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

### Chapter 317: The Secret of the Spiritual Physique, Blade Intent Follows the Heart "I'll temporarily believe your nonsense." Xu Yan shook his head, choosing not to delve into Cui Huayu's background. "I've heard that all the prodigies of the Transcendent Spiritual Sect possess a Spiritual Physique. Why then, does the Thousand Martial Hall lack any prodigy with a Spiritual Physique?" This has always puzzled Xu Yan. Could it be that the Thousand Martial Hall truly hides a prodigious talent? But it doesn't make sense; since they've already been challenged openly, why haven't they come out to fight? Or perhaps, without the confidence of victory, they've chosen to avoid battle? "Spiritual Physiques are rare in this world. Once someone possesses a Spiritual Physique, no matter how humble their origins, they will be valued and absorbed by the Transcendent Spiritual Sect. "Reporting a prodigy with a Spiritual Physique to the Transcendent Spiritual Sect is a significant achievement. "The core prodigies of the Transcendent Spiritual Sect all possess Spiritual Physiques. Such prodigies rarely walk the Spiritual Domain, and even if they do, their names remain unknown." Cui Huayu pondered for a moment before speaking. Xu Yan raised an eyebrow, wondering if there was some hidden secret here. "I don't know of anything more secretive, but from what I understand, the purpose of the Transcendent Spiritual Sect's existence is to cultivate prodigies with Spiritual Physiques. "As for what lies behind all this, it's beyond my reach." Cui Huayu spread her hands helplessly. "Are Spiritual Physiques really that rare?" Xu Yan mused as he asked the question. His junior sister, Su Lingxiu, was a Spiritual Physique, as was Yue'er. Yue Changming also had a Spiritual Physique. Although he and Meng Chong weren't born with Spiritual Physiques, each breakthrough in their realms underwent transformation beyond the capabilities of a Spiritual Physique. Moreover, there were rumors that all thirty-six prodigies from the Ten Thousand Stars Martial Institute were gifted with Spiritual Physiques. "Of course they are rare!" Cui Huayu answered solemnly. "I once heard that the thirty-six prodigies of the Ten Thousand Stars are all prodigies with Spiritual Physiques...," Xu Yan said, puzzled. Cui Huayu shook his head and replied, "That's just a misconception. Actually, the Spiritual Physiques spoken of in the martial arts world differ somewhat from what is endorsed by the Transcendent Spiritual Sect." "Oh, how so?" Xu Yan was surprised, curious if the Transcendent Spiritual Sect had another classification for a Spiritual Physique. Cui Huayu explained, "The so-called 'Spiritual Physiques' widely spread within the Spiritual Domain are mostly Spiritual Resonant Physiques, not true Spiritual Physiques. A Spiritual Resonant Physique symbolizes similarity with a Spiritual Physique, yet it only possesses the charm of spirituality, not its essence. "Having spiritual resonance means having the appearance of a Spiritual Physique, yet it's not truly one. Nevertheless, a Spiritual Resonant Physique is a remarkable talent, more attuned to the spiritual energies of Heaven and Earth, making it easier to sense the Heaven and Earth Spiritual Energy." As Cui Huayu explained, Xu Yan realized that most of the 'Spiritual Physiques' widely recognized in the Spiritual Domain were merely physiques with internal spiritual resonance, not true Spiritual Physiques. To identify a true Spiritual Physique, one needs special spiritual artifacts alongside exclusive methods. Generally, entities below the premier spiritual sect level lack the methodologies for such distinctions and often mistake Spiritual Resonant Physiques as true Spiritual Physiques. The Transcendent Spiritual Sect doesn’t clarify this, though. Despite not surpassing true Spiritual Physiques, Spiritual Resonant Physiques are still exceptional gifts. "Warriors with a Spiritual Resonant Physique, as their cultivation realm advances, will slowly integrate their spiritual resonance into their strength, eventually losing the semblance of a Spiritual Physique. "Wu Yuan from the Thousand Martial Hall actually has a Spiritual Resonant Physique. His spiritual resonance has seamlessly merged with his cultivation, making him stronger than treasure-bodied prodigies," Cui Huayu elaborated further. "I see!" Xu Yan nodded in understanding, saying, "So, of the thirty-six prodigies of Ten Thousand Stars, most possess Spiritual Resonant Physiques rather than true Spiritual Physiques." "Most of the thirty-six prodigies have spiritual resonance, but there indeed are