Ancient Godly Monarch - Chapter 517

Chapter 517: Kindred Spirits

The Royal Sacred Region consists of an inconceivably large amount of land. There was an endless number of sects and countless ancient kingdoms and aristocrat clans.

The Hegemon of this boundless land area was none other than the Royal Sacred Sect.
Within this vast region, other than the hegemony, the other powers of note were the nine sects, the seven clans and the two great empires. The nine sects were naturally the nine great sects under the Royal Sacred Sect; the seven clans were the Seven ancient aristocrat clans which had over tens of thousands of years of history, it was unknown how terrifyingly strong they were. The seven ancient clans weren’t a part of the Royal Sacred Sect automatically but their members treated joining the Royal Sacred Sect as a matter of glory. And lastly for the two empires, they naturally referred to Grand Shang and Grand Zhou. All of them were first-tier powers.
If it was in the past, the two empires would have been three instead. Grand Zhou, Grand Shang and Grand Xia were all empires in this boundlessly large region under the governance of the Royal Sacred Sect. Half of Grand Zhou’s territory lies within this region while the royal capital of Grand Shang was within it as well. As for the fallen Grand Xia, the Royal Sacred Sect no longer care much about it.
One could very well imagine how monstrously vast this region was. The experts residing within were as countless as the stars in the sky.
And of course, other than the nine sects, seven clans and the two empires, there were also other sects and clans and even ancient kingdoms. These belonged to the second tier of power but their strength were also inconceivably high. If one day, someone there broke through to the legendary realm, their status would instantly be elevated to that of a top-tier existence in the Royal Sacred Region.
Five thousand years ago, there was no Battle Sword Sect amongst the nine great sects. However, after that, the Battle Sword Sect suddenly rose up and obtained an extremely important position in the Royal Sacred Sect and eventually became an important subsidiary under them.
This was the reason why so many sects wanted to fight for talents to join them before they were sent to the Royal Sacred Sect via recommendation. There were some second-tier powers whose foundations weren’t any weaker than the nine great sects yet they continuously failed at becoming a first-tier power simply because they didn’t have enough members in the Royal Sacred Sect. The lack of members naturally meant a lack of power and authority, hence they still remained second-tier existences despite the passing of so many years.
Right now, Qin Wentian was completely awed when staring at this impossibly vast landscape while flying on a sword beam.
When those from the Battle Sword Sectrode their their swords, they wouldn’t do so at too high an altitude, hence they were able to see everything below them. In fact, every territory they passed by, Qin Wentian could see that in this region, every place was many times more prosperous and grand compared to nine continents of Grand Xia. As they flew past the airspace of these territories, the experts within all burst out, their terrifying auras engulfing everything. These people could effortlessly exterminate any transcendent powers in Grand Xia but when they saw the ones flying past were people of the Battle Sword Sect, they instantly retracted their auras and respectfully sent them on their way.
Only through constantly expanding one’s horizon did one understand how vast the world truly is. Qin Wentian understood that the Battle Sword Sect purposely picked this route so he would be gain an eye-opener.

Lin Shuai and the rest knew that he had came from the desolate Grand Xia, hence they purposely did so, hoping to broaden his horizons. Along the way, from chatting with Lin Shuai and the rest, he understood that in the perspectives of the number experts in the Royal Sacred Region, Grand Xia was just a place of desolation to them. Such news involuntarily made Qin Wentian start in shock.

Qin Wentian finally understood why Jun Yu was treated so importantly when he returned to Grand Xia back then. Jun Yu was a disciple of the Royal Sacred Sect, how could he look up to the savages living in the desolate Grand Xia? The vast majority had never even heard of terms like the Royal Sacred Sect, the Royal Sacred Region or even knew that there were two other empires other than Grand Xia.
The more he heard, the more excited Qin Wentian was. His eyes sparkled with sharpness, as though he couldn’t wait to prove himself on this grand stage that was the Royal Sacred Region. Qinger was as serene as always, icy cold, and didn’t like to speak. Even when the experts from the Battle Sword Sect tried talking to her, she ignored them as well. Her actions couldn’t help but cause the experts from the Battle Sword Sect to have a bitter smile on their faces. Yet they didn’t hold it against Qinger because they understood this was merely her character.

Finally, they arrived at their destination – the area where the Battle Sword Sect was located, in the southern part of the Royal Sacred Region.
From what Qin Wentian originally imagined, the Battle Sword Sect should be located in an area of desolation, maybe in the middle of some plains or atop some lofty mountains. But when he arrived, a wry smile couldn’t help but find its way on his face.

The surrounding areas were flourishing with people. Outside the Battle Sword Sect, at the threshold of crossing the entrance, there was an ancient sword embedded in the ground, demarcating their territory,

Up ahead, a gigantic sword towered up towards the skies. Numerous ancient peaks connected as a number of buildings with the magnificence of celestial palaces could be seen upon it.

The Battle Sword Sect had a territory of a few hundred miles but it was situated in the middle of a flourishing area instead of the wild desolation. Outside the demarcation, streams of humans flowed relentlessly, they all had reverence in their eyes when they stared at the Battle Sword Sect.
“Are you disappointed?” Lin Shuai who stood by the side of Qin Wentian, laughed.

“Why would I be? I just felt a little surprised that the Battle Sword Sect would be located in such a lively area.” Qin Wentian laughed.

“The sword cultivators of my generation are all off roaming the world, doing what they want to, tempering themselves in the world of mortals. Our Battle Sword Sect isn’t as transcendent as the rumors state, all of us simply do what we desire to. Roaming the world, righting wrongs and settling grudges, at ease and confident in answering to no one and saving our own hearts.”

Lin Shuai laughed as he continued, “Only by following one’s heart would one be able to further walk the path of swords to its extreme boundaries. The Battle Sword Sect doesn’t really have much restrictions for its members, granting them huge degree of freedom. You have to remember this, since you joined our Battle Sword Sect, you don’t need to follow any rules not of your own making. Just be firm in what you want to do. If one day you find that the Battle Sword Sect is no longer suitable for you. Just mount your sword and fly away, no one will make things difficult for you.”
“What a good free-spirited Battle Sword Sect!” Qin Wentian’s heart couldn’t help but tremble slightly when he heard Lin Shuai’s words. It seemed like the news he had heard in Xuan King City was true, the structure of the Battle Sword Sect wasn’t like any other sect at all. The only thing the Battle Sword Sect required of its members was for them to stay true to their own hearts.
As the two of them were conversing, the swords they were mounted on had already advanced into the Battle Sword Sect, entering the region where buildings like celestial palaces were scattered about. Mountain springs and waterfalls added tranquility to the atmosphere, there were numerous pavilions with people laughing within them, and also a vast training stage for people to spar and practice their swords. This entire place exuded a sense of harmony.
Seeing this group of people returning, several cultivators of the Battle Sword Sect lifted their heads and looked over. The majority of the cultivators here were of the younger generation, and the cultivation bases of the people here were all at the least in the Heavenly Dipper Realm. Hence, even if one was thirty or forty, they would still look younger than than their ages let alone these people were truly young.
“Seventh senior has returned and even brought along two new people. Are these the new juniors that passed the recruitment selection?” Below the one of the waterfalls, those members of the Battle Sword Sect stared in the direction of Lin Shuai and the others. One young man clad in white had an expression of extreme curiosity upon his face.

“That maiden is so beautiful, if she joins our Battle Sword Sect, the position of the number one beauty in our sect would belong to her for sure.” The young man’s eyes shone with light as he stared at Qing`er.

“Hmph.” A beautiful girl beside him snorted coldly. This girl was tall and had had exquisite curves. Her skin was fair and white while both her eyes shone like the moon. She was also extremely pretty, and her features even exuded a heroic air. She angrily stared at the young man in white as she scolded, “Lecherous fellow.”

“Ah, appetite and lust are only natural.” That young man shrugged and laughed, not minding the label at all. “Sadly, junior sister is too cold to me. If junior sister is willing to marry me, from now on I certainly shall not even glance at any other woman.”
“Scram!” The lady glared at him fiercely.
Another skinny-looking cultivator with a sword strapped on his back spoke, “Was the mission of Seventh senior and the elders precisely for these two? Our Battle Sword Sect has never initiated a disciple selection before, this is a precedent.”
“I think there’s something fishy about it too. Oh, senior is coming over.” That young woman replied. Lin Shuai and the others arrived in the area and the old man in the lead commanded, “Lin Shuai, make arrangements for our new members.”
“Sure.” Lin Shuai nodded his head. After which, that old man brought along a large group of people and left the area.

“Seventh senior, you are back!” The girl walked up with a smile on her face when she saw Lin Shuai. Her attitude was totally different compared to how she normally treated the young man who stood beside her.

“Junior sister’s heart bloomed like the flowers when she saw seventh senior returning. Ahhh my broken heart hurts so bad.” That young man who was scolded as a lecher started sighing. But soon after, his eyes brightened as he glanced at Qinger, “I wonder if I have the honor of asking milady’s name?”<br/>Qinger coldly cast a glance at him before ignoring him and treating him like thin air. The people around that young man burst into laughter, there was an extremely awkward expression on the young man’s countenance as well.

“You better behave yourself.” Lin Shuai glared at him. After which, he introduced to the crowd, “This is junior brother Qin Wentian and this is junior sister Qinger. In the future, they too would be members of our Battle Sword Sect. Junior Qinger is a woman of few words, you guys better not disturb her. If there’s anything you want to say, just tell junior brother Qin, he will relay the message for you.”

Qinger appeared in the disciple selection event before she wanted to protect Qin Wentian. Lin Shuai would gave such instructions because he had familiarised himself with Qinger’s personality as they travelled back together.
“Understood, senior.” Everyone was extremely respectful to Lin Shuai.
Qin Wentian silently observed the scene, feeling surprised at the respect everyone was showing. He had originally thought his senior brother Lin Shuai was an ordinary disciple chosen to lead the trip to the Xuan King City this time around.

He didn’t know that it was because Lin Shuai was one of the personal disciples of the sect master which was why his status was so extraordinary. Not only that, his talent and strength was extremely terrifying as well.

“My name is Lingshuang. Junior brother and sister, in the future you can just address me as senior sister Ye or senior sister Lingshuang.” That woman smiled, introducing herself.

“Jiang Huai.” The skinny cultivator nodded to the two of them.

“Liu Yun.” The lecherous looking young man also smiled.

Everyone introduced themselves, Qin Wentian politely nodded his head to them in acknowledgement.
“Junior brother, this pet of yours is soooo adorable, may I have a look?” Her eyes turned to the shape of little hearts as Ye Lingshuang stared at Little Rascal who was currently in Qin Wentian’s arms. She had slain many demonic beasts before but it was extremely rare to come across such a cute little demonic beast.
“Sure.” Qin Wentian nodded. Little Rascal, upon hearing that, immediately leapt into Ye Lingshuang’s bosom. The quickness of its actions caused Ye Lingshuang to burst into giggles.
Little Rascal nestled its head into her bosom, curling up as an expression of enjoyment flashed upon its face. It then spoke in a baby-like voice, “So…soft!!!”
Ye Lingshuang instantly turned to stone, her eyes were as wide as saucers as she stared unblinkingly at Little Rascal within her embrace.

Qin Wentian’s face was full of black lines, he too was staring at Little Rascal and was suddenly seized with an impulse to pinch it to death. What kind of nonsense was it sprouting?!

“Cough… cough…” Liu Yun softly coughed, he glanced jealously at the little puppy before staring at Qin Wentian as a bright flow gleamed in his eyes. “Oh junior brother, who would have thought that we are both kindred spirits pursuing the same interests!”
Liu Yun 流云 – Flowing Clouds

Chapter 518: Grass Hut

After Qin Wentian heard Liu Yun’s words, he wanted nothing more than to find a hole to bury himself in. He secretly snuck a glance at Ye Lingshuang, only to see her regarding him with a look of disdain. This made Qin Wentian want to sigh—he’d only just entered the Battle Sword Sect and his reputation had already been instantly destroyed by Little Rascal.

“Little Rascal, you better get your ass over here.” Qin Wentian stared sternly at that little puppy, only to see it yawning lazily as it settled itself more comfortably in the ample bosom of Ye Linshuang, a look of mesmerization flickering in its eyes.

“Junior Brother is truly such a good teacher.” Ye Linshuang laughed, and Qin Wentian howled in his heart. Right now, he wouldn’t be able to wash his reputation clean even if he jumped inside a river.

