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

Chapter 403: A Union, Reunited Brothers Wan Tianlin arrived, accompanied by two clan elders. These elder’s prowess surpassed that of typical True King Heavenly Venerables, making them among the most formidable elders beneath the Immortal Heavenly Venerable within the Wan family. This signified the immense importance the Wan family placed on Wan Tianlin. Xu Yan's gaze flickered; Wan Tianlin's breakthrough in strength was evident. His aura had become more solid, a clear indication that he had successfully utilized the Blood Heart Fruit to comprehend a secret technique unique to the Wan family. This secret technique evidently laid the foundation for breaking through to the Immortal Heavenly Venerable realm. Though mastering this technique did not guarantee achieving the level of an Immortal Heavenly Venerable, it significantly increased the chances of doing so. Within the Wan family, Wan Tianlin was already being regarded as a future Immortal Heavenly Venerable powerhouse. Every additional Immortal Heavenly Venerable naturally elevated the Wan family's strength further, enhancing their position in suppressing the Heavenly Abyss. "Wan brother, have you had any findings?" Wan Tianlin inquired courteously. Despite his own breakthrough, Xu Yan appeared unchanged since their last meeting, showing no apparent growth. However, Wan Tianlin dared not underestimate him. "I won’t hide it, Wan brother. I employed certain methods to extract some clues from the surviving member of the force that ambushed me..." Xu Yan nodded and directly began explaining. Wan Tianlin's eyes flickered. The mere fact that Xu Yan could extract valuable information from a member of that force meant his methods were anything but ordinary. "Pray, tell me, Xu brother!" Wan Tianlin's expression turned solemn. Being a day when that mysterious force remained at large felt as if a dubious eye constantly watched over the Wan family from the shadows. "Sky Fiend Earth Shadow. The secret force is called Sky Fiend Earth Shadow. It's divided into Sky Fiend and Earth Shadow factions. The Sky Fiend specializes in leading and deadly arts, while Earth Shadow excels in stealth and assassination..." Xu Yan disclosed the full information about Sky Fiend Earth Shadow without reservation. "Sky Fiend Earth Shadow?" As Wan Tianlin and the two elders listened, they grew increasingly alarmed. Such an obscure and deeply concealed force surely harbored grand ambitions. "The individual who masqueraded as a member of the Wan family to ambush me was actually an Earth Shadow member. There may be others hidden within the Wan family. Moreover, a Seven-Leaf Sky Fiend leads Sky Fiend Earth Shadow in the Nine Mountains Realm, and a Seven-Leaf Sky Fiend wields the power of an Immortal Heavenly Venerable..." Xu Yan said gravely. "Xu brother, is it true that a Seven-Leaf Sky Fiend is an Immortal Heavenly Venerable?" This revelation left both Wan Tianlin and the two elders unable to sit still. This implied that an Immortal Heavenly Venerable was plotting against the Wan family! Within the Nine Mountains Realm, Immortal Heavenly Venerables were few, and they all knew each other. "This cannot be false, and whether there is only one Seven-Leaf Sky Fiend remains uncertain, as the deceased's position was limited and he likely didn't know much." Xu Yan spoke seriously. Wan Tianlin's expression grew grave. "Xu brother, what is Sky Fiend Earth Shadow trying to achieve by sowing discord between us?" "They aim to provoke conflict between the Qinghua Realm and the Nine Mountains Realm, stirring upheaval in the Martial Divine Domain to restore some kind of 'glory of Heaven and Earth'..." Xu Yan explained without concealing anything regarding Sky Fiend Earth Shadow’s intentions to create chaos to restore this so-called 'glory of Heaven and Earth'. As for the methods he used to obtain this information, he naturally kept silent, and Wan Tianlin did not press further. "This matter is of great importance. I need to report to the family's Immortal Elders to determine our next move." Wan Tianlin was