true Spiritual Physique prodigies. It’s rumored that the top five ranked prodigies all have true Spiritual Physiques," Cui Huayu commented with awe. "How does one identify a true Spiritual Physique?" Xu Yan asked, intrigued. He could sense Spiritual Physiques, but without distinct experience, differentiating them from Spiritual Resonant Physiques could be challenging. "You need spiritual artifacts and some methods," Cui Huayu replied, considering his words carefully. He then produced a small, lush green tree. "A Spiritual Physique will cause this tree’s leaves to shine when touched and activated through a specific method. If merely possessing spiritual resonance, the leaves will only faintly glow." He was eager to test if Xu Yan had a Spiritual Physique. Such a genius was undoubtedly a Spiritual Physique. Xu Yan pondered aloud, "A Spiritual Resonant Physique seems more superficial, while a true Spiritual Physique is more inherently robust. Is that the distinction?" With Cui Huayu's explanation, Xu Yan could distinguish between a Spiritual Resonant Physique and a Spiritual Physique. By comparing with his junior sister, Su Lingxiu, or Yue'er, he could discern whether one was a true Spiritual Physique or merely had spiritual resonance. "Perhaps that's it?" Cui Huayu nodded slightly, puzzled if Xu Yan could differentiate even without the artifact. Xu Yan extended his hand, touching the small tree in Cui Huayu's hold. Cui Huayu was thrilled, hurriedly applying the method to gauge the true strength of Xu Yan's Spiritual Physique. Spiritual Physiques also varied in strength and could be ranked by tier. Crack! Before the tree barely flickered, it crumbled into fragments. Cui Huayu was taken aback. Xu Yan blinked, commenting, "Your tree doesn't seem reliable." Internally, he mused, "Seems I've surpassed the Spiritual Physique. I should ask my master about this when I return." Xu Yan felt a thrill of excitement inside. Cui Huayu scratched his head, wondering if there was indeed a fault with his tree. "How many true Spiritual Physiques are there in the Spiritual Palace?" Xu Yan asked curiously. "I have no idea; it's the core secret of the Transcendent Spiritual Sect," Cui Huayu replied, shaking his head. The two chatted casually for a while, before Cui Huayu curiously asked, "Brother Xu, where will you go to evade the Thousand Martial Hall?" "I don't need to evade them. I want to find a place suitable for adventures and martial challenges, to traverse the Spiritual Domain." Xu Yan smiled calmly, showing no concern for the Thousand Martial Hall's pursuit. "As someone who's well-acquainted with the Spiritual Domain, being a senior disciple at the Spiritual Palace, do you know of a chaotic region more suitable for adventures?" Traveling through the Spiritual Domain, perceiving the vastness of the world, the more chaotic the location, the more likely conflicts arise, which is why Xu Yan chose it as his next destination. Places prone to attracting enemies and triggering conflicts are his goal. "If you seek chaos within the Spiritual Domain, it certainly has to be the Dacuan State. It's teeming with mountains, bandits, dense forests, and spiritual beasts rivaling even the Tianling State, with intertwined rivers and streams, making it exceptionally fierce. "Even the influence of the Transcendent Spiritual Sect is weaker in the Dacuan State compared to other states. It’s where the Blood Demon first established the Blood God Sect and rose to power there. "It's rumored that remnants of the Blood God Sect linger, challenging to fully eliminate. "With so many mountains, it's easy to hide. There are even tales of ancient tombs occasionally appearing in the Dacuan State, though these are ancient stories. "Some even conjecture that the Blood Demon initially rose because he obtained his blood god methods from an ancient tomb in Dacuan State," Cui Huayu recounted thoughtfully. Xu Yan's eyes beamed with interest, "Then Dacuan State it is; spread the word to the Thousand Martial Hall, let them worry that I've gone to Dacuan State." If the Blood Demon rose from Dacuan State, Xu Yan going there would surely keep the Thousand Martial Hall on edge. Cui Huayu couldn't help his twitching lips; Xu Yan clearly intended to lead the Thousand Martial Hall's warriors into a trap in Dacuan State. He truly didn't regard the Thousand Martial Hall seriously. "No problem!" Cui Huayu readily agreed. "Farewell, hope to meet again!" Xu Yan took a stride out of the palace, preparing to set off for Dacuan State. He suddenly turned back, "You look rather unwell; there seems to be something wrong with your health. You might want to visit the