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

Chapter 468: Stone Jar and Bamboo Slip, Xu Here to Subdue the Dragon If the Sea-Spirit Tribe's Grand Elder had chosen to withhold information, intending to redirect the trouble towards another, Xu Yan's goodwill towards the Sea-Spirit Tribe would have vanished. But since the Grand Elder frankly explained the stakes involved, Xu Yan was indifferent to this hot potato. To the Sea-Spirit Tribe, these two pieces of clothing might spell disaster, but to Xu Yan, they meant nothing significant. He didn't care about who coveted them or how powerful they might be. As it suited his purposes, and he could present them as gifts, why shouldn't he accept them? "It doesn't trouble me; I'll take it," Xu Yan declared as he placed the jade box away. "A word of caution to you, young friend: those who desire this item might very well reach the God Sovereign Realm," the Sea-Spirit Tribe's Grand Elder gravely warned. "The God Sovereign Realm? It's of no concern!" Xu Yan chuckled, unaffected. The Sea-Spirit Tribe's Grand Elder sighed with relief, "With such confidence, it's reassuring for an old man like me." Xu Yan continued to wander around the treasury, looking for items that resonated with him. After selecting several treasures to gift to others, he realized nothing particularly intriguing caught his eye, and was about to leave. However, the Sea-Spirit Tribe's Grand Elder suggested, "Young friend, why not take a look at those ancient relics? They are said to be from incredibly ancient times." "What makes these relics special?" Xu Yan asked, curious. "I'm not certain myself," the Grand Elder admitted, leading Xu Yan to a corner of the treasury, where he rhythmically tapped on the wall, revealing a hidden entryway on the ground. "Follow me, young friend," the Sea-Spirit Tribe's Grand Elder beckoned as he entered the underground passage. Xu Yan raised an eyebrow at the discreet underground treasure chamber, a place even powerful beings might not easily uncover. Following the Grand Elder into the passage, they entered a chamber spanning a few meters, exuding an ancient aura. Upon entering, one could feel the weight of ages hanging heavily in the air. There were only about a dozen antiquities, the most striking being a gem that emitted a shimmering azure glow. Beyond that, other objects appeared old, yet carried a lingering essence of the past. Among these relics, the glowing azure gemstone was undoubtedly the most noticeable. However, Xu Yan's gaze was drawn to something else entirely. It was a stone jar, not an ordinary one, though its mottled, aged exterior seemed mundane at first glance. Yet Xu Yan sensed that the jar exuded a subtle charm, sealing whatever lay inside, preventing it from decaying over time. The Sea-Spirit Tribe's Grand Elder was taken aback, having assumed Xu Yan would initially be captivated by the azure gemstone, the most remarkable among these relics. Unexpectedly, Xu Yan's focus was drawn to the stone jar. "This stone jar is peculiar. I've tried to open it to investigate what's within, but it's unyielding to me. I cannot damage it either…" the Sea-Spirit Tribe's Grand Elder explained. "What is the history behind this stone jar?" Xu Yan inquired with interest. "It is said to have belonged to our clan's ancient emperor, though the specifics are unclear. Some of our ancient texts mention briefly that it was a gift from a significant figure to our ancient emperor…" the Grand Elder recalled. He added, "Since our clan once followed the True Dragon lineage, it’s speculated to have connections with True Dragons." Upon Xu Yan's request, the stone jar entered his hand, "I'll take this." "Glad it pleases you!" the Grand Elder expressed with contentment. His biggest fear was Xu Yan showing no interest. As long as Xu Yan approved, taking treasures from the Sea-Spirit Tribe would establish some connection. Should calamity befall the Sea-Spirit Tribe in the future, this bond might compel Xu Yan to assist. Xu Yan stored the stone jar away. Though he hadn't seen its contents directly, he had some speculations, intending to offer it to his master. Next, he turned his attention to the azure gemstone. "This is called the Azure Sea Pearl," the Grand Elder introduced, "allegedly left by our ancient emperor. Its purpose remains unknown, but it must hold