“Junior Brother and Junior Sister, I’ll show you around our Battle Sword Sect.” At this moment, Lin Shuai interjected, helping Qin Wentian to escape the situation. Qin Wentian nodded in agreement and a moment later, they soared up into the air and flew around, with Ye Linshuang and the others following behind.
“Our Battle Sword Sect has a territory of a few hundred miles, and a total of three thousand disciples. The peaks of the mountains here are all connected and the disciples reside in wooden houses at the peak. You may choose an empty residence for your own lodging.” Lin Shuai led Qin Wentian and pointed at a residence set in the middle of two mountain ramparts. The scenery here was exemplary, and projected a feeling of solitude and quietness, as though it were a place separated from the rest of the world. Mist cloaked the area, giving it the appearance of an abode for immortals to reside in during cultivation.. In one’s residence, no one should be able to disturb you at such a time.
“The lodging grounds are completely separated from the training grounds. Look over there, that’s the training stage of our Battle Sword Sect. Several of our disciples are usually found sparring or honing their skills there. If there are conflicts among our disciples, the elders normally step in to mediate, but if mediation fails, both parties can apply for the rights to have a duel.” Lin Shuai pointed to a vast space with a magnificient training arena built upon it.
Qin Wentian took note of this. Although the Battle Sword Sect had the least number of members in the nine great sects, their recruitment tests were especially stringent. However, Qin Wentian didn’t expect that they would actually have a total of three thousand disciples—one could very well see how fearsome a great sect could be. Not only that, for the other eight sects, it was likely that they would have over ten thousand disciples, with each of them being the elites of their generation.
In fact, if one were to think about it, it wasn’t strange at all. The Royal Sacred Region was insanely vast with countless powerful sects and aristocratic clans, and this was including the three great empires, and several ancient kingdoms. The population was overwhelming, and with the nine great sects being the highest-tiered powers below the Royal Sacred Sect, there would be countless talented individuals hoping to join it, year after year. For every ten thousand that came, even if the Battle Sword Sect were to choose only one of them, when the thousands of years added up, then three thousand disciples was actually considered to be on the low side.
“That’s the Battle Sword Platform. Whenever the sect has a major event, they sound out the drums to call for all the disciples to gather there.” Lin Shuai pointed to another area.

Qin Wentian silently took note as he continued following Lin Shuai. And finally up ahead, nine great ancient mountains could be seen. The area each mountain occupied was overwhelmingly large.
“These are the cultivation mountains. With so many disciples in our sect, naturally it wouldn’t make sense just to have one speciality and then group everyone within it. There are nine Sword Sovereigns that guide their disciples according to one’s strength. Each of the Sword Sovereigns are assigned control of one of the nine mountains, and the elders under them are in charge of the day-to-day administrative tasks, as well as assist the Sword Sovereigns in guiding the disciples.

“Senior, which mountain do you belong to?” Qin Wentian curiously asked.

“Senior Brother Lin Shuai is the personal disciple of the first mountain’s Sword Sovereign, Ling Tian. Sword Sovereign Ling Tian is also the sect master of our Battle Sword Sect,” Ye Lingshuang replied on behalf of Lin Shuai. She then continued, “As for the rest of us, we belong to the first mountain as well, but we are not the personal disciples of Sword Sovereign Ling Tian. Our masters are the various elders of the first mountain.”
Qin Wentian lightly nodded his head. It was only to be expected that the Sword Sovereigns wouldn’t have the time to personally coach all three thousand disciples. Only personal disciples like Lin Shuai would have the privilege to be trained by them.
“Within the nine mountains, there are a total of nine libraries that contain a plethora of cultivation arts, innate techniques, and even notes left behind from ancient times. Disciples are allowed to browse the library freely with no restrictions. And up ahead, that’s the place where the supreme elders cultivate, it’s a forbidden area where most disciples have no right to enter,” Lin Shuai informed.

“Other than this, you’ll find that between some of the mountain peaks, there are marks and traces of swordplay cultivators from ancient times left behind. One can freely visit the area and gain comprehension regarding their swordplay,” Lin Shuai added.

“Next, I’ll bring you to an extremely important place in our Battle Sword Sect.”
After that, Lin Shuai sped up. Qin Wentian and the others followed closely behind. When he glanced at Ye Lingshuang, he discovered that she, as well as Liu Yun and the rest, all wore extremely solemn looks on their countenances.

After some time, they arrived at the foot of a mountain. There were actually many disciples already gathered there and when they saw Lin Shuai, all of them immediately stopped what they were doing and greeted him.

Lin Shuai was a personal disciple of the sect leader and his cultivation base had already broken through to the Celestial Phenomenon Realm. He wasn’t any weaker compared to some of the elder-level executives of the sect, and hence, he was well respected.
Lin Shuai lightly nodded his head in response. The crowd then shifted their gazes onto Qin Wentian and Qing`er standing behind Lin Shuai, as a look of bewilderment appeared on their faces. Were these two the new disciples of their Battle Sword Sect? To think that senior Lin Shuai would personally bring them to this place.

Qin Wentian projected a reserved bearing, yet he was handsome and had an extraordinary aura. Qing`er appeared ice-cold, yet her beauty was comparable even to celestial maidens. Despite Ye Lingshuang’s beauty, she could only serve as a backdrop, losing her luster. These two new juniors who’d just joined the sect were indeed unique/uncommon.
Qin Wentian didn’t really care what others thought about him. Right now, his eyes stared at the peak of the mountain, only to see a grass hut situated there. This grass hut looked exceedingly ordinary, yet the entire area around it was coated with a mysterious energy.

Just a single glance at the grass hut was sufficient to capture Qin Wentian’s attention. But what shocked him was that when he tried sending tendrils of his perception into it, it was actually blocked by a formless energy—he had no way to ‘see’ nor sense what was contained within the grass hut at all.
“Senior, what’s inside that grass hut?” Qin Wentian asked curiously.

Lin Shuai shook his head, “Nobody knows. Not even my master has ever entered there before. Or to better put it, we are unable to enter it.”

Qin Wentian’s heart trembled in astonishment, who would have thought that the Battle Sword Sect would actually have such a mysterious place.
“This place is where the founder of our Battle Sword Sect used to cultivate in. Rumors have it that our founder had already reached the level of a Sword Immortal, and many speculated that his personal sword was hidden within the grass hut. Some say that there are incredibly profound sword arts within, and others say that there was nothing there at all. However, the mountain pathway up to the grass hut contains essences of the sword insights gained by the founder in his Dao of Swords.”
Lin Shuai’s countenance was extremely solemn. Only then did Qin Wentian realize that there was a small mountain pathway leading up to the grass hut and right now, there were even people attempting the journey. Yet, they seemed to still be stuck at the foot of the mountain. The distance to the grass hut was too great. For some reason, they were unable to ascend.
And right at this moment, the terrifying sound of a whistling sword filled the air. After which, a mighty sword rainbow flashed past the skies, emanating a might that caused the entire mountain to shake, as sounds of explosions erupted in the air.

“Junior Apprentice Sister Hanyou is so strong, she’s actually on her ninth step now. Her accomplishments truly paint her as one of the chosen in our Battle Sword Sect.” Many people sighed in admiration.

“Yeah, Junior Apprentice Sister Hanyou is a personal disciple of the Plum Mountain Sword Sovereign. She’s one of those in the younger generations with the highest amount of latent potential this year.”
Being able to join the Battle Sword Sect meant that you were already a genius. Yet these people were still full of praise for this particular junior sister. Qin Wentian focused and soon discovered that the sword rainbow earlier had been cast by a young woman clad in a fiery-red dress. This was none other than the Junior Apprentice Sister Hanyou that those people were talking about.
The countenance of this young woman was as cold as ice, yet her figure looked as hot as fire. Her fiery-red dress fully accentuated her curves, and with just a single glance, one felt mesmerized. She was someone extraordinary as well.
“That’s Junior Sister Li Hanyou. She’s just joined the sect, but was instantly accepted as a personal disciple of the Plum Mountain’s Sword Sovereign. Her background itself was already something many couldn’t compare to. She’s a descendent of the ancient Li Clan located in the southern area of the Sacred Royal Sect, and possesses the bloodline of the Blood Phoenix. Her combat prowess is insane—although her cultivation base is only at the peak of the fifth level of Heavenly Dipper, she can effortlessly defeat those at the peak of the sixth level. She’s simply a monstrous genius.”
Lin Shuai whispered to Qin Wentian, as an expression of praise appeared in his eyes. Evidently, he had an extremely high valuation of Li Hanyou.
There were so many geniuses in the Battle Sword Sect, and it was already exceedingly difficult to enter it, let alone becoming a personal disciple of one of the nine Sword Sovereigns of the Battle Sword Sect.

“Senior, which mountain shall I join then?” Qin Wentian asked as a look of confusion flashed on his face. The nine mountains could be classified as the nine branches of the Battle Sword Sect. He didn’t know which mountain to join.

“Naturally, the mountain under my master Sword Sovereign Ling Tian.” Lin Shuai laughed as he continued, “The mountain path towards the grass hut is extremely rugged and craggy, so ordinary cultivators find it hard to even take a single step. Does Junior Brother wish to give it a try?”

“The mountain path to the grass hut? What is it exactly, why would it be that difficult?” Qin Wentian asked.
“You will know if you go there. Actually, that area is a considered an extremely important area of our Battle Sword Sect and its value is comparable to the libraries in the nine mountains. Also, there’s no restrictions for this place, so as long as you are able to advance passed the path, you will be able to enter the grass hut. I once heard that there’s a senior character in our Battle Sword Sect who barely managed to ascend the mountain path and eventually stood at the peak, entering the grass hut. He was the first member of our Battle Sword Sect to accomplish that.

Lin Shuai laughed, his words causing Qin Wentian to feel even more curious. After which, he then nodded his head lightly, “I feel like giving it a try. Qing`er do you want to come along?”

“No.”
Qing`er didn’t seem to be too interested. Back then when experts from her clan went to the Celestial Lake Palace, they had passed her many cultivation arts and innate techniques suitable for her. She wasn’t lacking in either of them. The reason she joined the Battle Sword Sect was only because of Qin Wentian. It was impossible to follow and protect him in the dark given how powerful the members of the Battle Sword Sect were. It was highly possible she might be mistakenly identified as an enemy if she chose to hide in the shadows and hence, she could only join the sect together with Qin Wentian.

“Mhm, okay then, wait for me here.” Qin Wentian smiled. After which, his silhouette flickered as he reappeared once more on the pathway leading upwards to the grass hut. As he stared at the grass hut in the distance, Qin Wentian had a strange feeling that the end point was way further than it seemed.

Qin Wentian took the first step out. At the instant his step landed, his surroundings underwent a complete change. There was no longer a mountain path in front of him, but rather, an ancient pathway had appeared instead. The grass hut was situated right at the end of this pathway.

All of a sudden, a mountain rampart sprang up before Qin Wentian. On this rampart, there was an incomparably exquisite picture etched upon it.

Staring at the picture, Qin Wentian felt his senses being involuntarily drawn out, immersing into it. He involuntarily sighed in his heart. No wonder Lin Shuai said that the value of this place wasn’t any lesser compared to the nine libraries situated in the nine mountains. The true form of this ancient path itself was a priceless treasure!

Ling Tian凌天 – Rising Sky/Heaven

Chapter 519: Comprehending Sword

The picture on the mountain rampart was right in front of Qin Wentian, vivid and extremely life-like, containing a myriad of changes within. In the picture, the image of a great roc soared through the skies, hurtling through the clouds with an extremely terrifying speed as fast as lightning.

At this moment, a sword beam shot down from the blue skies, startling both the Heavens and Earth.

The great roc flew with such speed, yet it still couldn’t exceed the speed of that sword beam. The sword attack landed with unerring accuracy and instantly resulted in the death of the great roc.

Qin Wentian felt immense shock in his heart. He didn’t expect that at merely the first step, the sword strike depicted on the mountain rampart would be so profound that it made him feel as though he was like an ant. His speed when compared to that was nothing. Nothing at all, so slow that he felt like a snail.
Qin Wentian questioned himself. Would he ever be able to unleash such a magnificent strike?
“Wrong. This ancient mountain pathway to the grass hut must be a trial, the first picture on the first step is shown to the prospective trial takers, allowing them to comprehend the essence behind the attack. Earlier, after Li Hanyou slashed out with that strike, she successfully understood and thus was able to advance forwards on the pathway. Since she can take nine steps, how can it be possible that I won’t be able to take even a single step?”