Evergreen Pavilion and let my junior sister examine you." Cui Huayu was startled, "The Evergreen Pavilion? Got it!" Nodding, Xu Yan took another step, vanishing from sight, heading directly toward Dacuan State. Cui Huayu exhaled deeply, finally relaxed. The pressure Xu Yan exerted was immense. Looking at the shattered remains of the spirit-testing branch, he wondered if it was indeed faulty. "Returning to the Spiritual Palace, no matter the cost, avoid hostility with Xu Yan!" Cui Huayu intuitively felt the end of the Thousand Martial Hall's fortune approaching. Xu Yan's rise was unstoppable, far beyond what the Blood Demon ever accomplished. Days later, the news of Xu Yan's journey to Dacuan State spread, causing the Thousand Martial Hall's senior members to become serious. Apart from the Presiding Elder of the Blade, two other elders were dispatched to hunt Xu Yan in Dacuan State. In Luozhou, within the Evergreen Pavilion. The name of the Dan Medicine Fairy gradually spread, attracting martial artists seeking treatment. Most were those suffering from chronic conditions or foundational damage, clinging to hope for recovery. --- **New Terms:** 1. **Dacuan State (大川州)**: Translated literally as "Great River State," I maintained "Dacuan" to capture the geographical and linguistic nuance. - **Alternate Translations:** Grand River State, Major River Province - **Explanation:** The name suggests a region abundant in rivers, maintaining originality helps in emphasizing a distinct cultural setting. 2. **Presiding Elder of the Blade (掌刀長老)**: Implies a leading elder specializing in or responsible for blade techniques. - **Alternate Translation:** Blade Master Elder - **Literal Translation:** Blade Governing Elder 3. **Dan Medicine Fairy (丹醫仙子):** This title relates to a mythical or exceptional practitioner in alchemy and medicine. - **Alternate Translation:** Elixir Medicine Fairy - **Literal Translation:** Elixir Doctor Fairy This chapter delves into the distinction between a true Spiritual Physique and a Spiritual Resonant Physique, revealing societal structures centered around rare natural gifts, all while setting the stage for future conflicts and adventures. No alterations are needed for existing terms based on the new context. ### Chapter 317: The Secret of the Spiritual Physique, Blade Intent Follows the Heart People within the Evergreen Pavilion began to bustle with activity. For those with lesser afflictions, their injuries could be treated with simple medicinal pills. However, for warriors at the Refining Divine Heavenly Being realm and above, Su Lingxiu would personally attend to them. Lei Tong also visited every few days, leaving each time very satisfied, seemingly having gained significantly. Little did he know, everything he experienced was nothing but an illusion. Fang Hao was busy refining a flying boat; its shape was already complete, and most of its functionalities had been crafted. However, it still needed some final touches before it could be considered fully refined. Li Xuan observed with satisfaction, nodding at the progress. This flying boat was excellent; it would allow for traveling the Spiritual Domain without the mundane need of riding spirit beasts. Moreover, the flying boat could transform into Evergreen Pavilion itself, facilitating Su Lingxiu’s journey to practice medicine far and wide. "Your disciple Xu Yan has succeeded in achieving mastery in the Heart Sword Realm; you have attained Sword Intent Follows the Heart." Xu Yan had mastered the Heart Sword Realm. "Sword Intent Follows the Heart, indeed!" Li Xuan's heart was filled with excitement. From now on, there was no need to ponder over sword intent; wherever his heart directed, there the sword intent would form. Any sword intent was but a thought away. "My strength has increased again," Li Xuan reflected, his martial experience continuously enhancing. Xu Yan and Meng Chong provided constant feedback, expanding his martial insights. Time passed swiftly, and news of Xu Yan and Meng Chong's exploits continued to come in. Everyone at Evergreen Pavilion was in awe, even Shi’er was inspired, eager to venture out and make a name for himself. Of course, he could only dream; his strength was still lacking. "Senior brother is truly formidable!" Fang Hao admired sincerely. To have snatched the artifact from the Thousand Martial Hall right before their eyes, leaving them helpless, was ridiculously astonishing. The high and mighty Transcendent Spiritual Sect had been publicly humiliated this time. The reverence held by roaming martial artists towards the Transcendent Spiritual Sect was inadvertently diminished. "Amongst countless