Ancient Godly Monarch - CHapter 268

Chapter 268: Silent Endurance

The glint of light in Zhan Chen’s eyes was even sharper compared to a sword’s edge, his killing intent immediately erupting forth the moment he sensed he was being spied upon.

If news of this matter were to leak out, that he ruthlessly chose to sacrifice his companion for the sake of his goals, the Pill Emperor Palace would be the first to slay him.

Hence, that spy must die.

“Run!” Qin Wentian knew that Zhan Chen had discovered their presence, he hadn’t expected Zhan Chen’s perception to be this strong. Holding Bailu Yi’s hands, Qin Wentian retreated with explosive speed.

“Hey, why don’t you stay behind?” The voice of Zhan Chen rang out, the killing intent he manifested was so thick that it caused those exposed to it to feel their bodies turning cold.

How could Qin Wentian and Bailu Yi stop? Executing the Garuda Movement Technique to its limits, Qin Wentian dragged Bailu Yi along.

With a flick of his finger, Zhan Chen concentrated Astral Light ahead of him, as an ancient sword coalesced from it. Zhan Chen instantly stepped on top of it as the Astral sword functioned like a skateboard, powered by his cultivation base, causing great clouds of dust and earth to kick up as it sped after Qin Wentian, shrinking the distance between them.

Although Qin Wentian’s movement technique was godly, his cultivation base was only at the third level of Yuanfu. The same went for Bailu Yi. How could their speed match up to a peak-level Yuanfu cultivator who was ranked eleventh on the Heavenly Fate Rankings?

The disparity of their power levels were too far apart.

Qin Wentian’s countenance grew extremely unsightly as his gaze turned cold. He also hadn’t expected to discover Zhan Chen’s secret and now, Zhan Chen wanted their deaths to ensure their silence.

“Bzzz!” With a wave of his hands, Qin Wentian sent out the Yellow Springs Monument, which appeared on a mountain slope.

“Come.” Qin Wentian and Bailu Yi directly stepped onto it. Qin Wentian continued stepping in a rhythmic manner as thunderous sounds rang out. An instant later, a crimson glow emanated forth from it, along with a terrifying pressure.

When Zhan Chen dashed over, he only saw Qin Wentian on the verge of dashing into a trap. With a wave of his palms, a screen of swords manifested around him.

“DIE!” Zhan Chen spat out, as that screen of swords transformed into a layer of sword shadows, flying towards Qin Wentian.

The speed of the sword shadows was so fast, it created a shrill sound as the air ripped apart. “Down!” Qin Wentian pulled Bailu Yi along as they tumbled down the mountain slope, narrowing avoiding the attack.

Zhan Chen coldly snorted, as he rode his Astral sword forward, directly rushing into the formation. He had no fear of the majority of traps here.

Qin Wentian’s countenance sank. He was unwilling to die like this.

“Little Yi, Wentian.” Right at this moment, an excited voice called out in a certain direction. Hope bloomed on Bailu Yi’s pale face, that voice was exceedingly familiar to her.

Only now did Qin Wentian notice a silhouette madly dashing over. This person was none other than Bailu Jing.

A look of unwavering resoluteness flashed in Qin Wentian’s eyes. He sliced the skin of his finger and pressed it down onto the Yellow Springs Monument, channeling his blood energy within it.

Zhan Chen slashed down with his palms as a terrifying sword began to form in mid-air, cleaving downwards to Qin Wentian and Bailu Yi
A crimson light flashed in Qin Wentian’s eyes as he gestured for the Yellow Springs Monument to fly forward, smashing towards Zhan Chen. Zhan Chen only felt the pounding of his heart, as well as a surging of his blood, when a deafening sound echoed the moment his sword attack slashed upon the stone monument.
“RUMBLEE~” The monument rebounded back from the impact of the collision, slamming onto Qin Wentian. His body and Bailu Yi’s grinded upon the earth as the force of the rebound flung them backwards, causing them to cough up several mouthfuls of blood. Only at this moment did Bailu Jing arrive.

“Stay your hand!” Bailu Jing roared, his whole person transformed into a shadow and an instant later, a killing technique descended from the skies. A golden thread manifested, shooting towards Zhan Chen.
Zhan Chen flicked his fingers, his monstrous sword intent ‘cracked’, transforming into countless sword fragments that attempted to slice apart the golden thread.

The golden thread proved impervious to his attempts, and continued descending downwards, seeking to tear Zhan Chen apart.

“Great Sun Nine Beheading Technique!”
Zhan Chen’s gaze stiffened, as the sword Qi he projected grew stronger and stronger. He stabbed forth with his finger, his attack landing onto the golden thread as a terrifying destructive energy ignited, causing the surrounding space to distort. And finally, with this last attack, that golden thread snapped. But it bought enough time for Bailu Jing, who now stood protectively in front of Qin Wentian and Bailu Yi.
“Brother.” Bailu Yi called out, Bailu Jing acknowledged her with a nod, a bone-chilling coldness radiated out from him as he stared at Zhan Chen.

“Ranked #56 in the Heavenly Fate Ranking, Bailu Jing. Based on your current strength, your ranking would surely improve when the time comes for the Venerate Heavens Sect to refresh it,” Zhan Chen stated, staring back at Bailu Jing.

Bailu Jing’s eyes were filled with killing intent, he knew that Zhan Chen’s earlier strike was meant to kill Qin Wentian and his sister Bailu Yi.

A terrifying pressure gushed forth as Bailu Jing released his Astral Souls. Of his three Astral Souls, one was a divinity covered in raging flames, the second one a wind shadow, while the third one, was a resplendently glowing Seven Slaughter Astral Soul.

His Astral Souls originated from the third, fourth and fifth Heavenly Layers respectively!

Bailu Jing, who was always so composed, now exuded towering flames of anger that seemed to reach the Heavens!

“Big Brother Jing, everything was just a misunderstanding.” At this moment, Qin Wentian’s voice drifted over, causing Bailu Jing to start. Qin Wentian then continued, “Zhan Chen, why are you pursuing us for no reason? Did we do something that offended you? I don’t think we’ve ever interacted before.”

Since Zhan Chen was ranked #11 on the Heavenly Fate Ranking, and someone chosen from the Pill Emperor Hall, there was was no need to doubt his strength. Even though Bailu Jing might be powerful, it was obvious that it was to their disadvantage if a fight really broke out.
Zhan Chen shifted his gaze onto Qin Wentian, meeting clear eyes with no hints of hatred. He felt taken back at how deep Qin Wentian’s scheming ran. By intentionally pretending that it was all a misunderstanding, Qin Wentian was saying he would keep his silence on what he had just witnessed. And as for Zhan Chen’s earlier attempt to murder them, Qin Wentian couldn’t care less.

Did he really not mind? Or was he merely enduring it in silence?

“Haha, Zhan Chen, you are actually here as well.” At this moment, a group of cultivators walked over. These newcomers were none other than Zhao Lie and Old First of the Li Clan’s three brothers. Old First was evidently unlucky, in meeting Zhao Lie and then being forced to lead the way.

“It’s that Divine Inscriptionist Grandmaster. Excellent, with two Inscriptionists, we can definitely exit this bloody space.” Zhao Lie’s eyes flickered with fire as he glanced at Qin Wentian. He assumed that Zhan Chen had been coercing Qin Wentian to lead the way but Bailu Jing refused, which led to the conflict between them.
“Hehe, that’s what I think as well. I wonder if Grandmaster Qin is willing to lead the way?” Zhan Chen stared at Qin Wentian as a grim smile appeared on his face.
Qin Wentian understood, if they didn’t die today, the killing intent in Zhan Chen’s heart would never fade.

However, wasn’t it the same for him as well? If there was a chance, he would definitely slay Zhan Chen.

“Naturally.” Qin Wentian smiled, agreeing without hesitation.

“With Little Brother Qin leading the way, our path forward would surely be many times smoother.” Old First laughed heartily, the earlier tension in the air melting away.
Bailu Yi naturally understood Qin Wentian’s intentions, pretending that they saw nothing earlier.

And as they resumed their journey, Qin Wentian and Bailu Yi kept their distance from Zhan Chen. Bailu Jing didn’t question them, Qin Wentian intentionally wanted to keep what they witnessed a secret.
After a while, they returned to the formation where Zhan Chen and Qing Yue had conversed at.

And in that moment, even more people appeared. The new arrivals were experts from the Hua Clan.

“Is everyone here?” Behind them, a voice drifted over. Zhu Sha and two others from the Star-Seizing Manor had arrived as well.
The ice-cold gazes of Zhu Sha and Yang Fan then landed onto Qin Wentian. From their perspective, Qin Wentian definitely had to pay for the deaths of over ten peak-level Yuanfu cultivators they had lost.

However, they could read the current situation. They knew that they couldn’t harm Qin Wentian, as they still needed to depend on his strength to break through this goddamned space.
“Grandmaster Qin, please.” Zhan Chen made a gesture of invitation. Qin Wentian swept a glance at the characters in front of him, his countenance serene, yet he knew that they were currently in an extremely perilous situation.

“Right.” He nodded in agreement as he moved forward and started to inscribe Divine Inscriptions. Bailu Jing and Bailu Yi stayed behind Qin Wentian, while Old First stood beside Qin Wentian, working together with him to neutralise this formation.
Qin Wentian’s actions were very slow, causing Old Li to feel that there was something going on. It was as though Qin Wentian was doing this intentionally.

In actuality Qin Wentian was looking for an opportunity, but as he thought of the strength of those behind him, he knew that it wasn’t possible for him to kill them all with a single move.

Zhan Chen, Yang Fan, Zhao Lie, Hua Feng; all of them were rankers in the Heavenly Fate Ranking. There was no way he could simultaneously kill them all with sneak attacks. He could only focus on neutralising the formation.
An instant later, Qin Wentian picked up one of the interspatial rings, yet he left one lying on the ground. Old First faltered, before picking up the remaining ring with his trembling hands, his face a mask of agony.
“Old Third.” Old First tightly clutched the interspatial ring of his third brother. An instant later, his countenance froze, he saw Qin Wentian inscribing a word—Zhan—before him.

