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

## Chapter 292: Divine Arts Jade Talismans, Going Separate Ways Li Xuan gazed ahead with a gentle smile and said, "Competing among the prodigies and traversing the Spiritual Domain to meet the world's strongest warriors—refining oneself through martial battles—is your path to invincibility. "The path of martial battles is the most efficient way to comprehend and build oneself. "You have already grasped the wonders of Divine Arts; thus today, as your master, I shall impart to you the martial arts that surpass even Divine Arts." Upon hearing this, Xu Yan was immediately thrilled. "Master, I will surely comprehend the martial arts through the battles of prodigies." Li Xuan smiled warmly, "I’m pleased to see such confidence in you, my disciple. But remember not to get obsessed; steady steps will eventually lead you to the summit." "Yes, Master!" Xu Yan nodded earnestly. Li Xuan felt reassured by his prodigious disciple Xu Yan, who possessed extraordinary comprehension and creativity, and was not reckless, already having a wealth of martial experience. "The Divine Arts Realm signifies the principles of one’s martial way; beyond it is the realm where one employs the laws of Heaven and Earth without being constrained by them. "To transcend Heaven and Earth, how can one be shackled by its laws? One must use these laws without being limited by them." Li Xuan spoke each word solemnly. Xu Yan felt a tremor in his heart, "Indeed, Master has transcended Heaven and Earth!" His Master, having transcended Heaven and Earth, could hardly exercise his full strength lest the world itself could not bear it, choosing to suppress his realm to that of an ordinary person, only sparring evenly with opponents of the same level. Could it be that the pinnacle of martial arts is the transcendence of Heaven and Earth?! "No, Master has said that there is no end to martial arts, and transcending Heaven and Earth is not its pinnacle!" Xu Yan thought excitedly. "I should set a goal to transcend Heaven and Earth within a century!" At this moment, Xu Yan set a martial aspiration: in a hundred years, transcendence of Heaven and Earth! Li Xuan continued, "Beyond Divine Arts lies the Divine Appearance Realm, where one uses their principles to govern the laws of Heaven and Earth, transforming them into a martial Divine Appearance..." He carefully imparted to Xu Yan the intricacies of the Divine Appearance Realm martial arts, which included the Heavenly Earth Law Patterns he had synthesized for this purpose. Without these patterns, fabricating a martial Divine Appearance would be extremely challenging. However, with them, it seemed possible to discern the flaws within the laws, allowing one's martial principles to merge with and control these laws. This brought about a state of compatibility; once Xu Yan comprehended it, the cultivation of the Divine Appearance Realm would become more manageable. Xu Yan diligently memorized the martial way of the Divine Appearance Realm, alongside those patterns. As he was not new to them, it took him only a little time to commit these to memory. To facilitate the memorization process, Li Xuan had meticulously selected and simplified these patterns. Given Xu Yan’s natural talent, memorizing them didn’t pose significant difficulty. As Xu Yan immersed himself in understanding the Divine Appearance Realm's martial arts, Li Xuan patiently awaited, refraining from transmitting the Void Shattering Realm martial arts before Xu Yan achieved a measure of comprehension with the Divine Appearance Realm. "Master, the martial arts are memorized within my heart," Xu Yan finally opened his eyes and respectfully reported. "Good, very good!" Li Xuan expressed his satisfaction. "Since you have committed the martial arts of the Divine Appearance Realm to memory, allow me to convey to you the practices that go beyond the Divine Appearance Realm," Li Xuan continued. "Yes, Master!" Xu Yan's heart was filled with eagerness. The Divine Appearance Realm was already incredibly formidable, with the ability to wield the laws of Heaven and Earth. Could the realm beyond it lead to the transcendence of Heaven and Earth? "Beyond the Divine Appearance Realm lies the Void Shattering Realm, where space itself is fragmented and one travels through the void..." Li Xuan explained the capabilities of the Void Shattering Realm. To break through space and move across the void, Xu Yan was astounded. Upon reaching this realm, one would traverse space itself, traveling thousands, tens of thousands, or millions of miles in an