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

## Chapter 404: The Schemes of Heaven's Calamity and Earth’s Shadow Among the gathering of senior and junior brothers, sharing past experiences was inevitable. "Heaven's Calamity and Earth’s Shadow dared to attack you. One day, I will annihilate them!" Xu Yan said with a chilly smile. "So this force is called Heaven's Calamity and Earth’s Shadow. Once I break through in power, I will avenge this!" Meng Chong said through gritted teeth, rubbing his bald head. "Junior brother, how is your Small Heavenly Dao Eye progressing?" Xu Yan inquired. "Just a bit more," Meng Chong sighed. The Small Heavenly Dao Eye was profoundly abstruse; though he was close to enlightenment, the last hurdle seemed insurmountable. Moreover, since arriving in the Nine Mountain Realm, he had been constantly evading attacks from Heaven's Calamity and Earth’s Shadow, leaving no time for calm reflection. "I have Blood Heart Fruits here; they can help with comprehending the technique. You can use them to break through with the Small Heavenly Dao Eye," Xu Yan offered, producing three Blood Heart Fruits. After introducing the miraculous effects of the Blood Heart Fruits, he added, "If you have any divine arts you wish to cultivate, they might aid you in that too." "Thank you, senior brother!" Meng Chong was overjoyed. With the Blood Heart Fruits, he was confident he could grasp the Small Heavenly Dao Eye. As for divine arts, Meng Chong had already chosen the ones he wished to cultivate. The Heavenly Intent Settling Art was not within his cultivation scope since he pursued the Physical Body Martial Path. This type of divine art wasn't his strength. Next, Meng Chong set up a concealment array and consumed the Blood Heart Fruits to comprehend the Small Heavenly Dao Eye, cultivate divine skills, and build up his foundation for a breakthrough. Xu Yan, on the other hand, was organizing his martial practice without using the Seven Wonders Divine Flower. The flower would require him to retreat and meditate for a while, which was unsuitable since he had to protect Meng Chong despite the concealment array. While he didn't use the Seven Wonders Divine Flower, Xu Yan didn't merely stand guard as a protector either; he refined his martial arts, focusing especially on applying several divine skills. He also pondered the application of the Indominable Qi, planning how to employ it in battle. With Meng Chong secluded in cultivation and Xu Yan guarding him, Heaven's Calamity and Earth’s Shadow suddenly found Meng Chong's trail vanished. Xu Yan's whereabouts also became elusive again. Meanwhile, the Wan Family launched an internal investigation, rooting out members of Earth’s Shadow infiltrating their ranks. Those discovered would immediately self-destruct, showing no hesitation, instilling fear and respect in the Wan Family's powerful members due to the decisiveness of such actions. It also made the Wan Family recognize the massive threat posed by Heaven's Calamity and Earth’s Shadow. They issued a bounty across the Great Cover Mountain region for clues leading to the capture or killing of members of Heaven's Calamity and Earth’s Shadow. This action stirred turmoil within Heaven's Calamity and Earth’s Shadow. The person in charge of the Great Cover Mountain division, known as the Five-Leaf Calamity, wore a grave expression. Although no Wan Family expert had attacked the false division, confirming their previous suspicions—Wan Family pretended to weaken and used Wan Tianlin as bait to draw them out. Although he hadn't surfaced to attack Wan Tianlin, the Wan Family's aggressive moves made him aware of a traitor within Heaven's Calamity and Earth’s Shadow. Otherwise, how did the Wan Family learn their name? In a cavern, Five-Leaf Calamity's gaze swept coldly over everyone present, somberly stating, "Why is there a traitor in the Great Cover Mountain area?" "You are all from the Great Cover Mountain area. From now on, all missions must be restructured to root out the traitor!" Members of Heaven's Calamity and Earth’s Shadow were now heavily burdened with the revelation of a traitor within their ranks. They had all sacrificed for the revival of heavenly glory; how could someone betray their belief? "Sir, all members of Earth’s Shadow are trained from childhood and chosen meticulously, with strong beliefs—betrayal