“Zhan, Zhan Chen.” Old First’s heart pounded, as he felt his body trembling, a glint of hatred flashing past his eyes. However an instant later, he took a deep breath and calmed himself, pretending as though he hadn’t seen anything out of the ordinary.

Qin Wentian blocked the word with his body, and immediately wiped it away after writing it as he continued to neutralise the formation. After each trap was neutralised, they slowly advanced with the the rest of the group, who quietly followed them from behind. Gradually, the ever-green pine trees and ancient mountains appeared at arm’s length.
The exit was very near.

“Energy fluctuations from Divine Inscriptions.” Qin Wentian abruptly shifted his gaze forwards. Although those trees and mountains appeared quite near to them, they were shadowed by a faint distortion that shimmered in the air, taking the shape of a rampart manifested by Divine Inscriptions, blocking their way.
His movements involuntarily halted, and he closed his eyes, silently contemplating the intangible rampart in front of him.

Qin Wentian could feel that freedom was just a step away!

Chapter 269: Unworthy Successor

Those behind him all frowned when they noticed Qin Wentian had halted.

A baleful aura emanated forth from the middle of Zhu Sha’s brows as he icily questioned, “What are you doing?”

“The difficulty of this formation is exceedingly high, I naturally would need a period of time to study it. If you don’t feel comfortable waiting, why don’t you do it yourself?” Qin Wentian shot back, his reply causing Zhu Sha to snort, a glint of coldness flickering in his eyes when he looked at Qin Wentian.

After this matter was concluded, he would definitely deal with Qin Wentian.

A mere Divine Inscriptionist dared to be so arrogant in front of him? Insufferable idiot, Qin Wentian didn’t know the meaning of death.
Of course, Qin Wentian was aware that Zhu Sha held killing intent in his heart. He acted ignorant, closing his eyes and then spent half a day in contemplation. Those behind him could only wait quietly for him.

Finally, Qin Wentian opened his eyes as he spoke to Bailu Jing and Bailu Yi, “Brother Jing, both of you try placing your palms on those two positions over there.”

After speaking, a beam of Astral Light shot out as Qin Wentian waved his hands, causing two positions on the rampart to light up.

“Right.” Bailu Jing and Bailu Yi nodded as they walked forward.

“Wait a minute,” Zhu Sha called out, a look of sharpness could be seen on his face as he interjected, “Why the two of them?”

“This is merely a probe and there might be danger. Of course, if Senior is willing to do so, I’m more than happy to let you be the guinea pig.” Qin Wentian laughed, his reply causing Zhu Sha’s countenance to sink. This brat was too scheming, previously they had all fallen for his trick. He intentionally sought them out for help first, and when they rejected his request, he immediately followed their ‘suggestions’ and directly exited the first formation with those from the White Deer Institute.

This time around, maybe he was trying reverse psychology? Asking Bailu Jing and Bailu Yi for help first to lure Zhu Sha and the rest into making a move.

“Let them go first, Zhu Sha and one other stand behind them,” Yang Fan commanded. Glancing at Qin Wentian, he really wanted to see what tricks Qin Wentian had up his sleeves. If the Bailu siblings were successful in escaping this formation, Zhu Sha wouldn’t be left behind.

Zhu Sha and another expert from the Star-Seizing Manor nodded their heads, as they followed closely behind Bailu Jing and Bailu Yi.

The Bailu siblings naturally trusted Qin Wentian, and placed their palms in the position indicated by Qin Wentian. An instant later, that intangible rampart shimmered and ‘solidified’. Abruptly, two doors appeared on the rampart and the Bailu siblings vanished from sight.

“Huh?” Zhu Sha and the other expert froze. They instantly dashed forwards and placed their palms in the same position as the Bailu siblings did, but this time around, a fearsome ominous aura exploded forth instead.

“Be careful.” Qin Wentian leisurely walked forward, however his warning was too late. Zhu Sha and the other expert hastily pulled back as they felt the ominous aura gushing towards them.

“BREAK!” Zhu Sha howled in rage, blasting forth with both his palms, causing two gigantic palm imprints to appear, both circulating with an overwhelming energy. BOOM! Although the ominous aura dissipated upon impact, Zhu Sha was left with a pair of badly mangled hands.
“Senior’s movements were too fast, I couldn’t warn you in time.” Qin Wentian smiled as he walked over with Old First.

Zhu Sha’s palms were trembling, his eyes dripped with venom.

He couldn’t warn them in time? How could he believe such bullshit?
Zhu Sha’s comrade had even worse injuries compared to him – both of his arms had been mutilated.
Yang Fan’s countenance sank, he knew Qin Wentian had done this intentionally.

In spite of this, he couldn’t do anything to Qin Wentian. The seeds of worry couldn’t help but blossom in his heart, and he knew that there must certainly be a way to exit this formation. The Bailu siblings had already totally vanished.
“This formation is ever-changing, the second resonance needs to occur from another position.” Qin Wentian’s steps stopped in front of the rampart. He locked eyes with Old First and in an instant, both of them blasted out with their palms, imprinting it in a particular position on the intangible rampart.

“STOP THEM!”
The countenance of Yang Fan and the rest drastically changed, all of them were still stunned from the counter-attack of the rampart to Zhu Sha and his comrade. No one expected Qin Wentian would suddenly make a move, catching all of them unawares.

But it was already too late. The rampart shimmered into existence as Qin Wentian and Old First vanished together. This occurrence caused the remaining cultivators to turn ashen with dismay.

Qin Wentian and Old First had already arrived at the other side of the rampart, and joined up with the Bailu siblings.

“Little Brother Qin, my youngest brother…?” Old First turned his gaze onto Qin Wentian, with worry apparent in his voice.

“I and Bailu Yi managed to hear the conversation between Zhan Chen and his companion. Old Third was forced by them to neutralise that formation and eventually died trying. Not only that, in order to probe the formation, Zhan Chen fed a pill to his companion and sent her within. In the end, she died there too.”

Qin Wentian explained, his words causing a sharp glint of light to glow in Bailu Jing’s eyes. “So that’s the reason why he tried to kill you and Little Yi?”
“Yeah, I could only pretend that nothing happened. Luckily for us, Zhao Lie’s arrival prevented Zhan Chen from making a move,” Qin Wentian continued. After which, he turned his gaze onto the evergreen pine trees and ancient mountains, as well as the great hall situated in the centre, the sculpture of the Ascendant within.

They had finally arrived!

“With their strength, they will eventually break through the rampart,” Old First spoke, he knew that if those from the transcendent powers combined their powers, they would definitely be able to take down the rampart, albeit with some sacrifices.

“Mhm, let us enter the great hall first to take a look,” Qin Wentian agreed.
After which, the four of them proceeded onwards, it seemed that there were no longer other traps here. At the entrance of the great hall, all of them were taken aback by the vastness of the great hall, as well as the exquisiteness of the sculpture ahead of them. The sculpture had two ancient scrolls in his hands, and the resemblance could be said to be almost totally akin to a human.

Not only that, on the ground’s surface were many runic outlines of Divine Inscriptions revolving of their own accord, illuminating the great hall.

“Hmm, these don’t seem like traps?” Old First asked Qin Wentian.

“Yeah, I think so. These are like outlets of power that required humans to kick start them. Not only are they not traps, they can be controlled by one who has a high enough attainment in the Dao of Divine Inscriptions.” Qin Wentian nodded, he shared the same sentiments as Old First.
“We will know for sure if we enter.” Bailu Jing laughed. He boldly took a step forwards and all of a sudden, the runic outlines glimmered. A flood of golden light inundated the area as several silhouettes appeared all at once.

There were a total of nine figures, whose bodies glowed with a golden hue. The sharp glints in their eyes were as terrifying as swords, as they stared at Qin Wentian and the rest.

“Four of you arrived at here at the same moment, which of you is the Inscriptionist?” One of the golden guardians spoke, his tone incisive.

Qin Wentian gazed back at the golden guardian as he replied, “I am.”

“And me, as well,” Old First spoke, narrowing his eyes. These nine golden guardians resembled Puppets, but somehow they weren’t true Puppets. Their eyes glimmered with human-like intelligence.
The golden guardian who spoke swept his gaze over to Qin Wentian and Old First, as he stated, “The nine of us are the ‘Golden Armored Puppets’ created by Master. Our individual strengths are fixed at the peak-level of Yuanfu and our mission is to guard Master’s inheritance. Master’s successor has to be both proficient in the Dao of Divine Inscriptions as well as having monstrous talent in cultivation.”

Qin Wentian’s eyes flickered, they had encountered many tests on their way here. His earlier conjecture was right, this entire trial was a test set by that Ascendant in order to choose his successor. Indeed, the traps in this realm could only be broken either via force by someone at the peak-level of Yuanfu, or a Divine Inscriptionist Grandmaster with an exceedingly high attainment in the Dao of Divine Inscriptions.
“Little Yi, stand behind me.” Bailu Jing pulled his sister behind him. The aura these nine golden guardians were emanating felt exceptionally dangerous, four of the nine golden guardians had already stepped out, with a golden long spear equipped in their hands.
They, were the final test.
Bailu Jing had already released his Astral Souls, as a terrifying aura erupted forth from his body. This was the pressure generated by the Killing Path of his Seven Slaughters Astral Soul.

“You’re… not bad, but not good enough.” One of the golden guardians stared at Bailu Jing, after which, he disappeared from sight as his spear penetrated through space, like a streak of golden lightning.

Bailu Jing stepped forward, unleashing the Great Sun Nine Beheading Technique as the will of his Mandate gushed out. Momentarily, an abundance of golden threads appeared in the air, their glow so blinding they resembled a miniature sun, blazing with killing intent.
“BREAK!” The golden guardian coldly shouted. A beam of light shot out from the tip of his spear, smashing against the miniature sun, destroying it.

Bailu Jing’s expression froze upon witnessing this golden guardian’s fearsome combat prowess.

He unleashed the Great Sun Nine Beheading Technique again, the power of the sunlight channeling down through the golden threads. The terrifying sun flames blazed with a fearsome screech, as the threads cleaved down one by one with an imposing strength; even a peak-level Yuanfu cultivator would be hard pressed to defend against that attack.

Yet the strength of his opponent exceeded even his expectations, Bailu Jing could do nothing to injure him.

