280 - Made-Up Martial Arts, Have You Really Mastered Them, Disciple?

Chapter 280: Sword Sanctuary, Battle in Luozhou In Yuzhou, despite the annihilation of the Jade God Sect and the Sensible Family, and the killing of the core figures of the Red Nether Sect, surprisingly little disturbance was stirred. Instead, everything remained unusually calm. This left many spiritual sects, noble families, and martial artists in Yuzhou puzzled. Could it be that the Red Nether Sect would adhere to the so-called rule of the Young Talents Battle and refrain from taking revenge? Yet, some believed this quiet was the herald of a coming storm, suspecting that the Red Nether Sect was preparing a significant move. In the State of Zheng's royal palace, the Zheng Emperor convened key members of the royal family and several high-ranking officials. "Yuzhou is about to experience turmoil. Our State of Zheng remains neutral and does not participate in disputes. Regardless of who is involved this time, no one is allowed to interfere. "If we displease the higher sects, it will lead to disastrous consequences!" The Zheng Emperor warned earnestly. "The Red Nether Sect is preparing to act?" a senior official asked in surprise. "Perhaps, it's almost time," the Zheng Emperor replied uncertainly. "Father, what about that loose cultivator force in Yuzhou..." the Crown Prince cautiously asked. "This matter has nothing to do with the State of Zheng. They have not targeted nor provoked our state, and no directive has come from the higher sects, so it is unrelated to us. "Remember, unless instructed by the higher sects or they violate our laws, there will be no intervention, suppression, or assistance..." The Zheng Emperor spoke in a stern tone. The State of Zheng occupies a special position, and as long as it observes its own boundaries and does not get involved in martial world disputes, whether it is among loose cultivators or spiritual sects and noble families, the state will not be dragged into matters. The transcendental spiritual sects maintain a tacit agreement not to order the State of Zheng to partake in such disputes. After all, Zheng's strength alone cannot make a significant impact. After issuing the decree, once everyone had departed, the Zheng Emperor sat in his chair with a slightly worried expression. Yuzhou concealed a loose cultivator force with considerable strength. Could similar forces be hidden in other regions? "This Spiritual Domain... It always has those who wish to challenge the status of spiritual sects over the ages. "They say the Ten Thousand Stars Martial Institute nearly disrupted the status of the spiritual sects, which led to its collapse. The once-glorious prodigies of the institute faced extinction. "The Blood Demon, known far and wide, destroyed top spiritual sects in his time, casting a shadow over spiritual sects and noble families, yet even he was eventually driven into the Inner Domain, ultimately vanishing altogether." The Zheng Emperor sighed with mixed feelings. In the Spiritual Domain, it is still the world of the spiritual sects. There exist transcendental spiritual sects without equivalently lofty noble families; the spiritual sects are indeed the true rulers of the Spiritual Domain. The State of Great Zhou is an exception. Why does it stand shoulder to shoulder with transcendental spiritual sects? This remains a mystery. How does the Great Zhou royal family maintain such an equal standing with transcendental spiritual sects? ... Sword Sanctuary, a top-tier spiritual sect in the Spiritual Domain, specializing in the Sword Domain. Despite being a top-tier spiritual sect, in terms of strength, the Red Nether Sect could not compare with Sword Sanctuary. Furthermore, Sword Sanctuary falls under the jurisdiction of the Thousand Martial Hall, which is a transcendental spiritual sect. Sword Sanctuary exclusively cultivates the Sword Dao; though it has few disciples, each is exceptionally talented in swordsmanship, unmatched in their lethal prowess. Every disciple entering the sect must undergo a "Sword Grind Trial" to cultivate the Sword Dao, enhance their understanding of swordsmanship, and gain more combat experience. During this Sword Grind, many martial artists, mostly loose cultivators, become the grindstone. Besides, many disciples from other spiritual sects and noble families also serve as grindstones. When a Sword Sanctuary disciple feels their own Sword Dao has become formidable and their sword skills exceptionally deep, they deem loose cultivators unworthy for practice, turning to challenge disciples from spiritual sects or noble families instead. This equates to a young talents' competition among spiritual sects. Traditionally, Sword Sanctuary disciples are known for their fierce and ruthless nature, usually winning more than they lose when honing their skills against other spiritual sects. As Sword Sanctuary belongs to the Thousand Martial Hall, any time a disciple completes the Sword Grind Trial and dominates peers from other spiritual sects, they earn a chance to rise to the Thousand Martial Hall. Sword Sanctuary serves as a portal for selecting prodigious talents for the Thousand Martial