NOVEL NEXT Chapter 236 - 236: Sword Immortal Battles Vajra From Beyond the Heavens (10,000 Character Update, Please Subscribe)
Chapter 236: Chapter 236: Sword Immortal Battles Vajra From Beyond the Heavens (10,000 Character Update, Please Subscribe)
The next day, in the ninth layer of the Heavenly Prison.
Li Fuzhou lay on a straw mat, his expression relaxed and content, showing no signs of depression or impatience.
The old man opposite him asked rather uninterestedly, “Scholar, aren’t you anxious?”
In the lightless Heavenly Prison, where time was marked only by the daily delivery of meals, years had passed. Even some of the old monsters with transcendent mindsets had become a bit restless and irritable, their minds like wild grass.
Li Fuzhou sat up and looked toward the sky, sighing, “Indeed, I am restless, thinking that it has been a long time since I’ve been to the brothel to listen to songs.”
The old man’s mouth opened slightly, was that restlessness? That was excitement.
Li Fuzhou shook his head and looked at the old man in the opposite cell, “Great Wizard, how were you captured?”
Those imprisoned in the ninth layer of the Heavenly Prison were no ordinary people; the seemingly ‘foolish’ old man in front too was a significant character, none other than the Great Wizard Zhu Qiu from the Nanzhao Tribe in Tianmeng Mountain.
There were many sects among the Nanzhao tribes, generally one per tribe. These sects had conflicts and battles, but not every tribe had a wizard. To become a wizard, one needed immense strength, equivalent to the Half-step Master realm as classified by the Jianghu of Great Yan.
A tribe’s strength was not just judged by its population but also by whether it had a wizard presiding over it.
Having a wizard meant being one of the foremost tribes among the many in Nanzhao.
Above a wizard was a great wizard.
Great wizards were the true commanders of winds and rains in Nanzhao because only those of the Grandmaster level could be called great wizards.
Source: Webnovel.com, updated on ƝονǤօ.с0
A tribe with a great wizard sitting in command was virtually a top-ranked major tribe in Nanzhao.
Nanzhao had ten great wizards in total, forming a massive foundational structure and the most powerful tribes.
Tianmeng Mountain was one of them.
And any Jianghu expert familiar with Nanzhao would definitely know the Great Wizard Zhu Qiu from Tianmeng Mountain.
Twenty years ago, he was a prominent figure in Nanzhao. Back then, there weren’t ten, but only eight great wizards. Zhu Qiu wasn’t the most outstanding but was certainly among the best.
This man loved to travel and was often seen in the Jianghu of Yan and Zhao Countries, making him more famous than other great wizards of Nanzhao.
However, twenty years ago, Zhu Qiu suddenly disappeared. No one could trace him, including his tribe on Tianmeng Mountain who searched for seven years. Everyone thought he had long died, without any news.
Who would have thought that this great wizard of Nanzhao would end up confined in this dark, sunless prison of Great Yan.
Zhu Qiu said indifferently, “I accidentally killed a few people and was pursued by Xu Qianyue. We exchanged dozens of moves, and then Tang Taiyuan also arrived. Eventually, the two of them together overpowered me, and I was captured.”
Ordinary people would certainly not know who Xu Qianyue was, but Li Fuzhou, as the Sect Hierarch of Human Sect, was very clear. Xu Qianyue was the personal bodyguard of the Human Emperor, with profound and immeasurable strength, a true Grandmaster.
Li Fuzhou narrowed his eyes, “The person you killed must have been no ordinary character, right?”
Zhu Qiu nodded, “The Human Emperor’s third son and a few of his guards.”
To have killed a prince, and yet Zhu Qiu’s expression was so calm.
Li Fuzhou curiously asked, “How strong is Xu Qianyue?”
Zhu Qiu replied without a second thought, “Very strong, stronger than me.”
Li Fuzhou fell silent for a while as he thought about the masters in the Court of Yan Kingdom.
Upon reflecting, the resources drawn by sects like the Demon Sect, Buddhist Sect, and Zhenyi Sect were incomparable to the wealth of a whole country. Furthermore, Yan occupied ancestral lands filled with extraordinary talents. The Imperial Palace alone housed countless masters. Its profound heritage was matched only by Zhao Country.
Without powerful strength, how could one firmly control such territories?
Zhu Qiu heaved a deep sigh, “I really want to go out and see if today’s Jianghu is still as thrilling.”
The real Jianghu was full of deceit and danger but was equally breathtaking. There, someone could become famous overnight, someone could amass a fortune, command power, encounter stunning beauties, and various other dream-like existences.
However, the waters of Jianghu were deep and unpredictable, inevitably drowning many strong individuals who ventured into it.
Some despised it, spat at it, but many more yearned for it, even rushing toward it eagerly.
Li Fuzhou smiled faintly, “The Jianghu is still the same Jianghu, it’s just the people that have changed.”
Zhu Qiu, laughing inexplicably, asked, “Scholar, you have been in the exalted courts and now roamed in the muddy waters of Jianghu, any insights?”
Li Fuzhou pondered for a moment, “The court is like a brothel: if you’re not up to it, let someone else take your place; the Jianghu is like… everything has to be resolved by your own hands!”