Qin Wentian and Old First were also attacked by the golden guardians, with Qin Wentian stomping the ground as a fearsome sword-type Inscription exploded forwards. There were many complicated-looking runic outlines on the ground, he could harness their power to aid him if his comprehension were high enough.

A typhoon gusted as a storm of swords flew towards his opponent. However, the golden guardian was too powerful, easily destroying the manifestations of whatever Inscriptions Qin Wentian sent at him. He stepped towards Qin Wentian as he icily commented, “You are too weak, you are unworthy to become the successor. You don’t even have the qualifications to fight over the inheritance. YOU MUST DIE!”

After speaking, the killing intent that gushed forth from the golden guardian grew increasingly stronger as he continued walking towards Qin Wentian.

A terrifying light flashed in Qin Wentian’s eyes.

How could Qin Wentian not be angered? With a single sentence, the golden guardian had condemned him, telling him that he didn’t even have the qualifications to fight with others over the inheritance.
“Ever since these trial grounds were created, only those with true ability have been able to reach this point. It wasn’t by virtue of luck that all four of us gained entry into this place. So why then, am I unworthy to receive the inheritance?”
“The successor must not only have a high attainment in the Dao of Divine Inscriptions, he must also be exceedingly powerful in terms of his cultivation and combat prowess. I have no idea how the four of you arrived here, but with your cultivation base merely at the third-level of Yuanfu, how can you be qualified? This inheritance was left behind by Master for a talented son of heaven, only those with outstanding talent can compete for it.” The killing intent of the golden guardian didn’t diminish, as he slowly stepped nearer. “The inheritance is not for the likes of you. DIE!”
As his voice faded away, the golden spear dazzled with a golden radiance as it pierced towards Qin Wentian once again.

This golden guardian was serious. He wanted to kill Qin Wentian.
Qin Wentian’s heart turned cold, a bone-chilling aura pouring out from him in waves. What an eloquent way of saying, “The inheritance is too good for the likes of you”!

Chapter 270: Do you know, who you truly are?

The killing intent of the golden guardian intensified, as a sharp pressure gushed forth from him. As he stepped forwards, the golden spear penetrated through space once again, a streak of golden lightning imbued with boundless force, slashing towards Qin Wentian.

Qin Wentian continuously stepped out on the ground, as runic outlines around him glimmered with Astral Light. An Azure Dragon exploded forth from nowhere, flying ahead to clash with the golden lightning. A deafening explosion thundered out as the Divine Inscription ruptured into pieces.

“The nine of us are the protectors of the inheritance. If the successor is outstanding in both fields of attainment and combat prowess, he could defeat us by borrowing power from the runic outlines on the floor. As for you, you are skilled in the Dao of Divine Inscriptions but exceedingly weak in terms of cultivation base. At your level, fighting for the inheritance is simply courting death.”

The golden guardian spoke each word caustically, dripping with sarcasm. Every step he took created a sharp pressure that bore down onto Qin Wentian. Under that pressure, Qin Wentian felt as though his body was about to be penetrated through from the sharpness.

Qin Wentian kept retreating, when suddenly the sound of wind gusting drifted in, and a few other silhouettes appeared within the great hall.

These new arrivals were none other than Zhan Chen, Yang Fan, Zhao Lie, Hua Feng and their respective followers. They combined their powers and used the strongest force they could muster to break apart the rampart and immediately dashed towards the great hall right after. Only upon confirming that Qin Wentian and the rest had yet to obtain the inheritance, did they let out a sigh of relief.
The blood on the mangled palms of Zhu Sha was still fresh, his killing intent had reached the height of Heavens.

Now that the inheritance was in front of them, there was no longer a need for Qin Wentian.

He had already outlived his usefulness.
“Grandmaster Qin, how do you want to die?” Zhu Sha grinned.

Qin Wentian’s countenance was unperturbed, “Don’t tell me you guys don’t wish to exit the secret realm any longer?”

Zhu Sha’s countenance changed, but then one of the golden guardians interjected. “Since you guys are here, you all have the right to participate in this final trial of the successor selection. As long as you can defeat us, the inheritance will be yours and the destruction of this realm will soon follow. At that time, you can easily exit from this space.”

The murderous urges in Zhu Sha’s eyes intensified after hearing the golden guardian’s words. He grinned coldly at Qin Wentian.
However, Zhan Chen and Yang Fan’s attention were fixed on the ancient scroll in the sculpture’s hands. They had already forgotten about Qin Wentian’s existence.

If they could obtain the inheritance of the Ascendant, they would be akin to a tiger that has grown wings. By then, they would be the only chosen in their respective sects or clans.

Within each group of transcendent powers, regardless of sects or clans, there were several who were chosen per generation. Although they were rankers on the Heavenly Fate Ranking, their achievements weren’t unique – the elites of the previous generations had also once achieved what they have now. Those past elites had already broken through to the Heavenly Dipper Realm, and so their positions in their respective sects and clans weren’t something the current chosen ones of this generation would be able to compare to.

Not only that, there would always be new talents emerging, threatening to overtake their position.
All those chosen were baptized by countless bloody battles before they could emerge as future leaders, and now the inheritance of the Ascendant was undoubtedly the greatest opportunity that would give them an edge in their struggle for supremacy.

At this moment, an incomparably sharp sword appeared in Zhan Chen’s hand. That sword gleamed with a brilliant light; it was a peak-tier third-ranked Divine Weapon.

As for Yang Fan, a pair of gauntlets appeared. It was similarly a peak-tier third-ranked Divine Weapon.

Although the Heaven’s Chosen didn’t have in their possession a fourth-ranked Divine Weapon, it didn’t mean that their transcendent powers didn’t have them.
As a chosen, their respective sects or clans have already considered them as someone with the potential to eventually become a future leader. Hence, the requirements placed on them by their respective powers were extremely strict; they wouldn’t allow those chosen to grow overly dependent on Divine Weapons. At most, they would only have one or two defensive-type or fleeing-type treasures, but definitely not that of the attacking-type.
Danger motivates growth. By imposing these rules, only then would the transcendent powers be able to further draw out their potential. When facing against someone stronger than them, at the very least, they could still escape.

All this, purely because they were chosen.
If one day they could defeat the chosen of the other powers, their sect or clan would no longer restrict them.
A whistling sound pierced through the atmosphere, the golden guardians were all ready for battle.

The inheritance lay just behind the golden guardians, right in the hands of that sculpture, free for the taking if one had the capability to do so.
Zhan Chen dashed towards one of the golden guardians, slashing out with his sword. In the next instant, a rain of swords manifested, stabbing towards the head of his target.

The golden guardian reacted instantly, weaving about the long spear in his hands in an intricate dance. Golden light erupted forth, coalescing into a golden protective barrier around its body.

Then, with a single spear strike, it broke through the rain of swords.

Yang Fan and the rest similarly rushed out. Yang Fan’s Star-Seizing Palms were augmented by his intimidating gauntlet. A menacing destructive energy swirled within his palms, as he directly exchanged blows with the spear of the golden guardian.
Meanwhile, Qin Wentian was in dire straits. It was as though that golden guardian had set his sights on him, seeking his death no matter what. As Zhu Sha noticed Yang Fan was currently busy fighting for the inheritance, he turned his cold gaze onto Qin Wentian. Now, the time had finally come.
Zhu Sha’s mangled palms shone with Astral Light, he abruptly dashed out, blasting forth with his palm, his attack violently smashing onto Qin Wentian’s back. Qin Wentian turned pale, and there was still a golden guardian unleashing its attack right in front of him.

“WENTIAN!” Bailu Yi screamed. As she rushed over, Zhu Sha sent out another palm strike, knocking her aside and as she spat out fresh blood, the impact caused her to be flung out of the great hall.
With her strength, there was no way for her to partake in any of the battles occurring within the great hall.

Qin Wentian made use of the complicated runic outlines on the ground, drawing upon their power in a bid to defend against Zhu Sha’s Star-Seizing Palm. However, the disparity between their cultivation levels was too wide. Zhu Sha’s attack easily breached through his defense, causing the blood and qi within his body to rumble. Qin Wentian’s pupils widened; the golden guardian’s spear attack resembled a streak of explosive lightning, penetrating through space with an unbelievable speed and of insurmountable force.

This spear attack wasn’t something Qin Wentian could defend against.
“NOOOOOOOOO!” Bailu Yi closed her eyes, unwilling to see what would happen next. Bailu Jing was still entangled with his opponent, it was impossible for him to lend his aid.

“Puchi!” A crisp sound echoed in the air, as the long spear skewered through Qin Wentian and was pulled out at exactly the same instant, giving testament to its sharpness. The impact slammed Qin Wentian’s body onto the walls of the great hall, and he fell to the ground convulsing, his mind blanking out.
“He deserved death.” Zhu Sha coldly snorted, sending another palm strike at Qin Wentian. Bailu Yi had already somewhat recovered from his earlier strike, and she dashed over, throwing herself onto the path of the attack in an attempt to shield Qin Wentian. As the palm landed on her, the power of its attack hurled her backwards and she slammed into Qin Wentian, coughing up several mouthfuls of blood.
“LITTLE YI!”

Bailu Jing’s countenance went pale, and he howled in rage. However, in that moment of distraction, a golden spear narrowly missed his heart. The golden guardian was too strong, he couldn’t afford to look away for even a second.
The nine golden guardians all had strength at the pinnacle of Yuanfu.

Obtaining the inheritance was easier said than done.

“Hehe.” Zhu Sha coldly laughed when he saw what happened. He dashed out once more, wanting to completely exterminate both Qin Wentian and Bailu Yi. However, he abruptly halted, for at that moment, he could feel the cold stare of a golden guardian locking onto him, causing shivers to run down his spine.
These nine protectors didn’t just want to kill Qin Wentian, they wanted to kill everyone, leaving behind only those who were qualified. If all these cultivators weren’t strong enough, they all had to die here.

That golden guardian unleashed an attack towards Zhu Sha, who could only defend in response; he was too occupied to see how Qin Wentian was faring.