Qin Wentian mused, although Lin Shuai didn’t tell him the instructions, he already understood that this mountain pathway was a trial where one had to understand the essence behind each sword strikes in order to be able to move forward.

Also, this place was left behind by the founder. How could it be so easy to comprehend the insights and essence of the founder’s swordplay? He mustn’t be impatient.

“This picture is extraordinary, majestic and impressive. My strength in front of it is nothing at all, I need to enter a dreamscape to better process this.” Qin Wentian murmured in a low voice. After which, he closed his eyes and sat down calmly in meditation.
Exercising his will, Qin Wentian instantly stepped into a dreamscape of his own creation. The Diagram of the Mountains and Rivers which he had acquired from the green-robed senior’s dream-will inside the dark forest of Chu, could be seen suspended in the air. The stronger he grew, the more extraordinary he discovered this Diagram to be.
Right now, The Diagram of the Mountains and Rivers had turned into the scenario he had seen in the picture earlier. Above him, a great roc soared through the air, hurtling through the clouds with a speed so fast that the naked eye was unable to track its movements.

Yet, because he was the creator of this dream, everything here was under his control. Qin Wentian stood above the clouds and watched the great roc fly past. Abruptly, a beam of resplendent sword light descended down from the blue skies, slashing its body. The great roc died instantly.

“Hmm, I can’t see through it.” Qin Wentian was not flustered. He replayed the scene again and again, trying to gain comprehension of that heaven-shocking sword strike.
Gradually, Qin Wentian saw something. This sword strike was like the essence of the wind. No matter how fast the great roc was, it was unable to escape Wind. Wind was present everywhere, and no matter how fast or far the great roc flew, there was no way to escape. The sword strike was hidden within the wind.

“I have never gained any insights into the Mandate of Wind before, would I be able to comprehend this strike?” Qin Wentian mused as he brandished his sword. Understanding was one thing, doing it in reality was another. After all, he didn’t understand anything regarding the Mandate of Wind.

“But it’s impossible for every disciple in the Battle Sword Sect to have comprehended the Mandate of Wind. As long as I’m able to comprehend the essence behind it, I should be able to take a step forward.” Qin Wentian closed his eyes as he left his dreamscape. Staring at the mountain rampart before him, he stretched his hands out, placing his palms onto it while he thought about his insights into this sword strike. Instantly, a shocking sword beam whistling with anger shot through the skies, sundering the heavens and earth.
The mountain rampart vanished. A smile appeared on Qin Wentian’s face as he took a step forward. At this moment, a second mountain rampart appeared, with the second picture engraved onto it.
Depicted was a giant that was so high that its head touched the heavens. With a single step, he could crush mountains, and destroy rivers. A single palm strike from it was even powerful enough to fragment the heavens.
It was an utterly devastating scene. As the giant was galloping, a gigantic sword slashed down from the heavens, splitting the giant into two. The speed of this sword wasn’t fast. However, when it slashed down, the giant’s immense body transformed into numerous stones and rocks, eventually transforming into a mountain range.

“The strength of that sword strike is above millions of jin.” Qin Wentian felt tidal waves of shock rushing through his heart. He closed his eyes, entered his dreamscape and replayed that scene once more, trying to contemplate the essence of the sword strike slashed out by that gigantic sword.
“This… I’ve already comprehended the basic concept of it from the pulsation effect of the Mandate of Great Earth when I practice my halberd arts.” Qin Wentian smiled and opened his eyes, placing his palms upon the mountain rampart once more. Another sword beam soared through the skies as he took another step.

The crowd within the surroundings that saw Qin Wentian consecutively take two steps couldn’t help but to have expressions of astonishment upon their faces.

“Junior Brother Qin is truly amazing, he has actually already comprehended the second sword strike.” Lin Shuai stared at Qin Wentian in the distance as he sighed in admiration.
“They’re only the first two sword strikes. Didn’t senior also easily comprehend the first seven sword strikes back then? The first seven aren’t that difficult.” Ye Lingshuang responded. Lin Shuai smiled, “I did. However, how can my speed compare to him? Tell me how many sword strikes do you think Junior Brother Qin would be able to comprehend today?”
“Based on his speed, his comprehension abilities don’t seem to be weak. Maybe he would be the same as the other members who had stronger comprehension abilities, able to comprehend seven sword strikes in a single day I guess. From the eighth sword strike onwards, it wouldn’t be so easy any more.” Ye Lingshuang replied, as Liu Yun who was beside her, nodded in agreement. “Back then, Li Hanyou also comprehended seven sword strikes in a single day. However, she took a total of three days for the eighth sword strike, and eventually a week for the ninth.”
“To be able to comprehend the ninth sword strike, Li Hanyou‘s comprehension is already extremely outstanding. Maybe she will have a chance to comprehend fourteen sword strikes in a single year.” Lin Shuai stared at in the direction of Li Hanyou. This girl had an insanely high comprehension when it came to swords, she should be able to comprehend fourteen sword strikes within a year.
“Junior Qin already comprehended the third sword strike, how swift.” At this instant, the eyes of Lin Shuai suddenly gleamed with sharpness. Qin Wentian effortlessly comprehended the third sword strike.

“Today, seven sword strikes may not be the limit for Junior Brother Qin’s comprehension.”

“Jiang Huai, how many sword strikes do you think he will be able to comprehend?” Ye Lingshuang turned her gaze to the skinny young man Jiang Huai. Jiang Huai’s comprehension was extremely powerful as well.

“No idea, but he should be able to break the record of comprehending seven sword strikes.” Jiang Huai quietly replied. As they were conversing, Qin Wentian had already comprehended the fourth sword strike and instantly, he attracted the attention of many in the surroundings.
“How fast, he’s already at the fourth sword strike. The record was comprehending seven sword strikes in two hours. If this continued on, he would be able to reach the seventh sword strike in just a bit longer.” Some had a puzzled look on his face, this newly arrived junior brother did seemed to be extraordinary indeed.

“Already at the fifth sword strike, this speed is crazy.”

Everyone started, Qin Wentian had already taken his fifth step and caused five additional sword beams to shoot out. This was an indication of comprehending the sword strike at the fifth step.
“Awesome.” Lin Shuai was similarly shocked by Qin Wentian as well.

“The final two sword strikes are much more difficult in comparison to the first five. It won’t be so easily comprehended.” Someone among the crowd stated. However, the instant the sound of his voice faded, Qin Wentian had already comprehended the sixth sword strike.

“How could this be, is this blind luck?” The person who spoke earlier felt extremely depressed, as though Qin Wentian’s success was a smack on his face. This caused many to regard him with disdain.

“He’s going to break the record.” Another person stated.
“I don’t believe that he’ll be able to comprehend the seventh sword strike so fast.” That person who spoke earlier stubbornly remarked. And indeed, this time around, Qin Wentian remained motionless for a period of time, standing in silence as though stumped by the profoundness of the sword strike.

“Haha, what did I say?” That person laughed as he stared at those next to him with an air of superiority. But when he saw the strange expressions on the faces of others looking back at him, he quickly turned and stared in the direction of the mountain pathway. Beams of sword light filled the sky, Qin Wentian had completed the seventh step.
At the instant he completed the seventh step, a corona of brilliant light enveloped him, causing many to sigh in envy. Above his head, there were actually sounds of a sword keening that rang out unceasingly.

“He broke the record.” The crowd stared at Qin Wentian in disbelief. They didn’t expect a new member to be able to break the record of comprehending seven sword strikes in the shortest amount of time.

Lin Shuai’s face was filled with smiles. No wonder the ancestor commanded his master to bring him into the Battle sword Sect. It seemed like the ancestor had already noticed his talent.

“So what if he broke the record? The eighth sword strike isn’t going to be so simple. There’s no way he will be able to take the next step.” Some commented in a dissatisfied tone of voice. They couldn’t believe that a newbie would be able to do what they couldn’t do.
“That might not be true, maybe we’ll have a good show to watch later.” Another person in the crowd spoke in tones filled with admiration.

In the distance, a few silhouettes could be seen flying over with blinding speed. Apparently the sound of sword keening was a signal that someone had broken the record. Attracting the attention of others in the Battle Sword Sect.
“The eighth sword strike, it isn’t going to be so easy for that lecherous fellow to comprehend it.” Ye Lingshuang snorted, glancing at Little Rascal who was in her arms before glancing at Qin Wentian while cursing in her heart. If that that fellow who was as lecherous as Liu Yun could truly have such outstanding talent, the heavens must have been blind!
If Qin Wentian knew that he became a lecher due to the actions of Little Rascal, he might be so angered that he would vomit blood.

“Senior Sister Ye, why do you say he is a lecherous fellow? Has he taken advantage of you before?” Someone commented at the side. Ye Lingshuang immediately turned her gaze onto the person as she fiercely asked, “Are you looking for a beating?”
“No no…” That person shivered, immediately shutting up. However, the damage was done, this newly arrived disciple Qin Wentian who broke the record of comprehending the seven sword strikes was already known as a lecher to many. Not only that, he even took advantage of Ye Lingshuang, what a courageous fellow.
Qin Wentian naturally had no idea that his reputation had already been destroyed. Right now, yet another picture depicted on a mountain rampart sprang up before him.
This time around, the same great roc as the first picture soared through the air. And like before, a single sword strike slashed down from the heavens. However, this strike was different compared to the first strike – at the instant this sword strike landed, Qin Wentian could see several streams of laceration energy borne of the wind gush into the body of the great roc, completely shredding it into dust.

“How can this be possible?” Qin Wentian started. There was no way that the Mandate of Wind could achieve this degree of killing.

Qin Wentian once again entered his dreamscape to contemplate, the scene replaying before him countless times. Yet, he discovered that no matter what he tried, he couldn’t successfully replicate the scene in the picture at all. He had no way to evolve his understanding towards the Mandate of Wind.

“I must definitely find the reason.” Qin Wentian disregarded all his previous notions and started from the beginning once more. The sword strike which slashed down with the wind generated numerous streams of wind-attributed energy that enveloped the great roc. The next instant, when the sword landed, the great roc was immediately shredded into powder. He had no idea how this was accomplished.
Qin Wentian’s expression constantly changed. He sank deep into thought and in the blink of an eye, two hours had already passed. At this moment, many people suddenly laughed, it seemed like Qin Wentian wouldn’t be able to comprehend this strike at his current level.
“How can the eighth sword be so easily comprehended?” Ye Lingshuang remarked.

The difficulty of the eighth sword strike was a whole level higher compared to the previous seven.

“I understand now.” At this moment, a bolt of lightning flashed through Qin Wentian’s mind, he suddenly saw the light. It was impossible to replicate the strike with just a single Mandate. What if…there was a second Mandate fused within the strike?

“This is the energy created from the fusion of Wind and Rain.” Qin Wentian’s eyes shone with a resplendent glow. The scenario was swiftly formed in his dreamscape and instantly, as the wind and rain raged, the heavens and earth underwent a shocking change. Qin Wentian completed the eighth step. The moment his step landed, everyone’s expressions changed, their eyes gleaming with utter shock.

He had solved the riddle, fully comprehending the eighth sword strike!

Chapter 520: Breaking the Record Once Again

“He comprehended the eighth sword strike!”
Countless gazes all landed on that stranger who was their new junior apprentice brother. The corona of light from that person had stolen all the glory away from Li Hanyou.

Li Hanyou had comprehended the ninth sword, and was already considered as extremely accomplished.

However, this was the first time this young man had come to this place. Not only that, he even broke the record for being the fastest person to comprehend seven sword strikes in addition to also comprehending the eighth strike in such a short amount of time. It was simply incredible.
Ye Lingshuang’s beautiful eyes flickered. Earlier she had said that the eighth sword strike wasn’t so easily comprehended and yet Qin Wentian had instantly completed the eighth step. This caused her to be somewhat dumbfounded. Her lips parted slightly as she cursed in a low voice, “Comprehension has nothing to do with cultivation level, who would have thought that such a lecherous fellow was actually so capable? Who was able to comprehend the eighth sword strike in such a short period of time. Senior, did you secretly tell him the crux for comprehending the eighth sword strike earlier?”
“The advancement along the mountain pathway depends solely on oneself. Even if I told him, it’s useless if he is unable to comprehend it himself.” Lin Shuai explained, “Junior Sister, you should stop being so judgemental of Junior Brother Qin.”