instant... Though not yet transcending Heaven and Earth, one disregards its space and laws, moving freely within its boundaries as one pleases. "To fracture space and pierce through the laws requires immense power, reliant on one’s martial principles..." Li Xuan proceeded to impart the Void Shattering Realm's martial arts. By one’s martial principles, break Heaven and Earth's laws, roam the void—this defines the Void Shattering Realm, which centers on empowering one's martial principles. Li Xuan meticulously passed on the details of Void Shattering martial arts to Xu Yan. Given the formidable nature of this realm, and fearing Xu Yan might overlook something, Li Xuan broke precedence and explained it all over again. Xu Yan immersed himself in the marvels of the Void Shattering Realm, picturing a scene unfolding in his mind. Taking a step forward, the space cleaves open, his form vanishing, only to step out into another distant space an instant later. Even a strike sends a golden dragon piercing space, emerging to annihilate a foe across expanses of space. The more he pondered, the more exhilarated he became. The Void Shattering Realm was truly overwhelming. Upon entering the Void Shattering Realm, if returning to the Inner Domain from the Spiritual Domain or vice versa, one would no longer need to pass through the Gates of the Spiritual Domain, simply traverse space directly. "Master, I have memorized it all!" Xu Yan gathered his fervor, humbly declaring. "Good!" Li Xuan nodded, extremely pleased internally. After imparting all martial arts knowledge, Li Xuan turned and left, allowing Xu Yan to continue contemplating and absorbing what he’d learned. "My hopes in martial arts rest entirely on you," Li Xuan thought expectantly. "If I reach the Void Shattering Realm," he mused, contemplating the extent of his potential at such a height. The Divine Arts Realm already held tremendous power; what then could one achieve at the Void Shattering Realm? Though this was something he had crafted, even Li Xuan found it challenging to envisage the true might of the Void Shattering Realm. Ultimately, the depths of power it yielded lay in Xu Yan’s comprehension and realization. "What miraculous feats would the Divine Arts of the Void Shattering Realm hold?" Li Xuan pondered, concluding that if ever that day came, when executing the Heaven and Earth Shattering Technique, space would directly fracture, standing majestically amidst the void—a power unimaginable. Meanwhile, Xu Yan hadn’t yet embarked on his path to invincibility, but a prodigious talent had emerged atop the Spiritual Domain’s rankings. Yu Changfeng of Sword Cave. Having slain a Refining Divine Heavenly Being realm prodigy of the Luozhou Alliance, he boasted a challenge to all prodigious freelance practitioners worldwide, asserting that those who couldn’t withstand ten of his moves were unworthy of the title. His arrogance matched his strength. Following Yu Changfeng’s actions, Wutu of the Three Supreme Towers also emerged with prowess, challenging and defeating the prodigies of the Wan Shi Alliance decisively. The momentum of the Spiritual Sects surged, disdaining calls against freelance prodigious talents from every direction. Thus began the clash of prodigies. Still, the top prodigies of the transcendent Spiritual Sects remained secluded, with not even a whisper of their names. It was common knowledge that the peak prodigies of transcendent Spiritual Sects shared one trait—being of the spiritual physique! Only those possessing such gifts could ascend to the position of top prodigy within these imperious Spiritual Sects. While the Martial Arts World of the Spiritual Domain was bustling, Yuzhou remained calm. The death of Huang Liang seemed not to unsettle the murky waters, as the Thousand Martial Hall believed him slain by Wan Shi Alliance’s elites; no further retaliation came upon Yuzhou from invincible beings. On this day, Xu Yan was ready to challenge the prodigies of the Spiritual Domain, strategizing breakthroughs into the Divine Essence Realm. Meng Chong shared his resolve. "Although the prodigy contest has begun with rules, the world abounds with shameless individuals, especially the conceited Spiritual Sects. Although I won’t intervene personally, I can provide you with some safeguarding." Li Xuan addressed his disciples standing before him. With a wave of his hand, four jade talismans emerged. "These jade talismans embody a power akin to the one I wielded against Huang Liang. Absorb them into your bodies; should you face mortal peril, they shall ensure your survival. "But remember, do not