In the middle of all the fighting, Bailu Yi walked to Qin Wentian’s side, her countenance turning white as a sheet when she gazed at the blood dripping unceasingly from his wounds. She tore one of her sleeves and tried bandaging Qin Wentian’s injuries.
“Qin Wentian, wake up!” Bailu Yi was shaking him. “You can’t fall asleep.”
Qin Wentian couldn’t process any coherent thoughts, the injuries inflicted on his body were way beyond the limits of what a human body could tolerate. His mind felt extremely fuzzy, he only wanted to drift into that eternal sleep.
In his blurry state of consciousness, he could faintly sense someone calling out to him.

The volume of the voice drifting into his ear grew increasingly softer. At this instant, it was as though he had already entered a world of absolute silence.

“Am I about to die? I’m unwilling to die like this!”

Qin Wentian felt extreme reluctance, he still had too many things he had yet to accomplish. How could he die here?

Yet, he was moments away from falling into an eternal sleep. The pain was overwhelming and he was so fatigued; he wanted nothing more than to slip into that sweet oblivion, no longer wanted to think about anything.
Within Qin Wentian’s body, the candle flame still burned. Surrounding the flame, one could see the golden strands of thread intertwining.

In that moment, the last wisps of his consciousness were transported into that flickering flame.
But the candle flame seemed to be weakening, as the intensity of the light it emitted diminished. He could feel his consciousness fading away…
Was he really about to die?!

Throughout this cruel path of cultivation, each turn was fraught with countless dangers, he had survived them all just to reach this point. Yet, he was still dismissed by the golden guardians, rejected on the bounds that he was an unworthy successor. How could he accept such a judgement?

Why was he unqualified? Just because he started his cultivation at a later time, resulting in a lower cultivation base?

The candle flame continued burning as the power of his bloodline surrounded it. Even the barbaric, fearsome power of his bloodline seemed to be waning away.
And in that split second, within the flickering flames of the candle, Qin Wentian saw a familiar silhouette.

“Uncle Black.”
Qin Wentian’s heart trembled.

“Wentian.” A voice rang out in his heart.

“You cannot die here.”

“I… can’t die here?” Abruptly, countless scenes appeared in his mind, fueling Qin Wentian’s heart with powerful emotions, bolstering his will to survive.

Where did Uncle Black go? Was Qingcheng doing fine at the Pill Emperor Hall? Headmaster Diyi was still imprisoned in the Nine Mystical Palace, the ‘hidden’ branch of the Azure Faction had yet to reclaim their former glory. How can he die here?
The weakening candle flame wavered before becoming completely motionless. An instant later, it burned with a light way brighter than ever before. The golden strands of thread that were his bloodline power, integrated into the candle flame and fuelled its radiance to burn brighter and brighter. An instant later, Qin Wentian’s heart lighted up like a blazing inferno.

“AWOOO!” Qin Wentian’s blood rumbled, emanating a fearsome gut-wrenching pressure. His was an ancient primordial bloodline that originated from time immemorial.

What made Qin Wentian thunderstruck was that within his body, something took form within the flickering flames of the candle. There was a towering primordial beast that seemed as though it gazed at everything in the Heavens and Earth with disdain.

Qin Wentian trembled, why was his bloodline so powerful? And why did such an overwhelming bloodline seemed to fear and defer to that candle flame burning in his heart?

“You, do you know who you are?”

A voice echoed in his heart. He, Qin Wentian, possessed such a bloodline. Did he know his true origins?

The golden guardian had said it before, that he was unworthy to be the successor?

In that case, he wanted see if this Ascendant’s inheritance was even qualified to brand him as unworthy.

The candle flame burned even brighter as his injuries recovered.

As long as it wasn’t extinguished, he would never die!

The golden strands of blood around the candle flame transformed into a beam of lightning, shooting straight towards the centre of Qin Wentian’s brows. He could sense something taking form, the creation of a third eye forthcoming!

Chapter 271: Control of the Great Hall

Qin Wentian only felt a stab of pain in the space between his brows, it was as though he could feel a peculiar energy writhing there.

This unusual stab of pain was resonating with the candle flame in his body. Qin Wentian faintly sensed that his heart’s eye was centred between his brows.
The golden threads connected the candle flame and the brow’s centre, and Qin Wentian innately comprehended that this reaction was linked to a power of his bloodline.

Within his body, there wasn’t just a single type of bloodline limit.

That domineering, savage and violent bloodline that was once locked down by fetters, felt as though it originated from an ancient primordial beast, the king of all demons.

Yet even this domineering bloodline deferred to the candle flame in his heart. The candle flame was the manifestation of yet another bloodline existing within him, and was of a higher grade compared to that of his primordial bloodline.

Two kinds of high-grade bloodlines existing within a single body.

Qin Wentian asked himself, who was he?

Who were his parents?

The middle-aged man he had seen in the tiny Astral-Being should be his father. Why would he fragment all his memories and store it within that Astral-Being, leaving it for Qin Wentian to discover?
There were thousands upon thousands of thoughts in his mind, yet there was no way for him to verify anything. He wanted to open his eyes, yet he did not.

Because he discovered that even with his eyes closed, he could clearly see what was happening outside. It was as though he had a sort of ‘second sight’, and the happenings outside were directly etched into his heart.
He saw the bloodlessly pale countenance of Bailu Yi, whose heart was clenching with worry for fear of his death. He saw Bailu Jing engaged in a desperate life-and-death struggle with his opponent, as well as the rest of the golden guardians.

However, he could see that abruptly, Bailu Yi had an expression of joy on her face. Her bloodlessly pale countenance regained some color, she had noticed that Qin Wentian had stopped bleeding and his wounds were mending. She could feel his aura rising, as he brimmed with vitality once again.

Suddenly, Bailu Yi froze. In the centre of Qin Wentian’s brows, a beam of golden light shot forth. It was a golden-colored eye.
“This…” Bailu Yi’s heart pounded. However, an instant later, that golden-colored eye closed again. Only then did Qin Wentian open his eyes, gazing at her.

“You woke up?” Bailu Yi smiled.

This fellow had finally awakened.

She was really frightened earlier, thinking that Qin Wentian would never regain consciousness ever again.

“Mhm.” Qin Wentian nodded his head before shifting his gaze to the battlefield. At this moment, he actually discovered that he could see through the cultivation bases of those that entered his vision.
Zhan Chen, Yang Fan, Zhu Sha, all of these people had a cultivation base at the ninth level of Yuanfu.

And the golden guardians’ claims were true, they too had a cultivation base at the ninth level of Yuanfu.

“Huh?”

Qin Wentian furrowed his brows, how was this possible? Weren’t these golden guardians a type of Puppet? How could they have cultivation bases?
It was impossible for Puppets to cultivate, but after his golden divine eye had been activated, he could clearly sense that the golden guardians didn’t have any Yuan Meteor Stones embedded in them to draw power from, but rather, they had their own cultivation bases!

This could only mean that these guardians were humans, not Puppets.

Why would peak-level Yuanfu cultivators be willing to transform into Puppets? Qin Wentian didn’t understand.

He swept another glance towards the rune-covered grounds. And in that moment, the complicated criss-crossing runic outlines were directly imprinted into his mind, and there was no need for him to use his heart sense to contemplate it any more. Now, a single glance was enough for him to decipher the mysteries behind them.

Each runic outline, represented a completed Divine Inscription. And regardless of the complexity of the runic outlines entwining and interweaving against each other, Qin Wentian could unravel all of them with but a single glance.
And right now, a bright light suddenly flashed in his eyes, as laughter could be seen within. So, that’s how it was.

The Ascendant himself was an extremely accomplished Divine Inscriptionist. Over here, he left a complete peak-tier fourth-ranked Inscription that was able to divide itself into countless peak-tier third-ranked Inscriptions.

Such a level of accomplishment left Qin Wentian at a loss for words. He could only gasp in amazement.

If it weren’t for his body’s transformation, he wouldn’t have realised that this great hall itself was basically one gigantic Divine Inscription.
In the twinkling of an eye, Qin Wentian’s consciousness integrated with this gigantic fourth-ranked Divine Inscription.

He unravelled it, comprehended it, and it would be an extremely simple task if he wanted to apply it.
Qin Wentian’s lips curled up in a fiendish smile, causing Bailu Yi to be stunned. What was this fellow thinking about now? And what was that golden eye she had seen earlier?

“You left behind a fourth-ranked Divine Inscription here, and if no one noticed this, they could either depend on their personal combat prowess or with the assistance of the third-ranked runic outlines inscribed on the floor to deal with these golden Puppets. But if someone discovered the final secret regarding the fourth-ranked Inscription, they could choose to end everything with a mere snap of their fingers and become your true successor. Meticulously planned out indeed.”
Qin Wentian knew that the endless tests in this secret realm were meant to filter out the most eligible successor the Ascendant would feel satisfied with.

However when he, Qin Wentian arrived at this ending point, the golden guardians said that he was unworthy to receive the inheritance. But, how about now?!

Qin Wentian stood up, and a terrifyingly harsh light flickered in his eyes as he swept his gaze over to those who were still locked in combat.

“Follow behind me.” Qin Wentian smiled to Bailu Yi. Bailu Yi froze, “Do you still intend to compete for the inheritance? Let’s leave here instead.”
After speaking, Bailu Yi wanted to pull Qin Wentian away. Although she could faintly sense the transformation that happened in Qin Wentian’s body, she knew for a fact that his current cultivation level was too low. How could a mere third-level Yuanfu cultivator be able to compete against a transcendent powers’ Heaven’s Chosen, no matter how talented he may be?
Even if he borrowed strength from the runic outlines, it was impossible for Qin Wentian to contend for the inheritance against these monsters.

This place was too dangerous, they needed to leave immediately.

However, Bailu Yi only saw Qin Wentian remaining motionless. He smiled at her. “Trust me.”
Bailu Yi was slightly hesitant. Before this she had always believed in Qin Wentian,but now it felt like an impossible feat, no matter how much she wanted to believe.

After all, what Qin Wentian had in mind wasn’t too realistic.
Even her brother Bailu Jing, as a ranker on the Heavenly Fate Rankings, didn’t have any hope when it came to contending for the inheritance. He was only strong enough to fight evenly against the golden guardian, he couldn’t defeat them.

“Wow, you actually didn’t die.” At this moment, Zhu Sha’s malicious voice drifted over. That golden guardian earlier was in shock as well, turning his gaze onto Qin Wentian.