some cryptic properties." The mention of the Azure Sea Pearl piqued Xu Yan's interest. Could it relate to the mighty turtle known as the Azure Sea Turtle—perhaps originating from the same place? Azure Sea? Could there be a place known as Azure Sea in this world? However, the Azure Sea Turtle was an extraterrestrial entity, not a native powerhouse of this realm. "Could the Azure Sea lie beyond this world?" Xu Yan pondered aloud. "Grand Elder, is there a location named Azure Sea in this realm?" Xu Yan queried. The Grand Elder shook his head, "I've never heard of it. The seas here have always been called the Cyan Sea. Current domains like the Divine Domain's Cyan Sea Realm, and parts of the Spiritual Domain, are remnants of the vast ancient Cyan Sea." "Changes in the world led to this fragmented state. Legends speak of the ancient Cyan Sea's vastness, far exceeding today's domains." Nodding, Xu Yan summoned the Azure Sea Pearl to his hand. Given its ties to an ancient emperor, it was a suitable token for his master. Having secured the Azure Sea Pearl, Xu Yan continued examining the remaining relics. While intriguing, none inspired a strong desire in him. After acquiring the Tortoise Shell of Primordial Origin, his standards for treasures had elevated significantly. Ordinary items no longer sparked his interest. Especially with his power reaching current heights, typical treasures held little utility for him. "Ah, what's this?" Xu Yan suddenly noticed among the relics, a bamboo slip. The bamboo used was extraordinary, reminiscent of the jade bamboo in his possession. They appeared to be of the same type, though the slip's jade bamboo was of a higher grade. "The bamboo slip," recalled the Grand Elder, "was said to contain tales and secret anecdotes, but it’s never mentioned any specific techniques or teachings." Xu Yan picked up the slip, his Small Heavenly Dao Eye revealing a mystical veil obscuring the text, though faint characters could still be discerned. "The writer of this slip is immensely powerful. With my present abilities and the Small Heavenly Dao Eye, I can't fully perceive its contents," Xu Yan marveled. "This slip is shielded by some force; since the fall of our clan's great warrior, no one has been able to discern its content." "Additionally, the slip itself is a treasure, crafted from a remarkable bamboo slice—this bamboo is said to contain hollows reminiscent of the heavens." The Grand Elder elaborated further. Xu Yan nodded, increasingly convinced the bamboo slip's material matched the jade bamboo he held. "It would make an ideal gift for my master. She can peruse its tales to pass the time," Xu Yan thought, storing the jade slip away. "I'll take these three items," he announced after collecting the bamboo slip. "You're not going to examine more?" the Grand Elder hesitated. Expecting Xu Yan might claim all the relics, he was caught off guard. "No need!" Xu Yan replied, making his way out. "Today I've accepted three relics from your Sea-Spirit Tribe. In return, I promise to assist your tribe thrice in the future, within my capabilities." "Thank you, Young Lord Xu!" The Sea-Spirit Tribe's Grand Elder bowed in gratitude. "Don't worry, your tribe already has a guardian," Xu Yan assured with a smile. Cai Ling'er hailed from the Sea-Spirit Tribe, bearing the bloodline of the Sea-Spirit Sovereign. With her by his master's side, should the tribe face peril, how could she turn away? --- #### New Terms: 1. Azure Sea Pearl (滄海珠) - Referred to an ancient relic with unknown properties, suggesting ties to the legendary Azure Sea. * Alternative Translation: Canghai Pearl * Literal Translation: Blue Sea Pearl 2. Small Heavenly Dao Eye (小天道之眼) - A mystical ability or tool used by Xu Yan to perceive hidden truths. * Alternative Translation: Lesser Heavenly Dao Eye * Literal Translation: Small Heavenly Way Eye 3. Azure Sea (滄海) - Alluded to as a mystical or legendary place possibly beyond the current world. 