After speaking, he smiled bitterly as he shook his head. No matter how he viewed it, Qin Wentian didn’t seem to be a lecher. That pet of his had completely tarnished his reputation.
After the seventh sword strike, from the eighth to fourteenth sword strikes, each one was a different pathway, that were all exceptionally difficult to pass through.
“He might have just been lucky when he comprehended that sword strike. If he could comprehend one more, I will believe that his comprehension level is off the charts.” Somebody spoke, and several people nodded their heads and agreed, “If he comprehended the ninth sword strike, wouldn’t that means he has already caught up to Junior Sister Li?”
Qin Wentian was currently only one step behind Li Hanyou. Shortly ahead of Qin Wentian, yet another picture depicted on a mountain rampart appeared. This picture resembled the previous one, a great roc was soaring through the skies, the birth of a sword strike, and the fall of the great roc. Although everything seemed the same, Qin Wentian’s brows were deeply furrowed in concentration.
“This… seems to be the same as the earlier strike” Qin Wentian spoke to himself. However, he understood that it only appeared to be the same on the surface; but the essence of this strike was entirely different. It was another sword path that achieved the same effect.

Lifting his head, Qin Wentian stared at the grass hut off in the distance, a distance that still seemed very far away.

“What kind of character was the founder of the Battle Sword Sect?” This was merely the ninth sword strike and yet it’s so impossibly profound. It contained the fusion of Mandates, while blazing a new, original path of the sword for members of the later generations to gain insights from. Each sword strike represented a unique path of the sword, this entire mountain pathway was nothing more than an extremely large book of sword-cultivation techniques.” Qin Wentian’s heart was filled with deep reverence and respect.
He guessed that the founder of Battle Sword Sect should have already reached an unfathomable realm. This mountain pathway was one that no members in the current generation had been able to advance all the way till the end. The nine Sword Sovereigns had also failed to do so. Back then, many thousands of years ago, one senior had accomplished this, he walked down the entire path and entered the grass hut at the end. From that moment on, the Battle Sword Sect became virtually unrivalled, from this it was possible to see just how strong the founder was. The rumors that he had already reached the level of being a Sword Immortal might even be true.
As Qin Wentian thought to here, he decided to focus once more and started to intently contemplate this sword strike. Two hours later, he finally discovered the subtle differences that existed between this and the previous sword strike.

For the sword strike previously, when the sword descended, the wind was like thin strands of threads that possessed incomparable sharpness, capable of severing the body of the great roc into many parts before disappearing into thin air. All of a sudden, Qin Wentian thought back to the sword strike earlier when the Mandates of Wind and Rain had fused into one. The cold wind that brought along with it the power of rain droplets as they smashed into a target. If this was magnified countless times over in scope and landed on a human body, the sword might generated would be similar to the effect created when the roc had died. This was how he managed to comprehend the sword strike from earlier.

However, the sword path for the ninth sword strike was different. Although it looked similar, Qin Wentian could sense that there was a burst of destruction when the sword landed that brought about utter devastation causing the great roc’s body to explode.

“Could each and every kind of Mandate in this world be able to fuse with each other?” Qin Wentian speculated. The founder had left behind a grass hut to help guide the later generations on the pathway of their cultivation in the future.

All Mandates were able to be fused together. Afterwards, the effect created would be extremely terrifying and might have even changed so much that there were no hints of the Mandates used prior to the fusion.

“What is a Celestial Phenomenon? How does one condense a constellation? Is it achieved through the evolution of one’s Mandates?” Qin Wentian mused. If Celestial Phenomenon Ascendants came to try walking this mountain pathway, they would find it easier because their understanding of their Mandates was deeper.

Qin Wentian placed his palms on the mountain rampart and instantly, a beam of sword light fired towards the sky as the mountain rampart vanished. Qin Wentian then mumbled, “This sword strike was a fusion between the Mandates of Wind and Thunder.”

After that, the ninth sword strike was comprehended and he took another step forward.

He was thinking of how terrifying the fused energy created from the Mandates of Wind and Thunder was. The sword was merely the instrument used to unleash that terrifying might because the founder back then was a sword user. It was also possible to infuse fused Mandates in other kinds of weapons.

“My current halberd strikes can even shatter mountains, that was also the result created by the partial fusion between the Mandates of Force and Great Earth. This mountain pathway is truly a wonder, I’m certain of my path in the future now.”
Qin Wentian understood that the pathway to the grass hut, the founder had left behind, wasn’t a cultivation art nor an innate technique. But rather, it was a lamp post to guide the younger generations on the pathway of their cultivation. If you were a sword user, using the sword as an instrument for the fusion of Mandates was the path to becoming a Sword Immortal.

From this, one could see how much effort the founder had put into creating this pathway to the grass hut. It was truly a supreme, incomparable treasure. Disciples had to depend on themselves and not on the teachings of others to gain insights. Only then would the comprehended information leave a deeper imprint in the minds of the disciples.

As of now, Qin Wentian had already accomplished the ninth step. Currently standing beside him, there was another silhouette. This was none other than the genius spoken of in the mouths of everyone earlier, Li Hanyou.
As Li Hanyou turned her gaze, her eyes flickered with a strange glow as she stared at Qin Wentian who was now standing beside her. There was actually someone else who had also comprehended the ninth sword strike? Not only that, he appeared to be very young.

As a result of her having entered the sect, there were many disciples of the Battle Sword Sect which she didn’t recognize, and she wasn’t interested in being acquainted with them either. Hence, she didn’t know that Qin Wentian was a new disciple the Battle Sword Sect had just recruited.

“Have you solved the puzzle of this sword strike before?”

Her gentle voice was filled with sharpness, giving off a sense of power.
At this moment, Qin Wentian was also looking at Li Hanyou standing beside himself. Before this, during the time when he was comprehending the previous sword strikes, he had also met a few other disciples. However, all of them had chosen to ignore him and focused themselves on the mysteries contained within the pictures. Li Hanyou’s looks were truly stunning, even he couldn’t help but praise her beauty. If he wasn’t used to having such beautiful girls like Mo Qingcheng and Qing`er by his side, he might even be attracted to her.

“Hmph,” Upon seeing Qin Wentian looking so intently at her, Li Hanyou couldn’t help but snort coldly. Disdain flashed across her expression, these young men were all the same, all of them reacted the same way each time they saw her.

“Nope, I haven’t.” Qin Wentian casually replied before shifting his gaze away, appearing as though he was unaffected. Li Hanyou’s eyes involuntarily flickered with a cold laughter, as she thought that this man before her was really such a great actor. Upon noticing her unhappiness at how he was looking at her, Qin Wentian immediately began acting normal in hopes of dissolving the tension. However, what kind of tricks hadn’t she seen before? All the guys around her had already tried a variety of tactics. How could Qin Wentian’s lousy acting possibly be able to fool her in the slightest?
“The difficulty of this sword strike is extraordinary, and not something you are able to comprehend.” Li Hanyou spoke softly with an arrogant tone.

Qin Wentian frowned but didn’t reply to her. He ignored her and turned his attention back onto the picture depicted on the mountain rampart.

The great roc soars in the skies as a sword descends onto it. This picture was actually the same as the one he had seen back at the first step. In fact, even when comparing it to the eighth sword strike, this sword strike resembled the first strike more, causing him to return back to the scene where he had solved the puzzle of the first sword strike.
A sword with the power of wind. Yet how could it be exactly the same?
This time, Qin Wentian stayed here for four hours, yet he was still unable to make heads or tails out of it. This caused the spectators in the surroundings to sigh. Indeed, the tenth sword strike was many times more difficult to comprehend.

Qin Wentian being able to comprehend the ninth sword strike was already a feat that earned him the admiration of many. His comprehension must undoubtedly be at the level of a genius as well. However for the tenth sword strike, if even Li Hanyou had failed to decipher it, it would undoubtedly prove to be a challenge for Qin Wentian as well.

Qin Wentian tried a few times but still failed in the end. He was unable to see through to the essence of this sword strike.

In the blink of an eye, the skies turned dark and dawn arrived. A day had already passed but Qin Wentian and Li Hanyou were still standing motionlessly at their original positions.
Qin Wentian intently focused on the scene where he had comprehended the ninth sword strike, hoping to discover clues as he tried repeatedly to comprehend the tenth sword strike in his dreamscape.

Finally, a smile appeared in Qin Wentian’s eyes. “I understand now.”
Li Hanyou who was beside him suddenly trembled with shock before recovering as she coldly laughed, “Stop your shameless bragging.”

The difficulty of this sword strike was something she was very clear on. How could it be deciphered so easily?

Qin Wentian cast a glance at her with a nonchalant smile on his face. Next, he placed his palms on the mountain rampart as he exercised his thoughts. Instantly, a resplendent light flashed as a sword beam penetrated through the dome of the heavens.
The tenth sword strike was comprehended.

Qin Wentian took another step forward and vanished from Li Hanyou’s sight.

“How could this be?” An expression of being overwhelmed with shock appeared on her face. She hadn’t even solved the puzzle of the tenth sword strike, yet someone had actually already finished comprehending it?

Thinking of that smile on Qin Wentian’s face, Li Hanyou stated in her heart, “Could it be that fellow is an adept schemer? Had he already gained comprehension of the tenth sword strike beforehand and purposely did so in front of me because he wished for me to notice him?”

Lin Hanyou didn’t speculate any more after arriving at this conclusion. Regardless of his motives, Qin Wentian comprehending the tenth sword strike was a reality. How could she allow herself to continue to be stuck here?
All the spectators couldn’t help but sigh in admiration when they noticed Qin Wentian had comprehended the tenth sword strike. Right now, nobody else doubted Qin Wentian’s comprehension abilities. He had arrived here after Li Hanyou and yet he was much faster compared to her when it came to comprehending the tenth sword strike.
Qin Wentian silently thanked his lucky stars. The tenth sword strike had been extremely difficult, it was the exact same scenario as the eighth sword strike and the fusion of Mandates were also that of the Wind and Rain. Even he had almost been tricked by it.

“Every kind of Mandate contained a multitude of variations. For the Mandate of Wind, the first level insight was Windspeed, as for the second level insight, it might be Wind Laceration. After the second level insight Wind Laceration had reached the Perfection Boundary, it could evolve again, giving rise to even more variations. When one Mandate fused with another, they all would have different results depending on the variations of the Mandates used in the fusion. The eighth sword strike and the tenth sword strike were very good examples of the complexity of the variations of Mandates.
Qin Wentian silently mused to himself, even if two people comprehended the same types of Mandates, their martial path would each be different based on the variations they had comprehended. Also, in the future, there might be additional fusions of multiple kinds of Mandates rather than just two of them. Hence, the variations were endless, Qin Wentian had no way to predict it as well.

The tenth sword strike enlightened Qin Wentian. After that, in a span of only three days, he consecutively comprehended the final four sword strikes. This caused a terrifying storm of devastation to gust about in a testament to him breaking the record once again.

An endless amount of sword might erupted from the storm of sword qi, engulfing the skies and the earth. The crowd stared at this young man bathing in the resplendent sword light. He was so dazzling that there were even lofty Sword Sovereigns hiding far above the clouds, staring at the commotion he had caused.
In the span of five short days, Qin Wentian had successfully comprehended a total of fourteen sword strikes!

Chapter 521: Courage and Spirit

 

Fourteen sword strikes! Everyone on that mountain was stunned—who was this man exactly? He’d actually comprehended a total of fourteen sword strikes in a mere span of five days? Not only that, his cultivation level wasn’t even that strong, either.

Currently, Ye Lingshuang was totally speechless. As she stared at Qin Wentian’s silhouette, her mouth twitched before she glared at Little Rascal in her arms. Little Rascal’s eyes were wide open as he stared ahead, before whining in a baby-voice, “Awe..some..!”

“Awesome, your head.” Ye Lingshuang rapped Little Rascal on its head, causing Little Rascal to glare at her unhappily.

“What are you looking at? Do you want to fight, huh?” Ye Lingshuang snorted.

“You…are…bully…me…” Little Rascal stared fiercely at Ye Lingshuang, causing her to laugh in a pleased manner. How dare this little demon display such an attitude, she had to teach it a lesson. However soon after, her pleased expression instantly vanished as her face turned red. Little Rascal was staring haughtily at her, while using its paws to punch at her breasts.