The old man’s eyes widened, understanding the implication, and exclaimed, “You’re really a talent.”
Just then, the sound of footsteps approached from afar.
A man in black approached coldly, “Li Fuzhou, someone has come to see you.”
“Finally, someone remembers me.”
Li Fuzhou, hearing this, stretched his limbs and followed the man in black out.
Zhu Qiu watched this scene, almost overflowed with envy.
Not just anyone could visit the Heavenly Prison; being able to do so might even afford a chance to be released.
He dreamt of escaping this ghastly place.
Li Fuzhou followed the man in black, and they soon arrived at a dimly lit room.
Upon opening the door, a familiar figure appeared before him.
“Huiyun?”
Li Fuzhou couldn’t help but chuckle upon seeing the visitor.
Liu Huiyun also sized up the person before him and sighed in relief, “It seems you’re doing quite well here in the Heavenly Prison.”
Li Fuzhou said, “There’s no need to bother with those worldly troubles anymore, living each day with food and drink naturally isn’t too bad.”
Liu Huiyun was silent for a while, “It’s comfortable here, but it’s also dull.”
What kind of man Li Fuzhou was, Liu Huiyun felt she understood very well. The Heavenly Prison was no place for a free-spirited, uninhibited soul.
Just as no woman could ever possess his heart.
Li Fuzhou said softly, “Boring it is then. There’s always that segment of life spent in silence, in waiting, in endurance, waiting for the spring to bloom, for the fruits of autumn, waiting for a thunderbolt of unprecedented force.”
Liu Huiyun asked, “Do you think you still have a chance to leave this place?”
The Heavenly Prison, these two words alone signified a forbidden existence.
Only if the Human Emperor sitting inside the Imperial Palace were to speak, could there be a chance for release.
It had been extremely difficult for Lv Guoyong to save his life, which came after countless instances of endurance.
Li Fuzhou said, “Perhaps there is, perhaps not.”
“Are you afraid?”
“Afraid of what?”
“Of being trapped in this Heavenly Prison for life.”
“It might be hard for the Human Emperor to trap me for life because I have at most only half a lifetime left.”
Upon hearing this, Li Fuzhou gave a faint smile.
Looking at the uninhibited Li Fuzhou in front of her, Liu Huiyun hesitated to speak.
Li Fuzhou, looking at Liu Huiyun in front of him, said, “Huiyun, you’ve come to plead on someone’s behalf, haven’t you?”
Liu Huiyun gave a wry smile, “It seems there are no secrets in front of you.”
“Who says there aren’t?”
Li Fuzhou glanced at Liu Huiyun, the corners of his mouth revealing a meaningful smile.
“Your witty mouth is just as it was, unchanged.”
Liu Huiyun saw the look in Li Fuzhou’s eyes and immediately felt her heart race.
Li Fuzhou, seeing her flushed cheeks, burst into laughter.
Liu Huiyun asked in a low voice, “What exactly are you thinking?”
Li Fuzhou shook his head, “Ever since I left Yujing City, I’ve had no choice. Moreover, this Taiping Human Emperor seems magnanimous, but he’s actually petty; he doesn’t tolerate dissent. He’s merely using me as a pawn, and there’s no place for another ‘Li Gate’ in the court after my teacher. A useless pawn eventually meets only one fate.”
Liu Huiyun thought for a moment and said, “But you could pretend to agree…”
Li Fuzhou laughed, “In front of truly intelligent people, don’t play petty tricks, especially now with such a smart and powerful person.”
Liu Huiyun did not speak anymore, wasn’t this the very reason she was initially attracted to that elegant man?
Li Fuzhou asked, “Let’s not talk about that anymore, how have you been recently?”
“The same as always, I guess.”
Liu Huiyun lowered her head, forcing a laugh.
Seeing the woman’s face before him, Li Fuzhou couldn’t help but feel a multitude of guilt. If he hadn’t reappeared, her life would have been as serene as before.
Some people prefer the slow simmering of red beans, while others prefer the vibrant lives of the Jianghu.
“No need to say too much, it’s better kept in the heart.”
Liu Huiyun looked at the Li Fuzhou before her, “The debt you owe me cannot be repaid in this lifetime.”
Li Fuzhou couldn’t help but give a bitter smile, yet he found nothing to say.
Who said this woman was not clever?
After a long silence, Liu Huiyun said, “The envoy from the Demon Sect has arrived in Yujing City.”
Li Fuzhou’s heart stirred, “Did Duanmu Xinghua come?”
Currently, among the many experts in the Demon Sect, only Duanmu Xinghua had enough influence, strength, and means to shoulder this great task.
Liu Huiyun shook her head, “It’s a young person.”
“What’s her name?”
Li Fuzhou, a bit surprised, wondered if Zhao Qingmei herself had come, but that was nearly impossible; even Jiang Shang dared not enter Yujing City.
Liu Huiyun said softly, “An Jing.”
“What!?”
Li Fuzhou was momentarily stunned, as if he had misheard, and asked again, “You said his name is what?!”
Liu Huiyun replied with confusion, “An Jing. Don’t you know him? He’s a tributor of Outer Heaven, rumored to be the Sect Leader’s husband.”
