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

Chapter 291: The Battle of Prodigies, Xu Yan's Path of Invincibility Xin Mengrou's silhouette vanished among the clouds, but she revealed a piece of news: that Divine Bridge, the Transcendent Spiritual Sect could summon it to descend in advance! The faces of the three Thousand Martial Hall Masters were extremely solemn. Wu Tiannan's strength was beyond their expectations. Killing him would be exceedingly challenging. Initially, he was entangled by the Martial Institute, but now, alone and without any ties or weaknesses, he poses a significant threat to them. Even utilizing the full might of the Transcendent Spiritual Sect's resources may not be enough to eliminate him. If they provoke him, the Transcendent Spiritual Sect could face terrifying retaliation, not just the sect disciples, even the most powerful who have condensed Heaven and Earth Spiritual Energy could be slain. "Isn't the competition among the prodigies a good thing? Let the young ones battle it out. Besides, the Transcendent Spiritual Sect, are you actually afraid of rogue cultivators? "Weren't you capable of destroying the Ten Thousand Stars Martial Institute? Has the Spiritual Sect fallen so low that they can't stand on their own anymore?" Fu Tianhai spoke leisurely. "Fu Tianhai, your Yuntian Bihai City is also part of the Transcendent Spiritual Sect, so why are you making these snide remarks here?" the Master of Thundercloud Pavilion retorted angrily. "My Bihai City is different from you. We are in Bihai, not in the Eighteen Provinces, and we don't oppress rogue cultivators like you do. "In Bihai City, we only judge talent and strength, not background," Fu Tianhai replied with a shrug. "Hmph!" The Master of Thundercloud Pavilion snorted coldly, his face dark with anger. "The time for the Spiritual Sect's martial gathering is near, isn't it? If the Spiritual Sect is capable, they should defeat all entrants from the Wan Shi Alliance. "Then there would be no prodigies from the Wan Shi Alliance who could ascend to the Divine Bridge," Fu Tianhai smiled brightly. "So, what do you think of this suggestion? If you really fight it out, Ta-Miao may not step in, and Da Zhou likely won't either, since Da Zhou isn't the Spiritual Sect. "You three alone cannot stop him, no matter how deep your resources are," Fu Tianhai turned to the Hall Master of Thousand Martial with a smile, "Isn't it time for the prodigies from the Thousand Martial Hall to descend the mountains, walk the Spiritual Domain, and challenge the prodigies of the Spiritual Sect? "I wonder how many prodigies your Thousand Martial Hall have this generation, and if they can dominate the martial arts scene? "The prodigies of Bihai City are waiting for your youngsters from the Thousand Martial Hall." Wu Tiannan held a book in his hands again, losing his previous imposing demeanor, instead looking scholarly like a teacher, gently tapping the book's pages with a ruler. He waited for the decision of the three Hall Masters of Thousand Martial. "Fine, very well, let's let the young ones fight it out, and see how many prodigies your Wan Shi Alliance's rogue cultivators have, and see how many you, Wu Tiannan, can mentor. "If your Ten Thousand Stars Martial Institute could be defeated before, your Wan Shi Alliance can be defeated now." The Thousand Martial Hall Master said with a cold laugh. "That's the spirit," Wu Tiannan smiled, "A battle of prodigies, what a wonderful martial atmosphere. Let the old folks stay out of it, everything according to the rules. "Victory or defeat is the business of the young, and so is life and death." He said this with increasing sharpness, "However, let me make it clear beforehand, any old folk who intervenes, using the strong to bully the weak, killing the prodigies of the Wan Shi Alliance... for every one killed, I will kill three. "Let's see who can stop me, who can protect your prodigies!" The three Hall Masters of Thousand Martial all turned serious. Wu Tiannan was completely letting go, even saying such things outright, unlike the restrained times of the Martial Institute. Precisely because of this, Wu Tiannan was a significant threat. "Hah! Let the young battle it out among themselves. We elders shall not intervene," the Master of Thundercloud Pavilion snorted. "Your Thundercloud Manor is somewhat trustworthy, but the Thousand Martial Hall is most shameless. I can't quite trust it, so I'll be keeping an eye on the Thousand Martial Hall," Wu Tiannan said with a smile. Fu Tianhai interjected at this moment to mediate, "Alright, alright, the old people of the Thousand Martial Hall were shameless in the past, but the Thousand Martial Hall Master is not shameless, at least there's some trust. "Though occasionally involved in petty