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

Chapter 482: Return to Qinghua Realm, Tian Shi's Plan Every move Xu Yan makes is closely watched, and outside the Tai-Miao Sect, Immortal Heavenly Venerables from various major forces have secretly monitored him. When Meng Chong and Jiang Buping arrived, the powerful figures from these forces immediately noticed. Initially, they anticipated a battle of geniuses but were instead met with calmness. This led to a shocking conjecture among the strong cultivators from major forces—they speculated that Xu Yan, Meng Chong, and Jiang Buping actually knew each other. Moreover, there was a high likelihood that they were from the same sect. Such a thought sent shivers down their spines. What kind of powerhouse could nurture such extraordinary talents—three, no less? The Elder Xiao did not leave; he waited to meet that mysterious person with Xu Yan. The appearance of Meng Chong and Jiang Buping confirmed his suspicions. "Who could it possibly be that has nurtured such extraordinary talents, yet Xu Yan, Meng Chong, and Jiang Buping all seem to cultivate different Martial Paths?" The Elder Xiao was deeply shocked. In his understanding, there seemed to be only one person with such capabilities: Tai-Cang! However, Tai-Cang was already dead! But if it wasn’t Tai-Cang, then who else could possess such abilities? "Could it be the Unyielding Temple?" The Elder Xiao furrowed his brow slightly. Yet, he felt this was unlikely. If the Unyielding Temple could accomplish this, they would have already invaded the Tai-Cang realm. "No rush, we will see him soon enough," The Elder Xiao mused to himself. That day, Xu Yan and his companions departed from the Tai-Miao Sect. "Let's go," Xu Yan smiled at the Elder Xiao, suggesting they proceed. "Alright!" The Elder Xiao nodded, filled with anticipation and even beginning to contemplate how to probe Xu Yan's master. The group left the Tai-Miao Realm, heading towards the Qinghua Realm. "This draws too much attention," Meng Chong remarked, slightly furrowing his brow. Everywhere they went, strong cultivators from various forces appeared to observe where they were headed, making no attempt to hide their tracks or intentions. These strong cultivators knew all too well that even if they wanted to conceal themselves, they couldn’t escape the notice of Xu Yan and his companions. Moreover, any misunderstanding could potentially lead to them being cut down with a single sword. Thus, they openly revealed their presence and intentions. Suddenly, sword light emerged from all directions, every blade of grass and tree transformed into sharp swords, as Xu Yan's voice resonated throughout: "Follow again, and you shall be slain without mercy!" As the sword light manifested, strong cultivators from various forces were instantly alarmed and fled far away. After this incident, no strong cultivator from major forces appeared again. After all, they feared for their lives! The Elder Xiao marveled in his heart, thinking, this young man is truly overbearing. Moreover, the profundity of his Sword Dao was something even the Elder had never heard of; it exceeded his understanding of Sword Dao. "Can everything in heaven and earth become a sword? What Sword Dao is this? Is it still Sword Dao?" The Elder Xiao was filled with awe. If Xu Yan were at a similar realm as him, the Elder Xiao felt he wouldn't be Xu Yan's match—facing such an extraordinary Sword Dao, he feared he wouldn’t last long against it. At this moment, he finally understood why Xu Yan could slay Immortal Heavenly Venerables as easily as squashing ants. Truly, Immortal Heavenly Venerables stood no chance against such Sword Dao. --- In the Diyun Realm, the massive heavenly abyss had disappeared. The power of the Heaven and Earth Laws had also faded, yet the five members of Tian Shi remained, receiving constant messages from various domains. Xu Yan subdues a dragon, the Dao Realm Sky Ladder collapses, Heavenly Abyss in chaos, Underworld Prison warriors conducting blood sacrifices, and others—the demonic Qi soaring. While the turbulence of the