His most powerful spear strike hadn’t actually killed Qin Wentian?
“Deal with him for me.” He directed that golden point towards Zhu Sha, as he commanded another of his ilk. In the next moment, another golden guardian lunged towards Zhu Sha, as the first golden guardian walked towards Qin Wentian.

“Good recovery strength,” that golden guardian icily remarked. Abruptly, his long spear exploded forth. This time around, there would be no more mistakes. He would definitely ensure the death of Qin Wentian.

His blunder earlier, was a humiliation.
Bailu Yi stiffened, as she grew white with fright. Yet she only saw Qin Wentian casually continue his advance. An instant later, she felt countless beams of light erupting forth from the runic outlines engraved on the ground.

“ROAR” An Azure Dragon dashed towards the golden guardian, as a gigantic axe cleaved down from the Heavens, all accompanied by a rain of arrows.

Each of Qin Wentian’s steps ‘awakened’ a runic outline engraved upon the floor. His momentum was filled with towering might, he was an unstoppable force!
“RUMBLE~!” The myriad of manifestations created by the Divine Inscriptions were all violently attacking the golden guardian with unbelievable speed. The force of their joint attacks caused the golden guardian to continuously retreat.

“Hmm?” The pupils of the golden guardian narrowed. What was going on?

The countenance of the previously stoic golden guardian underwent a drastic change, the runic outlines on this entire floor all began to light up, beginning to fuse together, enshrouding him within their radiance.

“How is this possible?” The golden guardian stared in shock, he couldn’t understand why this was happening.

Bailu Yi was also thunderstruck, did Qin Wentian’s attainment in the Dao of Divine Inscriptions shoot up another level?
“DIE!” That golden guardian roared, causing a terrifying vortex to shoot out from his spear, aiming to devour Qin Wentian.

“Hmph.” Qin Wentian snorted coldly. With a mere thought, the body of an enormous python manifested, sacrificing itself to the attack. With another thought, a meteor of arrows thundered forth, but were then deflected by the golden guardian, as he weaved his spear about in an intricate dance.

“SCRAM!” With a loud bellow, a colossal hammer slammed into the body of the golden guardian with overwhelming force, causing it to be flung through the air.
Their combat instantly attracted the others’ attention. The eyes of Zhan Chen and the other cultivators couldn’t help but widen when they saw the abnormal change in Qin Wentian.

The revolving light from the runic outlines grew increasingly brighter, and even the entire great hall was trembling as though resonating with Qin Wentian.

“This…” Zhu Sha turned ashen. Somehow, Qin Wentian had gained control of the great hall.

“We must kill him first!” Zhu Sha shouted, pointing to Qin Wentian. Yet in response, only a thunderous deafening sound could be heard, as the hall’s Divine Inscriptions in their entirety completed their fusion. An incomparably gargantuan constellation arm was birthed from the fusion.

“This?!” Everyone was flabbergasted.

“This fellow is controlling all the power from the Divine Inscriptions within the great hall.” Bailu Yi’s heart pounded rapidly.

Even that Ascendant himself would never have expected that the hidden fourth-ranked Inscription he left behind would actually be activated by someone with a cultivation base at the third-level of Yuanfu.
Even though Qin Wentian had evolved, he still wouldn’t have been able to contend for the inheritance with this group of monsters, not without the aid of these countless runic outlines.

And now, everything in this place was under his control.

A frigidness flashed in Qin Wentian’s eyes as he stared at Zhu Sha, a mere look causing shivers down the spine of this peak-level Yuanfu cultivator. Earlier it was Zhu Sha who struck out at Qin Wentian, and had even grievously injured Bailu Yi.

Zhu Sha, deserved death.
In mid-air, that constellation arm descended from the Heavens. It emanated a pressure that resembled the Astral Novas of Heavenly Dipper Sovereigns.

Zhu Sha’s silhouette flickered, as he retreated with explosive speed. However, that gargantuan arm instantly appeared behind him, slamming him head first into the ground.

After the gargantuan arm moved away, the only thing that remained of Zhu Sha was a pool of blood. Without any trace of his corpse or bones, he was obliterated completely.
Qin Wentian then turned his gaze onto that earlier golden guardian. The look in his eyes actually caused the heart of the golden guardian to involuntarily tremble. The golden guardian instantly averted his eyes as he stated with deference and fearful respect, “Congratulations, you passed the test. The inheritance is now yours.”
The words of the golden guardian didn’t cause any signs of joy to appear on Qin Wentian’s face. On the contrary, the coldness in his eyes became more severe.
He had come face to face with death countless times before arriving at this ending point. Even if he was unqualified to become the successor, the golden guardian could have allowed them to safely exit the trial grounds. But instead, he directly moved to kill them.

Inheritance?

Qin Wentian laughed manically as he softly commented. “I almost died here earlier, and now you tell me that I have passed the test?”

“Test? What qualifications do you have to test me?!” As the sound of Qin Wentian’s voice faded, that gigantic constellation arm smashed down, shattering the body of the golden guardian into pieces!

Chapter 272: Inheritance? Abandoned.

Inheritance?

Test?

“Do you think that if you approve of me, I would approve of this inheritance?”

“Before this, you said that I was unworthy and thus wanted to kill me. Treading on the fine line between life and death, only to become a ‘worthy successor’ now?”

The Qin Wentian at this moment, wasn’t the successor. He chose to be a plunderer instead.

Since the golden guardians wanted to filter out an eligible successor, he would choose to plunder the inheritance away instead.

They saw him obliterating Zhu Sha, then following it up by smashing the golden guardian into pieces.

Everyone in the great hall watched, their faces shifting through a myriad of emotions. All of their attention was fixated onto Qin Wentian.

Only to see Qin Wentian abruptly sweep his gaze onto Zhan Chen, as an intimidating killing intent gushed forth from him.

As Zhan Chen felt Qin Wentian’s pitiless stare riveted on him, his countenance drastically changed. He knew that Qin Wentian wanted to kill him.

“Buzz!” A raging wind gusted as Qin Wentian’s palm moved. Momentarily, that gargantuan constellation arm mirrored his actions, directly grabbing at Zhan Chen. Within the great hall, Qin Wentian was its controller.

Zhan Chen’s Astral Souls immediately erupted forth as he bathed in a radiance illuminated by a boundless sword glow. At this moment, it was as though his whole consciousness had integrated into the sword.
“LACERATE!” Zhan Chen roared. A drop of blood flew from his finger, landing onto the sword glow. An instant later, a gigantic blood-colored sword manifested as it exploded towards the constellation arm. The blood-colored sword blocked the movements of the gargantuan arm, causing thunderous, vociferous sounds to echo out unceasingly. Zhan Chen then pointed his finger at Qin Wentian, his countenance as heavy as a mountain.

“KILL HIM!” Zhan Chen hollered, as Yang Fan instantly moved. His palms shimmered with the boundless energy of the stars and moon as he dashed towards Qin Wentian.

But simultaneously, Bailu Jing appeared next to Qin Wentian, and responded with his Great Sun Nine Beheading Technique. Golden threads appeared in mid-air, slicing apart the manifestation created by Yang Fan’s Star-Seizing palms.

“Hmph.” Qin Wentian coldly snorted. Rumbling sounds echoed in the air as the runic outlines on the ground started to ‘hiss’ once again. This time, their fused power targeted Yang Fan, while several manifested long lances flew towards Zhan Chen.

Zhan Chen turned pale, then with a clap of his hands, a sphere of light appeared in mid-air. Zhan Chen immediately slashed apart the spear with a chop of his palms, causing the light rays from the sphere to envelop his body. An instant later, the crowd all discovered that Zhan Chen had already disappeared, reappearing again outside of the great hall. His speed was so fast, it was as though he had teleported. However, as he appeared again, he involuntarily spat out continuous mouthfuls of fresh blood.

Qin Wentian’s gaze followed Zhan Chen. Their gazes locked, with eyes filled with killing intent so thick it even distorted the air.

Both of them wanted nothing more than to destroy the other.

As expected of the chosen from the Pill Emperor Hall, Zhan Chen was extremely tough to deal with. Qin Wentian couldn’t kill him even with the aid of a fourth-ranked formation.

If one were to compare their individual strength, Zhan Chen could easily kill him. After all, Qin Wentian had only cultivated for a short period of time, his cultivation base was still shallow and lacking.
Qin Wentian turned his gaze onto Yang Fan, and the gargantuan arm moved with a speed as quick as lightning towards him. Yang Fan’s countenance grew incredibly unsightly as he hastily sent out continuous palm strikes, trying to buy himself time. Borrowing force from the gargantuan arm’s attack, Yang Fan used it to augment his movement technique as he too retreated out of the great hall. He knew that if he continued staying in a place under Qin Wentian’s control, the only result would be his death.

Qin Wentian then nonchalantly turned his gaze onto Hua Feng and those from the Hua Clan. Their countenances sank, appearing extremely ugly to behold. But they retreated as well, leaving the great hall of their own volition. They stood at the threshold, an intense glacial light erupting in their eyes when they stared at Qin Wentian.

Qin Wentian was invincible within those walls, none of them could be his match.

Hence, they chose to bide their time outside of the great hall. Even if Qin Wentian obtained the inheritance, he would have to leave eventually. And when he did… they’d make sure of his utter demise, not allowing even a corpse to be left behind.

The rest of the golden guardians all stared at Qin Wentian. They understood that they were all sitting ducks here, and to stick around would mean getting killed by Qin Wentian.

“Swoosh.” The constellation arm swept towards them. One of the golden guardians howled, “This successor is rebelling, I’ll delay him. The rest of you join forces to summon the Golden Armored King.”
As the sound of his voice faded, the long spear in his hands erupted forth like a dragon snaking through the clouds, directly clashing against the constellation arm. His entire body was on the verge of shattering from the impact while the long spears from the other golden guardians penetrated through space, all of them stabbing into the Ascendant Sculpture.

Sounds of cracking rang out as the exterior of the sculpture broke into pieces. Gradually, an intense beam of golden light shot out. Qin Wentian discovered that within the sculpture, there was actually a golden body similar to that of the golden guardians. The only difference was that this golden body appeared several times larger.