theft and mischief, it's of no real consequence. They've never done things like sneak attacks, deceit, rape, or plundering," Fu Tianhai laughed awkwardly. The Thousand Martial Hall Master’s face turned livid as he gritted his teeth and said, "Fu Tianhai!" Fu Tianhai smiled sheepishly, but then his expression turned serious, "Thousand Martial Hall Master, do restrain your people, and abide by the rules!" "Hmph!" the Thousand Martial Hall Master snorted again. ... The battle between Wan Shi Alliance and the Spiritual Sect has temporarily concluded, and the matter of prodigy battles has been brought up again. Both sides will let their prodigies battle to determine the winner, the ownership of a place. Just like the prodigy battles of the Ten Thousand Stars Martial Institute of the past. Prodigies under thirty years old can engage in any battle, but guardians and the powerful ones associated with prodigies are not allowed to intervene, nor to act with the strong bullying the weak! Moreover, this time the prodigy contest is not limited to the Wan Shi Alliance and the Spiritual Sect but open to all prodigies of the Spiritual Domain. The top ten ranked prodigies will receive significant rewards and mysterious great opportunities! The battle of prodigies is set to begin soon, lasting for ten years! With the prodigy contests restarting, some spiritual sects are intensifying their nurturing of prodigies and starting to recruit talented rogue cultivators, representing the Spiritual Sect to fight, and receiving the sect’s support. It seems like rogue prodigies across the world have a chance to change their fate. Due to the Spiritual Sect’s power and the deep-rooted concept of ruling the Spiritual Domain, many rogue cultivators with exceptional talent choose to join the Spiritual Sect, viewing it as a step from the bottom to the top. As for the Wan Shi Alliance, there hasn't been much movement, nor have any prodigies been announced. However, names of top prodigies from major spiritual families in the Spiritual Domain have begun to spread widely, gaining popularity and paving the way for the prodigy contest. Interestingly, names of prodigies from the Transcendent Spiritual Sect remain unannounced. Yet, names of prodigies from some subordinate sects of the Transcendent Spiritual Sect have begun to surface. For instance, the prodigy Cai Yunhong from the Cangyun Dynasty under Thundercloud Manor, possessing the first of the Ten Major Physiques, the Divine Strength Physique, a Refining Divine Heavenly Being. Also, the strongest prodigy of this era, Yu Changfeng, from the Sword Cave, a subordinate of the Thousand Martial Hall, a Refining Divine Heavenly Being. The Thousand Martial Hall’s Three Absolute Tower, with three prodigies in Blade, Spear, and Fist—Wu Tu, Lu Yi, and Bao Sheng. This is clearly the Spiritual Sect trying to create momentum, as some senior martial artists nostalgically recall that era of prodigy battles. And they seem to remember the era of sect versus sect martial gatherings. Following this, a prodigy ranking list appeared, listing the top thousand prodigies of the Spiritual Domain, though initially without names. Only by defeating other prodigies can one climb the prodigy list, and the defeated prodigy must be a Refining Divine Heavenly Being. Below the Refining Divine Heavenly Being Realm, one no longer fits to participate in the prodigy battles. The situation in the Spiritual Domain is changing rapidly, from the fierce battles between the Wan Shi Alliance and the Spiritual Sect, with the appearance of powerful warriors, to the sudden cessation of hostilities and commencement of the prodigy battles, all within a short period. From the announcement of the prodigy battles to the Spiritual Sect building momentum, followed by the unveiling of the prodigy ranking list, all happened in under half a month. ... Within the manor, the news had arrived. Li Xuan couldn't help but sigh. This prodigy battle seemed set up for Xu Yan and Meng Chong, even though Xu Yan is only at the peak of the Divine Intent Realm, he can soon accumulate the foundation to break through to the Divine Essence Realm. Meng Chong’s physical martial path has unparalleled defense; the prodigies of the Spiritual Domain would struggle to harm him. Moreover, in battle, he can surely increase his strength and break through to the second level of the Great Sun Immortal Golden Body. Fang Hao is no shabby fighter either, fighting against a Refining Divine Heavenly Being with no problem. His Marvelous Mysterious Scheme and formation techniques, once deployed, would leave the spiritual domain prodigies baffled. "If Su Lingxiu joins, the top four prodigies would undoubtedly be my disciples," Li Xuan thought happily. As for the rules of the prodigy contest, prohibiting the