaking Cliff.


    The Blood Dragon Qi formed Dragon Scale Boxing Gloves covered his right hand, and his fingers hooked tightly into the rock face, suspending him mid-air.


    Of course, Xu Nian couldn''t just jump off recklessly¡ªthe cliff was at least a thousand yards high. Even a Xuantian-level Battle General jumping off would be severely injured, let alone him, a mere youngster not yet of Silver Moon Battle Sect caliber.


    "Whew, that was close! I almost didn''t catch it!" Xu Nian let out a deep breath, looking downward.N?v(el)B\\jnn


    Below him, dense clouds obscured the view, making it impossible to see what was at the bottom. What caused Xu Nian''s heart to pound was that within these clouds, there were bolts of Electric Snakes moving about, the power they emanated made Xu Nian''s mind tremble.


    It wasn''t just about falling to his death; passing through these clouds might result in being electrocuted by these Electric Snakes.


    "What exactly is below? Why are there such terrifying Thunder Electric Snakes in these clouds?" Xu Nian asked Yetian God Emperor in his mind.


    "Why don''t you go down and see?" Yetian God Emperor''s lightughter resonated in Xu Nian''s mind.


    Xu Nian was speechless for a moment. Yetian God Emperor was good in all aspects except he enjoyed toying with people. It seemed that seeing Xu Nian in a bind made her very happy.


    With so many terrifying Electric Snakes moving within the clouds, if Xu Nian tried to descend, he would surely be struck.


    "Boy, let go! There''s ake below, you won''t die of a fall, and as for these Electric Snakes, don''t worry, you won''t die with me here." Yetian God Emperor''s voice rang out again.


    Hesitating for a moment, Xu Nian ultimately chose to trust Yetian God Emperor''s words and let go, jumping down.


    Then Xu Nian felt his body plummet rapidly, quickly passing through the clouds.


    However, the protection from Yetian God Emperor he had imagined didn''t appear. The Thunder Electric Snakes struck against Xu Nian''s chest like multiple heavy hammers, leaving him disoriented and foaming at the mouth.


    Most embarrassingly, his clothes werepletely shredded by the attacks of the Thunder Electric Snakes, and he fell into the waterpletely naked.


    The moment he hit the water, Xu Nian knew it was over. He hadughed at Lin Han before, but now it was his turn.


    The most infuriating thing for Xu Nian was that Yetian God Emperor then remarked, "Not bad, much bigger than that Lin Han!"


    Xu Nian sank to the bottom of theke but quickly surfaced and rapidly scrambled to the shore, curling up at the edge shivering.


    "This¡­ whatke is this water from, it''s so cold!"


    Xu Nian''s teeth were constantly chattering. The water in theke was terrifyingly cold, especially since he was naked; the chilly Gangfeng wind made him feel as if he had dropped into the Arctic Ice Field.


    "Kid, this is water from the Tianyuan Cold Pool. Cultivating here for one day can be equivalent to a month of cultivation in the outside world, and it is greatly beneficial for both Spirit Cultivators and Body Cultivation," the voice of Emperor Ye Tian echoed in Xu Nian''s mind.


    "One day is equivalent to a month?" Xu Nian''s eyes widened with surprise, and then they lit up. Without hesitation, he jumped into the cold pool.


    He began to operate the "Dan Sea Species Green Lotus," and indeed, his cultivation speed was more than thirty times faster than usual.


    Next, Xu Nian tried the "Divine Demon Refining Body Technique," and the effect was equally terrifying.


    Feeling such changes, Xu Nian''s face immediately lit up with joy, and he prepared to continue cultivating.


    However, just then, Emperor Ye Tian''s voice rang out again.


    "Kid, don''t get too happy so soon. The Tianyuan Cold Pool water is indeed a rare treasure, but it''s impossible for you to cultivate safely here. Since this ce is named ''Life-Breaking Cliff'' by your academy, it''s naturally very dangerous. Did you really think it only had those electric snakes and thunder?"


    "Yeah, given that this is ''Life-Breaking Cliff,'' it should be dangerous. Those thunder and electric snakes are terrifying, but they haven''t killed everyone; is there something else dangerous here?" Xu Nian wondered to himself.


    Xu Nian nced around.


    The area pressed down was notrge, only about a hundred square meters.


    The surroundings were all hard rock walls, and apart from some strange flowers, herbs, and moss, there wasn''t anything else noteworthy.


    However, several skeletons at the edge of the cliff stunned him.


    These skeletons were all charred ck, obviously electrocuted to death.


    Since they could crawl from theke to the shore, it indicated that they were not electrocuted during their fall, but rather while in the valley.