should be impossible," someone solemnly spoke up. Five-Leaf Calamity was silent for a moment. All members of Heaven's Calamity and Earth’s Shadow, including himself, were nurtured by former leaders, their dedication unyielding, never before questioning the grand mission to revive heavenly glory. Yet why would someone abandon their belief now and turn traitorous? "Someone’s belief wavered, thinking the revival of heavenly glory impossible and selfishly defected. They’re shortsighted, unaware of our grand plans." "Now, the time has come to advance our mission to restore heavenly glory—not just in the Nine Mountain Realm," Five-Leaf Calamity declared with a hint of madness in his eyes. "Prepare the infiltrators in various forces to strike at key figures and incite conflict. Also, enter the Heavenly Abyss under the guise of the Nine Mountain Realm forces to discuss cooperation." "Finally, gather forces to take the realm gate and attack the Qinghua Realm..." he ordered. "This operation will be reported to the Seven-Leaf Calamity Master for approval!" The hearing members of Heaven's Calamity and Earth’s Shadow were instantly incited with excitement. "Yes, sir!" They responded fervently. "Sir, shall we continue pursuing Meng Chong and Xu Yan?" "Kill them! How can we not kill them? They must die!" Five-Leaf Calamity said coldly. In the Hengfeng Mountain, a figure sat at the uppermost position in the hall. A masked figure entered, with seven leaves engraved on the mask. "Sir, I am back!" The figure respectfully bowed. The figure in the hall nodded, though wearing the Seven-Leaf mask, his actual position exceeded it, temporarily overseeing Hengfeng Mountain in place of the Seven-Leaf Calamity. Another purpose was linked to the Wind Spirit Tiger. "How are things?" the hall figure, known as Tian Seventeen, asked. "It went smoothly. Agreements with the Nether Abyss and the Witch Demons are in place. The domain chaos can begin," the masked Seven-Leaf Calamity declared fervently. "Good!" Tian Seventeen nodded. "He wants to enact the Five-Leaf plan," he announced. "The time is ripe. Let him proceed without worry. Heaven's Calamity and Earth’s Shadow's name should be revealed to the world now," Tian Seventeen said. "Yes, sir!" The Seven-Leaf Calamity remained eager. "As for you, continue overseeing here." "Yes, sir!" The Seven-Leaf Calamity complied enthusiastically. Tian Seventeen instructed, stepping out instantly vanishing. At Spirit Lord Mountain, his eyes widened. Wind Spirit Tiger sat on a radiant throne, wearing a grand gold chain around its neck, bedazzled with thirty-six sparkling jewels embodying the aura of a nouveau riche. Tian Seventeen was flabbergasted, looking around to make sure he hadn't entered the wrong place. "Are you the Wind Spirit Tiger?" he asked incredulously. The last time they met, the Wind Spirit Tiger was just a powerfully bellied-over beast. But now, it sat dignified on a radiant throne, flaunting an extravagant grand gold chain. Moreover, its paw gripped a brilliant tiger-head gold staff, encapsulating both ostentatiousness and newfound dignity. "Boom!" The Wind Spirit Tiger tapped the ground with its staff, causing a thundering quiver across the land, speaking with poise, "Tian Seventeen, how can you be so uncouth? Address me as His Majesty, Wind Spirit King!" What!? Tian Seventeen was astounded, warily eyeing the Wind Spirit Tiger, questioning whether its attempt to breakthrough its ancestral limitations had led to a mental downfall. "I'm disappointed," the Wind Spirit Tiger said, crestfallen, clattering the staff on the ground again. "You are just like the Spirit Lord, lacking any notion of etiquette." "Never mind, as we know each other, I'll gift you a booklet on decorum." With a wave of its paw, a subordinate spirit creature promptly presented a small booklet to Tian Seventeen. Tian Seventeen felt a surge of fury, being berated by a spirit creature's lack of manners? Were it not for the Wind Spirit Tiger's formidable power, he'd have struck down the creature delivering the booklet. "No need!" Tian Seventeen snapped, hiding his glowering features beneath his mask. The Wind Spirit Tiger sighed, shaking its head, "Tian Seventeen, you ungrateful feline, will pay for this ignorance one day..." What! Tian Seventeen clenched his teeth, baffled by the Wind Spirit Tiger's sudden verbosity. ###New Terms: 1. **Heaven's Calamity and Earth’s Shadow (天煞地影)**: An organization targeting the protagonists. Given its elusive name, it carries a foreboding and mystical aura, hinting at their dangerous and secretive operations. Alternative: Heaven's Shadow and Calamity. 