4. True Dragon (真龍) - Indicative of a powerful lineage once associated with the Sea-Spirit Tribe. #### Notes: - **True Dragon** is associated with a powerful ancient lineage, previously unmentioned, potentially revealing the Sea-Spirit Tribe's past connections. - The Sea-Spirit Tribe's affiliation with legendary entities and realms enriches the narrative's mystical world-building. - Xu Yan's interaction with powerful artifacts suggests growth in character depth and plot complexity. - **Titles and Techniques** added in the translation reflect Xu Yan's evolving capabilities and the story's expanding cosmic lore. Being the maidservant of her master, anyone who wishes to target her must consider carefully whether they can withstand a single slap from her master. "Yes, yes!" The Sea-Spirit Tribe’s Grand Elder responded joyfully, assuming that Xu Yan himself was the backing he was referring to. Upon leaving the Sea-Spirit Palace, the Sea-Spirit Tribe’s Grand Elder personally escorted Xu Yan back to Yun Tian Island. At this time, Yun Tian Island was already abuzz with excitement. The news of the True Dragon’s calamity had reached the island. Xie Lingfeng looked at his father with a face full of astonishment, "Father, a True Dragon, can you believe there’s actually a True Dragon!" "The legendary True Dragon has appeared in the Divine Domain, which undoubtedly spells trouble for the Cyan Sea Realm!" Xie Tianheng sighed. In the Divine Domain’s vast sea, it’s only the Cyan Sea Realm where the True Dragon might one day descend to rule. However, it’s rumored that the disorderly True Dragon seemed to have lost its mind, becoming exceedingly frenzied, slaughtering any Martial Heavenly Beings or above indiscriminately. Even those below the Refining True Realm were not spared from casualties! The might of the True Dragon is bound to sweep across the Divine Domain. "Brother Xu is about to leave the Cyan Sea Realm!" Xie Lingfeng sighed once more. "Why?" Xie Tianheng was puzzled, then immediately understood, "Ah, of course, considering Xu Yan’s extraordinary nature, how could he resist not observing the True Dragon? After all, it is a legendary being." Yet regret lingered in his tone as he lamented, "Were it not for my lack of strength, I too wouldn’t resist witnessing it firsthand. It is a True Dragon, after all!" Xie Lingfeng, however, wore a wry smile, "Xu Brother isn’t merely going to observe." He knew well that Xu Yan possessed the Dragon Subduing Palm technique—named so because it is meant to subdue dragons. Now with a True Dragon causing havoc, could Xu Yan possibly resist stepping in? Hearing this, Xie Tianheng nodded, "Indeed, given Xu Yan’s abilities, he’ll certainly want to spar with the True Dragon. Even if he cannot defeat it, with the jade talisman left by his predecessor, he wouldn’t face real peril." Xie Lingfeng laughed heartily, for Xu Yan wasn’t going for a mere spar but to truly subdue the dragon! As the news of the True Dragon spread, Yun Tian Island was in turmoil, with many showing concern since the True Dragon is destined to come to the Cyan Sea Realm one day. The Sea-Spirit Tribe’s powerhouses had grave expressions on their faces. Once, they were the true spirits of the True Dragon lineage, patrolling the seas. Time, however, has eroded their glory, and they have weakened considerably since then. Moreover, as the current rulers of the Cyan Sea, they feared the emergence of a new master, turning them into mere subordinates. Especially since this True Dragon had lost its faculties and was acting violently. "This matter is beyond our capabilities to resolve. We can only hope the Tai-He Realm has a strategy," muttered the Lord of Yun Tian Island gravely. "The only strategy might be to open the Heavenly Ladder," worried the Sea-Spirit Tribe’s Second Elder. Once the Heavenly Ladder opens, would those who once coveted the Tribe’s treasures take this opportunity to descend upon the Divine Domain? Silently, the Lord of Yun Tian Island acknowledged that the opening of the Dao Domain's Heavenly Ladder would be beneficial for large factions with backgrounds, but not necessarily for those without. Some might not even have the chance to climb the Heavenly Ladder to break through their cultivation constraints. Many restrictions and secrets swirled around this. Xu Yan returned to Yun Tian Island with the Sea-Spirit Tribe’s Grand Elder, whose face turned serious after learning about the True Dragon incident, rushing off to the island’s great hall. "Brother Xie, I’m here to bid farewell," Xu Yan said with a smile, visiting Xie Lingfeng’s residence. "It was expected," Xie Lingfeng replied with a grin. "The next time we meet, I will have reached the Void Shattering Realm!" Xie