inwardly shocked. The ambitions of Sky Fiend Earth Shadow were beyond terrifying. The thirty-six realms of the Martial Divine Domain faced the encroachment of the Heavenly Abyss and hence shared a tacit understanding to not incite violent clashes, let alone attack one another. If any realm faced possible invasion by the Heavenly Abyss, they would assist one another. There was a sense of connectedness among them. Sky Fiend Earth Shadow's audacious schemes to incite inter-realm conflict in the Martial Divine Domain, creating turmoil, could easily allow the Heavenly Abyss to exploit them. Should a realm, or even multiple realms, fall into the hands of the Heavenly Abyss, the consequences would be unimaginable. "The information I extracted indicates the location of a Sky Fiend Earth Shadow outpost. I fear that with my lone strength, I cannot annihilate it entirely; hence I request Wan brother’s assistance." "In addition, I also seek Wan brother's help in sending a message to find someone…" Xu Yan outlined his objectives. Beyond teaming up to destroy the Sky Fiend Earth Shadow's outpost, he was indeed seeking Meng Chong. "No problem!" Wan Tianlin agreed readily. Forces lurking within the Wan family’s territory at Da Gai Mountain were unacceptable and had to be eradicated no matter what. And sending a message to find someone was an even easier task. "There is no time to lose, Xu brother. Let us proceed now." Wan Tianlin was eager to act. "Very well!" Xu Yan analyzed the skills of the two Wan clan elders, finding them sufficient to destroy a Sky Fiend Earth Shadow outpost. According to Shadow One, each outpost's strength varied, but none were too strong, and the Sky Fiend overseeing Da Gai Mountain’s area might not be stronger than these two Wan clan elders. "One outpost of Sky Fiend Earth Shadow is located here…" Xu Yan disclosed one of the locations, knowing Wan Tianlin was more familiar with Da Gai Mountain territory. "Ah, so it’s there!" Wan Tianlin nodded, swiftly identifying the Sky Fiend Earth Shadow location on the Wan family's Da Gai Mountain region map. ... "The mission has failed!" Shadow One had returned to his outpost, his aura weakened, indicating the high price paid through secret techniques. "Why did it fail?" A figure of the Five-Leaf Sky Fiend appeared. "Xu Yan's strength exceeded expectations, and a strong Wan family member aided him. I utilized secret techniques to escape…" Shadow One explained gravely. "Stay here and recover; once you're healed, take on a new mission." The Five-Leaf Sky Fiend instructed. "Yes, Lord!" The mission failure, if it were any other time, wouldn't have concerned the Five-Leaf Sky Fiend. After all, success couldn’t always be guaranteed. But after a betrayal had occurred, caution was necessary. Leaving Shadow One to recuperate, the Five-Leaf Sky Fiend and the rest of the outpost members discreetly vacated the location, laying low elsewhere. After waiting three days without any assault, he felt relief; Shadow One hadn’t betrayed or been tracked. Just as he relaxed, a two-inch long, black Soul Bee landed on his shoulder. Buzz! The bee's antennae vibrated, transmitting a faint soul wave. The Five-Leaf Sky Fiend's face darkened; a secret outpost of Sky Fiend Earth Shadow had been destroyed by Xu Yan and the Wan family. Only one managed to escape, bearing heavy injuries. "Was there a betrayal, or did the Wan family discover us?" Contemplating deeply, the Five-Leaf Sky Fiend ordered, "Return to the sub-division!" Unease grew, as he suspected the Wan family had discovered some intel and would soon turn their resources to targeting the Sky Fiend Earth Shadow. Before reaching the sub-division, another Soul Bee arrived. The second outpost had also been destroyed, again by Xu Yan and the Wan family’s alliance. The second outpost was stronger, with two escaping. "Two adjacent outposts compromised simultaneously!" The Five-Leaf Sky Fiend mused. These Soul Bees, exclusive to Sky Fiend Earth Shadow, were swift and relayed messages securely. Based on their speed, the timing between the first and second outpost’s destruction was short. This