strong from targeting the weak, not allowing guardians or the prodigy’s forces to interfere, whether the Spiritual Sect will abide by this remains to be seen. Nevertheless, since the Transcendent Spiritual Sect is somewhat compromising by initiating the prodigy battles, there must be reasons behind it. Xu Yan and others were equally excited, ready to challenge the Spiritual Domain prodigies, and now the prodigy contest has come, and so has a ranking list. "The Three Absolute Tower, the top spiritual sect under the Thousand Martial Hall, has the ultimate three in Blade, Spear, and Fist—their Blade from Wu Tu, and Fist from Bao Sheng, I must meet them," Meng Chong said enthusiastically, scratching his head. "The Sword Cave is also a subordinate to the Thousand Martial Hall, and the prodigy of sword dao Yu Changfeng will be my first challenge," Xu Yan chose his target with excitement. Xu Yan was eager to challenge Yu Changfeng and let Sword Cave witness the true sword dao! Fang Hao was at the final critical stage of crafting his Marvelous Mysterious Scheme weapon casket. --- ### New Translated Terms: 1. Xin Mengrou (辛梦柔) - A character whose name is retained as Xin Mengrou. The name suggests delicacy and dreams. Alternate translations could include "Dreamlike Xin" but retaining original emphasis. 2. Cai Yunhong (蔡云虹) - Prodigy of Cangyun Dynasty, part of the Thundercloud Manor, possessing Divine Strength Physique (神力宝体). Name Cai Yunhong suggests colorful and vigorous energy. Literal translation could denote "Colorful Cloud Rainbow." 3. Ten Major Physiques (十大宝体) - Referring to a classification of endowed physical forms, of which the Divine Strength Physique is the first. ### Notes: - The term "prodigy" was chosen for 天驕 (Tian Jiao) to emphasize extraordinary talent or divine-given prowess, as "Tian Jiao" literally means "pride of the heavens," often used to describe someone exceptionally gifted. - The expression "snide remarks" captures the sarcastic and derisive tone of "說什麼風涼話" (literally: making cold remarks). - "Prodigy Battles" is selected to maintain the emphasis on competition among young, talented cultivators as a central theme. - The scene underlines the complexity of martial politics, reflecting alliances and rivalries, showcasing Wu Tiannan as a formidable and strategic figure. With a thunderous boom, the weapon casket burst into a radiant glow. Fang Hao injected a few droplets of his essence blood into the casket, and a pattern appeared on its surface—an imprint of the Marvelous Mysterious Scheme (奇門) within his body. "Collect!" he exclaimed excitedly, pointing his finger. The wondrous weapon casket shrank instantly, transforming into a beam of light that entered his body. "I did it!" Fang Hao's face was full of excitement. Creating this Marvelous Mysterious Scheme weapon casket had consumed immense time and effort, and he had depleted much of the Yu God Sect and the Su family's treasures. Especially some rare materials, nearly exhausted. But it was worth it. Yue Changming and Yue'er looked on in amazement. What sorcery was this? What kind of spiritual weapon was crafted that could be stored within one's body? "Elder Yue, you are now Grand Elder of my Alliance in Yuzhou. If you need any weapons, just let me know," Fang Hao said with a smile to Yue Changming. Yue Changming, who had joined him to protect him, now held a prominent position in the Alliance. "Thank you, Alliance Leader!" Yue Changming replied, hiding his excitement. "I used to wield a Crescent Blade that was destroyed. I would like another Crescent Blade crafted." He described the appearance of the Crescent Blade. "No problem," Fang Hao nodded. This Crescent Blade was originally a pair. Crafting them wouldn't be difficult, and their grade would surpass that of Yue Changming's former Crescent Blade. The power would be far greater, surpassing what could be measured by the spiritual weapons of the Spiritual Domain. After all, the spiritual weapons crafted by Fang Hao were leagues beyond what the Spiritual Domain considered spiritual weapons. "I want one too! I want one too!" Yue'er excitedly chimed in, pulling out a pile of crafting materials from her storage pouch. "I have these materials for crafting." "No problem!" Fang Hao agreed, as Yue'er wanted a whip and a pair of Crescent Blades crafted. Fang Hao agreed instantly and began the crafting process. Red Cat, Yu Xiaolong, and Little Ha all gathered around. ... Li Xuan walked calmly, holding a jade ruyi behind his back, climbing the mountain beside the manor with relaxed steps, Xu Yan following closely. The disciple was about to traverse the Spiritual Domain, challenging its prodigies and climbing to its pinnacle. For Xu Yan, his challenge was not just the prodigies of the Spiritual Domain but also its