2. **Blood Heart Fruit (血心果)**: A rare fruit aiding in comprehension and cultivation. Reflects its importance in aiding breakthroughs. 3. **Small Heavenly Dao Eye (小天道之眼)**: A deep and complex technique. The "Eye" indicates expansive vision or insight, with "Heavenly Dao" suggesting cosmic truths or divine laws. 4. **Nine Mountain Realm (九山境)**: A realm or area where the story unfolds. "Nine Mountain" indicates a geographical or mythical significance, often implying a realm of trials or growth. 5. **Heavenly Intent Settling Art (天意定神)**: A divine skill outside Meng Chong's aptitude. Indicates a mental or spiritual-focused technique. 6. **Wind Spirit Tiger (风灵虎)**: A character name for a spirit creature symbolizing a regal or evolved state. Compared to a nouveau riche due to its dramatic transformation and luxurious appearance. "Spirit Tiger" represents strength and authority. 7. **Spirit Lord Mountain (灵尊山)**: Location reflecting a revered and potentially magical or mystical place often associated with spiritual power. 8. **Wind Spirit King (风灵王)**: The evolved title of the Wind Spirit Tiger. Indicates a rise in status and power, combining elements of authority and majesty. ###Additional Note: The current list could include "Heaven's Calamity and Earth’s Shadow" as an organization name. There's a touch of humor in the Wind Spirit Tiger's transformation, offering a social commentary on sudden status changes being depicted humorously. "Wind…" The chattering of the Wind Spirit Tiger was suddenly interrupted, as someone directly entered and stated their business. A splendid tiger with a long blade at its waist walked in, bipedal in its manner. "Big brother, do we have a guest?" Hearing the commotion, Red Cat hurried over immediately. The guests of the Wind Spirit Tiger were naturally powerful figures like Immortal Heavenly Beings, and as such it was necessary to meet them. "Dear brother, this is Tian Seventeen—I've met him several times," the Wind Spirit Tiger said with a beaming smile. Since Red Cat arrived, the Wind Spirit Tiger had begun truly living the life of a king among spirit beasts, fully embodying the respectability of a Wind Spirit King. Red Cat scrutinized Tian Seventeen, deeming him untrustworthy at first glance. Tian Seventeen also sized up Red Cat. This strange tiger—could it be the reason behind the Wind Spirit Tiger's transformation? "Wind Spirit King, have you considered my proposal?" Tian Seventeen asked directly and straightforwardly. "I've thought it through. Where are the benefits? The advantages? Don't just offer empty promises; you need to show actual benefits and advantages." "Otherwise, what am I running errands for you for?" the Wind Spirit Tiger said with a serious demeanor. Red Cat listened quietly, calculating internally. It was clear that Tian Seventeen was here to propose a collaboration with the Wind Spirit Tiger, and moreover, the tiger seemed tempted by the idea. Due to some ideological influences from Red Cat recently, the Wind Spirit Tiger's attitude had shifted, no longer accepting readily, and instead weighing the pros and cons. Tian Seventeen narrowed his eyes, glancing at the attending spirit creatures next to the Wind Spirit Tiger, choosing not to speak further. The Wind Spirit Tiger waved its paw, signaling the attendant spirit creatures to leave and withdraw from the ancient forest. Tian Seventeen then turned his attention to Red Cat. "My dear brother is a trusted confidant. He can represent me, the Wind Spirit King; there are no secrets here," the Wind Spirit Tiger announced firmly. Tian Seventeen nodded and said, "As I've stated before, the turmoil in the Divine Domain and the convergence of heaven and earth present real benefits. You, Wind Spirit Tiger, have the opportunity to further advance and break through the constraints of your bloodline." "You merely need to stir things up, kill some people. With your power as the Wind Spirit King, there's no risk; the benefits far outweigh any downsides." Seeing the Wind Spirit Tiger in contemplation, Tian Seventeen added, "If the convergence doesn't occur, you'll