“Puppet.” Qin Wentian could tell with a single glance the difference between this golden body compared to the other golden guardians. The other golden guardians all had cultivation bases, they weren’t true Puppets.
While the huge, golden-armored frame in front of him, was that of a true Puppet.

“Chi, chi, chi!” The bodies of the golden guardians all exploded, voluntarily choosing self-destruction as they transformed into golden beams of light drilling into the golden-armored Puppet.

“Since you refuse to become the successor, you can succeed us all in hell then.”
Before exploding, the golden guardian blocking Qin Wentian roared out his last words of defiance. As the beam of golden light from his body entered the golden-armored Puppet, that Puppet’s eyes opened and then stood up. The two ancient scrolls in its hands were placed on the ground, and the eyes it regarded Qin Wentian with, was filled with a baleful aura so strong, that even the very air distorted around it.

“Boom!” The golden-armored Puppet stepped out, the power of his steps causing the entire ground to shake.

Qin Wentian’s eyes narrowed, his conjecture was correct. The nine golden guardians weren’t Puppets, but were humans instead.

And as for that sculpture, the others thought that it was the corpse of an Ascendant, remaining here to pass down his inheritance. But that ‘corpse’ was actually merely a Puppet.

Such a scenario couldn’t help but make people ponder over this further.

Qin Wentian stared at the golden-armored giant, his gaze so clear it was as though he could see through it. In this secret realm where only Yuanfu-level cultivators could enter, a fourth-ranked Puppet was indeed an invincible existence.
“Bzzzz!” The golden-armored Puppet flicked out a finger in Qin Wentian’s direction. With that single flick, space contorted as the terrifying energy of Heaven and Earth gathered and condensed into the shape of a golden arrow, able to pierce through all matter.

Qin Wentian’s countenance changed, that gargantuan constellation arm instantly appeared before him as he blasted forth with it.

The two attacks collided, as the great hall was racked with tremors. The support from the countless runic outlines engraved on the floor fused their power together, working in conjunction with the constellation arm against the golden-armored Puppet.
Yet, the golden Puppet showed no fear at all. It continued advancing forwards, disregarding the attacks.

“BOOM!” The constellation arm flexed, closing its fingers around the golden-armored Puppet, while Qin Wentian’s silhouette flickered and he dashed towards the golden Puppet with explosive speed.

The eyes of the golden Puppet were like lightning bolts shooting right into Qin Wentian’s mind.

Qin Wentian could only feel stabs of searing pain in the centre of his brows, and then an instant later, a concentrated beam of light also erupted forth from it, fighting back against the lightning from the golden Puppet’s eyes.
Very quickly, he approached the front of the golden Puppet. Qin Wentian then placed his palms onto it, a cold smile appearing on his face.
Did the fourth-ranked Puppet truly think of itself as invincible?

Qin Wentian slammed forth with his palms, only to see that the golden-armored giant Puppet had a look akin to amusement flickering in its eyes. A mere third-level Yuanfu cultivator wanted to breach the defences of a fourth-ranked Puppet?

Was he dreaming?

“Fractured Void!” Qin Wentian’s palm zoomed out, directly landing onto the head of the Puppet. In an instant, a surge of energy rumbled as it directly bypassed the exterior, destroying the Divine Inscription within that was powering the Puppet.

What sorcery was this?
Could Qin Wentian see through the position and intricacies of the fourth-ranked Inscription?

The location of the Divine Inscription embedded within any Puppet were secrets only known to their creators. How could it have been located so easily?

Even if the location was discovered, how could it be so easy to destroy it?

Yet with a mere palm strike from Qin Wentian, it discovered that the runic outlines of the Divine Inscription embedded within its head, was in the midst of being eradicated at this very moment.

Negation. Qin Wentian’s attainment in the Dao of Divine Inscriptions had already reached the level of Reverse Inscription, and now that his perception had evolved another level, he could clearly sense the location of, and comprehend the complicated runic outlines of the fourth-ranked Inscription with ease. How difficult would it be for him to neutralise it?

Qin Wentian repeatedly sent out palm strikes, each and every one of his attacks aimed at the head of that golden-armored Puppet.

The reverberation of its unwilling roars shook the space but very swiftly, gradually lowered in volume, corresponding the loss of energy with the rate of destruction for the Divine Inscription embedded within it.

A few moments later, the Puppet was powerless, to the point where it could no longer stand, and so it adopted a kneeling position instead.
“YOU WILL DIE A HORRIBLE DEATH!” Qin Wentian ignored the last words of the Puppet. Mere words couldn’t hurt him. He upped the tempo of his attacks, until the last wisps of consciousness were wiped away from the golden guardians, reducing it to an ownerless object. Only then did Qin Wentian transfer it into his interspatial ring.

From now onwards, this fourth-ranked Puppet belonged to Qin Wentian.

Qin Wentian leisurely stepped out, arriving at the place where the two ancient scrolls lay. After picking them up, Qin Wentian opened one of the scrolls as his consciousness sank into it.
“These ancient scrolls contain this esteemed lord’s understanding of the Dao of Divine Inscriptions, as well as the many formations and Divine Inscriptions that I had personally created. From now on, it shall be imparted to you.” An archaic voice entered his mind, as several extremely powerful Inscriptions and formations appeared within his consciousness.

Qin Wentian smiled as his consciousness sank into the second ancient scroll. “The title of this esteemed lord is the Gold-Element Ascendant. From a young age, I have stumbled over many obstacles on my path for cultivation. It is fortunate that the Heavens do not abandon those who strive for their goals, any by a stroke of luck, I eventually obtained a heaven-defying cultivation art. This Gold-Element Ancient Scroll contains within it a cultivation art that would enable the practitioners to have an indestructible golden body. Once one succeeds in cultivating it, one’s body would be akin to a Divine Weapon, able to sweep across the Grand Xia unhindered, becoming an existence at its peak.”
“This esteemed lord was besieged and harmed by enemies, resulting in my final resting here. With my last breath, I chose to leave my inheritance to the future generations. If the fated successor passes all my tests and receives my inheritance, one must put in their utmost effort to cultivate my legacy. There are three important points that one must note: First, the cultivation of this heaven-defying art must not ever be divulged to another, including one’s elders or ancestors of one’s sect or clan. Back then, this esteemed lord was harmed by none other than those I called family. Second, this cultivation art is extremely tyrannical in nature, and one may be subjected to abnormal changes during the course of cultivating it. Only those that possess an undying will, the strongest of the strong, are able to successfully cultivate it. Third, let me reiterate once more, never let anyone else know that you are cultivating this secret art. If my enemies were to find out, you would die without a doubt. Naturally, if you were to one day succeed in your cultivation and step into the Celestial Phenomenon Realm, only then could you investigate the identity of my enemy. If you possess the heart to undertake this, be the sword of revenge for this esteemed lord!”
The voice gradually faded, as Qin Wentian’s eyes gleamed with an intense light.

Gold-Element Ancient Scroll, heavenly-defying art?

One can cultivate it, but must definitely keep it an absolute secret from others?

A cold light radiated from Qin Wentian’s eyes. Once again, he thought of those nine golden guardians from before. They weren’t true Puppets, but had the base of a living human instead.
“Little Brother Qin, congratulations on obtaining the Ascendant’s inheritance.” Old First laughed uproariously. Old First, Bailu Jing, Bailu Yi, still remained inside of the great hall.

Qin Wentian smiled at Old First. After which, he walked to the entrance of the great hall, turning his gaze onto the rest of the cultivators. “The disputes we had within this secret realm, were only for the sake of this inheritance. Now that this inheritance is in my hands, I know for sure that all of you would want to kill me to plunder it. I, Qin, am not so arrogant to think I can still survive with the entire Moon Continent at my back. My fellow cultivators, I am willing to give up this inheritance to all of you.”
After speaking, Qin Wentian flung the ancient scroll outside, causing everyone to be stunned by his actions.

The inheritance of the Ascendant?

Qin Wentian had voluntarily relinquished it!

Chapter 273: The Dust Settles

Qin Wentian had chosen to give up on the inheritance.

The nine golden guardians were all puppetified humans, and if it weren’t for his heart sense evolving to another level, activating his third eye, he would definitely have fallen for their lies, believing that they were all Puppets.

The nine golden guardians didn’t release their Astral Souls, but it was obvious that they cultivated in a strange art, resulting in their bodies becoming puppetified. After reading through the Gold-Element Ancient Scroll, Qin Wentian wondered… had the nine golden guardians cultivated this before?

And Qin Wentian was even more suspicious after he heard the words of that Ascendant. That Ascendant reminded his successor that this was an extremely tyrannical art, one would come across abnormal changes in one’s body when cultivating it. Not only that, the voice further reiterated that one must never let the elders of their clan or sect know about it. This made Qin Wentian feel that something was wrong, even though the voice did explain it was harmed by those he called kin, and that the ultimate reason for him leaving behind this inheritance was to find a fated successor that could wreak vengeance for him in future. Qin Wentian couldn’t help but doubt its words.

If it were merely to find a successor, why restrict the entry level of this secret realm to the Yuanfu level? Why not allow Heavenly Dipper Sovereigns to enter?

Maybe the reason could be explained in that the Heavenly Dipper Sovereigns were usually a bunch of older men whose potential was already exhausted. But that totally didn’t match up to the golden guardian’s logic when he told him that his cultivation base was too low to be qualified as a successor?
In addition, although his cultivation base was currently lacking, he knew of his own extraordinary background and he had already obtained the inheritance of the Azure Emperor. Hence, in front of this Ascendant’s inheritance, his heart didn’t waver in the slightest.

Also, Qin Wentian’s character was extremely decisive. Since he had doubts regarding the veracity of that Ascendant’s words, he might as well directly abandon it.

He felt not the slightest compunction towards this decision.
He didn’t choose to give it to Bailu Jing nor Bailu Yi because from his perspective, there was an extremely high probability that there were problems with this cultivation art.
Qin Wentian turned his gaze onto the cultivators outside the great hall. They made no movements, only dumbly stared at that ancient scroll he flung away. Evidently, no one had expected Qin Wentian would do this.

But Bailu Yi and the rest held countenances that drastically changed. It wasn’t easy to obtain this inheritance, and now that Qin Wentian had received it, he was freely giving it away?