world continued. A realm from the Dao Domain descends and merges with the Godly Realm, unifying the Dao Domain and the Godly Realm. The spiritual Qi and the rhythm of the Dao from the falling realm began to spread. The upper limit of the Immortal Realm would soon be broken. The Dao Domain would soon see the advent of formidable beings, possibly even supreme warriors. "Seventeen, who exactly is Xu Yan, and what kind of formidable figure stands behind him? How did he manage to subdue a dragon?" One of the four Heavenly Fiend Masked Individuals asked in a deep voice. Tian Shi spoke solemnly, "Xu Yan hails from the Qinghua Realm and holds a revered status there. His Sword Dao is unparalleled, making him a prodigy. "As for who might stand behind him, it remains unknown." "That's a true dragon! By your account, Xu Yan’s realm shouldn't surpass the dragon’s, yet he subdued it, not by Sword Dao, implying he has mastered the way to counter the dragon," another Heavenly Fiend remarked with shock in his eyes. Defeating the strong with the weak and subduing a true dragon—this was unprecedented, a first through the ages! Xu Yan could be called the foremost dragon tamer through history! "His extraordinary level far exceeds my imagination!" Tian Shi spoke, visibly serious. "Your Lord has sent a message; it is imperative to acquire the method of dragon subduing!" Tian Shi said resolutely. "Our Lord has sent a message?" The four Heavenly Fiend Masked Individuals reacted with excitement. "Exactly, this is our chance to earn glory. Acquiring the method of dragon subduing would allow our Lord to command the dragon race. Legendary accomplishments await!" Tian Shi was visibly excited. "Good! Good! Tian Shi, where is Xu Yan? Let's go capture him now, awaiting the arrival of the Heavenly Ambassador!" The Heavenly Fiend Masked Individuals were elated. "Xu Yan has likely returned to the Qinghua Realm. Capturing him means going there," Tian Shi expressed with some regret. "This opportunity for glory is yours alone, as your Lord has assigned me another task!" The four Heavenly Fiend Masked Individuals were overjoyed yet comforted him, "Seventeen, since the Lord has entrusted you with an important task, surely its significance is no less than acquiring the method of dragon subduing?" Tian Shi nodded, smiling, "Naturally. This task is undoubtedly important, or else how about we swap tasks? I’ll go to the Qinghua Realm, and you go to greet the third Heavenly Ambassador’s arrival in the Godly Realm?" The four Heavenly Fiend Masked Individuals quickly shook their heads, "That won’t do. Since our Lord has entrusted you, we shouldn’t overstep our bounds, which might displease the Lord. We four brothers will go to the Qinghua Realm and capture Xu Yan." Tian Shi’s eyes flashed with a trace of regret, yet he pretended to agree earnestly, "That’s correct. Tasks from the Lord cannot be reassigned." "Indeed, indeed!" The four Heavenly Fiend Masked Individuals nodded repeatedly. "So, I wish the four of you success. When you ascend to supremacy, don't forget about Seventeen!" Tian Shi’s tone turned respectful. "Oh, no need to be so formal between us!" The four were visibly pleased. "The Lord's task is paramount, so we must part temporarily." "Alright!" The four Heavenly Fiend Masked Individuals departed excitedly, heading straight for the Qinghua Realm. Tian Shi retracted his smile, silently observing them leave. "I hope you can return alive." Capturing Xu Yan and acquiring the method of dragon subduing seemed heavily rewarded, but the catch was surviving it. No news had come from the Qinghua Realm; members of the Heavenly Fiend and Earth Shadows seem to have vanished entirely. Moreover, betrayal was not out of the question. "With Xu Yan being such an extraordinary talent, how could those backing him be of lesser strength? If you four fail, I can withhold taking action. Gathering intelligence and maintaining the bigger picture is essential; the Lord will commend me for being adaptable, understanding priorities, hence assigning me an even more crucial task. "However, if you four miraculously