“YOU…!” Ye Lingshuang cried. The spectators turned their attention to her, but Ye Lingshuang’s reaction speed was extremely fast, and she hurriedly hugged Little Rascal closer, not wanting to let the others witness such an embarrassing scene.

“Junior Sister, what’s wrong?” Liu Yun curiously glanced at Ye Lingshuang as he inquired.

“Nothing.” Ye Lingshuang’s cheeks were tinged with red as she shook her head repeatedly. Right now, her dislike for Qin Wentian grew even stronger—what exactly had he been teaching this heart-meltingly adorable puppy for it to become so lecherous?

Liu Yun hummed suspiciously, as he directed his stare at Ye Lingshuang’s bosom. He could only see Little Rascal squeezing himself out, looking right back at him with wide innocent eyes.

“What are you looking at?” Ye Lingshuang raged. Liu Yun instantly shivered and hurriedly shifted his eyes away, pretending as though nothing had happened. He then added in a low voice, “Junior Brother Qin is truly awesome, to think that he actually comprehended up till the fourteenth sword strike.”

Ye Lingshuang gritted her teeth when she heard Liu Yun’s words. Apparently, these two kindred spirits were truly birds of a feather.

“Junior Brother Qin is indeed awesome. However, I don’t think he’ll be able to comprehend the fifteenth sword strike. In our Battle Sword Sect, no one has ever succeeded in solving the puzzle of the fifteenth sword strike before breaking through to the Celestial Phenomenon Realm.” In that moment, Lin Shuai suddenly spoke. Ye Lingshuang didn’t reply but she shifted her gaze back towards Qin Wentian.

It was then that yet another mountain rampart appeared before Qin Wentian. The picture depicted a bevy of ancient demons howling and shrieking madly, their aura sweeping over the heavens and earth, devouring everything, and causing total annihilation. There were evil dragons and malicious phoenixes among these demons, their presence a calamity for the entire populace in this world. However in that instant, a sword swept outwards. Situated in the center, the sword landed, utterly obliterating each and every one of the demonic fiends.

The evil dragons howled madly, but under the pressure from the sword, they all turned to dust. The massive, single-eyed bear demon froze under the sword-light, before its body was lacerated into fragments so fine they were invisible to the naked eye.

Qin Wentian’s heart pounded rapidly. The might of this sword strike was simply too overwhelming.

When the sword landed, everything was obliterated. This time around, he couldn’t find any traces of fused Mandates in the sword strike. What he saw was pure destruction.

“Is this an evolution of fused Mandates?” Qin Wentian mused to himself while sighing in his heart. He was completely clueless, and he couldn’t see through the mysteries of this sword strike at all.

In the previous fourteen sword strikes, he could see traces of Mandates within them. However, he was drawing a blank for this particular sword strike.

“Maybe this is the true outcome after the Mandates undergo a perfect fusion, creating a brand new energy in the process. The magnitude of this power is truly terrifying,” Qin Wentian murmured to himself as a hint of stubbornness could be seen flashing through his eyes. He wanted to solve this puzzle, he wanted to comprehend this sword strike.

Closing his eyes, he entered a state where he set aside everything from his thoughts. In his dreamscape, only that particular sword strike remained.

For the purpose of comprehending this sword, Qin Wentian didn’t rest for seven days. After a week, he finally opened his eyes, smiling bitterly while shaking his head. He still couldn’t figure it out.

Qin Wentian had an extremely determined personality, however that didn’t mean that he was stupid. He had no way to see through the fifteenth sword strike, hence, there was no way for him to gain any insights and comprehend it. His cultivation base was still far from enough—for now, at least.

Since that was the case, he could only choose to give up for the time being.

Turning, Qin Wentian calmly proceeded back. His expression was as serene as ever, having had no idea he’d broken two great records. Although his cultivation base hadn’t increased, he now had a much clearer view of the pathway he was going to walk on in the future.

Li Hanyou was still trying to comprehend the ninth sword strike. Right now, the shadow of a smile appeared on her face. This sword strike was profound indeed, she had finally comprehended this strike.

However at this moment, a silhouette appeared in front her. Li Hanyou turned her gaze over, only to see Qin Wentian coming down from the mountain path. She then laughed coldly, “Why? You can’t comprehend any more sword strikes?”

Qin Wentian nodded his head lightly, but didn’t say anything else. The countenance of this woman had an inborn arrogance to it. She must be from an extraordinary background, though this had nothing to do with him.

Li Hanyou ignored Qin Wentian, stretching her palms out and placing them upon the mountain rampart with a satisfied smile on her face. After that, she took a step forward, indicating that she too, had comprehended the tenth sword strike.

Qin Wentian merely shook his head before leaving the mountainous stairs-like pathway to the grass hut. A look of puzzlement appeared on his face when he noticed so many silhouettes standing in the air, all with their gazes fixed on him.

His silhouette flickered as he reappeared at Lin Shuai’s side. “Senior Brother, what’s going on?”

“You broke two consecutive records in one go, and you didn’t know about it?” Lin Shuai laughed. Qin Wentian froze for an instant before a wry smile appeared on his face. Apparently, his speed in comprehending the sword strikes was too quick, which had resulted in all this commotion.

“Here, take back this little lecher.” Ye Lingshuang tossed Little Rascal over to Qin Wentian. Qin Wentian looked at Ye Lingshuang, puzzled by her reactions, only to see her glaring fiercely at him. “Good acting skills, you do look pretty innocent. But to be able to nurture this adorable fellow into such a lecherous mutt, you yourself must be the biggest lecher of all.”

Qin Wentian’s face was filled with black lines as he stared at Little Rascal. What had Little Rascal done exactly in order to attract so much hatred from Ye Lingshuang?

“Haha, Junior Brother Qin. Don’t mind Junior Sister Ye, she’s always so direct. We should interact more next time, and besides, I hear that this is your first time here in the eastern part of the Royal Sacred Region? As a responsible Senior Brother, I’ll bring you around to many fun places in the future.” Liu Yun flashed a ‘you-know-I-know’ look at Qin Wentian as he continued, “The little fairies of the Waning Moon Tower are all truly spectacular. This Senior Brother will definitely take good care of you, hahaha.”

Ye Lingshuang glared fiercely at Liu Yun, and Qin Wentian could only laugh awkwardly to try to diffuse the situation. However, right at this moment, a voice boomed thunderously from afar, “You naughty fellow, are you trying to mislead your junior brother?”

As the sound of the voice faded, an old man appeared in the air. This person had a smile on his face and projected a gentle and amicable aura. He stared at Qin Wentian as he smiled, “Little fellow, I’m the master of Liu Yun. Are you interested in becoming my disciple?”

“How can any of your disciples achieve great things in the future? Boy, follow me instead.” Another black-robed figure appeared. This person projected an imposing presence without enmity, despite exuding a fearsome aura.

“The experts on your mountain are as common as clouds, why are you snatching people from me? Why not follow me instead?” Yet another expert appeared, startling the astonished crowd. After this, a total of five to six experts appeared. These were all elder-level characters of the Battle Sword Sect and all of them wished for Qin Wentian to be their disciple. Such a scene caused many to sigh in envy. Such preferential treatment was truly rarely seen.

“Hanyou is the disciple of this Sovereign, and has already achieved comprehension of the tenth sword strike. Since you could comprehend fourteen sword strikes in a mere five days, your comprehension abilities must be heaven-defying. Although your cultivation base is lacking, following this Sovereign will enable you to catch up to your peers. If your performance is outstanding, this seat will even personally coach you myself.”

From afar, a misty voice drifted over, greatly shocking the others in the area. Even those elder-level characters could only smile bitterly in resignation. The Plum Mountain Sword Sovereign actually wanted Qin Wentian to be her disciple. She must have come here to observe her disciple Li Hanyou’s progress.

The Plum Mountain Sovereign was a female, yet the tone of her voice was brimming over with power. Although Qin Wentian had never interacted with her before, he could tell she was an extraordinary character just from the fact that when her words sounded out, the entire mountain was doused with silence. No one else dared to speak.

Li Hanyou’s silhouette flickered, disappearing from the mountainous pathway. Her expression changed, wasn’t this voice the voice of her master? Her master actually wanted him to join her?

Turning her gaze over, her eyes flashed with a strange glow as she stared at Qin Wentian. Back then she had acted on her own desire to join the Plum Mountains, and because of her outstanding performance, she was eventually selected as a personal disciple.

“Junior Brother, she’s the Plum Mountain Sword Sovereign.” Liu Yun’s flippant tone was completely gone and was now filled with solemnity, a silent reminder for him to be respectful in his reply. From this, one could see how imposing the Plum Mountain Sword Sovereign was.

Qin Wentian stared in the direction of the Plum Mountain Sword Sovereign as he stated, “Senior, thanks for the kind offer. But, this Junior has yet to decide.”

As the sound of his voice faded, intense shock painted the faces of everyone in the crowd. They had never imagined that Qin Wentian would reject the Sword Sovereign.

This person was indeed someone of their Battle Sword Sect—he was full of personality. To think he’d actually reject an invitation from the Plum Mountain Sword Sovereign.

Li Hanyou’s eyes gleamed with a cold sharpness, feeling extremely indignant in her heart. She’d put in so much effort before she was selected to join the Plum Mountain. And from there, she slowly climbed up to the ranks of a personal disciple. Yet today, the Plum Mountain Sword Sovereign herself was issuing an invitation, and she was actually rejected? She was rejected!

A towering might enveloped the entire area. Evidently, even the Sword Sovereign herself had never expected Qin Wentian would reject her.

“Excellent, excellent.” Her voice boomed out, shaking the entire space in this area with its power. “It’s a good thing to have personality, but you would do better to weigh your own importance more thoroughly. Farewell.”

As the sound of that voice faded, the Plum Mountain Sword Sovereign vanished completely. It was already considered extremely tough to make a Sword Sovereign take note and personally invite you, but after issuing that invitation and being rejected in public? With the Plum Mountain Sword Sovereign’s pride, she was obviously exceptionally unhappy. However with her status, she naturally wouldn’t make things difficult for Qin Wentian.

Qin Wentian’s countenance was as calm as ever. First impressions counted for a lot. When the Sword Sovereign issued the invitation, her tone was filled with endless arrogance despite its power. Naturally, she had the right to be arrogant, she was the Plum Mountain Sword Sovereign after all.

Yet, Qin Wentian didn’t like the tone she’d used when she was inviting him.

Since he didn’t like it, he chose to reject her. There was nothing strange about his choice, this was just him following his heart.

Currently, Ye Lingshuang also looked at Qin Wentian in a different light. Not everyone would have such courage and spirit to reject the Plum Mountain Sword Sovereign’s invitation.

Lin Shuai had a smile on his face, his eyes flickering with hints of admiration. However, a sudden notion appeared in his mind. The Ancestor pointed Qin Wentian out to them, yet he didn’t personally issue an invitation, but instead chose to do so by using the disciple selection event? Could it be that the Ancestor had also been rejected by Qin Wentian as well?

However this notion disappeared instantly in a flash—he didn’t dare to think too much about it!

Chapter 522: Gravity Mountain

After Qin Wentian rejected the Plum Mountain Sword Sovereign, he took note of the others’ expressions and knew then how prestigious being the personal disciple of the Plum Mountain Sovereign was. Shaking his head, he turned his gaze onto Lin Shuai.

“Senior Brother, I’ll go find a place to stay and rest first,” stated Qin Wentian.

“Mhm, sounds good. After you and Junior Sister Qing`er are done choosing a residence, follow me to the mountains. Lin Shuai smiled. Since his mission had been accomplished, he would report this to his master. After all, Qin Wentian was someone the ancestor wanted, the ancestor should have no reason not to meet him.

“Sure.” Qin Wentian didn’t have any objections. After which, they departed the area.

Li Hanyou stomped on the ground and instantly, several extraordinary young cultivators appeared beside her. For a moment, Li Hanyou seemed to be a bright moon encircled by the surrounding stars.

“How many sword strikes did that man comprehend earlier?” Li Hanyou asked.