become arrogant or rash because of possessing these Divine Art jade talismans. A warrior is not a brash thug, as I’ve taught you many times." The Divine Arts jade talismans were Li Xuan's assurance for his disciples venturing into the Spiritual Domain. "Yes, Master!" the disciples replied respectfully. Accepting the talismans, they absorbed them, after which Xu Yan respectfully reaffirmed, "Master, rest assured, I will defeat all prodigies of the Spiritual Domain and ascend its summit. "I shall trample the Thousand Martial Hall underfoot and forge them into stepping stones." Firm in his confidence, Xu Yan, perfected in the Divine Intent Realm, set his first target on Yu Changfeng of Sword Cave! He would show the Martial World of the Spiritual Domain that within the Sword Dao, he, the Sword God Xu Yan, would reign supreme! "Master, I too will demonstrate to the Martial World what a Physical Body Martial Path is, and what the Blade Path means!" Meng Chong declared, patting his chest confidently. ### New Terms and Translation Choices: 1. Heaven and Earth Shattering Technique (法天象地) - This technique was translated to "Heaven and Earth Shattering Technique” maintaining the idea of imbuing oneself with an enormous presence parallel to Heaven and Earth. 2. Yu Changfeng (餘長鋒) - Name was translated directly to preserve original form. 3. Luozhou (洛州) - Place name kept as it was originally presented to retain authenticity in the narrative context. 4. Three Supreme Towers (三絕樓) - Translated directly to suggest its high stature and uniqueness, though "Three Unique Towers" might have been a more literal choice. 5. Wutu (巫屠) - A character name retained fully in its native form. Suggestions for List Adjustments: - Inclusion of "Yu Changfeng" as a character context and potential counterpart to established figures. - Adjustment to include "Heaven and Earth Shattering Technique" as it bears significant narrative importance and distinguishes itself from typical martial arts techniques. "Master, just you watch. I will become the first of the Wan Shi Alliance, and the position of Chief Alliance Master will inevitably be mine. I will lead the Wan Shi Alliance to surpass the transcendent Spiritual Sect," Fang Hao declared with a respectful expression, his gaze burning with determination. "I'll stick with Master!" Su Lingxiu said with a playful smile, her eyes gleaming. "Meow!" Red Cat leaped forth at this moment. With his paw, he started writing on the ground. "The beasts in this domain are too pathetic. They need a real king. I, Red Cat, will lead them to rise and become the Greater Beast King of the Spiritual Domain. I'm off to Tianlingzhou!" After writing, Red Cat nuzzled Li Xuan's ankle, acting cute. Li Xuan's mouth twitched as he raised a jade ruyi and lightly tapped Red Cat’s head. He said in exasperation, "You’re a tiger, do you truly think you’re a cat?" Red Cat ceased his meowing and instead let out a low tiger growl. "Alright, if you have such ambition, then off you go," Li Xuan acknowledged. Although Red Cat's current strength was insufficient to claim kingship, venturing out would hasten his growth. Moreover, spreading Greater Beast Arts in the Spiritual Domain was beneficial; anyone practicing them would be under his control, and he could command all Greater Beasts at will. He extended his hand and bestowed a Divine Arts Jade Talisman upon Red Cat for protection. Red Cat was absolutely thrilled. Yu Xiaolong and Little Ha looked on enviously at Xu Yan, while one squatted before Fang Hao, croaking lightly. Li Xuan’s mouth twitched; these three pets had truly become quite the characters. Yu Xiaolong and Little Ha had picked up a few bad habits from Red Cat. With a casual flick, Li Xuan tossed two more Divine Arts Jade Talismans, waving them off, "Go!" Yu Xiaolong and Little Ha rejoiced, respectfully bowed, and hurried to stand behind Red Cat, appearing eager to embark on some grand endeavor with their king. "Meow meow!" Red Cat ran over to act cute before Su Lingxiu. For the sake of pills... "Red Cat has such noble aspirations, that’s wonderful, take it," Su Lingxiu said, handing him a storage ring. With a gesture, she dismissed the formation of the estate. "Junior brother, where are you heading?" Xu Yan queried Měng Chōng. "I'm off to seek out Wutu of the Three Supreme Towers, to see how formidable his blade techniques are," Měng Chōng grinned gleefully. "I’m going to find Yu Changfeng," Xu Yan stated with a nod, stepping out and vanishing from the estate. Měng Chōng also soared into the sky, disappearing in an instant. Fang Hao, accompanied by Yue