suggested Xu Yan and Wan Tianlin were efficient and well-informed about both locations beforehand. The mystery to him was Xu Yan’s participation was understandable, but why did the Wan family only dispatch two elders? Wouldn't they aim to annihilate the outposts without letting anyone escape? His face subtly changed. Was the Wan family intentionally letting some escapees go, hoping to track them to uncover Sky Fiend Earth Shadow’s sub-division in Da Gai Mountain? "Earth Shadow members excel in concealment; covert pursuit is surely impossible for a True King Heavenly Venerable. Did an Immortal Heavenly Venerable from the Wan family act personally?" If so, his heart sank further, as if an Immortal Heavenly Venerable intervened, escape was impossible. --- **New Terms and Translations:** 1. **Sky Fiend Earth Shadow (天煞地影):** Translated directly, maintaining the ominous aura and mystique of the original term. Other possibilities included "Heavenly Fiend and Earth Shade," being a force divided into a sky-centric and earth-centric faction, evoking a menacing and elusive organization. 2. **Seven-Leaf Sky Fiend (七叶天煞):** Similar structure preserved to maintain the hierarchy and mysterious nature associated with their rank. Alternate translations could be "Seven-Petal Sky Fiend" to imply levels, though lacking the leaf motif present in the narrative's context. 3. **Nine Mountains Realm (九山境):** Directly translated to preserve the numerological significance and geographical mystery akin to a revered location. "Domain of Nine Peaks" is an alternate, slightly abstract translation. 4. **Da Gai Mountain (大蓋山):** Translated as "Da Gai Mountain" following the literal translation maintaining the grandeur implied in the original name. Another potential translation could be "Grand Cover Mountain," hinting at its significance and enshrouding quality. "Although the Heavenly Abyss in Da Gai Mountain is relatively stable at the moment, with no major upheavals, it is absolutely impossible for an Immortal Heavenly Venerable from the Wan family to easily leave their station..." The Five-Leaf Sky Fiend pondered before issuing a command: "Instruct the escapees to converge at this location." Out of caution, the Five-Leaf Sky Fiend opted not to direct the survivors to regroup at the subdivision but instead directed them to a clandestine location—one of Sky Fiend Earth Shadow's backup bases. "Order the One-Leaf Sky Fiend and Two-Leaf Sky Fiend to await orders at this place!" After contemplating, the Five-Leaf Sky Fiend issued another command. To deceive any pursuers, it was paramount that this backup division wasn't devoid of the rest of Sky Fiend Earth Shadow’s members. If necessary, sacrificing some members was unavoidable. Buzz! Two Soul Bees swiftly departed to relay the messages. Meanwhile, the Five-Leaf Sky Fiend, still leading his trusted subordinates, returned to the location of the Da Gai Mountain subdivision. Upon arrival, a Soul Bee flew over. Another of their outposts had been eradicated. Despite the formidable strength of its commander, who fought tenaciously, the outpost saw two flee and left a Wan clan elder injured. "Something's amiss!" The Five-Leaf Sky Fiend mused, and then a realization struck him. "Is the Wan family using Wan Tianlin as bait to lure Sky Fiend Earth Shadow’s experts into action?" The Five-Leaf Sky Fiend began suspecting that the Wan family deliberately allowed the Sky Fiend Earth Shadow outposts to be partially destroyed, allowing members to escape to send a message. With weakened defenses around Wan Tianlin, this seemed the perfect opportunity for an attack on him and Xu Yan. "So, they wish to lure us into the open!" he sneered at the thought, not planning to fall for their trap. Killing Wan Tianlin was primarily to fuel conflict; given that their instigation had been exposed, taking further risks was imprudent. "Xu Yan!" The Five-Leaf Sky Fiend muttered. "Wan brother, may we cooperate again in the future!" Xu Yan cupped his hands with a smile. "Indeed!" Wan Tianlin smiled broadly. During this collaboration, they eradicated three Sky Fiend Earth