Hall. "Hong, Clan Master!" Xing, a sect master of the Red Nether Sect, respectfully cupped his fists. Hong, the current Clan Master of Sword Sanctuary, is a formidable peak Refining Divine Realm martial artist with a stern face and a flowing three-strand beard. Although Xing is also a peak Refining Divine Realm warrior, he shows utmost respect towards Hong, knowing his own abilities are no match. Having devoted his life to studying the Sword Dao, Hong's swordsmanship has reached the pinnacle, placing him among the peak Refining Divine Realm warriors, second only to the strongest in the transcendental spiritual sects. Rumor has it he possesses one of the ten supreme physiques. He once fought three peak Refining Divine Realm warriors alone, slaying them all, and shocked the region. No matter Hong's strength or background, Xing knew he could never regard him as an equal. "Xu Yan's Sword Dao, is it true?" Hong asked, perusing the intel Xing handed over. "It is indeed true," Xing said solemnly. Hong's eyes flickered with a cold gleam, pondering for a moment. "Such Sword Dao is indeed remarkable. How could a loose cultivator possess such a powerful swordsmanship method? "Even my Sword Sanctuary never possessed such Sword Dao." Pausing, he continued, "Our Sword Sanctuary's Sword Dao never bows to others. Xu Yan's swordsmanship holds some unique aspects. How can a mere loose cultivator possess such powerful sword techniques? "I suspect his master stole our Sword Sanctuary secrets. What do you think, Sect Master Xing?" Upon hearing this, Xing was delighted and nodded, "Indeed, Xu Yan's Sword Dao is the secret art of Sword Sanctuary. This is the purpose of my visit—to inform Clan Master Hong that your sanctuary's secrets have been stolen!" Hong nodded, "Since it is a stolen secret of Sword Sanctuary, it must be reclaimed, and the thief eliminated. I will personally take action, as will Sword Sanctuary." "Thank you, Clan Master Hong," Xing exclaimed joyfully. He further added, "In Luozhou, there is a mysterious loose cultivator organization, gathering strength with a significant plot, possessing capabilities beyond imagination, including a peak Refining Divine Realm martial expert. "I suspect this organization might be linked to the remnants of the Ten Thousand Stars Institute. We, the Red Nether Sect, the Azure Cloud Kingdom, and other spiritual sects and families in Luozhou, are preparing to besiege this loose cultivator force. "But I'm afraid they have hidden strong warriors. I request Clan Master Hong's assistance!" Hong's eyes flickered with a sharp light. "Lowly loose cultivators contemplating rebellion? As fellow spiritual sects, we cannot stand by!" "Thank you, Clan Master Hong!" Xing heaved a sigh of relief, then added, "I suspect this loose cultivator force is also connected to the Yuzhou group, and Xu Yan is likely a nurtured prodigy. "These remnants from the Ten Thousand Stars not only stole your sanctuary's secrets but also attempt a rebellion. This is an unforgivable crime!" "Well said!" Hong stood, speaking coldly, "These remnants from the Ten Thousand Stars, attempting a comeback, are mere delusions and must be punished!" On this day, the Clan Master of Sword Sanctuary and two elders departed to Luozhou. In Luozhou, a sudden, monumental turmoil ensued. The Red Nether Sect, Azure Cloud Kingdom, and other spiritual sects and noble families of Luozhou initiated surprise attacks, targeting hidden bases, slaughtering numerous loose cultivators. Even several Refining Divine Realm experts were slain. Rumble! The Wan Shi Alliance in Luozhou was abruptly exposed. "Who leaked the information?" the Luozhou Alliance Leader roared in anger. "Alliance Leader, though we're usually discreet, Luozhou is not Yuzhou. It's likely the Red Nether Sect and the Azure Cloud Kingdom sensed something amiss. "Now that we've been exposed, let's fight!" A strong figure from the Wan Shi Alliance suggested in a steady voice. "Then, fight. Let's see the true strength of the Red Nether Sect and Azure Cloud Kingdom." The Luozhou Alliance Leader's voice was cold. The Wan Shi Alliance had suddenly revealed itself. "It's time for loose cultivators to claim a place in the Spiritual Domain. Those unwilling to be oppressed, exploited, or enslaved should fight for everlasting peace for future generations by joining the Wan Shi Alliance and carving out a place!" The Wan Shi Alliance emerged, issuing a call to action for loose cultivators to unite for their rightful place and eternal peace! The battle erupted. Powerful figures from the Wan Shi Alliance descended, including peak Refining Divine Realm warriors who, during their first strike, killed an elder from the Red Nether Sect. The Luozhou Alliance Leader revealed the dominance of peak Refining Divine Realm, overwhelmingly suppressing the Great Elder of the Red Nether Sect. With the Wan Shi Alliance's emergence and their formidable strength, some oppressed loose cultivators, or those with enmity against spiritual sects and noble families, were the first to join the battle. Neither the Red Nether Sect nor the Azure Cloud Kingdom and other spiritual sects and noble families in Luozhou had anticipated