noveltune Chapter 163 - Arc 11: The Sects Grand Competition | Chapter 163: Match 10
Chapter 163 - Arc 11: The Sects Grand Competition | Chapter 163: Match 10
Chapter 163 - Arc 11: The Sect's Grand Competition | Chapter 163: Match 10
Translator: Lynn
From various elevated platforms, several rays of light suddenly streaked out, swiftly descending to the highest stone platform.
Clad in black, Sixing Peak Chief rose to his feet, positioning himself beneath the black dragon.
This individual was tall, possessed a serious countenance, exuded a stern demeanor, and was enveloped in an awe-inspiring sword spirit.
The ten beams of light reached the ground and materialized into ten male and female monks, each bearing a striking appearance.
A glance from Xu Ziqing revealed mostly unfamiliar faces, yet one was familiar—Du Zihui, the young master of the Du family who had surpassed Luo Yao.
Du Zihui seemed to have noticed Xu Ziqing too, huffed in disdain, and turned away.
Xu Ziqing found this a bit perplexing, but upon reflection, it seemed quite normal. Du Zihui was somewhat hot-tempered and direct. Since Luo Yao had rejected his invitations multiple times and yet befriended Xu Ziqing within a few days, it was natural for Du Zihui to harbor some resentment.
Considering this, Xu Ziqing didn’t dwell on the matter, merely thinking that if Du Zihui attempted to persuade Luo Yao again, A Yao would likely agree, offering potential amusement in the future. It wasn’t too late for a bit of playful teasing.
Those who had distinguished themselves among tens of thousands and secured a spot in the top ten were the cream of the crop among the heaven’s favored. Almost all had sought apprenticeship under esteemed masters, benefiting from their guidance. Their individual talents were exceptional, and their ambitions were steadfast.
These individuals had always remained at the forefront among disciples, exuding an air of high station. Most of them carried an air of arrogance, having never engaged in direct competition, making it challenging to evaluate themselves on the same stage. Even Xu Ziqing, possessing a gentle temperament and defined goals, had no intention of admitting defeat, let alone the others. When the ten competitors took their positions on the stage, a single exchange of glances conveyed a multitude of unspoken understandings.
However, it was a fleeting moment. The sanctity of the competition allowed no time for contemplation. After assuming their positions, the black-clad official spoke once more.
His voice, deep and commanding, resonated, “You have secured a position in the top ten of the Yanwutai Competition, qualifying you for the Bairen Competition.”
Naturally, all present settled into a state of readiness and replied in unison, “Yes.”
Dressed in black, Sixing Peak’s Chief extended his hand, causing the black dragon to rapidly shrink, now only a few feet long and wrapped around his arm.
Subsequently, the black dragon opened its mouth and swallowed the letter talismans held by everyone. Upon regurgitation, the letter talismans displayed a line of characters stating, “Bairen Match,” identical for all.
Xu Ziqing surmised that this was simply a confirmation, while the arrangement of opponents was a separate matter.
Another Sixing Peak Officer chimed in, saying, “In the other martial arts arenas, the main competition is still ongoing. You may take this time to center yourselves, and you’ll receive further details before the Bairen Competition.” It was known to all that those in authority were indeed Sixing Peak Officer, all being sword cultivators at least at the Golden Core stage. Their cultivation level surpassed the competitors by several tiers, showcasing formidable attack power and an uncompromising demeanor. Consequently, even the most rebellious geniuses dared not challenge their authority. They all listened attentively and dispersed.
With the letter in hand, Xu Ziqing returned to the high platform.
Zeng Yi pondered for a moment and stated, “It’s neither a weapon nor a unique power. I believe this entity lies somewhere in between.”
Yuan Taihe paused and then chuckled. “You make a compelling point.”
Zeng Yi nodded, explaining further, “Xu Ziqing employed war to bolster his prowess, breaking through again. Presently, he’s at the late stage of foundation establishment.”
Yuan Taihe sighed and remarked, “So that’s the case. It’s truly unexpected.” As he said this, he couldn’t help but glance in that direction once more. Initially, he was simply searching for Yun Lie’s whereabouts, but now he genuinely looked at Xu Ziqing. He was just a young man with a youthful appearance, gentle and unassuming. Did he truly possess such extraordinary talent? He was genuinely intrigued now.
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Xu Ziqing ascended back to the elevated platform, resuming his meditation in a cross-legged position. He had observed the nine individuals on the Black Dragon Stage earlier. Each one, regardless of gender, exuded an extraordinary air. Considering the upcoming competition involving hundreds of participants, if he aimed to secure a good rank, he would inevitably face some of them. Coupled with the formidable masters in the other nine martial arenas, it was bound to be a challenging battle.
Just envisioning the vast number of inner disciples in the Wuling Immortal Sect—over a million—with Foundation Establishment disciples being the largest group, made him realize the enormity of the competition. To stand out among hundreds of thousands of Foundation Establishment disciples required exceptional talent, likely employing numerous hidden skills.
In his heart, Xu Ziqing harbored no intentions of taking risks and certainly wouldn’t underestimate the challenge. While immersed in his thoughts, he suddenly sensed something.
A sense that someone was probing him, sweeping over him with divine perception. Though it carried no malicious intent, it still sent shivers down his spine, causing discomfort. He knew this was a result of his significantly heightened cultivation making him more sensitive. Yet, he felt curious, so he followed it.
As he did, Xu Ziqing was mildly startled.
The consciousness distinctly emanated from the Black Dragon Terrace, where, besides the black-clad executioner, there was a youthful monk with white hair and a youthful visage. The spiritual consciousness didn’t come from the executioner, but from this young monk.
However...
Upon careful consideration, Xu Ziqing couldn’t recall having seen this person before. Naturally, he was unaware that this individual had already been observing him during his breakthrough to the middle stage of foundation establishment. Pondering for a moment, he turned to Yun Lie and inquired, “Brother, are they acquaintances of yours?”
If he didn’t know them but was showing interest in him, it likely had something to do with his brother.
As a Golden Core cultivator, Yun Lie had already sensed it but did not incline to engage with those who lacked evil or murderous intent. Now, in response to the question, he stated, “Zeng Yi, overseeing the sixth seat, and Yuan Taihe, overseeing the ninth.”
Xu Ziqing chuckled, “Brother remembers both their names, they must indeed be formidable individuals.” After many years of knowing his brother, he had gained some understanding. If his senior brother took note of someone’s name, it meant they were genuinely noteworthy.
Yun Lie nodded slightly, “If these two progress further, there’s a 50% chance they may comprehend sword intent.”
Understanding dawned on Xu Ziqing, and he smiled, “Since they haven’t grasped sword intent yet, they likely won’t be a match for senior brother.”
No wonder my senior brother remembers them—half of those aspiring to grasp sword intent possess immense potential in sword cultivation. Once they truly achieve it, they might still be considered opponents by their seniors. However, if my senior brother hasn’t reached the golden core stage yet, under the constraints of different realms, his sword intent may not pose a threat to them. But my senior brother has already broken through, ensuring he would effortlessly surpass them on an equal footing. Regardless of how these two progress in the future, they likely won’t catch up with my senior brother’s level. With this in mind, he felt at ease
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