“Junior Sister, after joining the sect, that man took a total of only five days to comprehend fourteen sword strikes,” someone replied. An instant later, Li Hanyou’s countenance turned stiff as the pride in her heart somewhat dissipated. In comparison to that man, she had only comprehended ten sword strikes.
“Junior Sister doesn’t need to brood over this. Comprehension depends on one’s innate perception, but it cannot represent aptitude,” that person consoled. Li Hanyou nodded her head, “Don’t worry. How can I, Li Hanyou, be someone who undervalues herself? But since that man could comprehend fourteen swords, he can be considered extraordinary as well. I wonder how strong his combat prowess and talent are?”

Qin Wentian and Qing`er first went to search for an empty cavern for their cultivation at the mountain under Sword Sovereign Ling Tian. The two caverns they found were near to each other, both with a rustic appearance and an atmosphere of beautiful tranquility.

After which, they came to a certain mountain with a meandering path that snaked all the way to the top. Beside the pathway were flowers which inundated the surroundings with their fragrance, and several waterfalls could be seen nearby. This place gave off a feeling of paradise in the mortal world.
Qin Wentian followed Lin Shuai on the pathway to ascend the mountains while Ye Lingshuang and the rest stayed at the mountain waist. Qing`er and Little Rascal didn’t follow as well, opting to remain in the caverns to cultivate.The area around the mountain waist was where the Sword Sovereign would guide disciples. Without direct orders, no one was allowed to ascend the mountains, hence when they saw Lin Shuai bringing Qin Wentian up, Ye Lingshuang and the rest all had strange expressions on their faces. Senior Brother Lin Shuai actually brought Qin Wentian to meet with the Sword Sovereign directly?

What background did Qin Wentian have exactly?

“Junior Brother has returned.” As Qin Wentian and Lin Shuai arrived at the exterior of the great hall, a girl in white walked out. This girl appeared neat and tidy, and although she couldn’t be considered a beauty, her features exuded a kind of exquisite elegance that radiated a faintly dignified air.

“This is Sixth Senior Sister, Cang Yue,” Lin Shuai introduced.
“Senior Sister,” Qin Wentian greeted. She must be one of the personal disciples under Sword Sovereign Ling Tian. Being such a young Celestial Phenomenon Ascendant, she’d be considered someone at the very peak in Grand Xia. The world outside was truly too vast.

“You should be Junior Brother Wentian? Go on in, Master has been waiting for quite a long time.” The white-robed female smiled, her smile causing one to feel extremely comfortable when looking at her.

Qin Wentian felt somewhat bewildered, the Sword Sovereign was waiting for him?
Bringing along his bafflement, he followed the white-robed female into the great hall. Inside, there were several members of the Battle Sect present, with a man casually standing some ways further in, resembling an incomparably sharp sword. Although not a hint of his aura leaked out, he gave Qin Wentian a sense of terrifying pressure, as though it would be difficult for him to take even a step forward if he tried.
“Junior pays his respect to the sect leader.” Qin Wentian guessed that this man was none other than the sect leader of the Battle Sword Sect, Sword Sovereign Ling Tian.
“Mhm, I’ve already heard them telling me stories about your achievements. Can you release your Astral Souls and will of Mandates for me to take a look?” Sword Sovereign Lingtian smiled at Qin Wentian. Although he was suppressing his aura, the pressure emanating from him was no joke. Yet, Qin Wentian could still talk to him face to face with no signs of being pressured. This was already an extremely remarkable feat.
The instant the sect leader’s voice faded, Qin Wentian felt the pressure enveloping the air dissipate all of a sudden. It felt as though the person standing in front of him was none other than an ordinary mortal.
“State of origin.” Qin Wentian knew that the sect leader’s cultivation had already arrived at a certain level. Now in such a place like the Battle Sword Sect, this wasn’t something Grand Xia could compare to. Qin Wentian didn’t concern himself with that, and released his Astral Souls and will of Mandates as requested.

The dazzling light from his astral souls lit up the entire great hall. The corona of brilliant golden light around the astral souls was so blinding that none could stare directly at it. A resplendent light flashed in the eyes of Sword Sovereign Ling Tian; despite how strong the state of his heart was, he involuntarily exuded some of his aura when he saw Qin Wentian’s astral souls, causing a sense of stifling might to press down upon the others in the great hall, although he soon regained control.
“Enough.” The resplendent light in Sword Sovereign Ling Tian’s eyes slowly dissipated away, however his heart was still trembling in amazement. As the sect leader of the Battle Sword Sect, he had seen numerous geniuses before. Even those heaven-defying geniuses were no strangers to him; they were the ones who would intentionally delay their cultivation time to raise their sensory abilities in order to condense an astral soul from the 5th Heavenly Layer as their second astral soul. However, for someone whose first astral soul already hailed from the 5th Heavenly Layer, this was the first time Sword Sovereign Ling Tian had met someone like that.
Not only that, he’d heard that Qin Wentian originated from that vast piece of desolate land, Grand Xia. This was simply unbelievable.
Lin Shuai and Cang Yue were both stunned as well. The astral sensory abilities of their junior brother was this powerful?

“Force, Dreamsleep, Demon, Sword. Your will of Mandates gives you great attacking power, and if you were to use such a combination effectively, no one would be able to match you when it comes to attack power,” Sword Sovereign Ling Tian stated. Force, Demon, Sword—all three of these Mandates possessed the greatest attacking power, whereas Dreamsleep granted his attack an illusory component.

Qin Wentian lightly nodded as he listened in silence.
“Force, Demon, Sword is able to augment your attacks by countless folds. With them, you can try pursuing the peak of attacks. However, firstly, your Mandates must reach the Perfection Boundary, and secondly, you must continue to increase the strength of your physique. After all, the augmentation effect from the wills of your Mandates is just a multiplier that depends on your original strength. If your original strength increases because of a stronger physique, the effects from the augmentation would be even greater.”
Sword Sovereign Ling Tian explained. Qin Wentian naturally understood the logic behind it.
However, back when he’d made a breakthrough in cultivation, his physique had also grown stronger along with it. The Fiend Art Transformation had given him a further enhancement as well. It would be very difficult for him to increase the strength of his physique.

“And since you’ve already visited the path to the grass hut, you should understand that if you succeed in fusing two of your Mandates—even it were just a simple, incomplete fusion—the effects generated would already be unfathomably terrifying.” Sword Sovereign Ling Tian stared at Qin Wentian.
“Junior has tried this in the past, using different wills of Mandates and applying it to my halberd arts. The might of my attacks did noticeably increase, although the method I used was just the most simplified level of fusion,” Qin Wentian replied. Only from the fifteenth sword strike onwards could one be considered to have a certain mastery in the fusion of Mandates. Right now, although Qin Wentian had comprehended up to fourteen sword strikes, he could only achieve the standards of the first to seventh sword strikes. He couldn’t fuse any Mandates yet, he could only use one at a time.
“So you have already comprehended part of it by yourself even before attempting the trial of the grass hut. However, don’t be mistaken, different weapons are suited to different Mandates. Our founder is a sword cultivator, so the Mandates of Wind, Rain, Lightning or Thunder is easier to infuse into a sword body. However, do not assume this to hold true for everything else. A good example is your Heavenly Hammer Astral Soul, it’s more suited to be infused with the Mandate of Force and Great Earth instead.”
Sword Sovereign Ling Tian casually imparted these insights to him, causing Qin Wentian to be extremely grateful. Although he was a Sword Sovereign, he didn’t put on any airs.

“Many thanks for Senior’s guidance.” Qin Wentian understood that Sword Sovereign Ling Tian was worried that he’d set off on the wrong path of beliefs, hence he was sharing his insights with him now.
“Ultimately, you must walk your own path. Outsiders can only guide and show you a little of the way, and how far you go will still depend on your own talent as well as your own destiny. There’s no need for you to acknowledge me as your master, but you can feel free to look for me if you have any questions. Now I have a task for you; follow your Senior Brother Lin Shuai to the Gravity Mountain, where you will cultivate. As for your little girlfriend, I will arrange a good master for her. If she’s unwilling and chooses to cultivate on her own, I won’t force her either.”
“Right.” Qin Wentian felt joy in his heart—he hadn’t expected Sword Sovereign Ling Tian to treat him so nicely. As for the fact that Sword Sovereign Ling Tian had mistaken Qing`er as his girlfriend, he decided just to let it slide, not bothering to explain further.
“Junior Brother, let’s go.” Lin Shuai smiled. Qin Wentian then bowed low with respect to Sword Sovereign Ling Tian before following Lin Shuai along.

When Sword Sovereign Ling Tian stared at Qin Wentian’s departing back, his face was beaming with a smile, silently praising the judgement of his master. Because his master wanted Qin Wentian to join their Battle Sword Sect, he’d put in so much effort and even got one of his personal disciples to oversee the disciple recruitment event in Xuan King City. Since his master regarded Qin Wentian so highly, it wouldn’t be appropriate if he allowed Qin Wentian to acknowledge himself as his master.
“Junior Brother Qin, you are really full of surprises.” After exiting the great hall, and arriving back at the mountain waist, Lin Shuai couldn’t help but be filled with admiration. Qin Wentian’s combination of astral souls was truly too shocking.

Qin Wentian merely laughed, but didn’t say anything. Ye Lingshuang curiously inquired, “Senior, what are you talking about?”

“Nothing much.” Lin Shuai shook his head as he casually added, “Master wants me to bring Junior Brother Qin to the Gravity Mountain.”
“WHAT!?” Ye Lingshuang involuntarily shouted. Liu Yun rolled his eyes, but tactfully remained silent, their actions causing Qin Wentian to be filled with curiosity for this place called Gravity Mountain.

The Gravity Mountain was located in a ravine deep inside a mountain range. Inside the ravine were several black-colored gigantic rocks that gave people a sense of heaviness. Several ancient sturdy trees could also be seen within the ravine. All of them had incredibly thick trunks, and were so large that not even ten people joining their hands together would be able to embrace one.
“Is this place the Gravity Mountain?” Qin Wentain asked as he stared at the ravine ahead.

“That’s right. Junior Brother, you see those black rocks? You have to move them all to the other side of the ravine before moving them back here. Also, do you see those ancient thick and sturdy trees? You have to use an axe and chop down a hundred of them before your training can be considered completed,” Lin Shuai instructed.

“Haha, how difficult can this be?” Qin Wentian laughed. Behind him, Ye Lingshuang had a strange expression on her face upon hearing that.

“Oh, not difficult to you? In that case, get down into the ravine and try it for yourself,” Lin Shuai stated.

“Sure.” Qin Wentian nodded in agreement and entered the ravine.
However, the instant he descended downwards, his countenance underwent a drastic change. A terrifying pressure landed on his body, causing him to sink down directly against his will.

“How heavy is the gravity here exactly?” With a huge rumble, Qin Wentian landed on the ground. Despite his physique, his legs felt like jelly, and he was almost incapable of standing straight in a stable manner. His entire body felt extremely uncomfortable, and he could feel a heavy force pulverizing his internal organs.
“Junior Brother Qin, cultivate well.” Lin Shuai smiled before turning and departing the area. Ye Lingshuang had a complacent expression on her face, while Liu Yun stared sympathetically at Qin Wentian. “Junior Brother Qin try to enjoy yourself, don’t forget to move the rocks as well as to chop the trees.”

“How can the gravity be so terrifying?” Qin Wentian forced himself to stand straight. The gravity here was even affecting the circulation of astral energy in his body.
He suddenly recalled that when a certain force reaches its extreme limits, it would undergo a qualitative evolution. And obviously, this gravity domain had already reached its extreme limits.

“BOOM!” With great difficulty, he finally took a step forward, causing a thunderous sound to echo out from the force of his step. Qin Wentian stared at the black-colored gigantic rocks before glancing at the incomparably thick and sturdy ancient trees. He was suddenly seized by the sudden impulse to cry!

Chapter 523: Ye Country, Medicine Sovereign Valley

A month later, above the ravine in the Gravity Mountain, Liu Yun sat there leisurely drinking a flask of wine. Occasionally, he would peer downwards, staring at a young man exerting himself to the utmost, trying his best to run.

“The acclimation ability of this fellow is pretty strong. Junior Sister Lingshuang, do you want to drink a mouthful as well?” Liu Yun stretched his hands out, passing the flask of wine to Ye Lingshuang only to earn a baleful glare in response.

“It’s fine if you don’t want to drink, but why must you be so fierce? You shouldn’t act like this, you are a princess after all.” Liu Yun took back the wine, yet Ye Lingshuang’s expression turned heavy as traces of hurt flashed through her eyes.

