Hearing these words, Mei Yun once again revealed a look of surprise.
Because his Old Ancestor had once said so personally.
Treasures obscure themselves, concealing the Heavenly Secrets. Only a Cultivator of the Heavenly Secrets Dao at the Body Integration Cultivation Realm, expending their Lifespan to divine, could see through its illusions and reveal its true origin.
Yet his Honored Master, a mere Mid-stage Golden Core Cultivator, could actually discover the extraordinary nature of this stone?
"Honored Master, are you bluffing me?"
"Think what you will. Do you know the origin of this stone?" Xu Chuan smiled.
Mei Yun shook his head. "I do not. The Old Ancestor only told me to establish an Imperial Dynasty and nourish it with the Imperial Dynasty's Providence. Perhaps in the future, some clues might be discovered.
In other words, it might remain just an ordinary stone until the day I die."
"Wait, could it be..."
If true, this would be the greatest Opportunity and fortune in the Ancient Battlefield.
'No, this shouldn't be an Ancestral Vein. Even a single Spirit Vein is at least over five kilometers long, and the higher the grade, the further it stretches.
How could the Ancestral Vein of an entire domain be hidden within a single stone!'
Xu Chuan quickly reconsidered.
'Even if it isn't, it must be related. Judging by Mei Yun's words, reviving it seems to be immensely difficult.'
Thinking of this, Xu Chuan looked at Mei Yun. "How do you plan to handle it?"
"How does Honored Master think it should be handled?"
Xu Chuan thought for a moment. "If my guess is correct, this might be related to a certain supreme treasure. Even if it is just an unremarkable stone right now, its value is extraordinary.
This stone belongs to you, and I will not snatch it.
However, I hope to make a transaction for it."
"What transaction? This disciple still needs Honored Master's help with the cultivation method for my Imperial Dynasty."
"One thing at a time. You can listen to my conditions first."
"Please speak, Honored Master."
"The Xu Family will do everything in its power to help you with your Nascent Soul Formation in the future. I am not afraid to tell you that with our Xu Family's current accumulation and Heritage, it is enough to help two or three people achieve Nascent Soul Formation with a forty to fifty percent success rate.
But you also know that resources are limited, and our Xu Family has no shortage of Prodigies.
Choices must be made."
Mei Yun fell silent upon hearing this.
'A forty to fifty percent success rate for Nascent Soul Formation... I'm afraid even a Hegemon-Level Nascent Soul Power wouldn't dare boast such a claim.'
'Honored Master indeed holds significant secrets.'
After a long while.
Mei Yun finally spoke. "Since Honored Master has said so, we will do as you say. In truth, this disciple never intended to keep this stone hidden.
Mainly because I feel that my so-called Old Ancestor is quite unreliable.
Heaven knows what schemes an Old Monster like him might have hiding in the dark.
As for blood relatives...
This disciple feels much closer to you, Honored Master."
Xu Chuan smiled warmly. "With your lazy temperament, you really aren't suited for these things."
"Then the transaction is complete."
"I will listen to Honored Master." Mei Yun presented the stone, then cupped his fists. "Honored Master, this disciple will take his leave now."
Xu Chuan nodded.
After leaving the Withered Glory Courtyard, Mei Yun let out a long breath. "Now I finally don't have to feel anxious anymore."
"It's more appropriate to toss this kind of brain-wracking matter to Honored Master."
He smiled and flew towards his own courtyard.
Xu Chuan turned around, stepping into the void and disappearing.
When he reappeared, he was already in the Xu Clan's Grotto-heaven.
Xu Chuan placed the stone beneath Xu Huai's main body.
"Master, this stone..."
"Oh, can you see anything special about it?"
"Is it special?"
Xu Chuan's mouth twitched upon hearing this. "Then what were you trying to say?"
"Master, Little Huai is just curious why you brought in an ordinary stone and put it here."
Xu Chuan sighed. "You don't need to worry about anything else. If it undergoes any changes in the future, just inform me."
"Yes, Master!"
Following that, Xu Chuan hurriedly left the Xu Clan's Grotto-heaven.
Several days flashed by.
In the blink of an eye, the day of the family head succession ceremony for the new Xu Clan Head arrived.
The morning light was faint.
The invited families consecutively held their Invitation Cards to enter the Inner City of Cloudstream City, then rode their streaks of light toward the Xu Residence.
It didn't take long.
Streaks of light occasionally flashed across the sky.
Cyan, white, gold, or purple—upon reaching dozens of meters outside the gates of the Xu Residence, they all dispersed their light early to reveal their figures, showing their respect.