Li Fuzhou’s mind was in a haze.
An Jing!? Wasn’t he supposed to be dead?
How did he join the Demon Sect, and even represent them on a mission to Yan Country?
Liu Huiyun continued, “The Human Emperor has issued a National Teaching Order; tomorrow he will participate in a challenge by the Buddhist Exalted Vajra, competing for this National Teaching Order.”
Li Fuzhou naturally knew who the Exalted Vajra was—the Exalted Vajra was the first Vajra of the Buddhist sect, and even though Li Fuzhou had entered the Second Qi Grandmaster level and attained Heavenly Human Communication, he still could not defeat the top expert.
Subsequently, Liu Huiyun recounted the recent events to Li Fuzhou.
Li Fuzhou had not yet recovered when he wanted to ask more questions, but then an icy voice came from outside.
“Elder Liu, it’s about time. The Heavenly Prison does not allow strangers to stay for long.”
“I’ll leave first.”
Liu Huiyun heaved a sigh.
Before, she always felt that time was too long and passed too slowly; this was the first time she found time passing so quickly.
After saying this, Liu Huiyun walked towards the door.
Li Fuzhou wanted to say something, but upon seeing that figure, he found himself unable to speak at all.
“Creak—!”
The door quietly closed, and the room became silent.
“Could it be that I’m dreaming? Is this all a dream?”
After a long time, Li Fuzhou prepared to leave the room, when that icy voice spoke again.
“Stay here for now; someone else will come later.”
“Someone else?”
Li Fuzhou, hearing this, could only laugh wryly.
Time slowly elapsed, and Liu Huiyun’s words still echoed in his mind.
How could that person, sent by the Demon Sect, be the young doctor?
Am I really dreaming!?
“The person is in there.”
“Alright, thank you.”
At this moment, voices arose from outside the door, one of which was extremely familiar to him.
“Creak—!”
The door was pushed open, and a figure in white slowly walked in.
The figure stood under the light, its specific features unclear, but its general outline was visible.
“Sir, long time no see,” An Jing said with a light smile to the elderly scholar before him.
He had long wanted to see Old Man Li again, but he hadn’t expected their reunion to be in the Heavenly Prison.
“You!?”
Li Fuzhou looked at the figure in white, his heart shaking inexplicably.
An Jing closed the door and took two steps forward, saying, “Sir, don’t you recognize me?”
Li Fuzhou saw clearly that face, a face only slightly less dashing than in his youth, and his impression was extremely deep.
“You didn’t die?”
“No.”
“You represent the Demon Sect in Yan Country?”
“Correct.”
In a daze, Li Fuzhou seemed to see something, exclaiming, “Your cultivation?”
An Jing’s qi mechanism was not hidden—any master who had reached a certain level of cultivation could sense that faint qi mechanism.
Second Qi!
The person before him, that young doctor, was actually a Second Qi Grandmaster!?
Li Fuzhou took three steps back, watching An Jing coldly, “Impossible, that young doctor is only twenty-one this year, how could he possibly have reached the Second Qi Grandmaster level of cultivation.”
An Jing smiled faintly, “In this world, nothing is impossible. Just as Qingmei is the Demon Sect Hierarch, Sir is the Human Sect Master, then why couldn’t I reach Second Qi?”
Li Fuzhou stared intently into An Jing’s eyes, still somewhat disbelieving.
After all, this matter seemed even less credible than Tan Yun coming to raid the Heavenly Prison; given Tan Yun’s temperament, couldn’t he possibly act impulsively in gratitude for many years of support?
“Whether Sir believes it or not, it’s the truth,” An Jing said calmly. “Tomorrow I will contest with the Exalted Vajra and seize that National Religion Token.”
As he spoke, An Jing extended his palm, and countless black sword lights danced in his hand, like nimble flying swords.
Hundred-step Flying Sword!
“You are the Ghost Swordsman!?”
Li Fuzhou saw the sword lights in An Jing’s hand, and suddenly startled awake.
An Jing smiled without a word. If he didn’t show some skills, Li Fuzhou might not truly believe him.
For quite a while, Li Fuzhou finally came to his senses, and many previously unclear things suddenly became clear.
An Jing was a Ghost Swordsman, and the Ghost Swordsman was none other than An Jing.
No wonder he always asked about the affairs of the Demon Sect, no wonder the Ghost Swordsman always appeared in Yu State City.
So that’s how it is!
Who could have thought that the doctor from Yu State City was also a Jianghu expert who played the Sect Hierarch of the Demon Sect for a fool.
It felt as though nothing in this world was real anymore.
“Son-in-law.”
Li Fuzhou pondered for a long while and said, “Although you are of Second Qi Cultivation, I fear it’s going to be very difficult to defeat the Exalted Vajra.”
The power of the Buddhist Exalted Vajra was high, ranking at the top among the Three Qi Grandmasters, famously known for his formidable strength. Moreover, the Human Emperor would never allow the Demon Sect to obtain this National Teaching Order.
There are many difficulties involved, and it is not something that could be resolved by just a contest.
An Jing said, “Man can conquer fate.”
“What a phrase, ‘Man can conquer fate.'”