“Liu Yun.” Jiang Huai who was standing behind coldly stated. Liu Yun continued drinking as he sighed, “Junior sister, try not to let that affect you too much. I didn’t say anything wrong anyway.”
“I’ve got it.” Ye Lingshuang replied in a low voice, causing Liu Yun’s countenance to falter slightly before he smiled, “Why doesn’t junior sister marry me? I will definitely take good care of you!”
“Scram!” Ye Lingshuang cursed, this bastard’s skin was truly super thick.
“Ai, seems like I have to go look for the little fairies in the Waning Moon Tower, I will visit Junior Brother Qin again next month.” Liu Yun turned and left, appearing extremely carefree. Ye Lingshuang and Jiang Hui didn’t depart, but instead they remained here watching Qin Wentian. Upon seeing Qin Wentian was already able to run under the effects of this gravity domain, Ye Lingshuang couldn’t help but to remark, “What a powerful acclimation ability, he could already run at this speed.”

When Qin Wentian first arrived at the Gravity Mountain, it was difficult even for him to walk. The gravity here was too terrifying, only after spending a month did his body gradually get used to the pressure. He was using his own strength as well as the will from his Mandate to counteract the gravity slightly, allowing him to surpass his limits again and again under the effect of the overwhelming pressure.
Right now, Qin Wentian was standing in front of a black-colored gigantic rock as he murmured to himself, “I wonder how heavy this is.”

Qin Wentian circulated the astral energy within his body, an instant later, the will of his Mandate infused into his arms. Suddenly, he erupted forth with strength causing rumbling sounds to ring out as Qin Wentian ferociously carried the rock up successfully. An instant later, a thunderous boom rang out as fissures appeared on the ground. He couldn’t sustain his effort for more than a single breath of time. The gigantic rock slammed onto the ground as he slumped over it, panting for breath.
“This rock should only weigh around ten thousand jin but under the gravity effect here, its weight had been multiplied by hundreds of thousands of times.” Qin Wentian mused, even with the way he was now, he couldn’t even carry a single rock. Turning back helplessly, he walked in the direction of the ancient trees. Lifting up an axe on the ground, he swung it at the trunk of a tree. However only a layer of bark had been broken through, there was essentially no damage at all. He couldn’t help but sigh in his heart, although his strength was suppressed to the limits, the trunks of ancient trees were also undoubtedly too sturdy.

Turning his head back glancing at the pile of rocks, as he heaved a breath of relief upon noticing that there were a few smaller ones there. Qin Wentian ran back over, carrying one of the smaller rocks up before slowly trudging to the other side of the ravine with immense difficulty. Each of his steps left a deep imprint in the earth, giving a testament to how strong the gravity here was.

“How heavy,” Qin Wentian felt extremely depressed in his heart, however he could only grit his teeth and persevere on. After walking over ten steps, his entire body was drenched with his perspiration. In this place, he found the same feeling that he had when he first started his journey on the pathway of cultivation. Constantly breaking through his limits, using the pressure to temper and refine each and every part of his body, strengthening it.

After this one month, he gradually began to acclimatize to this terrifying gravity. This was already considered a remarkable improvement.

Qin Wentian silently persisted on in the gravity mountain. Occasionally, he would also see others entering this place, cultivating themselves within. After three months, he could finally carry the gigantic rocks and wield the axe at the same time, attempting to chop down the ancient trees.

Every month, Liu Yun and Ye Lingshuang would visit him once.

……………

Today, Qin Wentian was chopping trees again. Currently, he looked pretty relaxed when wielding the axe, as though this action had already been formed into a habit. He had also attempted to infuse his will of Mandates into the axe and with every chop he made, he could feel himself improving slightly. With the accumulation of experience from time, his improvement grew increasingly larger, every chop of his axe would be able to chop into the tree further.

“This fellow, what a fast improvement.” Liu Yun and the others came by, resting at the mountain ledge above the ravine as they watched Qin Wentian going about his training. Qin Wentian slammed his axe towards the trunk of an ancient tree, deep fissures could be seen as a testament of his improvement. And after tens of chops, the ancient tree was finally felled.

This time, Liu Yun didn’t leave so quickly, he stayed and watched as Qin Wentian chopped down the trees. Very swiftly, not even one day passed, Qin Wentian had already chopped down a hundred trees thereby completing his training. However he didn’t stop, he continued on seeking other trees to temper himself instead.

“Wait, he isn’t thinking of chopping down this entire forest right? The tree planting elder would die of exhaustion just to keep up.” Liu Yun mumbled. The trees here were grown using a special kind of seed which would enable their growth rate to be many times faster than normal. After the trees had grown, the Battle Sword Sect would use them as a training ground for their disciples.

“Hmm? Why does he seem to be weaker now? Why is he taking so long to chop down a tree?” Liu Yun furrowed his brows, feeling slightly puzzled.

“He’s not using any Mandates now to amplify the power but rather only chopping the trees with his pure bodily strength.” Ye Lingshuang replied.

“Ye Lingshuang.” At this moment a voice drifted over. Ye Lingshuang turned her head back, as a figure slowly made his way over to her. Upon seeing this person, Ye Lingshuang had a strange expression on her face. This was the disciple in charge of communications in the Battle Sword Sect. Did something just transpired?

“There’s a letter for you.” The other party passed over a letter. Ye Lingshuang tore open the seal and after reading, her body instantly turned cold, her face devoid of blood.

“Junior Sister, what’s wrong?” At this moment, Liu Yun asked in a serious tone. His expressions had no trace of his joking self when he saw how affected Ye Lingshuang was by the letter.

“My father is seriously injured, his life is in critical danger.” Ye Lingshuang replied, her words causing Liu Yun’s heart to pound with shock. He was very clear on Ye Lingshuang’s background. Ye Lingshuang was the princess of an ancient country, her father was the Human Emperor of this generation.

Their country had a history of over ten thousand years and was extremely powerful. However, the internal strife and conflicts were exceedingly complex. Liu Yun only heard a little about it.

“Was it done by the Violet Thunder Sect?”

“No idea.” Ye Lingshuang’s countenance was totally pale. Liu Yun then suggested, “Let’s inform master, there are a few experts proficient in medicine in our Battle Sword Sect, there might be a way to save your father.”

Ye Lingshuang placed the letter down, “They’ve already invited the Holy Maiden of the Medicine Sovereign Valley over.”

Liu Yun’s countenance flashed with sharpness as he added in a low voice, “The newly promoted Holy Maiden of the Medicine Sovereign Valley had just broken through to a fifth-ranked alchemist recently, in addition of obtaining the true inheritance of the Medicine Sovereign. In the younger generation, she could be considered a legendary character, since they have already managed to invite her, there shouldn’t be any problems.”

There were rumors saying that this legendary character who was the Holy Maiden of the Medicine Sovereign Sect was on her last breath of life, almost in a state of death when someone sent her to the Medicine Sovereign Valley. However, the identity of the person who sent her to the valley was unknown, yet somehow, that person managed to convince the Medicine Sovereign to personally attend to her, reinfusing life into her through a thorough overhaul of her system. After which, he accepted her as a personal disciple and even made her into the sect’s Holy Maiden, imparting his experience and knowledge to her. In a short span of time, she successfully broke through the barrier and became a fifth-ranked alchemist, her speed akin to a rising comet.

As for the Holy Maiden’s real name, no one knows.

“They wouldn’t give up so easily.” Ye Lingshuang was in a frantic state, she didn’t know what to do.

“Let’s look for Senior Brother, maybe he would have a solution.” Liu Yun knew that Ye Lingshuang’s thoughts were in a whirl, hence he decisively brought Ye Lingshuang away.

Ye Lingshuang sighed feeling the pain in her heart. A genius was born to their Ye Clan and from that moment onwards, the rivalry and internal strife had intensified further.

That older cousin of hers was born with a special physique and gifted with monstrous innate talent. He eventually became a disciple of the Violet Thunder Sect and his performance was so outstanding that he didn’t even need to take the test for the Royal Sacred Sect and the Violet Thunder Sect promised that he would be admitted directly once his cultivation reached a certain level. Right now, it was unknown how strong he had become.

Naturally, Qin Wentian didn’t know anything of this. He continued tempering himself by chopping down trees and shifting the gigantic rocks.

Now, he no longer felt doing these two things were a chore, he did this out of a willingness in his heart and was in fact happy that he had this opportunity to grow stronger. Occasionally when he was struck by a sudden flash of insight, he would practice the infusion of his Mandates into the axe, slamming it into the rocks or waving it wildly in the air. Living such a lifestyle was pretty satisfying, and even though his cultivation level didn’t rise, he wasn’t in a hurry. Breaking through in cultivation level was only a matter of time, it was more important to establish a firm foundation.

Two days later, Qin Wentian was lying comfortably on a huge slab of rock. The sun rays cascaded downwards, shining onto him revealing the exquisite lines of his perfectly sculpted body. Right now, the terrifying gravity in the ravine was no longer able to affect him. He knew that he had entered a kind of baptism within this ravine, coming out with a much stronger physique compared to before.

“Junior Brother Qin.” At this instant, a voice drifted down, waking Qin Wentian up from his reverie. Opening his eyes, he discovered that it was none other than his Senior Brother Lin Shuai.

“Senior.” Qin Wentian sat up as he turned his gaze onto Lin Shuai.

“The entire forest of ancient trees was annihilated by you and you still don’t want to come out?” Lin Shuai stared at the pitiful looking stumps all around the area while silently marvelling in his heart. This fellow was truly powerful, who would have thought that he adapted so quickly and even chopped down all the ancient trees in the Gravity Mountain.

Qin Wentian laughed. After which he violently stomped on the ground, using the force to jump out of the ravine, landing right next to Lin Shuai. Now that the effect of gravity wasn’t present, Qin Wentian felt all light and fluffy with no weight at all. Such a feeling felt simply wonderful.

“Why is senior brother so free today to come and pay me a visit?” Qin Wentian smiled.

“I’m here to tell you about a matter. Your Senior Sister Ye Lingshuang is in fact a princess of an ancient country with over ten thousand years of history. However there are many powerful kingdoms led by various kings in that country and also, in addition to the fact that Ye Lingshuang also had an extremely outstanding slightly older cousin who joined the Violet Thunder Sect, all of this caused the internal conflict to be further intensified.”
Lin Shuai explained, causing a light to flash past Qin Wentian’s eyes as he understood the whole picture. The other kingdoms in the country are working internally with the aid the Violet Thunder Sect provides externally to topple the royal authority, seizing the throne from Ye Lingshuang’s father.
“The Ye Country by itself is an extremely powerful force. By right, neither our Battle Sword Sect nor the Violet Thunder Sect should participate in their internal disputes. However, because of some unique reasons, the Violet Thunder Sect had already participated, secretly acting behind the scenes. Currently, Ye Lingshuang’s father, the Human Emperor, is grievously injured and hovering between the border of life and death.”
Lin Shuai continued his explanation while walking away from the Gravity Mountain. Qin Wentian followed behind him in silence. Since Lin Shuai came here to tell him about this, there should be a purpose behind his actions.
“Lingshuang wished to return immediately but I’m worried for her safety hence I stopped her. After all with her current strength, returning wouldn’t help and might even invite a calamity upon herself. I’ve already sent a few people to investigate this matter. Since this is extremely urgent, our Battle Sword Sect is prepared to send some disciples to escort Lingshuang and they are going to be leaving today. Do you mind being part of this entourage?” Lin Shuai asked.
Qin Wentian nodded his head. Although he knew that his current strength wouldn’t be able to change anything, he didn’t mind tagging along to protect Lingshuang. Also, this was a chance to broaden his horizons and temper himself outside. There was no reason to reject the invitation.
After a period of time passed, Qin Wentian saw a group of figures preparing to set off. These people were none other than Ye Lingshuang and the others.
“If all of you are together, no one would dare to ambush Lingshuang. Also Junior Brother Qin, it’s good for you to remember this unspoken rule. In the Royal Sacred Region, there would often be conflicts among the various major powers. Heavenly Dipper Sovereigns are unable to interfere with the matters of Celestial Phenomenon Ascendants and, if some Sovereign-level disciples died due to conflict between those of the same level, Celestial Phenomenon Ascendants would normally not act in retaliation. If not, a grand war would be easily ignited.”