succeed, then it won’t be due to my cold calculations, for such grand accolades aren’t meant for you." Tian Shi displayed a sinister smile. The Qinghua Realm was too dangerous; he had to play it safe. He refrained from personally intervening out of caution; Tian Shi knew his role well: he was the planner, the executor behind the scenes, not a front-line combatant, nor one to risk his life. The four Heavenly Fiend Masked Individuals headed directly towards the Qinghua Realm. "Even if someone formidable backs Xu Yan, it would merely be at the Divine Sovereign Realm; if a supreme were in the Godly Realm, the Lord would surely know. "The four of us together can defeat the opponent, yet caution is still warranted," the leader said sternly. "We possess the divine instruments bestowed by the Lord; ordinary Divine Sovereigns can be vanquished. Together, we can even slay top-tier Divine Sovereigns; capturing Xu Yan is child’s play!" "Indeed!" The four were brimming with confidence. In the Qinghua Realm, it was as if they were in an otherworldly place. Outside, the world was turbulent, yet within the Qinghua Realm, it was calm and undisturbed. No trace of the world's upheaval could be felt here, nor the chaos from different realms of the Godly Domain; it was a scene of tranquility and prosperity, where the vitality was incredibly active. "Is this the Qinghua Realm?" Zhou Qingshuang was stunned upon entering. Even Zi Yun found it astonishing—the Qinghua Realm had changed so much! --- **New Terms and Translations:** 1. **青華境 (Qinghua Realm)**: Translated as "Qinghua Realm" – This represents a new realm and is consistent with naming conventions retaining the original flavor. 2. **不化神殿 (Unyielding Temple)**: Translated as "Unyielding Temple" – Takes literal translation and gives an atmospheric name. 3. **道域天梯 (Dao Domain Sky Ladder)**: Translated as "Dao Domain Sky Ladder" – Used as is for clarity, signifying a mystical path. 4. **青霜 (Qingshuang)**: Translated as "Qingshuang," phonetic translation commonly used in fantasy settings. 5. **天煞面具人 (Heavenly Fiend Masked Individuals)**: Translated as "Heavenly Fiend Masked Individuals" – A literal translation indicating their mysterious, ominous nature. 6. **尊上 (Your Lord)**: Translated as "Your Lord" – holds reverence, implying leadership or a master figure. 7. **劍道 (Sword Dao)**: Translated consistently as "Sword Dao" throughout the text. In the context of translations, characters such as Xu Yan, Meng Chong, and Jiang Buping remain mysterious and possibly connected figures, fueling interesting plot speculations. This section reveals intricate political and power dynamics, with the introduction of enigmatic organizations like the Unyielding Temple and the Heavenly Fiend Masked Individuals, suggesting wider plot developments. "Indeed, this is the Qinghua Realm!" Zi Yun nodded with a smile. "Princess, something is strange about this Qinghua Realm!" The elder woman accompanying Zhou Qingshuang spoke with a heavy expression. The Heaven and Earth Spiritual Energy was too active here, seeming to have broken the ceiling of the Immortal Realm within the Qinghua Realm. "Let's go and find Lingxiu, she can heal you!" Zi Yun suggested cheerfully. Returning to the Qinghua Realm, about to reunite with her senior and Su Lingxiu, Zi Yun was overjoyed. She had made up her mind never to leave again—no place was as agreeable as being with Su Lingxiu. "Meng Chong will be back soon too!" Zi Yun thought, her smile widening. With significant changes across the realms and tremors shaking the Divine Domain, Zi Yun and Zhou Qingshuang had faced some difficulties journeying from the Great Yan Realm. Fortunately, Zhou Qingshuang and the elder woman, both being Immortal Heavenly Venerables, could handle it. While Xu Yan, Meng Chong, and Jiang Buping could slay Immortal Heavenly Venerables as easily as swatting flies, the latter were still top-tier figures in the Divine Domain. Zhou Qingshuang was particularly strong among the Immortal Heavenly Venerables, not to mention her status as the Grand Princess of Great Yan, which commanded respect