prodigies in the world, is Xu Yan the model?" Li Xuan chuckled softly. "Meng Chong is not bad either; he should be on the verge of a breakthrough." Li Xuan was quite pleased with this. All four of his disciples had their own achievements, bringing satisfaction to him as a master. "One month has passed, and all your people from the Thundercloud Villa are fully recovered without any signs of recurrence. Are you still planning to pay the observation fees?" Yue'er asked Lei Tong. The one-month period had come to an end. "No need, we will head back right away." Lei Tong beamed, seemingly walking away with a great harvest. "Alright then," Yue'er sighed with a trace of regret. As Lei Tong and his party departed, Evergreen Pavilion's protective formations were lifted, and a steady stream of martial artists arrived. Of course, there was a daily quota, and once reached, others had to return the next day. Thus, there was always a line outside Evergreen Pavilion. It wasn’t as if no one came to cause trouble, but under the deterrent of Zhu Xingzheng—a Refining Divine Heavenly Being—troublemakers paid a heavy price. Even a late-stage Refining God realm sect martial artist who refused to line up was slapped to death by Cai Ling'er. The sheer power! With that, no one dared to stir up trouble again. On their way back to Thundercloud Villa, Lei Tong and his group, excited and in high spirits, hurried along. "Have you acquired the Elixir Doctor Skills?" Lei Tong asked solemnly. "Yes!" a martial artist nodded. "Good, Thundercloud Villa has countless prodigies. Once thoroughly understood, Evergreen Pavilion should vanish!" Lei Tong's eyes glinted with cold malice. "Have the pills been stolen as well?" "Yes!" another martial artist affirmed. "Bring out the Elixir Doctor Skills manual," Lei Tong demanded eagerly. The martial artist who believed they had acquired the Elixir Doctor Skills pulled out a small booklet from his storage pouch. "Elder, it's right here!" Lei Tong reached out, grabbed the booklet, and upon glancing through it, his smile froze. "Are you certain you didn't grab the wrong one?" he asked, confused. "No, Elder, this is the one!" The answer came back. Taking a deep breath, Lei Tong flung the booklet back at the martial artist's face in anger, "Look at this! What is it?!" The martial artist was stunned, flipping through the booklet to find it filled with indecipherable scribbles, akin to ghostly glyphs. His face changed, quickly flipping through, but every page was much the same. "How is this possible? I transcribed it all, without leaving anything out," he said, dumping the contents of his storage pouch to confirm. Indeed, the manual he had transcribed was that very booklet, but why was it…? A bad premonition dawned on Lei Tong as he sternly asked the martial artist who claimed to have stolen the pills, "And your pills?" Feeling a similar ominous premonition, the martial artist poured the stolen pills onto his palm, examining them closely. His face turned green instantly. They seemed to be nothing more than balls of mud! Lei Tong’s expression darkened, realizing he had been played like a fool, imagining the possible ridicule from Evergreen Pavilion. Thinking deeper, the matter seemed extremely terrifying. For methods that could deceive even Refining Divine Heavenly Beings and a great warrior like him were truly horrifying. "I didn't notice anything unusual," remarked one of the warriors from Thundercloud Villa, now with a grave expression. "Elder, Evergreen Pavilion has humiliated us. This is a direct insult to Thundercloud Villa. We should act, seize them immediately!" one of the warriors said angrily. --- **New Terms:** 1. **Thundercloud Villa (雷雲山莊):** This is translated as "Thundercloud Villa," reflecting its name associated with thunder and clouds, likely indicating a powerful or prestigious place. - **Alternate Translations:** Thundercloud Estate, Thundercloud Manor - **Explanation:** The "Villa" suggests a large and notable dwelling or base of operations. 2. **Zhu Xingzheng (朱行正):** Introduced as a Refining Divine Heavenly Being who serves as a deterrent. - **Translation Rationale:** The name has been kept in a phonetic transcription to preserve cultural context and character uniqueness. This passage highlights the ongoing themes of deception and power struggles prevalent throughout the story, showcasing the deep-seated conflicts and the sophisticated, sometimes mystical methods employed. The narrative captures both the ambitions and sometimes the follies of those striving for ultimate power and influence. The currently listed terms remain relevant, needing no adjustments based on new context.