the Wan Shi Alliance's strength to be so formidable. They unexpectedly held their ground against the spiritual sects' offensive and even gained the upper hand. "How are they this strong? Where did these loose cultivator Refining Divine Realm experts acquire such powerful techniques?" "Those are Ten Thousand Stars' secret arts! It's definitely the Ten Thousand Stars' remnants stirring trouble!" --- **New Terms:** 1. **Sword Sanctuary (劍齋)**: Translated as "Sword Sanctuary" to convey the sense of a sacred place dedicated to the practice of swordsmanship. Alternate translations could be "Sword Abode" or "Sword Rest." 2. **Hong, Clan Master (洪齋主)**: Using "Clan Master" indicates leadership over the sanctuary, a role recognized for authority and respect in martial cultures. An alternate translation could be "Head of Sanctuary." 3. **Xu Yan's Sword Dao (許炎之劍道)**: Retained as "Xu Yan's Sword Dao" to reflect not only the specific path of martial arts practiced by Xu Yan but also its association with his identity. 4. **Wan Shi Alliance (萬世盟)**: Translated as "Wan Shi Alliance," suggesting a coalition aiming for enduring changes, given the historical and grand implications of 'Wan Shi,' which means 'Ten Thousand Worlds' or 'Eternal.' **Suggestions for List Updates:** - Consider adding **Thousand Martial Hall (千武殿)** to the list to track affiliations between different sects and identify overarching organizations. - Update "Sword Sanctuary" and "Wan Shi Alliance" in the list for clarity, as these are vital factions in the narrative with specific roles and histories. **Puns or Word Plays:** - The phrase "風雨欲來的徵兆" could imply the classical saying "the coming storm" suggesting imminent chaos. Its use here hints at impending conflict more for dramatic effect than literal weather, typically employed to create tension. - "磨劍," which means "grinding the sword," also implies honing skills through conflict, a metaphor deeply embedded in Chinese martial culture for preparation and improvement through continual practice. **Adjustments or Explanations:** - The mention of 'Ten Thousand Stars' and their arts adds to the intrigue of their deep-rooted influence and connects back to Xu Yan's seemingly inexplicable swordsmanship talent, suggesting ties with a legendary past. - "Transcendental spiritual sects" and "spiritual sects' true rulers" emphasize the political dynamics, further coloring the narrative landscape of alliances and hierarchies within the Spiritual Domain. The terms balance historical power structures against the ongoing revolutionary undercurrents like those seen with the Wan Shi Alliance. The Red Nether Sect and Azure Cloud Kingdom, leading the Luozhou spiritual sects, were furious. They had anticipated a dominant suppression but instead found themselves at a disadvantage. Once they were losing ground, it gave the loose cultivators of Luozhou a glimmer of hope. Thus, more and more loose cultivators joined the battle, eager to seize the chance to overthrow the spiritual sects and noble families. Even if they couldn't ultimately topple them, they could still plunder the resources of the spiritual sects, which would be worthwhile. The battle raged through Luozhou, with a few third-tier spiritual sect strongholds overrun and thoroughly looted by the loose cultivators. As more loose cultivators joined, the Luozhou spiritual sect forces found themselves in a progressively precarious situation. However, the depth of their foundation quickly became apparent. Their organized warrior corps swept through the scattered and unorganized loose cultivators until they clashed with the elite forces of the Wan Shi Alliance, whereupon both sides endured losses. The decisive factors were the battles between the Refining Divine Realm experts. Boom! The strength of the Luozhou Alliance Leader was formidable, as he was not among the weaker ones at the peak of the Refining Divine Realm. He had forcefully repelled the Great Elder of the Red Nether Sect. Moreover, apart from the Luozhou Alliance Leader, the Wan Shi Alliance had other peak Refining Divine Realm martial artists who engaged with the Azure Cloud Kingdom's powerful figures but found themselves at a disadvantage. "Today, I will kill you!" The Luozhou Alliance Leader, exuding unmatched dominance, charged at the Great Elder of the Red Nether Sect, aiming to kill this top-tier spiritual sect leader and boost the morale and spirits of the Luozhou loose cultivators. "Arrogant!" The Great Elder of the Red Nether Sect was infuriated. "The remnants of Ten Thousand Stars are unforgivable!" "Hah, I may practice the Ten Thousand Stars Martial Institute techniques, but I am not one of their people. Our Wan Shi Alliance is not the Ten Thousand Stars Martial Institute!" The Luozhou Alliance Leader sneered coldly and unleashed his martial secret technique, overpowering the Great Elder of the Red Nether Sect and forcing him into retreat. "The remnants of Ten Thousand Stars or the Wan Shi Alliance, both are lowly loose cultivators daring to defy us? Today, we will show you that the might of the spiritual sects cannot be provoked!" Suddenly, a cold, harsh voice echoed. Swish! A beam of sword light