Li Fuzhou looked at An Jing in front of him, “However, Li must remind you, son-in-law, that not to mention whether the National Teaching Order can be taken, even if you manage to get it, it will prove to be extremely hot to handle.”
The Demon Sect receiving this National Teaching Order would equate to offending both the Zhenyi Sect and the Buddhist forces.
Even if the court were to support it as much as the National Religion, it would be difficult to reach the prestige of the Zhenyi Sect.
After all, the Demon Sect had squandered its good reputation decades ago, leaving only a fierce infamy behind.
An Jing chuckled lightly, “Of course, this National Teaching Order cannot be kept in hand.”
“Oh!?”
Upon hearing this, Li Fuzhou was startled, his eyes narrowing into slits.
Thinking carefully, he understood An Jing’s intent.
According to the normal thinking, once the Demon Sect obtained a National Teaching Order, it would naturally start preaching immediately, establishing sub-temples across Great Yan, winning over the populace, and arranging its own influence.
No matter the outcome of the battle with Houjin, the Demon Sect would always have a fallback.
Furthermore, defeating the Buddhist forces would absolutely elevate the prestige of the Demon Sect to the peak, but at the same time, it would carry a massive risk; better to advance by retreating.
With the National Teaching Order in the hands of the Demon Sect, it undoubtedly steps out of the Human Emperor’s plan, placing the initiative completely in their hands.
At that time, not only could they make demands of the Human Emperor, but they could even foster good relations with the Buddhist forces who valued karma—the National Teaching Order was indeed a significant cause…
Li Fuzhou pondered for a moment and said, “By issuing this National Teaching Order, the Human Emperor aims not only to check the Zhenyi Sect but also to strengthen the overall power of Yan Country; besides, there should be another important purpose.”
An Jing asked, “What purpose?”
“The Dragon Locking Well.”
Li Fuzhou slowly said, “The Human Emperor built the Dragon Locking Well specifically for the seal. Initially, the Great Zhou Dynasty used the Buddhist forces mainly to guard that Earth Veins seal, along with many other forces overseeing it. Now that the core of the seal has moved to the Dragon Locking Well in Yujing City, Yan Country naturally wants the Buddhist forces to guard it, especially considering the precedents set by the Great Zhou and Great Qin Dynasties, the Yan Country’s Human Emperor would also worry about the terrible nature of this seal.”
“So the Buddhist forces have essentially made an equivalent trade with the Human Emperor for the National Teaching Order, and that is why the Zhenyi Sect has not come forward to obstruct it.”
The involvement of a National Teaching Order is massive, and it is not as clear as it appears on the surface.
As for the Demon Sect being able to contest for this National Teaching Order against the Buddhist forces, it is extremely fortunate, benefiting from the Buddhist light, though the Human Emperor also intends to suppress the Demon Sect’s influence.
An Jing slightly nodded upon hearing this, and spontaneously asked, “This seal is related to the extinction of the Great Zhou Dynasty, but what exactly is the seal?”
The Evil Suppressing Sword was the sealing sword, and as its master with the bloodline of the Great Zhou Dynasty, he still did not know what exactly the seal was.
Li Fuzhou shook his head, “I do not know specifically, the Demon Sect’s ancient texts describe it enclosing a massive opportunity, while the Buddhist outsiders say it seals a calamity. Many ancient texts have scarce records of this seal; unless the seal is broken, nobody knows exactly what it is.”
An Jing furrowed his brow, “Alright, I understand.”
This seal definitely hid a critical secret, concerning the future of the Great Qin Dynasty, Great Zhou Dynasty, and the present Yan Country.
Thus, Yan Country wanted the Buddhist forces to suppress this seal.
Based on the current situation, as long as they obtained this National Teaching Order, they would fully hold the initiative, even if Li Fuzhou had previously angered the Human Emperor.
In such a major right and wrong, the Human Emperor would naturally make a choice.
Heart warmed by the thought, Li Fuzhou, however, felt a chill inside at the thought of needing to deal with the Buddhist Exalted Vajra and the Yan Kingdom Court.
Though the plan was good, its execution would be incredibly difficult.
Could the Ghost Swordsman really defeat the Exalted Vajra?
“I will head back first; wait for my good news,” said An Jing.
After a few more casual exchanges, An Jing prepared to leave.
Watching An Jing’s departing back, Li Fuzhou earnestly said, “Son-in-law, Li is looking forward to accompanying you to the ‘Red Lantern.'”
Stumbling, An Jing realized that Li Fuzhou clearly had an underlying message in his words.
…….
As the night deepened, at the Dragon Spring Temple, Zen Room.
The Exalted Vajra was seated on a mat, with a skin scroll laid out before him.
True Qi stirred within his dantian, circulating according to the secret technique depicted on the scroll towards his limbs.
A golden radiance emerged, like a sun.
Suddenly, a golden Buddha appeared behind him, exuding a grand aura, one hand displaying the Fearless Seal and the other the Wishing Seal.
Great Sun Tathagata Mantra!
The so-called secret techniques have no bounds; success in cultivation means mastery.
Dozens of breaths passed before the golden light behind Exalted Vajra gradually dissipated.