among many powerful beings. "Zi Yun is back." Su Lingxiu had already been informed of Zi Yun's return. "And she's brought a patient." Su Lingxiu looked excited—strange and difficult diseases always piqued her interest. "Lingxiu, Yue'er!" Zi Yun swept in happily. "Zi Yun sister!" Yue'er beamed with joy, "Zi Yun sister, you're falling behind in strength!" Zi Yun sighed, "There's nothing I can do. Great Yan cannot compare to Evergreen Pavilion." Zi Yun went on to introduce Zhou Qingshuang, "This is the Grand Princess of Great Yan!" "And this is the Dan Medicine Fairy, Su Lingxiu!" Zhou Qingshuang and her elder companion were deeply impressed. Despite Su Lingxiu's gentle and serene demeanor, her strength was utterly astonishing. "No wonder she's Meng Chong's junior sister. With her strength, slaying Immortal Heavenly Venerables truly is as easy as killing little chickens!" Zhou Qingshuang exclaimed in admiration. "Qingshuang greets Su Fairy!" Zhou Qingshuang respectfully said, setting aside any airs of being the Grand Princess. "No need for formality. I've already been informed of your condition by Second Senior Brother. Since you're here, let's not delay the examination!" Su Lingxiu looked excited and eager. "Alright!" Zhou Qingshuang nodded, reconciling herself to her fate—if Su Lingxiu had any ill intentions, she wouldn’t stand a chance to resist. Su Lingxiu and Yue'er began examining Zhou Qingshuang, diagnosing her ailments. Meanwhile, Zi Yun made her way to the backyard. "Zi Yun greets Senior!" she bowed respectfully. Li Xuan smiled, "No need for such formalities!" "Thank you, Senior!" Zi Yun bowed and stood up. "Senior, is the Tai-Cang Martial Path truly without any future?" After hesitating a moment, Zi Yun couldn't help but ask. Li Xuan maintained his smile, "The peak of the Tai-Cang Martial Path was Tai-Cang himself, but that doesn't mean progress is impossible; it's just that Tai-Cang is no longer alive to push further. "Tai-Cang's power is still significant, but for you, it’s a distant goal. Don't aim too high; focus on stable cultivation. "Exploring the path ahead requires standing at Tai-Cang's level first!" "Zi Yun understands!" Zi Yun respectfully replied. "Good, cultivate well then." Li Xuan nodded. With a gentle motion of his finger, he enhanced the jade talisman on Zi Yun. With Zi Yun's return, the Dan Medicine Yard buzzed with activity. Zhou Qingshuang and her servant were astonished by the spectacle of Dan Medicine skills. Zhou Qingshuang's soul ailment was treated, though lingering effects made her remain serene and distant. Despite her recovery, Zhou Qingshuang chose not to return to the Great Yan Realm. She settled beside the Dan Medicine Yard and procured numerous divine herbs and treasures, purchasing elixirs and more. Furthermore, she dispatched the elder woman back to the Great Yan Realm to fetch more divine medicines and treasures. Feng Yan, seeing this, couldn't help but marvel at her decisiveness. Using wealth to ingratiate herself with Su Lingxiu and others—what generosity and determination! Even he received invaluable treasures from Zhou Qingshuang! "Who would have thought I'd meet someone as adept at seizing opportunities as I am?" Feng Yan mused. However earnest Zhou Qingshuang might be, she could never integrate as completely as he did. After all, he'd been diligently running errands long before Fang Hao and Su Lingxiu had grown strong—working hard, delivering results, securing his big opportunity. Xu Yan’s group had entered the Jiusan Realm. There, Xu Yan caught up with an old acquaintance, Wan Tianlin. "Brother Xu, your name echoes throughout the Divine Domain!" Wan Tianlin exclaimed. He still had half a step to reach the Immortal Realm, confident he could break through within half a year. Yet, what does breaking through to the Immortal Realm equate to? Xu Yan has effortlessly slain countless top-tier Immortal Realm experts—he’s even subdued a true dragon. "That’s just because those Immortal Heavenly Venerables are too weak—it's undeserved fame!" Xu Yan waved it off. Wan Tianlin was momentarily at a loss for words.