For a time.
The Cultivators descending before the gates arrived in an endless stream. Their robes fluttered, creating a bustling and lively scene.
Most of the guests were led by a Perfected Person at the Golden Core stage, followed by two or three juniors at the Foundation Establishment stage. Their expressions were respectful, curious, or slightly restrained as they followed their elders to the gates.
Occasionally, Foundation Establishment Clans arrived together, with two Foundation Establishment Cultivators walking side by side.
Not many Foundation Establishment Clans had received Invitation Cards.
Each of those that did possessed a profound Heritage, with the potential to become a Golden Core Aristocratic Family.
The main gates of the Xu Residence were wide open.
Most of the various Formations and Restrictions that usually harbored hidden killing intent had already been deactivated.
Only a few defensive Formations and the Bewildering Tracks Array were still operating, preventing any tactless scoundrels from sneaking in during the commotion.
A middle-aged Steward stood before the gates, dressed in a dark cyan brocade robe. He had a handsome, refined face and a calm temperament.
It was exactly the Chief Steward of Foreign Affairs for the Xu Family, Wu Zhuqi.
He stood by the side of the door, holding a jade scroll.
Behind him, eight Foundation Establishment stage guards were lined up on both sides.
Their auras were steady, their gazes like lightning, and their faces brimmed with genuine pride blooming from the bottom of their hearts.
The most eye-catching figures at the gates, however, were naturally the Direct Line members of the Xu Family welcoming the guests.
Ye Fan in a crimson brocade robe, Xu Deyue in a blue palace dress, and Xu Deling in red-gold Tight-fitting Attire.
Whenever a guest arrived at the gates, Wu Zhuqi would smile and announce their names.
"The Chen Family of the East District, Deputy City Lord Perfected Person Chen Changge has arrived—"
His voice was clear, neither rushed nor slow.
Yet it could be heard perfectly by everyone present.
Chen Changge stepped forward with a smile, cupping his fists in greeting. "Phoenix Plume Fairy, City Lord Ye, Cold Moon Fairy, congratulations! I wonder who the succeeding Family Head is?
It should be one of you, right?"
Xu Deling smiled. "Allow me to keep you in suspense. Daoist Friend Chen will find out shortly."
Chen Changge's eyes rippled slightly, and he let out a hearty laugh.
The Foundation Establishment juniors following behind him held the gift list and congratulatory gifts with both hands, respectfully presenting them.
The welcoming servants at the gates of the Xu Residence promptly received them, recorded them in the registry, and then guided the guests inside.
"The Yan Family of the South District, Yan Wujin, and Perfected Person Yan Yue have arrived—presenting a pair of thousand-year crimson fire spirit mushrooms and fifty kilograms of green jade marrow!"
"The Lei Family of White Cloud Mountain, True Lord Lei Wuji has arrived—presenting a scroll of lightning element Divine Ability, a piece of three-thousand-year Lightning-Struck Wood, and five hundred kilograms of crimson lightning ore!"
The announcements echoed one after another as the lists of congratulatory gifts were read aloud.
The crowd at the gates listened, occasionally exchanging low whispers.
"As expected of the Xu Family. Look at the items these families are offering; none of them are ordinary!"
"Who would dare to show negligence at the new Family Head's succession ceremony!"
Many of the arriving Golden Core Cultivators exchanged a few words with Ye Fan and Xu Deling.
The main purpose was to build connections.
After all, there weren't many Late-Stage Golden Core Cultivators in the Azure Dragon Prefecture, and the strength of Ye Fan and the other two were each at least at the Late-Stage Golden Core level.
As for Xu Deling, she could even rival experts who had achieved Great Accomplishment in Divine Abilities.
With such Combat Power, who wouldn't hold some reverence for them!
Suddenly, a streak of cyan light shot over from the distance, rapidly descending before the gates of the Xu Family.
A wave of Pressure filled the air but quickly retracted.
"The Mo Family of the Jade Bamboo Sea, True Lord Mo has arrived with his clan disciples!"
Xu Deling stepped forward and cupped her fists. "Senior Mo, you've arrived. Our Xu Family has been awaiting you for a long time."
Mo Wentian stroked his beard and smiled faintly. "As long as this old man isn't late. However, I am truly curious. I wonder who will be taking True Lord Withered Glory's place?
It feels like there are quite a few suitable candidates."
"I believe Senior Mo will be surprised."
"Then this old man will look forward to it."
With a smile, Mo Wentian led Mo Tingtao and the other two into the gates of the Xu Family.