Exalted Vajra took a deep breath and said, “This ‘Great Sun Tathagata Mantra’ truly lives up to its name as a Vajra Secret Skill.”
Just now, he had only exercised it for a few breaths, yet he felt an immense surge of True Qi within him, boosting his strength by more than thirty percent. Given that his power was already at the peak of the Three Qi Grandmaster, a further increase of thirty percent brought him incredibly close to the Four Qi Grandmaster level. What a terrifying enhancement was this?
“Hmm!?”
Exalted Vajra sensed something and rose from his cushion to walk toward the door.
The moonlight was like water, enveloping the entire courtyard and causing the shadows of the trees to sway with the breeze.
A figure stood atop the courtyard.
The person appeared indifferent, with no expression on their face, resembling a wooden figure, as their black robes fluttered in the breeze.
“Governor Xu.”
Upon seeing the person, Exalted Vajra joined his hands and said.
The visitor was none other than the newly appointed Great Commander of the Xuanyi Guard, Xu Qianyue.
“Master Exalted.”
Xu Qianyue greeted Exalted Vajra with a salute of one hand.
Exalted Vajra asked, “May I know what brings Governor Xu here so suddenly?”
Xu Qianyue asked straight out, “Tomorrow is the day when the Buddhist and Demon Sects vie for the National Teaching Order. Does Master Exalted have confidence in winning?”
Exalted Vajra smiled faintly, “An Jing, despite his young age, has reached the Second Qi Realm, which is indeed rare. His future is boundless. But even if he is an exceptional prodigy, he will surely not stir any waves in the hands of a Buddha.”
Xu Qianyue continued to inquire, “How confident are you?”
Exalted Vajra replied, “Ninety percent.”
Xu Qianyue shook her head, “In tomorrow’s battle, not even the slightest mishap can be afforded; even ninety percent is not enough.”
The National Teaching Order was bestowed by the Human Emperor to the Buddhists; if it were obtained by the Demon Sect, whether to acknowledge or denounce the Demon Sect as the national religion would be problematic, and it would become difficult to suppress the demonic flare of the Demon Sect.
Therefore, the Buddhists must win this battle; they have to win.
“Amitabha.”
Exalted Vajra murmured softly.
In his heart, he already possessed the certainty of victory for tomorrow’s battle, merely not stating his confidence fully.
Xu Qianyue pulled out a jade box and said, “Here lies one Baopu Dragon Tiger Pill from the National Religion. Though it will consume some lifespan and pills within one’s body, it can stimulate the greatest potential of a person, and is extremely precious.”
Exalted Vajra furrowed his brow slightly but remained silent.
Currently in possession of the ‘Great Sun Tathagata Mantra’, and with his cultivation already surpassing that of the Demon Sect Tributor, he was firmly at an advantage — why would he need the Baopu Dragon Tiger Pill?
Seeing that Exalted Vajra did not accept it, Xu Qianyue flatly said, “This was sent by the Human Emperor, it is best that you accept it, Master. Of course, it would be ideal if there is no need to use it.”
Exalted Vajra took a deep breath and said, “This poor monk understands, and thanks the Human Emperor for his kindness.”
“Very well, I shall return and report back.”
Xu Qianyue nodded, turned around, and walked towards the courtyard exit.
Her figure fading into the sheer darkness, she disappeared in an instant.
“Baopu Dragon Tiger Pill…”
Exalted Vajra looked at the pill in his hand.
……
In the hostel, within a room,
An Jing sat, holding a copy of ‘Sword Dao Tao General Outline’ and reading.
Yu Qiurong was cleaning the room, moving very quietly, hardly making any noise, not even footsteps.
An Jing chuckled and said, “There’s no need to be so cautious.”
The atmosphere had become tense and grim after returning from the Heavenly Prison, especially since Qian Cishan, accompanied by several experts from the Demon Sect’s Earth Sect, had hurriedly dined and then vanished.
Tomorrow is the day of the National Teaching Order contest. The entire Yujing City, from its main streets to its alleys, was buzzing with talk of this event, and even they could feel a bit of pressure in the air, let alone An Jing representing the Demon Sect.
Therefore, they were concerned about affecting An Jing.
Yu Qiurong said, “I was worried about disturbing your reading, sir.”
An Jing set down the book in his hands and said, “My mind is very calm.”
In times of major events, having a serene mind, An Jing had completely achieved this.
Yu Qiurong looked at the young man in front of her, “Sir, even if we lose, forming an alliance will still be no issue.”
Representing the Demon Sect in the Yan Country, and combating the top Vajra of the Buddhist sect under so much skepticism, she realized that the young man was even younger than her, an unimaginable notion.
Yu Qiurong admitted to being capable, but if she put herself in his shoes, she felt she could not be as tranquil as An Jing.
For a moment, she wished she could alleviate some of the massive pressure on An Jing.
An Jing said with a smile, “Why, don’t you believe me?”
“No.”
Looking into his eyes, Yu Qiurong shook her head, “Then, sir, please rest well, I’ll go down first.”
An Jing nodded slightly, “Although the Ice Soul Poison in your body has been completely detoxified, your body still needs recuperation. I have prepared some herbs when I came back just now, and I had Qian Cishan boil them, it should be almost ready, remember to take it.”