For the cultivators outside the great hall; Zhan Chen, Yang Fan, Zhao Lie and Hua Feng, the transcendent powers behind them could be said to be the representatives of the entire Moon Continent. If all of them truly combined their forces to hunt down Qin Wentian, he would have no choice but to flee, which would affect his plans for establishing a foothold in the Moon Continent, as well as affect the Bailu clan’s White Deer Institute.

“That ancient scroll contains the cultivation art of the Gold-Element Ascendant. I choose to drop all my rights to it, my fellow cultivators. As for this other scroll, it contains all the insights on the Dao of Divine Inscriptions that the Ascendant had comprehended. In the eyes of a Grandmaster, there’s nothing more tempting than this, hence I will be retaining it. In this way, let it be known that I, Qin have not let all of you down, and therefore let us wipe the slate clean after exiting this realm. Naturally, if you still wish to hold onto your grievances, then I will be happy to play with you.”
Qin Wentian’s voice resonated in the air. Although he made this move, he also understood in his heart that it wasn’t so easy for all the grudges and grievances to be wiped away merely with a single sentence. For example, Zhan Chen’s secrets had already been discovered by him. How could he still be spared?

But now, since he honestly spoke his thoughts out, naturally Qin Wentian wasn’t so foolhardy as to become the target of a multitude of arrows. At the very least, seeing that he was giving up the inheritance, how could the proud chosen of the other transcendent powers still have the face to beseech their elders to personally make a move against Qin Wentian?

After speaking, Qin Wentian caused the doors of the great hall to slam shut with a flick of his sleeves, no longer bothering with the bloodbath he knew would soon occur amongst the cultivators outside these walls.

The eyes of the cultivators outside all gleamed with an unknown light as they stared at the ancient scroll.

So, this ancient scroll was the cultivation art left behind by the Gold-Element Ascendant.
“That cultivation art is mine.” Zhao Lie immediately stepped out, as a flaming sabre appeared in his hands, its temperature was so high that the air around him became scorched. Laughing madly, he dashed towards the ancient scroll.

The moment he moved, the others were jolted awake from their shock and reacted as well. Yang Fan extended his palms as a huge palm imprint appeared in mid-air, whistling towards the scroll, intent on grabbing it.

“Stay your hand.” Zhao Lie slashed down with his sabre, the power of his strike causing space to break apart.

While at this moment, Zhan Chen and Hua Feng also made their moves.
They could sense the truth of Qin Wentian’s words, that inheritance must be real. If that ancient scroll was fake, the matter would eventually be revealed. At that time, after they exited the realm, Qin Wentian would definitely be hunted down.

There was an 80% probability that the ancient scroll was real!

However, at this moment the entire space started to rumble. The golden guardians had said that once the inheritance was obtained, this entire space would soon start breaking down.

In the middle of the air, gales of powerful wind began to howl and that Ascendant statue started to break apart. As it crumbled, countless cracks appeared in the space around it. This entire realm was collapsing.
The great hall Qin Wentian was in, rumbled as well.

Bailu Yi inclined her head, staring at the quavering great hall and asked, “What should we do?”

“Time to leave,” Qin Wentian replied, he moved in the direction opposite the entrance of the great hall and and blasted his way through the walls as those following him all disappeared from sight.

……
The windstorms became even more intense, sending the golden sand of the desert into their eyes, making it difficult to even open them.

“The space will soon shatter, but there shouldn’t be any life-threatening danger!” Bailu Jing shouted over the wind, wanting to grab hold of Bailu Yi. However, the force of the windstorms were too powerful, and they could only drift along with the air current.

Qin Wentian had his eyes shut as he contemplated his surroundings with his heart sense. But soon after, his heart involuntarily shuddered.

“Damn,” Qin Wentian murmured. A huge wave of sand was kicked up into the air by the windstorm, about to bury them underneath. They originally chose to stick together, but when that huge blanket of sand came crashing down, the impact caused them to be blasted in different directions, the four of them scattering.

Three days later, news was circulated that the secret realm of Divine Inscriptions had vanished. The entire ancient city had been buried by the desert.

Many people gathered over there to stare at the space near the original spot where the ancient city once stood. However, apart from a few remaining sand-covered ruins, nothing but golden sand could be seen.

“What happened in there?” Many of the onlookers were seized with curiosity.

The rumors stated that the secret realm was actually a Dao Cultivation Ground of a Celestial Phenomenon Ascendant, and there might even be an inheritance there. But if the rumors were true, how could this have happened?

Why did the secret realm vanish? And who obtained the inheritance of that Ascendant?

This news gradually spread throughout the entire Moon Continent, but soon after, it was circulated that the ranked #11 on the Heavenly Fate Ranking, Zhan Chen, had already returned to the Pill Emperor Hall.

After which, Yang Fan from the Star-Seizing Manor, Zhao Lie from the Skyember Sect, and Hua Feng of the Hua Clan, had all respectively returned to their sects and clan.

And finally, it was said that the Ascendant’s inheritance landed in the hands of Zhan Chen from the Pill Emperor Hall.

Many people sighed in their hearts, Zhan Chen was truly worthy of his reputation as the #11th ranker. Now that he had obtained the inheritance, the status of the Pill Emperor Hall would undoubtedly advance higher.

And as for the exact events that transpired within the secret realm, nobody knew except those that returned alive.

Bailu Jing and Bailu Yi had also returned to the White Deer Institute, and upon hearing the outside rumors and gossip, Bailu Yi couldn’t help but snort disdainfully. All the rumors didn’t have Qin Wentian’s name in them.
Presumably, the transcendent powers’ chosen getting forced out of the great hall was a matter of considerable shame to them. They were too embarrassed to spread such news.

Each and every chosen, with their cultivation bases at the peak-level of Yuanfu, had to depend on a third-level Yuanfu Inscriptionist to enter the great hall. And then, that same Inscriptionist forced them to retreat from the battle, thus winning the inheritance for himself. To add insult to injury, they were given the chance to contend once more for the inheritance, but only because he voluntarily gave it up soon after. Zhan Chen had even been injured in the following bloodbath. How embarrassing was that?
Hence the truth of this matter was only known by those inside the realm, or with the dead buried in the desert.
Because for Qin Wentian’s sake, Bailu Jing and Bailu Yi chose not to spread the true events as well.

If this matter was known, Qin Wentian’s name would rock the entire Moon Continent, but it would also push Qin Wentian right into the limelight, causing him to become the target for a multitude of arrows.

And it shouldn’t be forgotten that although he had given up the cultivation art, he still had the scroll of Divine Inscriptions with him.

An ancient scroll containing the comprehensions of a Celestial Phenomenon Ascendent was a priceless treasure in the eyes of Divine Inscriptionist Grandmasters. What if those fourth-ranked Grandmasters made a move against him?
In any case, no one knew where Qin Wentian was now.

…………………………

Bailu Yi stood atop the roof of a pavilion as she stared at the horizon.

Somewhere in that golden desert, inside a dilapidated-looking hall, Qin Wentian was sitting crossed-legged within, with a Puppet standing at his side.

This Puppet, was none other than the Puppet he had obtained from the trial grounds, the Golden-Armored King Puppet.
Qin Wentian naturally understood the methods on refining Puppets, and now that he came across this ownerless Puppet, how could he waste this opportunity not to bind it? This was an extremely powerful fourth-ranked Puppet!

In Qin Wentian’s perspective, Puppets were just like Divine Weapons, the methods of refining them were one and the same.
After Divine Weapons were forged, Divine Inscriptions were inscribed onto it, granting it various powers and attributes one wanted that weapon to have. For refining Puppets, the only difference was that one had to leave a mind-link on the Puppet, allowing the creator or owner to control it completely. The Puppet would only lose this connection if someone forcibly erased the mind-link from it.

At this moment, Qin Wentian was repairing the Inscription embedded in the Puppet’s head while sending out tendrils of his will to form a mind-link with it. The materials used to forge this Puppet made its defenses abnormally strong. Unless he met a powerful Heavenly Dipper Sovereign, the mind-link he created wouldn’t be so easily wiped away. Of course, the exception was if his opponent was also someone that could ignore exterior defenses, and simultaneously have an exceedingly high level of attainment in the Dao of Divine Inscriptions.
After several moments, the golden-armored Puppet finally stood up. Its eyes glimmered with a golden light, giving off the feeling that its gaze alone was sufficient to penetrate through the eyes of others.

A hint of laughter flickered in Qin Wentian’s eyes as he stored the Puppet into his interspatial ring.

He had already formed a mind-link with the Puppet, hence he was easily able to absorb it into his interspatial ring. If the Puppet was still under the control of the golden guardians, he could only have kept it inside his ring after he erased the last of their mind-link.

Qin Wentian wasn’t in a hurry to leave after refining the Puppet. He closed his eyes again and sensed the transformation that had occurred in his body.

The moment he closed his eyes, a bright glow radiated from the centre of his brows. His third eye opened, golden in color, and everything within its sights was imprinted into his mind, deep into his heart.

The moment he opened his eyes, Qin Wentian’s countenance shifted.

Golden light erupted forth out of all three of his eyes, containing within them the will of a Mandate.

His eyes could actually unleash the will of the Mandates he comprehended!

Chapter 274: Descendant of Di

After the matter in the secret realm, the major powers of the Moon Continent regained their earlier days of peace. Naturally, those major powers not at the scale of transcendent powers hadn’t obtained anything and suffered tremendous losses instead. The magnitude of danger in the secret realm this time around was unprecedented, and even the transcendent powers had lost a large number of their peak-level Yuanfu cultivators.

According to some of the later survivors, they only managed to find a way out after the collapse of the secret realm. Were it not for the destruction of the trial grounds, they would still be trapped within the formations.

And… the Pill Emperor Hall was undoubtedly the victor in the eyes of the crowd.

Because, only the chosen from the Pill Emperor Hall had obtained the Ascendant’s inheritance. This topic was endlessly discussed by the countless number of people in the Moon Continent.

Zhan Chen himself was someone ranked #11 on the Heavenly Fate Ranking, only a rank away from the top ten. Now that he had obtained the inheritance, the Pill Emperor Hall held him in even higher regard and many people speculated on when he would attempt to rank up, fighting his way into the top ten ranks of the Heavenly Fate Ranking. Although there was only difference of a single position between rank #11 and #10, the status it afforded could be said to be the difference between Heaven and Earth.