After the guests entered, servants dressed in cyan robes respectfully stepped forward.
"True Lord Mo, please come this way."
The cyan-robed servant guided them through the multiple courtyards of the Xu Residence, heading straight for the venue of today's Grand Ceremony.
The venue was set up in the Xu Residence's original Martial Arts Arena.
The Martial Arts Arena occupied an extremely vast area.
At this moment, rings of cyan jade-carved desks had already been set up all around, extending upwards layer by layer, sufficient to accommodate thousands of guests.
In the direct north of the arena, a ten-meter-high jade platform had been erected.
The entire jade platform was carved from a single piece of white jade, warm, lustrously white, with a faint Spiritual Light flowing across it.
Below the jade platform, a ten-meter-wide red carpet was laid out, extending from the front of the platform all the way to the entrance of the Martial Arts Arena. On both sides of the red carpet, a Foundation Establishment stage guard of the Xu Family stood every three steps. Each person wore dark armor, with a Dharma Tool hanging from their waist, their expressions solemn and their eyes staring straight ahead.
Around the Martial Arts Arena, several exquisite pavilions and towers had also been specifically arranged.
They were dedicated resting places for the guests.
Between the pavilions, a babbling brook flowed, with lively fish swimming within.
By now, quite a few guests had already taken their seats.
Most of the Golden Core Perfected Persons were guided to the front rows.
The Foundation Establishment Cultivators were seated further back.
Some young disciples curiously observed their surroundings or exchanged a few words with acquaintances.
"Brother Chen, you've arrived."
"Brother Tang."
The two greeted each other.
"Brother Chen, as a Guest elder of the Xu Family, do you have any inside information?"
Chen Changge shook his head. "I don't know much more than you do. I only know that there are quite a few new Golden Core and Foundation Establishment Cultivators, and they are well acquainted with the City Lord and Fairy Deling."
Before long.
The other two Guest elders of the Xu Family, Perfected Person Fire Cloud and Elder Green Cliff, also arrived and took their seats.
When Mo Wentian arrived, the crowd enthusiastically stood up to bow. "Greetings, True Lord Mo."
"Daoist Friends, you are too polite."
As time passed.
More and more people arrived, and the seats were almost completely filled.
Xu Mingwei, Xu Mingyuan, Xu Mingxuan, and the others also arrived, their seats second only to Mo Wentian's.
As the auspicious time for the Grand Ceremony approached.
The dozens of Golden Core Perfected Persons in the front row either closed their eyes to rest or conversed in low voices with their neighbors.
The Foundation Establishment Cultivators in the back rows mostly sat rigidly, their gazes constantly drifting toward the white jade platform to the north.
Suddenly, a clear, ringing bell echoed from deep within the Xu Residence.
The toll was melodious, reverberating above the venue of the Grand Ceremony, its aftertones lingering endlessly.
The entire audience of guests felt their spirits lift, knowing that the ceremony was about to begin. They ceased their conversations, all eyes turning uniformly toward the high platform.
Seven more chimes followed, each ringing further than the last.
As the eighth chime fell, a figure unhurriedly walked through the air from the direction of the Xu Residence's inner courtyard.
He wore a dark brocade robe embroidered with dark gold cloud patterns, with an ancient-looking jade pendant hanging from his waist.
His pace was unhurried and calm. His aura was restrained to the utmost limit; if one didn't see him with their own eyes, they would barely be able to sense his existence.
This person was none other than Xu Chuan.
He descended onto the white jade platform, a faint smile appearing on his lips.
"I thank all of my Daoist Friends for giving This One face by coming to witness the succession ceremony of the new Xu Clan Head."
"This One will not spout nonsense. Let the succession ceremony begin now."
As his voice faded.
A middle-aged man appeared on the red carpet, and the guards on both sides bowed respectfully.
He walked slowly, proceeding along the red carpet toward the high platform.
The middle-aged man was dressed in a dark cyan brocade robe, his hair tied high in a bun and secured with a white jade hairpin. His expression was solemn, his footsteps steady.
"Who is this person?"
"It actually isn't Xu Mingxian?!"
"Right, I thought it would be the Phoenix Plume Fairy!"
"Moreover, his strength is only at the Foundation Establishment stage?"
The crowd whispered in discussion.
Mo Wentian looked at Xu Dezhao, his eyes rippling slightly. "Though not at the Golden Core stage, he is not far from it. He should also be walking the Divine Ability Golden Core Path.
Could the Xu Family truly be overflowing with Prodigies?
Isn't there an excess of those undergoing Divine Ability Core Formation?"