Yu Qiurong was slightly stunned when she heard this, feeling a warmth inside, and subconsciously responded, “Yes.”
Sometimes being cared for is a wonderful thing, like someone holding a lantern, illuminating the you squatting in the dark.
“After you take the medicine, rest.”
An Jing picked up the “Sword Dao General Outline,” “Get up early tomorrow to prepare food for me, if it’s not to my liking, I will not let you off.”
“I understand, sir, you too should rest early.”
Yu Qiurong nodded heavily, then withdrew.
An Jing looked at the “Sword Dao General Outline” in his hand, about the Sixth Realm, “No sword in hand, no sword in heart. The sword is me, I am the sword.”
No sword in hand, no sword in heart.
This deep and mysterious feeling constantly lingered in An Jing’s mind, and before he knew it, he had reached the doorway, he couldn’t find the sword, nor could he make that step, what sword dao was being cultivated without the sword?
After pondering for a long time, he still had no clue.
In the dead of night, the entire hostel and even most of Yujing City were plunged into silence, the only place that was not peaceful and even noisy was Heavenly Martial Sect, the site of tomorrow’s Buddhist competition.
Many men of Jianghu had already secured the best spots in advance.
An Jing stepped out of the door, looking up to see the waning moon hanging high.
It was nearing early autumn now, and the air had already grown cooler.
The moonlight cast spotty, mottled shadows of the trees on the ground.
The shadow moves with the moon; when the moon is still, so is the person.
Standing on the ground and watching the moon above, An Jing truly reached a transcendent state of mind at this moment, his mind emptied of all thoughts, becoming blank.
It was as if he and nature, the earth, and the sword merged into one, capturing the ultimate subtle changes, the gentle sway of the grass, the slight tremble of the leaves.
He couldn’t help but recall the moment on Abyss Lake when Lou Xiangzhen entered the Sixth Realm.
It felt like a flash, yet it seemed like an hour, until the clouds completely obscured the moon above, and An Jing seemed to come back to his senses.
“I understand now, this is the Sixth Realm.”
An Jing looked at his palm, muttered to himself, and a faint smile emerged on his lips.
……
A night passed without words, and in the blink of an eye, dawn arrived.
The carriage from the Marquis of Pingyang’s mansion slowly pulled out, the number of horses pulling the carriage was also strictly limited, at this moment the two carriages struggled forward as if carrying a mountain.
Inside the carriage, the obese Qiu Lun lay excitedly on Fang Jinxiu’s belly, “Sister Fang, do you think he can hear me talking?”
Fang Jinxiu looked at Qiu Lun, her face also wearing an excited smile, “Not yet, after all, it’s only been a month.”
Qiu Lun laughed, “This time taking him out to see the world, maybe he’ll get touched by the grandmaster’s luck and become a martial arts prodigy, my Qiu family has not yet produced a grandmaster.”
Although Qiu Lun had already reached the First Grade Earth Flower Realm, the likelihood of him reaching Grandmaster was slim, one reason being that his First Grade status was constructed with great expense by Marquis Qiu Heng, and secondly, he had achieved great merits in the Northern Wilderness Dao and was bound to lead a large army in the future, leaving little time for martial arts cultivation.
In this world, not everyone has ample time to cultivate martial arts, and becoming a Grandmaster is not within everyone’s reach.
The brilliance you see in others is backed by countless sweats and efforts.
Suddenly, Fang Jinxiu spotted a figure in the distance, “Eh, isn’t that person outside Jing Chun?”
“It really is.”
Qiu Lun stuck his head out to look, and hurriedly shouted, “Jing Chun!”
Lv Jingchun, who was with Zhou Xianming watching the excitement at the Heavenly Martial Sect, heard the voice and quickly turned around, excitedly saying, “Big Brother Qiu.”
“Jing Chun, are you also here to see the action at the Heavenly Martial Sect?”
Qiu Lun jumped out of the carriage, “How about joining us, it’s good to have someone to look out for each other.”
Fang Jinxiu also lifted the curtain, smiling, “Yes, come join us.”
Zhou Xianming looked at the old horses panting heavily and laughed awkwardly, “Isn’t that a bit much?”
“Not at all.”
Qiu Lun wrapped his arm around Lv Jingchun’s neck, laughing, “Jing Chun, let me tell you some good news, your sister-in-law is expecting.”
“Really!?”
Lv Jingchun looked towards Fang Jinxiu, who was now caressing her big belly, her face radiant with maternal glow.
Zhou Xianming quickly said, “Is the respected madam almost ready to give birth? Then you better sit in the carriage and rest, don’t disturb the fetus.”
Qiu Lun: “….”
Fang Jinxiu: “….”
……
The square of the Heavenly Martial Sect was noisy and bustling, the outskirts were packed with people.
Even the rooftops of the buildings not far from the Heavenly Martial Sect were filled with people.
The noise and discussions resounded through the sky.
Among them, besides some Jianghu heroes, there were also many ordinary folks who came to join in the excitement, wanting to see how the Buddhist Vajra would “exorcise demons and subdue monsters”.