Shadow outposts, all identified by Xu Yan. From each location, a deliberate escapee was allowed to flee. Naturally, those fleeing had employed secret techniques, leaving their power greatly diminished. Xu Yan would then clandestinely shadow these escapees, returning shortly after, seemingly having acquired the location of new hideouts from them. Though it was unclear what methods Xu Yan employed, the value of the fleeing members of Sky Fiend Earth Shadow was evident. Through this collaboration, Wan Tianlin also received part of a list of Earth Shadow members hiding within the Wan family, provided by Xu Yan, drawn from the tongues of the fleeing members. The ability to crack open even the mouths of such loyal warriors was truly remarkable, deepening Wan Tianlin's respect for Xu Yan. "Six in hand now, Sky Fiend Earth Shadow, prepare to face Xu Yan as I dismantle your organization entirely!" Xu Yan thought with a cold stare. Having subdued six individuals, from Shadow One to Shadow Six, with the right timing and after seizing control over the subdivision of Sky Fiend Earth Shadow, he was ready to wipe them out. "Waiting for Junior Brother's arrival!" Information seeking Meng Chong had already been disseminated by the Wan family. As long as Meng Chong was in Da Gai Mountain, he would surely receive the information and reunite. Despite discovering more about Sky Fiend Earth Shadow’s hideouts, Xu Yan only dismantled three; there were also clues regarding other territories like Thousand-Layer Mountain. In a city within Da Gai Mountain, a man with thick hair was leaving. "The Senior Brother is looking for me." The man was Meng Chong. To avoid pursuit, he had donned a wig and subtly altered his appearance. Yet, being big and brawny, those hunting him scrutinized every similarly built individual attentively. Nevertheless, thanks to his skillful aura-concealing and shapeshifting techniques, Meng Chong could easily elude them, even reshaping his physical build as needed. "The treasures required for cultivation are nearly gathered; it's time for a breakthrough." Meng Chong left the city, dodging potential pursuers. "Once I attain the Great Sun and Stars Immortal Physique, I'll strike down anyone who dares to challenge me!" His eyes were cold and fierce. Having been targeted upon entering the Nine Mountains Realm, putting his life in peril, he wasn't about to forgive and forget. Once his realm broke through, with no fear of anything below the Immortal Heavenly Venerable level, even True King Heavenly Venerables wouldn't pose a threat. It would be time to unleash his full might and showcase the ferocity of his Physical Body Martial Path. While waiting for Meng Chong's arrival, Xu Yan received a message through his communication talisman—a sign that Meng Chong was within range. "Second Junior Brother!" Upon spotting Meng Chong with his wig on, Xu Yan's eyes grew even more chilled. Sky Fiend Earth Shadow’s pursuits had forced Meng Chong to such extremes, speaking volumes about the difficulties he'd faced recently. "Senior Brother!" Meng Chong exclaimed with joy, removing and packing away the wig. --- **New Terms and Translations:** 1. **Soul Bee (靈蜂):** Directly translated, preserving the mystical quality attributed to them in the narrative. An alternate could be "Spirit Bee," highlighting their role in communication. 2. **Thousand-Layer Mountain (千叠山):** Translated while retaining the complex imagery associated with layers or strata, suggesting grandeur and challenge. Alternative translations might be "Thousand-Tiered Mountain," emphasizing the layered nature. 3. **The Great Sun and Stars Immortal Physique (大日星辰不滅體):** Kept the consistent rendering approach to preserve the narrative's intended grandiosity of an indestructible, celestial-powered state. Alternate translations could include "Indestructible Celestial Physique," though less literal. 4. **Hideout/Outpost (據點):** Translated to capture both the physical and tactical aspect as locations used for operational purposes. These terms enhance depth and narrative consistency while maintaining the essence of the original text.