Ordinary Golden Core Cultivators naturally couldn't see through Xu Dezhao's true depths; they merely assumed he was at normal Foundation Establishment Perfection.
The crowd frequently sized up Xu Dezhao.
Xu Dezhao remained unhurried, walking step by step up the white jade platform to stand shoulder-to-shoulder with Xu Chuan.
"Everyone must be curious about who this person is, and why you have never heard of or seen him before."
Xu Chuan swept his gaze across the crowd and declared, "There is no need for doubt. He is naturally a Direct Line member of our Xu Family."
Saying this, he turned slightly and looked at Xu Dezhao.
"Xu Dezhao, This One's eldest grandson. Today, I am passing the burden of the Xu Clan Head onto him."
"Dezhao, are you prepared?"
Xu Dezhao knelt on both knees, kowtowing as he spoke, "Endowed with Grandfather's trust, Zhao'er is willing to bear the heavy responsibility of Family Head. From this day forth, I will do my utmost and not dare to slack off.
I will make strengthening our Xu Family my own duty!"
Xu Chuan nodded slightly. The Clan Head Seal materialized out of thin air in his hand, and he handed it over to Xu Dezhao.
"From today onward, you are the master of the Xu Family. The entire Xu Family is entrusted to you.
I hope you conduct yourself uprightly, govern your subordinates well, and do not let the Xu Family's prestige fall."
Xu Dezhao held the Clan Head Seal with both hands, solemnly kowtowing three times before straightening up. His voice trembled slightly, yet every word was crystal clear:
"Your grandson will not disappoint Grandfather's trust, nor will I disappoint the Xu Family's ancestors."
Xu Chuan nodded, and with a gentle flick of his right hand, Xu Dezhao was lifted by a stream of Mana.
With this, the position of Family Head had officially been handed over.
"Congratulations, Xu Clan Head!"
The crowd stood up, offering their congratulations.
"Aside from the family head succession ceremony, This One would also like to introduce a few people to you all."
"Chong Hui, come up."
Xu Chonghui flew up onto the high platform.
"This child is named Xu Chonghui, the Young Family Head of our Xu Family."
"Mingwei, Mingyuan, Mingxuan... you all come up as well."
One Golden Core Cultivator after another flew onto the platform.
"These are all Core Clan Members of our Xu Family, serving as Elders."
Xu Chuan introduced Xu Mingwei and the others one by one to the various major forces of the Azure Dragon Prefecture.
As for the Foundation Establishment juniors, there was no need to build up such momentum for them. They would inevitably clash with the younger generation of the other factions anyway.
Xu Chuan preferred that they carve out their reputations through their own efforts.
"Including True Lord Withered Glory, there are a full eleven Golden Core Cultivators. Is this the Xu Family's true Heritage?!"
"No wonder some say the Xu Family might originate from a Nascent Soul Noble Family. The rumors really aren't Wind from an Empty Cave!"
The various forces were incomparably horrified.
Only Mo Wentian and Yang Qi remained relatively calm.
True Lord Bingqian had not come. After returning, he immediately went into secluded cultivation, hoping to comprehend his Divine Ability to Perfection before charging toward the Nascent Soul stage.
As an Elder of the alliance, the alliance naturally offered him their full support.
"To thank my Daoist Friends for coming, and to ensure everyone doesn't get bored, the Xu Family has prepared three battle rings. Qi Refining and Foundation Establishment disciples may go up to spar with one another.
If any Golden Core Cultivators are moved to do so, they may participate as well."
"For anyone who takes the stage: a single victory for those in the Qi Refining stage will reward a High-Grade Magical Artifact; three victories will reward a Fine-Grade Magical Artifact; and five victories will reward a Top-Grade Magical Artifact.
For the Foundation Establishment stage: one victory rewards a Top-Grade Magical Artifact; three victories reward a Top-Grade Defensive Magical Artifact; and five victories reward a Top-Grade Magical Artifact Set or a One-Pattern Magic Tool.
If Golden Core Cultivators are interested, winning a spar will grant a One-Pattern Magic Treasure; winning two will grant a Two-Pattern Magic Treasure; and winning three will grant a Three-Pattern Magic Treasure.
Five victories will grant a Four-Pattern Magic Treasure.
Every match must strictly be between those of the same Cultivation Realm.
Rewards stack."
The Demonic Beast Materials the Xu Family had acquired were simply too plentiful. Even if they gave an artifact to every single Qi Refining and Foundation Establishment Cultivator present, it would still only be a drop in the ocean.