In the center of the square, there was a platform where an Exalted Vajra, clad in a red kasaya, was sitting cross-legged in the center, with eyes tightly closed, uttering not a single word.
At this moment, pavilions were set up around the platform.
Under these pavilions sat the civil and military officials of Yan Country, dignitaries arranged neatly and distinctly within their respective areas.
Next to these esteemed individuals were numerous ladies from noble families and wives from wealthy households. They might not understand the political dynamics or the major trends of the world, but they were very interested and even yearned to witness the clashes among top Jianghu masters and the Buddhist sects.
There were undoubtedly two spots within these pavilions that attracted the most attention, one was the stronghold of the Zhenyi Sect, followed by the martial forces of Yan Country and the other was where the royal dignitaries were located.
The Zhenyi Sect was led by Ling Yuanjing, with several disciples standing behind him.
Meanwhile, the royal family was seated in the center, with none other than the current Empress of Great Yan, Zuo Linglong at the forefront, accompanied by Princess An Le, Crown Prince Zhao Chongyin, Second Prince Zhao Mengtai, and other members of the royal family.
Following the Zhenyi Sect, the positions were occupied by the six major sects of Yan Country’s Jianghu.
Apart from the Blue River Sect, this included masters from Youfeng Valley, Five Poison Sect, Yu Heng Sword Sect, Four Symbols Sect, and others.
At this moment, around the Heavenly Martial Sect, besides countless soldiers maintaining order, there were numerous skilled Xuanyi Guards, each armed with a black long saber, standing not far off.
At regular intervals, one could see a member of the Great Heavenly Gang, clad in a black greatcoat—a total of twelve were present, including hidden royal experts, indicating the stringent security of the day.
In the center of Heaven Gate, on a luxuriously magnificent rest platform.
Zuo Linglong leisurely looked toward the platform in the front, smiled lightly and said, “It seems today is quite lively, even more so than at the last Heaven Worshiping Grand Ceremony.”
Zhao Chongyin nodded and said, “After all, many people from Jianghu have come this time.”
Princess An Le was also looking around as if searching for something.
Zhao Mengtai curiously asked, “Xuening, what are you looking at?”
Princess An Le said, “I heard that the envoy from the Demon Sect this time is a young man not much older than myself, it’s a bit hard to believe.”
Being a master at such a young age, almost comparable to her own emperor father, how could Yan Country’s Jianghu have such an astonishingly brilliant figure?
Zhao Chongyin laughed out loud and said, “Indeed, he is very young.”
Zuo Linglong took an interest and asked, “Such a young grandmaster is indeed rare, what do you think are his chances against the Exalted Vajra?”
Zhao Chongyin thought for a moment before saying, “Perhaps there’s a slight chance, but it’s extremely slim.”
Zhao Mengtai shook his head and said, “Crown Prince is joking, from what I see, it might as well be stated bluntly, Outer Heaven stands no chance at all.”
The number one Vajra of the Buddhist sect isn’t someone An Jing can shake, especially with support from their own Human Emperor behind the scene.
Zuo Linglong’s mind was made up, and she spoke no further.
Zhao Chongyin was a steady individual, always careful with his words.
……
Behind the pavilions was a gathering place for Great Yan’s Jianghu elite.
Jia Shiwu pondered for a moment before saying, “The Buddhist Exalted Vajra indeed possesses profound and unfathomable strength. Even the Sect Leader Xiao of the Zhenyi Sect would find it extremely difficult to defeat him.”
With the strength of the Three Qi Peak, one stood among the top in Jianghu. It was known that when Xiao Qianqiu dominated Great Yan Martial World, he also had the Third Qi cultivation, and even with a mystical sect’s exotic treasure, his strength may not surpass the Exalted Vajra by much.
Valley Master Zuo Biwen glanced at the silent Dai Danshu and said, “Sect Leader Dai must have the best understanding of the power of this Demon Sect’s Tributor.”
Although it was confidential that Feng Lingyue, Yu Ying, and Sang Tianyou had ambushed the Demon Sect in Yunlin City, there were no walls that could prevent the spread of information in the world, and details still leaked out.
Dai Danshu smiled lightly and said, “This Tributor of the Demon Sect indeed possesses high abilities, but absolutely stands no chance against the Buddhist Exalted Vajra.”
Many people around glanced over.
Jia Shiwu asked, “It seems Sect Leader Dai is very confident.”
Dai Danshu confidently said, “The Great Ancestor Feng himself said so.”
Ling Yuanjing, who usually liked to mingle in the crowd, however, had a tranquil expression, silent, recalling his fellow disciple’s words.
If the Exalted Vajra had such a massive advantage and victory was in sight, why did his brother say so?
Could it be that there would really be a major surprise today?
Jia Shiwu asked, “Peak Master Ling, what is your opinion?”
Ling Yuanjing shook his head and said, “I do not know, nor dare to speculate recklessly.”
The people present chuckled lightly, seeing that the pressure was immense on the Zhenyi Sect after the granting of the National Teaching Order to the Buddhist sect. The usually lively and enthusiastic Ling Yuanjing was now at a loss for words.
Looking further back, one could see a woman clad in captivating attire with a veil.