traversed the sky with overwhelming destruction, targeting the Luozhou Alliance Leader. Boom! The face of the Luozhou Alliance Leader changed dramatically. He hastily defended himself, but this sword, with its mighty destructive force, shattered his defenses in an instant. "Not good!" Fear gripped the Luozhou Alliance Leader's heart as he frantically countered the strike, but he was forced to retreat continuously, in a wretched state! "The Grand Annihilation Sword, wielded by the Clan Master of Sword Sanctuary, Hong!" The Luozhou Alliance Leader gritted his teeth and spoke in a somber voice. Hong arrived with his sword, and two elders from the Sword Sanctuary following behind, charged in to confront the Wan Shi Alliance's Refining Divine Realm experts. Swish! Within moments, a martial artist at the early Refining Divine Realm was slain on the spot! "Defiant to your betters, such sins are unforgivable. Today, you shall sharpen our swords!" Hong lifted his sword and swung down, the powerful sword light illuminating the sky, his strength clearly surpassing that of the Great Elder from the Red Nether Sect! The Luozhou Alliance Leader felt a sinking feeling in his heart. The reputation of Sword Sanctuary was true to its stature, as part of the Thousand Martial Hall—Hong’s prowess was well-deserved, beyond his capacity to contend with. "Alliance Leader, let me assist you!" A peak Refining Divine Realm expert from the Wan Shi Alliance rushed over. The battle continued, but even with assistance, the Luozhou Alliance Leader and his supporter were steadily overwhelmed by Hong, suffering from numerous injuries. Initially, the Wan Shi Alliance had the upper hand, but now they were clearly facing defeat, causing many loose cultivators outside the Wan Shi Alliance to cease and desist, fearing further engagement. Some even turned on the Wan Shi Alliance members, hoping to curry favor with the spiritual sects! The Luozhou Alliance Leader coughed blood, his face pale and breath labored while his ally had already lost an arm and was severely wounded. Several dozen Refining Divine Realm experts from the Wan Shi Alliance had already fallen, mostly under the swords of Sword Sanctuary elders! "Sword Sanctuary!" The Luozhou Alliance Leader harbored bitter resentment. This battle marked the downfall of the Wan Shi Alliance. All the foundations they had established in Luozhou over the years were unlikely to survive! The foundation and strength of the spiritual sects and families are difficult to challenge! "Lowly loose cultivators should accept their humble lot. Dreaming of rebellion only leads to a path of destruction. Today, we exterminate you!" Hong's beard flowed as his sword light illuminated the air, a fierce ray slicing through the skies. The Grand Annihilation Sword! The Luozhou Alliance Leader gritted his teeth but felt powerless; he couldn't withstand this sword strike and felt his impending doom! "Lowly loose cultivators you say? Are spiritual sect martial artists so noble, then?" At this moment, a soft sigh was heard. A cane, like the light of a bright moon, tapped onto the sword beam in the air, causing it to shatter with a thunderous crash. Hong's eyes narrowed as he looked towards the elder who intervened. A silver glow emerged behind the elder, like a crescent moon—albeit incomplete and imperfect. Even so, the elder's aura remained extremely strong, incredibly formidable. "And who might you be?" The elder replied lightly, "The remnant of Ten Thousand Stars, as you say!" "Well, well, today we will cut down this remnant of Ten Thousand Stars!" Hong laughed coldly, advancing with his sword, yet as the old man's cane tapped out, the invocation of a strong force akin to a crescent moon poured forth, impervious to the Grand Annihilation Sword that could break anything. Boom! In just a few brief exchanges, Hong fell at a disadvantage, but the elder found it equally difficult to claim victory, as their strengths were closely matched. --- **New Terms:** 1. **Wan Shi Alliance Leader (洛州盟主)**: Mentioned as an authoritative force leading the Wan Shi Alliance, symbolizing its rebellion against the spiritual sects. Alternate translation could be "Luozhou Alliance Leader." 2. **Grand Annihilation Sword (大破滅劍)**: Captures the formidable destructive nature of the technique used by Hong, indicating a sword skill meant for extreme obliteration. 3. **Crescent Moon (殘缺的明月)**: Represents the incomplete yet potent power of the elder, serving as a metaphor to reflect his past influence and current strength. **Suggestions for List Update:** - Consider adding **Wan Shi Alliance Leader** and **Grand Annihilation Sword** to the list for better continuity of narrative roles and martial techniques. **Puns or Word Plays:** - The phrase "摧古拉朽" vividly conveys an overwhelming force, drawing from an ancient expression that translates literally to "tear apart decayed wood," thereby depicting unstoppable momentum crashing through obstacles. - "低賤散修" within dialogue is a repeated insult, reflecting societal contempt towards loose cultivators. Here it underscores the juxtaposition between self-perception of the spiritual sects and the rise of the marginalized.