Changming, headed towards the headquarters of the Yuzhou Alliance to formally stake his claim as Alliance Leader and to partake in the clash among prodigies. Red Cat, along with Yu Xiaolong and Little Ha, swiftly departed as well. Since entering the Spiritual Domain, they finally ventured towards their separate destinies today, embarking on their respective paths. Yue'er chose not to follow her grandfather, opting instead to stay with Su Lingxiu. Li Xuan felt a tinge of emotion as he realized his disciples were finally forging their own paths. Even Red Cat, the pet, now harbored grand ambitions. Four disciples, and only Su Lingxiu remained by his side. "Master, are we staying here?" Su Lingxiu asked, blinking her eyes. She wished to leave, to not remain sequestered in the estate any longer. "Aren't you planning to practice medicine? Then head to Luozhou. After the great battle there, many are injured. It'll suffice for you to accumulate experience in the Dan Medical Alchemy Martial Path," Li Xuan advised with a smile. Given the vastness of the Spiritual Domain, it was time to see the world. "Yes, Master!" Su Lingxiu replied with excitement, beginning to pack up. Stone Two, Zhou Ying, and Měng Shūshū felt a bit downcast—lacking strength, they couldn’t venture out easily, always at risk of being killed. "When will I ever break into the Divine Intent Realm?" Měng Shūshū sighed. Even breaking into the Divine Intent Realm wouldn't grant them the strength to roam freely in the Spiritual Domain. After all, unlike Xu Yan or Měng Chōng, they didn't possess such powerful strength. Yue'er, too, was thrilled; she and Su Lingxiu had become great friends, and she was learning Dan Medical knowledge, offering her help where needed. Moreover, her strength was notable. Being at the Refining Divine Heavenly Being stage, she could defeat those in the mid stages and contend well against those in the later stages. After all, she had the spiritual physique. Li Xuan suddenly regretted letting Red Cat leave; now he lacked a steed! "Master, what about without Red Cat?" Su Lingxiu wondered, realizing her master might miss having a ride. "Never mind, walking it is," Li Xuan sighed resignedly, appearing a bit helpless. He stowed his chair with a flick of his wrist, playing with the jade ruyi as he stepped away. Su Lingxiu and Yue’er followed closely. Stone Two, Zhou Ying, and Měng Shūshū trudged along, filled with helplessness. Weakness meant slower speed and needing others’ care. The sensation of being weak was unbearably frustrating. They reminisced about Red Cat; had he stayed, none of these issues would exist. Outside the capital city of the State of Zheng, the estate lay deserted until three days later when Emperor Zheng cautiously entered. Finding it empty, he inexplicably felt relieved. After all, having an entity akin to a divine demon residing next door was nerve-wracking, constantly fearing calamity striking any moment! Now, with the occupants gone, he finally set his mind at ease. In Yuzhou, Li Xuan and his group strolled leisurely, admiring the scenery of the Spiritual Domain, while Su Lingxiu occasionally harvested spiritual herbs they found. Upon reaching major cities, they would wander around, overhearing discussions about prodigy battles, mostly focusing on the Spiritual Sect prodigies, with little expectation set for the Wan Shi Alliance. Due to the necessity of accommodating Stone Two and the others, their progress was slow, still far from reaching Luozhou. On one such day, a spirit beast descended from the sky. Li Xuan looked up, a smile breaking across his face—here came his steed! Stuck trying to write, feeling frustrated~~ ### New Terms and Translation Choices: 1. Jade Ruyi (玉如意) - Maintained the term "Jade Ruyi" as it is a culturally significant object symbolizing power and good fortune. 2. Yu Xiaolong (玉小龍) and Little Ha (小哈) - Kept their names unchanged to preserve cultural and individual identity within the narrative context. 3. Yue'er (月兒) - Translated directly as a reference to a personal character, keeping the Chinese name to retain intimacy. 4. Yuzhou Alliance (玉州盟) - Used the term "Yuzhou Alliance" indicating the coalition in Yuzhou. 5. State of Zheng (鄭國) - Translated as “State of Zheng” for continuity with existing place names while keeping historical connotations. Suggestions for List Adjustments: - Consider adding "Jade Ruyi" given its recurrence and significance within the character interactions. - Confirm inclusion of characters such as Yue’er with their given narratives and alternate paths as part of the developing storylines.