If Zhou Xianming and An Jing were present, they would definitely recognize her as Li Yue from the Wind and Rain Tower.
Watching the sea-like crowd that resembled rolling smoke, Li Yue’s red lips slightly parted as she mused to herself, “In the face of this tremendous momentum, what significance does an individual have?”
……
The crowd was bustling, chatter filled the air, everyone eagerly fixed their gaze forward, anticipating the Buddhist master’s demon suppression.
At that moment, Zhao Tianyi dressed in a blue garment stepped forward, glanced around and announced loudly.
“To bolster the might of Great Yan and bring welfare to all, the Human Emperor has decreed a special Mountain Opening Order, bestowed to all sects across the world, ultimately setting a contest between the Buddhist sect and Outer Heaven. Today, the Buddhist sect and Outer Heaven will engage in a competition, and according to the rules of Jianghu, whoever emerges victorious shall receive this special Mountain Opening Order, which is also this National Teaching Order.”
All fell silent, their eyes unblinkingly fixed on Zhao Tianyi.
The Mountain Opening Order is not something one can simply issue at will in Great Yan; one must possess a Mountain Opening Order to establish a sect.
And the Mountain Opening Order today is no ordinary one, it is the National Teaching Order.
Possessing this token means becoming the national religion of Great Yan, with a status and support comparable to the current Zhenyi Sect.
The masters from the Five Poison Sect, Youfeng Valley, and the Four Symbols Sect were all deeply tempted, but they knew in their hearts that the title of national religion was impossible for them to attain.
“Amitabha.”
Exalted Vajra extended one hand, and brilliant golden light emerged, rippling outward like water.
The golden light, bright as the dazzling sun, captured the attention of everyone present.
Many witnessed an astounding scene.
A golden Buddha rose from the ground, one hand pointing to the sky and the other touching the earth, exuding solemnity filled with boundless Zen spirit.
Princess An Le Zhao Xuening gaped, “Is this… the Buddhist Vajra?”
“Vajra’s Furious Eyes, Exorcism.”
On the rest platform, Zhao Mengtai whispered.
But Zhao Mengtai remained silent, not uttering a word.
“I see the Buddha Master, I see the Buddha Master.”
Lv Jingchun was grabbing Zhou Xianming’s sleeve, exclaiming, “Xianming Xianming, do you see it?”
“I’m not blind.”
Zhou Xianming replied irritably.
Fang Jinxiu whispered nearby, “This is Buddhist Martial Arts.”
Qiu Lun’s face turned deathly pale, “So powerful, is this the strength of a Grandmaster? A Three Qi Grandmaster who can take a general’s head amidst a million soldiers?”
He had only heard of the profound strength of Grandmasters, with each Qi gap as big as a mountain, and Three Qi Grandmaster being immensely powerful. Now, feeling it firsthand on the sidelines, he was deeply shaken.
“A Three Qi Peak Grandmaster is indeed among the elite of Grandmasters.”
“Why hasn’t anyone from the Demon Sect shown up yet?”
“Not sure, perhaps they are afraid to come?”
……
Many were astounded by the appearance of the golden Buddha, and at the same time, many were silently wondering why no one from the Demon Sect had arrived yet.
Suddenly, someone exclaimed, “What is that in the sky?!”
“It looks like a person!”
Hearing this, everyone looked up towards the sky.
“This…”
People from the Jianghu at the scene were stunned, their eyes glazed over.
A figure in white seemed to come floating through the air, his clothes fluttering with the gentle breeze.
Upon a closer look, numerous confusing sword lights were beneath his feet, coming in waves, as endless Sword Qi swept across, forming a sea of waves in the sky, overshadowing the golden light.
The scene was profound, his aura majestic, the Sword Qi vast and interconnected.
And the man in white approached, flying on his sword, his expression tranquil and serene, as if he had descended from the heavens.
At that moment, the world suddenly fell silent.
Sword Qi!
Vast and mighty Sword Qi surged forth!
The overwhelming Sword Qi unified and shot towards the sky, vibrating the hearts of onlookers, the massive sword light roaring past, disappearing in a blink into the ether.
The Exalted Vajra’s golden Buddha behind him also dissolved into smoke and vanished.
Once again, the environment became clear, with the pale golden sunlight casting a spectacular view on the earth.
An Jing gently landed on the ground, his clothes fluttering with the breeze.
“Master Exalted, Outer Heaven’s An Jing seeks your guidance.”
A calm and indifferent voice seemed to echo in everyone’s ears.
In the pavilion, dignitaries all abruptly stood up, staring in astonishment at the young man in white.
Behind him, young ladies from prestigious families and noble ladies gasped for breath, their eyes showing variegated colors of amazement.
Zhao Mengtai stood up straight, staring intently.
Even Zhao Chongyin clenched the table in front of him, struggling to contain his inner turmoil.
Princess An Le’s eyes widened, her mind filled with the indelible graceful figure, her heart pounding like a frantic deer.
Zuo Linglong felt her mouth go dry, murmuring softly, “So it turns out, there are indeed Sword Immortals in this world.”
……
PS: It’s almost time for double Monthly Tickets, I’m asking for your votes.