However, Zhan Chen didn’t share in the excitement of the rest. Not only that, his face was currently tinged with vestiges of pain and sorrow.

“Zhan Chen, everything is destined, don’t be too upset. Let everything be gone with the wind.” Currently, his master was consoling him.

“No matter what, Qing Yue’s death was caused by my uselessness, I wasn’t strong enough to protect her,” Zhan Chen lamented, but swiftly after, his eyes glinted with a burst of cold light. He harshly continued, “I have to be 50% responsible for Qing Yue’s death, and as for the other half, it was all because of that Inscriptionist. If it weren’t for him, Qing Yue wouldn’t have died in the formation. This person, I have to kill this person personally with my own hands. A debt of blood must be paid in full by blood.”

The killing intent in Zhan Chen’s eyes was real. That was the killing intent he had towards Qin Wentian, he had to die.

Even if he disregarded the fact that Qin Wentian had personally witnessed his secret, there was also the matter of the heavy injuries he sustained at the trial grounds, being flung out of the great hall, and the ultimate humiliation of being ‘gifted’ the inheritance. There was no doubt about it, Qin Wentian’s fate had been sealed.

Qin Wentian may have thrown away the inheritance, but he himself had thrown half his life away in the struggle to gain it. Eventually, he made his way back to the Pill Emperor Hall alive.

How could he spare Qin Wentian?

“Mhm, it’s good to see you have such devotion. Personally avenge Qing Yue, kill that man with your own hands,” his master calmly replied.
“Master, Martial Uncle, I have something to do, I shall bid farewell first.” It was then that an exceedingly beautiful maiden faintly interjected, causing Zhan Chen’s gaze to land on her.

Mo Qingcheng, the disciple of his Martial Aunt, Luo He. Her talent was truly extraordinary, making rapid progress in terms of her cultivation base and alchemy arts ever since she arrived here. Not to mention, Luo He excessively doted on this disciple of hers. She wasn’t stingy in terms of resources, and even extremely valuable medicinal pills were all given to Mo Qingcheng for her consumption.

“Okay, go ahead. Zhan Chen, send her off.” Luo He nodded lightly.

“It’s fine, Senior Zhan Chen still has to cultivate, there’s no need to waste time on me.” Mo Qingcheng’s voice was as aloof as before, her attitude causing those wanting to be closer to her to feel that she was a thousand miles away instead. After speaking, she slightly bowed and departed.

Bai Fei who was beside Mo Qingcheng, glanced deeply at Zhan Chen. There was an unknown emotion hidden in that look of hers.

Zhan Chen was the most outstanding cultivator below the realms of Heavenly Dipper Sovereigns. He was always so cultured and refined, amicable and approachable.
However, Bai Fei also knew that it was impossible between her and Zhan Chen. In her eyes, Senior Zhan Chen was way beyond her, standing right at the top, an unreachable presence.

Previously it was Qing Yue, and now, it was Mo Qingcheng.
Bai Fei couldn’t help sigh in her heart. Hastening her pace, she chased after Mo Qingcheng. As Mo Qingcheng’s beautiful back came into sight, Bai Fei’s eyes flickered and her lips moved, as though trying to say something, but eventually stayed silent.

She knew that the Inscriptionist Zhan Chen spoke of was none other than Qin Wentian.

Zhan Chen, wanted to kill Qin Wentian.

If she really told Mo Qingcheng that Qin Wentian came to the Moon Continent and had even stepped into the secret realm of Divine Inscriptions, she didn’t know what her reaction would be. Hence, she chose to remain silent.

Since Senior Zhan Chen wanted to kill Qin Wentian, he was as good as dead. There shouldn’t be any more possibility of Qin Wentian and Mo Qingcheng getting together.
…………
In the White Deer Institute, on the roof of a pavilion, Bailu Yi stared at the pond ahead as a hint of worry surfaced in her heart.

It had been already a month, but Qin Wentian had yet to return.

She was worried that he might be in danger.

“Haha, are you thinking of that fellow again?” The sound of someone laughing drifted over. Bailu Yi shifted her gaze over and glared at her brother. “No, what are you talking about?”

“You still don’t want to admit it? These past few days, someone has been cooped up in her room and has even neglected her cultivation.” Bailu Jing smiled at his sister, as he teased, “Even if your own brother were to go missing for a year and half or more, you wouldn’t be as worried as you are now, right?”
“Your combat prowess is at such a high level, how could anything happen to you?” Bailu Yi laughed. “His cultivation base is still quite low, and even though he gave up that inheritance, if he were to somehow meet that group of fellows again, they would definitely not show mercy.”

“Shouldn’t you have more confidence in him?” Bailu Jing teased.

“You’re right, that fellow has too many methods up his sleeves, even if it was that bunch of people, killing him would be no easy task.” Bailu Yi’s countenance finally relaxed. Although she had not been acquainted with Qin Wentian for very long, that fellow had a unique charisma, causing people to feel that he was extraordinary because of his demeanor, despite his low cultivation base. It truly wouldn’t be so easy if people wanted to make a move against him.
Zhan Chen, Yang Fan and Zhao Lie were all titled as Heaven’s Chosen, but during the time when they competed for the inheritance, which of them hadn’t been forced into retreat by Qin Wentian?

“Anyway, there’s some troublesome matters concerning our Institute, an annoying fellow just arrived,” Bailu Jing stated somewhat depressedly, causing Bailu Yi to start. “What happened to the Institute?”

“You should still remember what the elders said regarding our origins,” Bailu Jing explained, his words causing Bailu Yi’s heart to clench.

Of course she knew, she had even discussed the matter with Qin Wentian when inside the secret realm.

Qin Wentian held the Azure Emperor Token, he was the successor of the Azure Emperor.
“Naturally,” Bailu Yi replied.

“There’s someone claiming to be from the direct line of descent from the Di Clan (Azure Emperor’s = Dicang) who wants to take control of our White Deer Institute,” Bailu Jing stated, causing Bailu Yi to show an expression of alarm.

A direct descendant of the Di Clan?

And he wanted to take control of the White Deer Institute?

How can that be? Then, what about Qin Wentian?

Qin Wentian was the one that possessed the Azure Emperor Token.

And by right, no one else but the true successor should be aware of the matter of the ‘hidden’ Azure Faction.

Bailu Yi sensed that things weren’t as simple as they seemed.

“When did the person arrive?” Bailu Yi asked again.

“He just arrived today and it appears that he’s thoroughly investigated our White Deer Institute. He even knew about you.” A helpless smile appeared on Bailu Jing’s face.
It was what Qin Wentian had deduced, that time had diluted everything with regards to everything related to the Azure Faction. Although they followed the teachings and the ways of their ancestors, any true conviction they might have had as part of the Azure Faction had long faded away. Particularly the younger generations, they had no feelings of sentiment being part of the ‘hidden’ Azure Faction from the Azure Emperor Palace.
“He knows of me?” Bailu Yi felt slightly confused.

“That fellow is extremely arrogant. First, he wants everyone in the Institute to follow his orders, falling under his control. And as someone from the main branch, he would like to give restitution to the White Deer Institute for being forced to hide their identities for thousands of years. Therefore, he will allow you to marry him, granting you entry to the main branch as compensation.” Bailu Jing couldn’t help but burst out into laughter as he spoke of this. Originally, he didn’t have much emotions with regards to the bloodline of the Azure Emperor, but after meeting such an absurd person, how could he have any good feelings? He only felt that this whole matter was so ridiculous that it was funny.
“Let’s go and take a look,” Bailu Yi replied, leaving together with Bailu Jing. They soon arrived at a courtyard with several people in it. And the one in the lead was actually not an elder of the Institute, but a young man clad in long golden robes, exuding the arrogance of nobility.

An elder quietly stood behind this young man, exuding almost no presence at all. This was an indication of how extraordinary the elder might be.

Upon noting the arrival of Bailu Yi, the eyes of the young man swept over to her in contemplation. Angelic features with the figure of a devilish succubus, his eyes couldn’t help but light up as he commented, “Is this Little Yi?”

“Little Yi,” Bailu Yi was stunned, her only response was to speechlessly gaze back at the young man.

Despite her closeness with Qin Wentian, Qin Wentian had never once referred to her as Little Yi.
Yet this was the first meeting between the young man and her, and he actually called her Little Yi.

“May I ask who you are?” Bailu Yi inquired.

“Hi, my name is Di Cheng, from the direct line of descent of the Azure Emperor as well as his sole successor” The tone of this young man was filled with an unmistakable arrogance.

Bailu Yi looked at him as she cut to the chase, “Do you have the Azure Emperor Token?”

This courtyard was located right at the heart of the White Deer Institute. There was no need to doubt its security as only core members of the Institute were allowed to enter. Hence, Bailu Yi wasn’t afraid that she would divulge the secret, since everyone here already knew of their Institute’s origin.

“For the moment, the Azure Emperor Token isn’t in my hands,” Di Cheng replied, he hadn’t expected Bailu Yi to be so direct.

“Since you don’t have the token, what right do you have to say that you are the Azure Emperor’s successor?” Bailu Yi icily shot back.

Bailu Yi secretly let out a breath of relief when Di Cheng couldn’t produce the Azure Emperor Token. Although she fully trusted in Qin Wentian, the existence of the ‘hidden’ branches of the Azure Faction was an absolute secret, almost no one would know of it. She was really afraid that the young man before her might have taken out the token, indicating that Qin Wentian might have lied to her.
Yet, since Di Cheng couldn’t produce the token, this suggested that this man’s identity may not be what he claimed.

“Hehe.” Di Cheng laughed. “Due to the passing of years, with too many storms of wind and rain, the token was lost ages ago. But there’s no need for the other bloodlines originating from the Azure Emperor to hide any longer. As someone of the main bloodline, I hope that the White Deer Institute will follow their ancestral teachings, by supporting me and rising to prominence once again.

“You say that you are, and so it means that you are? Are we supposed to take your word for it?” Bailu Yi replied, without a hint of courtesy. “The ‘hidden’ Azure Faction has stayed in the shadows for so many years, and only the true successor with the Azure Emperor Token would know of our location. Who the hell are you and how did you know about my White Deer Institute?”