    Moreover, though the cloud fog thunderbolts were fierce, they weren''t enough to electrocute someone to such an extent. Clearly, there were even more powerful thunderbolts hidden here.


    Thinking so, Xu Nian felt a shiver run down his spine.


    Suddenly, as if realizing something, Xu Nian dove headfirst into the pool, and when he resurfaced, his eyes were nk.


    Beneath the bottom of the pooly hundreds of skeletons, some ancient, seemingly from a bygone era, and of course some newer ones, also students who had fallen into the Life-Breaking Cliff over the millennia.


    At that moment, Xu Nian finally understood why this ce was called ''Life-Breaking Cliff.''


    Since ancient times, it had always been a pit of death for thousands.


    Xu Nian felt a chill of fear. Had it not been for Emperor Ye Tian''s warning, he might have been immersed in cultivation, unaware of how he would die.


    "Kid, now you know what fear is? But I must tell you, this ce contains a huge opportunity. Do you still dare to take it?" Emperor Ye Tian''s yful voice echoed in Xu Nian''s mind.


    "A huge opportunity? Is it even more precious than this Tianyuan Cold Pool water?" Xu Nian asked in astonishment.


    "Of course, it''s a hundred times more precious than the Tianyuan Cold Pool water, but to obtain it, you will have to pay a price," Emperor Ye Tian''s voice resonated once more.


    "What price?" Xu Nian stiffened, feeling an ominous premonition.


    "Actually, it''s nothing much, just being bombarded by a few hundred thunderbolts!" Emperor Ye Tianughed.


    "What?" Xu Nian''s eyes bulged as he roared, almost thinking he had misheard.


    However, just at that moment, a violent rumbling sound came from above the clouds, as if thousands of thunderbolts were rolling.


    Hearing this sound, Xu Nian''s scalp went numb, and at that moment, he finally understood where those terrifying thunderbolts wereing from.

 Chapter 68 Thunderclap Tyrant Fist

    "What on earth is going on?" Xu Nian hastily asked Emperor Ye Tian.


    "Actually, it''s quite simple. Life-breaking Cliff has created a unique natural phenomenon due to the Tianyuan Cold Pool, and that is the thunderstorm. The evaporation of the cold pool''s water forms powerful thunderclouds which perpetually hover around this cliffside, generating the Thunderp Power. When the power of the thunder builds up to a certain extent, lightning will strike, bombarding the cold pool. All these people were killed by the lightning strikes," Emperor Ye Tian responded.


    Hearing this exnation, Xu Nian was momentarily at a loss for words.


    Yet, recalling the great opportunity mentioned by Emperor Ye Tian, he asked again, "So what does this lightning have to do with the huge opportunity? Could it be that one can obtain the opportunity by getting struck by lightning?"


    "Yes, by getting struck by lightning. The lightning strikes once every two hours, with immense power, hitting the Tianyuan Cold Pool water. It makes the pool water bristle with potent force. When you''re lying in it to cultivate, not only can it greatly increase the speed of your cultivation, but I''ll also teach you a powerful Divine Demon Technique, teaching you how to absorb the Thunderp Power and utilize it for yourself, to wield the lightning. Don''t you think that''s a huge opportunity?" The voice of Emperor Ye Tian resounded.


    Thunderp Divine Demon Technique?


    The moment Xu Nian heard this, his eyes lit up, but they quickly dimmed again.


    Let alone practicing whatever Divine Demon Technique, it was still difficult to say whether he could survive being struck by the lightning. Where would he find the life to cultivate any Divine Demon Technique?


    Emperor Ye Tian seemed to notice Xu Nian''s concern, and with a sh, he appeared above Xu Nian, looking down at him and said, "You don''t have to worry about the lightning. When the timees, I''ll protect your heart channels and soul. You just have to endure the pain brought by the lightning."


    A tinge of bitterness showed at the corners of Xu Nian''s mouth.


    Yes, with his heart channels and soul protected, he wouldn''t die, but he would still feel the sensation of being smashed by the lightning. If it didn''t hurt him to death, that would be a small mercy.


    "Alright, now I will transmit the Thunderp Divine Demon Technique to you. Practice it on your own." After speaking, Emperor Ye Tian sent a ck glint directly into Xu Nian''s forehead.


    As the ck glint entered, a massive amount of information surged into Xu Nian''s mind at once.


    "Thunderp Overlord Fist? What a domineering name!"


    Xu Nian couldn''t help but get excited.


    The Thunderp Technique before him was clearly not of a low grade, just like his Gale Sword, having reached Earth-level Low-quality status. However, there was a difference with this Thunderp Overlord Fist; its grade could be improved.