powerful figures. Including the supreme beings! His path to invincibility began here. Thus, Li Xuan intended to impart the knowledge of realms beyond the Divine Arts Realm to Xu Yan, giving him the opportunity to comprehend them as he journeyed along his path. "The Divine Appearance Realm is about harnessing the Laws of Heaven and Earth, materializing them into a martial divine appearance. Beyond the Divine Appearance Realm, detachment from these laws is not possible, but one can break free from their constraints. "This constraint is the space of Heaven and Earth. One breaks through space, traversing the void, unimpeded by laws, transcending them entirely. "This marks the beginning of transcending the constraints of the Laws of Heaven and Earth." After days of contemplation, Li Xuan had determined the realms beyond the Divine Appearance Realm. The Divine Appearance Realm transforms martial laws into a divine appearance, wielding the Laws of Heaven and Earth. Beyond this realm, one is unbound by spatial constraints, traversing laws, unimpeded. Shattering space, moving through the void, existing beyond the Laws of Heaven and Earth, unfettered! Towards transcending Heaven and Earth, a further step! Above the Divine Appearance Realm is the Void Shattering Realm! In the Void Shattering Realm, one breaks the spatial boundaries of Heaven and Earth, moves through void space, disregarding the constraints of the Laws of Heaven and Earth. Although one in the Void Shattering Realm hasn't fully transcended Heaven and Earth, they outstrip the Laws of Heaven and Earth, unbound by spatial constraints, nearing a true transcendence. Of course, breaking through to the Void Shattering Realm is not easy. Li Xuan looked at the information on the Void Shattering Realm given by the Great Dao Golden Book. The martial methods for the Void Shattering Realm: Method Completeness: Medium. Realm Connectivity: Upper-Medium. Comprehension Difficulty: High. Cultivation Difficulty: High+. The cultivation difficulty provided by the Great Dao Golden Book signals how challenging it is to cultivate the Void Shattering Realm, considering it's about breaking spatial confines and moving through the void. Disregarding the Laws of Heaven and Earth, unbound by its space. Nonetheless, Li Xuan had confidence in Xu Yan. Though the cultivation difficulty was high, once comprehended, Xu Yan could receive feedback from the Great Dao Golden Book, helping him break through to the Void Shattering Realm. For Xu Yan, having understood it, cultivating it was simply a matter of time. "I still have no clear direction for what follows after the Void Shattering Realm. Skipping too many realms is not recommended. With higher martial realm enhancement, subsequent realms become easier to contrive. "For now, I'll pass down the Divine Appearance Realm and the Void Shattering Realm. Hopefully, Xu Yan can comprehend them before conquering the top of the Spiritual Domain on his path of invincibility." Li Xuan pondered internally. He had outlined Xu Yan's subsequent martial cultivation, but not yet the further progression of Meng Chong's physical martial path beyond the Great Sun Immortal Golden Body. This needed time to be figured out as Meng Chong wasn't close to perfecting the third level of the Great Sun Immortal Golden Body yet. There was ample time to deliberate on the subsequent cultivation for the physical martial path. "My disciple, it seems you are eager to meet the prodigies of the Spiritual Domain, aren't you?" Li Xuan said with a gentle smile. "Yes, Master!" Xu Yan replied with eager anticipation. --- ### New Translated Terms: 1. Crescent Blade (半月刃) - A weapon described to be shaped like a crescent, likely due to its curved blade resembling a half-moon. Alternate translations could include "Half-Moon Blade." 2. Jade Ruyi (玉如意) - A ruyi holds cultural significance and symbolizes good fortune and power, often depicted in Buddhist iconography and Chinese art. 3. Marvelous Mysterious Scheme (奇門) - Retained emphasis on the mysterious and unfathomable aspects associated with this concept. Known for its association with strategic traps or unique formations. 4. Essence Blood (精血) - Often refers to one's vital life force or spiritual essence, used here as a resource for crafting and empowering items. ### Notes: - Xu Yan’s path is identified as a journey towards invincibility by challenging prodigies and powers, introducing his formidable ambition. - The description "Great Sun Immortal Golden Body" portrays a sovereign realm of physical cultivation linked to Meng Chong, emphasizing invincibility and robustness. - Li Xuan provides guidance on ascending the realms beyond mastery, acknowledging the complexities of transcending natural laws, signifying their towering journey through martial arts.