have no chance to advance further. Yet, should it happen, you'll lead all spirit beasts, becoming a true king whose orders must be obeyed." The Wind Spirit Tiger appeared somewhat tempted. Red Cat remained quiet but secretly communicated with the Wind Spirit Tiger. "Big brother, don't be fooled. This guy has bad intentions. Regardless of the outcome of the convergence, even if success were certain, you wouldn't be the one to benefit the most." "Also, can it really be achieved with just his and your strength alone?" "Moreover, once you make a move, you'll inevitably offend many powerful figures. Although you're not afraid, if this guy fails, putting all the blame on you, even the strongest can't withstand being sieged by numerous experts." "As for breaking the bloodline's constraints, you're already an Immortal-like figure. The consequences of failure are too dire." "Press him for details on how he plans to ensure success, and demand tangible treasures. Avoid relying solely on empty promises." The Wind Spirit Tiger, trusting Red Cat unconditionally, grew increasingly convinced by his advice. "Tian Seventeen, explain your resources. Why should I believe you can accomplish this? For instance, how many Immortal Heavenly Beings of my level do you have?" "Furthermore, are there beings beyond Immortal participating?" Tian Seventeen furrowed his brow. When did the Wind Spirit Tiger become so astute? "Wind Spirit King, rest assured, there will be stronger participants. As for Immortal Heavenly Beings of our level, they won't be fewer than ten." Tian Seventeen contemplated before speaking gravely. The Wind Spirit Tiger seemed to ponder, but was actually listening to Red Cat's recommendations. "What is your organization? If we're to collaborate, shouldn't there be transparency? Let me see your strength, actions, and their outcomes." "Otherwise, if your force is too weak and I blindly join in, wouldn't I be reduced to a mere henchman?" "In collaboration, terms must be set. If I make a move, what compensation will you provide? Don't just promise a broken bloodline after convergence." "Can the convergence even occur? And if it does, why would I be the only one to break through these constraints?" "So, tangible benefits are essential!" Tian Seventeen was startled. How did the Wind Spirit Tiger become so shrewd? In his reflexive response, he glanced toward the striped tiger. "Hmph! Tian Seventeen, I merely feigned ignorance before. Did you truly think I, who have lived for so long, couldn't see through your intentions?" the Wind Spirit Tiger snorted coldly. Naturally, he couldn't admit to being previously ignorant! Tian Seventeen briefly thought; there was a point—the Wind Spirit Tiger was immensely powerful, one of the twelve kings of spirit beasts. He wouldn't actually be foolish. "Our Heaven's Calamity and Earth’s Shadow is indeed strong. I wouldn't exaggerate in claiming that even the combined forces of the Nine Mountain Realm mean nothing to us." "If you, Wind Spirit Tiger, wish to witness our strength, watch closely. Heaven's Calamity and Earth’s Shadow is preparing for an operation..." Tian Seventeen revealed some snippets of Heaven's Calamity and Earth’s Shadow's upcoming plans. ### New Terms: 1. **Wind Spirit King (风灵王)**: Reflects the character's peak authority, translating earlier as "Wind Spirit Tiger" when not addressing its status directly. 2. **Red Cat (赤貓)**: A seemingly supportive companion, likely a close ally or subordinate to the Wind Spirit Tiger. 3. **Tian Seventeen (天十七)**: Appears to be a high-ranking figure within Heaven's Calamity and Earth’s Shadow, indicating considerable influence and power. 4. **Heaven and Earth Convergence (天地歸一)**: A concept implying a significant event or transformation, most likely universal or world-altering in its nature, potentially leading to new opportunities or powers. 5. **Heaven's Calamity and Earth’s Shadow (天煞地影)**: Describes their organizational resilience and strategy for achieving long-term objectives. ### Additional Notes: - "Heaven's Calamity and Earth’s Shadow" continues to emerge as a central antagonist group, with strategic machinations influencing multiple plot threads. - The teasing of wealth, power, and strategic moves uses themes of authority, aspiration, and manipulation of beliefs, suggesting real-world parallels in leadership and persuasion tactics.