Lingfeng declared confidently. "With Brother Xie’s talent, it won’t be long before you break into the Void Shattering Realm," Xu Yan reassured, nodding, knowing Xie Lingfeng’s talent was not inferior. Xu Yan had already enlightened him on how to break through, having grasped the key insights. With some alchemical aid Xu Yan left behind, Xie Lingfeng’s cultivation speed was bound to accelerate, especially as Xu Yan’s connections allowed him to access more resources on Yun Tian Island. "But Brother Xu, are you really confident?" Xie Lingfeng asked solemnly. To subdue a dragon! Throughout history, Xu Yan might very well be the first, given there are no such records in current chronicles, though much older eras remain unexamined. "From the available information, this True Dragon is a juvenile, its power not excessively formidable. Although it can easily overpower Martial Heavenly Beings, my Dragon Subduing Palm is designed for subduing dragons, so there’s some confidence," Xu Yan contemplated aloud. Beside him, Xie Tianheng and Fu Yun were already stupefied. Xu Yan intended to subdue a dragon? "Then I shall await the news of your successful dragon subjugation here on Yun Tian Island!" Xie Lingfeng stated solemnly. "Very well!" Xu Yan nodded with a smile. Subsequently, Xu Yan bid farewell to the Sea-Spirit Tribe’s Grand Elder and the Lord of Yun Tian Island. "You’re leaving the Cyan Sea Realm already, Young Friend Xu?" The Lord of Yun Tian Island and others were reluctant. With Xu Yan around, the Cyan Sea Realm felt like it had a stabilizing backbone. Now that Xu Yan prepared to leave, they suddenly felt unsteady. "Important matters call me away momentarily," Xu Yan responded. "What could compel you to act, Young Xu? Yun Tian Island is at your service, willing to repay the favor for saving our island," the Lord of Yun Tian Island offered sincerely. "Your assistance isn’t needed for this particular matter," Xu Yan replied. "Though we acknowledge our own limited strength, we are considered strong within the Divine Domain. Surely we can undertake tasks within our means. Feel free to speak, young friend!" the Lord of Yun Tian Island insisted. "I appreciate the good intentions. However, this is something truly beyond your aid," Xu Yan repeated. "While Immortal Heavenly Beings may seem weaker in your view, they remain formidable in the Divine Domain. Even major realms dare not belittle our number of Immortal Heavenly Beings," the Lord of Yun Tian Island stated solemnly. The other strong individuals of the Cyan Sea Realm nodded in agreement, indicating even if they could only offer moral support, their presence as significant Immortal Heavenly Beings could bolster Xu Yan’s morale! Xu Yan cupped his hands in gratitude, "I appreciate everyone’s kindness. But I’m leaving to subdue the dragon!" --- ### New Terms: 1. True Dragon (真龍) - Denotes a legendary, powerful creature making its appearance, causing turmoil in the realm. * Alternative Translation: Mythical Dragon * Literal Translation: Real Dragon 2. Dragon Subduing Palm (降龙掌) - A martial technique specifically intended to subdue dragons. * Alternative Translation: Dragon Taming Palm * Literal Translation: Dragon Descending Palm 3. Heavenly Ladder (天梯) - A mystical or strategic concept possibly used to confront great challenges in the realm. * Alternative Translation: Celestial Ladder * Literal Translation: Sky Ladder 4. Yun Tian Island (雲天島) - An island or territory vital to the local power balance and events unfolding. * Alternative Translation: Skycloud Island * Literal Translation: Cloud Sky Island 5. Cyan Sea Realm (碧海境) - Represents a domain or region within the Divine Domain, possibly associated with significant bodies of water. * Alternative Translation: Azure Sea Realm * Literal Translation: Blue Sea Realm ### Notes: - **True Dragon** and **Dragon Subduing Palm** heighten the magical, mythical element, making Xu Yan's journey and ambitions grander. - The introduction of the **Heavenly Ladder** adds depth to future plotlines regarding strategic decisions within the realm. - **Yun Tian Island** serves as a central setting, impacting the power dynamics with Xu Yan’s presence and his subsequent departure. - This chapter further develops Xu Yan’s character arc, illustrating his transcending power and influence across mythical and martial realms.