Lin Shuai spoke, warning Qin Wentian not to be careless. Qin Wentian’s expression stiffened, he had experienced an all out war among the transcendent powers of Grand Xia once before. He also knew this to be true, the instant those of the upper echelons became involved, there would be no negotiation left. The conflict would only stop when one side had totally annihilated the other. Even the major powers in the Royal Sacred Region were also wary of an all out war, hence this was why there would be such an unspoken rule.

Chapter 524: Tense Situation

There were over ten people who stood upon their swords, soaring up the skies as they transformed into white beams of light, each shooting off in a certain direction.

This group of people were none other than those from the Battle Sword Sect escorting Ye Lingshuang.

Qin Wentian naturally was also among them. These members from the Battle Sword Sect all had cultivation bases at the Heavenly Dipper Realm. After all, the Ye Country was a country with over ten thousand years of history and was extremely powerful. It was impossible for the Battle Sword Sect to send their members over to forcefully settle the internal dispute, but because of the friendship between their disciples, these people were willing to escort Ye Lingshuang on this trip. At the very least, they could ensure her safety.

The leader of this group of people was a young man clad in black. His cultivation base was at the eighth level of Heavenly Dipper and he was actually another personal disciple under Sword Sovereign Ling Tian. The sect members usually referred to him as Ninth Senior Brother.
The personal disciples of Sovereign Ling Tian usually had a higher status in the sect. Duan Han, for example, was the ninth disciple under Sword Sovereign Ling Tian, and when he was placed among the normal pool of disciples they would still refer to him as Ninth Senior Brother as a form of respect, even though their masters weren’t the Sword Sovereign. This was the preferential treatment of a personal disciple.
Duan Han’s personality leaned to the colder side, a total contrast to Lin Shuai’s personality. He radiated a dense cold qi, as well as an unmasked sharpness. That, coupled with the fact that he was a man of few words, only served to add on to his prestige.

“Junior Sister, don’t be too worried. Since the Holy Maiden from the Medicine Sovereign Sect is there, she should be able to temporarily suppress the injuries of the Human Emperor,” a female disciple consoled Ye Lingshuang. The name of this female was Qiao Yu, and her relationship with Ye Lingshuang had been very good right from the start.
“Mhm.” Ye Lingshuang nodded her head, yet there was no way to hide the obvious signs of worry between her brows.
“I heard rumors that the Holy Maiden of the Medicine Sovereign Valley has a world-stunning countenance. Soon, we’ll be able to see her. I’m truly filled with anticipation.” Liu Yun’s eyes shone brightly, causing looks of disdain to appear on the faces of others when they looked at him. However, even though this fellow’s personality was more to the lecherous side, he always found a way to soften the atmosphere.

“You have no hope,” Qiao Yu stated with contempt.

“The Holy Maiden from the Medicine Sovereign Valley is a fifth-ranked alchemist. There are countless people from ancient clans and powerful sects who want to woo her, but have no chance at all. After all, the main point depends on who the Holy Maiden likes. Only characters like myself, who have been blessed with good looks since birth, will stand a chance.” Liu Yun was currently wrapped in a beautiful dream.

However, Qin Wentian actually felt a pang of sorrow in his heart when he heard their banter, as he was involuntarily reminded of Mo Qingcheng.
The Pill Emperor Hall from back then, wasn’t it similar to the Medicine Sovereign Valley he was hearing now? For powers like this that concentrated on herbs and alchemy, they were all prospective allies which the vast majority of the major powers would want to rope in.

But right now, he didn’t even know if Mo Qingcheng was dead or alive?

Whenever he thought of Mo Qingcheng being used as food for that disgusting skeleton, Qin Wentian would involuntarily tremble with rage. The Pill Emperor Hall? He would definitely go back there.
However, was Qingcheng still alive in this world? He had once launched an investigation back when he was still in Grand Xia, and there was completely no news of Mo Qingcheng. After he fell unconscious during that battle, Qingcheng had totally disappeared, as though she had never before appeared in Grand Xia. Those survivors from the Pill Emperor Hall also refused to say anything.

Only Qing`er gave him hope, telling him that Mo Qingcheng might still be alive.

“What are you thinking about for you to be so engrossed? Are you planning to woo the Holy Maiden from the Medicine Sovereign Valley as well?” Liu Yun turned his gaze onto Qin Wentian as he laughed.

Qin Wentian shook his head lightly. “The Holy Maiden is a fifth-ranked alchemist, after all. In any case, is the Medicine Sovereign Valley powerful?”
“Of course they’re strong, but I have no idea how strong they are exactly. The Medicine Sovereign Valley rarely interacts with others, and no one would willingly antagonize them either. The Medicine Sovereign himself is a peak fifth-ranked alchemist, and even if experts from the nine great sects went to beg him for his help, they might not succeed. In terms of medicinal herbs and cultivation pills, the Medicine Sovereign Valley is a power at the peak of the Royal Sacred Region, and no one around the area can match them in strength.”

Liu Yun explained, as Qin Wentian nodded silently.
Along the way, Qin Wentian chatted quite a bit with Liu Yun. Of course, Liu Yun was the one doing most of the talking, while Qin Wentian was the one listening. Other than hearing him talk about the various current happenings in the Royal Sacred Region, Liu Yun’s other topics naturally revolved around beautiful girls and ‘wonderful’ places. He even strongly hinted that he wanted to bring Qin Wentian to have some fun, causing Qin Wentian to be speechless.

After half a month, and passing by several territories, Qin Wentian and the others finally arrived at the capital of Ye Country.
In its inner city, the guards were all decked in strikingly magnificent armor. The towering city gates were built from molten gold, but had a simple and unadorned beauty to it. This place was a core location of the Ye Country, being home to the royal palace as well as numerous luxurious manors. The security there was extremely tight, and the number of experts were as common as the clouds.

“HOLD IT RIGHT THERE!” A loud voice shouted as a golden beam of light shot up in the sky. A guard wielded a golden spear, pointing it at the members from the Battle Sword Sect.

“Let’s go down,” Ye Lingshuang stated. As the group of them started to descend, seven golden-armored guards soared up in the air to block their paths. That commander then icily stated, “This is a forbidden place in the Ye Country, only those from the royal clan can enter.”
“How dare you,” Ye Lingshuang coldly retorted. She radiated a dignified air as she spoke, “You actually still dare to block this princess’s path despite seeing who I am?”

That commander acted like he’d just noticed Ye Lingshuang’s presence. Cool amusement flickered in his eyes—now that the Qi King was already in a position of power, this young woman before him would soon become a prisoner. To think that she still wanted to flaunt her position as a princess here? However, this young woman was beautiful and had managed to join the Battle Sword Sect, so it wouldn’t be wise for him to push her too far.
“Oh, so it’s Princess Lingshuang. Your subordinate apologizes for not recognizing you right away, please pardon me.” That commander apologised, yet his expression was one of mockery. He then turned his gaze onto the others. “However, this place is still the royal clan’s forbidden grounds. Surely the princess can see the inappropriateness of bringing a bunch of strangers here?”

“Audacious. Who are you to question the decisions of this princess?” Ye Lingshuang’s voice turned colder and colder. “Not knowing your position and even offending your superior. Everyone, seize him for me.”
She was the princess of the Ye Country and yet a mere commander of the guards dared to be so rude towards her? He was obviously challenging her authority. Her father’s situation must be more terrible than previously imagined, and Ye Lingshuang grew more frantic upon thinking about this.

But as her command echoed out, the guards didn’t move a muscle. No one followed her orders.

Duan Han moved, his black robes like the wind as a cold beam of sword-light lashed out. The countenance of the commander instantly changed, but when he blasted his spear forward, everything was already too late.

“Puchi…” A black-colored sharp sword was embedded right in the center of his brows. The commander had already died. The other guards around them froze for a moment before recovering, as powerful auras gushed out. These guards all had a cultivation base at the Heavenly Dipper Realm.
However, Duan Han merely glanced at them, and that single glance was sufficient to make them cower in fear—his eyes were akin to incomparably sharp swords that threatened to end them if they made a wrong move now.

Ye Lingshuang took note of Duan Han’s methods and understood his intentions. She then stated in a glacial tone, “This man has forgotten his position and even dared to offend his superiors. Death is the only result for people like him. If there is anyone who still dares to block this princess’s path, don’t blame me for showing no mercy.”

As the sound of her voice faded, Ye Lingshuang and her group stepped out. This time around, nobody dared to block them. Those guards all turned ashen when they stared at the corpse of their previous commander. He’d died just like this? No matter what, the commander was an existence at the seventh level of Heavenly Dipper, yet he’d died just from a single sword strike.
“Are people from the Battle Sword Sect all like this?” Those guards felt a chill in their hearts. They didn’t expect that Duan Han would be so ruthless, directly killing the commander with no hesitation.

Those from the Battle Sword Sect continued on. This forbidden location of the royal clan was truly a magnificent sight to behold. Numerous luxurious manors could be seen dotting the landscape and occasionally, experts from some of the manors would turn their gaze upon the members of the Battle Sword Sect flying through the air. From his observations, Qin Wentian could tell that the power of just one of these manors would be sufficient to trample over the entire Grand Xia, let alone the whole of the Ye Country.
Finally, a majestic ancient palace appeared before them. Everything, from the palace walls to the gates were formed from pure gold. And as the palace gates swung open, a group of silhouettes walked out from within, smiles on all their faces.
“Princess Lingshuang, why didn’t you say anything before coming back? We would have organized a better welcome for you.” An expert laughed, yet Ye Lingshuang’s expression turned incredibly unsightly upon seeing them. This person was from the Han King Manor; one of the subordinates of her royal uncles. For them to actually appear in the royal palace now was undoubtedly an indication of how grim things had become. The Han King always had a good relationship with the Qi King.

“I want to see my father, the Emperor,” Ye Lingshuang spoke. That expert glanced at the members of the Battle Sword Sect around her before he smiled, “The arrival of the young heroes of the Battle Sword Sect to our Ye Clan brings light to our humble country. Please enter the royal palace for some rest.”
The people from the Battle Sword Sect didn’t react, despite knowing that their identities were already revealed. They had come here openly, so it wasn’t strange for the experts in the Ye Country to already know of it.

After which, they directly entered the palace, only to see every inch of it was being tightly protected by imposing guardians. This was a testament of how tense things had become.
Ye Lingshuang immediately ran in the direction of the Hall of the Human Emperor, her speed was like a gust of wind, revealing her worry for her father.

And currently, there were several powerful experts gathered outside the ancient hall.

Ye Lingshuang swept her gaze over at these experts and suddenly stiffened when she caught sight of someone in a certain direction—a young man in imperial robes, who projected an extraordinary bearing. His deep gaze seemed capable of seeing through everything.
In addition to that, there were several members of the younger generations surrounding this young man. Each of them was clearly not ordinary and exuded an overbearing aura. Everyone was an outstanding member of the younger generation, their radiance incomparably resplendent.
The instance their eyes locked gazes with the members from the Battle Sword Sect, a terrifying storm of sharpness could be felt engulfing the entire space.

“Experts from the Violet Thunder Sect,” Qin Wentian speculated, but there was no way he was wrong. That young man in the imperial robes was none other than the prince spoken of by Liu Yun, the son of Qi King, the cousin of Ye Lingshuang. He was a chosen of the Violet Thunder Sect and a demon-level genius. As for those beside him, they were his escorts from the Violet Thunder Sect. If the Violet Thunder Sect denied that they were secretly involved in the Qi King’s plan to control the Ye Country, nobody would even believe them.

Ye Lingshuang ignored them and proceeded forwards, wanting to enter the Human Emperor Hall. However, at that moment, a group of figures blocked her path. “Princess, the Human Emperor is currently seriously injured and the Holy Maiden from the Medicine Sovereign Sect is giving him treatment. Maybe it would be a better idea for Princess to wait a while longer before entering.”

“How can I not be at my father’s side when he’s in this state? Let me pass,” Ye Lingshuang replied. Upon seeing how resolute Ye Lingshuang was, the royal guards opened up a pathway allowing her to pass, yet they kept back the other members of the Battle Sword Sect from entering.

“Wait here for me.” Ye Lingshuang turned and spoke to her sect members. Since they had already entered the royal palace, there wouldn’t be any one daring to harm Ye Lingshuang in the presence of all these powerful guards. Hence, Duan Han and the others obliged her wishes, and waited for her outside the ancient hall.