    As stronger lightning was absorbed in the future, the grade of the Thunderp Overlord Fist would improve in tandem, and its power would grow stronger.


    A treasure, an absolute treasure.


    Xu Nian had not expected Emperor Ye Tian to possess a Divine Demon Technique, and this filled his heart with joy.


    "Boom!"


    Just as Xu Nian was exhrated, the clouds above his head had also umted to their peak, and the terrifying lightning was ready to strike at any moment.


    "Good luck to you!" After giving Xu Nian a nce, Emperor Ye Tian shed a strange grin, nced at Xu Nian''s lower body, and then dove into Xu Nian''s Dantian.


    Xu Nian subconsciously looked downward, and immediately started cursing internally.


    Damn, you''re a Divine Emperor and you still act so unscrupulously!


    "Crack!"


    A thunderp echoed in the sky, and a fearsome bolt of lightning instantly split the heavens, crashing down below.


    Fortunately, the lightning did not strike Xu Nian directly, but it hit the Tianyuan Cold Pool where he was located, which wasn''t much better.


    "Boom!"


    A loud explosion followed as the lightning struck the cold pool, stirring up waves a hundred zhang high, with terrifying electric snakes rapidly spreading through the water.


    "Ahh..."


    Xu Nian immediately let out a horrific howl, the hair on his body standing on end.


    His entire body fell into the cold pool, convulsing uncontrobly, with a burnt smell wafting in the air.


    Pain!


    Excruciating, bone-deep pain!


    In that instant, it felt as if countless feet had kicked him simultaneously, the intense pain paralyzing his thoughts.


    Even then, the thunder had not struck him directly; had it done so, Xu Nian could not guarantee he would still be alive.


    "Quick, absorb the thunder! The thunder in this pool will onlyst for one hour."


    However, Emperor Ye Tian''s urgent voice also rang out at this moment.


    Hearing these words, Xu Nian endured the severe pain throughout his body and absorbed the thunderp power within the pool''s water.


    Thin electric snakes burrowed into Xu Nian''s body, eventually disappearing deep within his cells.


    And as these electric snakes poured in, Xu Nian felt a tingling sensation, and the wounds caused by the thunder began to heal bit by bit, a sight that brought him great joy.


    Without hesitation, Xu Nian closed his eyes, controlling the Thunderp Tyrant Fist to absorb the thunderp power while he devoted a sliver of his consciousness to control the Dan Sea Species Green Lotus and absorb spiritual energy.


    An hour soon passed, and Xu Nian''s body had not only recovered but had also be stronger.


    "Boom!"


    Another terrifying thunderp struck directly onto Xu Nian''s body, sting him into the bottom of the pool.


    At this moment, Xu Nian''s body was charred, yet he gritted his teeth and persevered, continuing to absorb the thunderp power around him.


    Thunder surged inside him as terrible electric snakes roamed his body.


    The blue thunder moved about, illuminating the entire bottom of the cold pool.


    Xu Nian''s figure floated in the middle of the pool, sitting cross-legged in the air, surrounded by roaming electric snakes, giving off a transcendent and sanctified aura.


    For the next five days, Xu Nian was continuously bombarded by thunder.


    By the sixth day, his body''s absorption of the thunder had reached a state ofplete saturation.


    At this point, Xu Nian''s previously charred skin had shed, revealing a fresh and tender skin that made him look like a pretty boy.


    For this change, Xu Nian didn''t know whether tough or cry.


    One thing was certain: his Thunderp Tyrant Fist had reached a terrifying level.


    Not only that, Xu Nian''s spiritual cultivation had also risen from the peak of Eight-star to the Nine-star Realm during these five days, and his Divine Demon Refining Body had improved from Six-star to the Seven-star Realm.


    Xu Nian''s eyes suddenly hardened, and he threw a punch towards the thunder approaching from the sky.


    "Boom!"


    A heaven-shattering explosion urred, the thunder shattered, scattering in all directions, and the pool''s surface erupted with waves three hundred feet high.


    At that moment, Xu Nian stepped out upon the thunder, arriving at the shore.


    Now, he was tall and well-built, his muscles clearly defined, his figure impable.


    His skin had be fair, but his features were more rugged.


    With every movement, a few dazzling shes of thunder passed over his body, an indescribable suave elegance.


    Of course, if he weren''t bare-bottomed at the moment, he would surely attract many admiring gazes from female Academy students.n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om


    "It''s time to leave. I wonder what expression those Academy students will have when they see me again, and Lin Han, how many moves can you withstand from me now?" Xu Nian looked up towards the Life-breaking Cliff above, a wicked smile ying on his lips.


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