Many of the Qi Refining and Foundation Establishment disciples from the various families were deeply tempted and looked toward their elders.
It was harmless for the juniors to compete.
Therefore, no family refused.
However, if the Golden Core Cultivators were to fight, the Golden Core Perfected Persons from each family had to carefully consider the implications.
For instance, whether they would lose face.
Soon, three people stepped up onto the rings.
One at the Qi Refining stage, and two at Foundation Establishment.
Very quickly, Cultivators at the exact same realm stepped up to face them.
Watching them fight, Xu Chongfei sighed and transmitted his voice to Xu Chongjian, "The Ancestor's rules are too boring. Sparring within the same realm—isn't that effortlessly easy for us?
Where's the fun in that?"
"This is the best opportunity to see the Heritage of the disciples from each family. After all, those who can fight above their realm are only a small minority. Anyone who can achieve five consecutive victories has the hope of becoming a Prodigy."
"If I take the stage, I'm afraid no one at the same realm would dare step up. Chongjian, why don't you show your face and give them a little shock?"
"Not interested."
"Little Jianjian, that's not right. You're too cold. Be careful, or you won't be able to find a Dao companion in the future."
"It's fine as long as my brother inherits our father's Bloodline. I only need a sword as my companion. Also," Xu Chongjian looked at Xu Chongfei, "don't call me Little Jianjian!"
Xu Chongfei smiled awkwardly.
Xu Family clan members, recruited disciples, and even disciples from Vassal Families all took the stage.
They also wanted to test themselves against the geniuses of Heavenly South.
Fighters stepped up in an endless stream.
Six or seven people managed to achieve three consecutive victories.
As for someone achieving five consecutive victories, not a single person had done so yet.
After all, the battles were almost seamlessly back-to-back, and since they were fighting peers in the same realm, nearly everyone lost because they ran out of Mana and were blasted off the ring.
The Golden Core Perfected Persons enjoyed the lively spectacle, but so far, none of them had stepped up.
In the blink of an eye, it was around mid-afternoon.
Mo Wentian suddenly spoke up, "Just watching the juniors fight isn't very interesting. Tingtao, why don't you go up and spar as well?"
"Yes, Ancestor."
Mo Tingtao flew to the center of an empty battle ring. He cupped his fists and announced, "Mo Family, Mo Tingtao, first layer of the Golden Core. Could a Daoist Friend kindly grant me some pointers?"
A brief moment later.
"I'll do it!"
A clear, bright voice rang out.
As the voice fell.
A crimson streak of light shot up from the crowd, tearing through the sky like a falling meteor, before landing directly onto the battle ring.
Boom—
The crimson light dissipated, revealing the figure of a young man.
He appeared to be in his early thirties, with sword-like eyebrows, bright starry eyes, and a handsome face.
He was clad in a fiery red robe, with the hems embroidered in flaming patterns.
The moment he landed, it seemed as though flames surged beneath his feet, only to retract and turn invisible in the blink of an eye.
"So it is Yan Yue, Daoist Friend Yan."
Mo Tingtao's eyes flashed, and he smiled as he cupped his fists.
Yan Yue returned the greeting with a humble expression. "Please hold back slightly, Daoist Friend Mo."
"Daoist Friend Yan only achieved Core Formation a few years ago. Compared to Daoist Friend Mo, I'm afraid he is still a bit lacking."
Yan Wujin stroked his beard and smiled faintly. "Let him learn that there is always someone better, and skies beyond skies. At the same time, we can add some excitement to the Grand Ceremony."
"Daoist Friend Yan is very thoughtful." Xu Chuan smiled at him upon hearing this.
Many people quickly realized that the Yan Family was doing this to curry favor with the Xu Family.
However, since the Yan Family was based in Cloudstream City, and Yan Wujin had joined the Heavenly Plume Sect as an Elder, such an action was completely normal given the current relationship between the two families.
On the battle ring.
Mo Tingtao and Yan Yue stood facing each other, separated by thirty meters.
"Daoist Friend Yan is too polite." Mo Tingtao maintained his smile. "Since it is just a spar, we will just be Stopping at the Right Point. Please."
As his words fell, the aura around him abruptly transformed.
With a wave of his Sleeve Robe, a streak of cyan light flew out and fell into his palm. It was a three-foot cyan blade, its surface faintly rippling like water.
Yan Yue's eyes narrowed, and he didn't hesitate.
He flipped his right hand, and crimson light surged in his palm, manifesting a fiery red long blade.
The blade's body was blood red, with flames faintly dancing along the edge.
The two each wielded their Magic Treasures, their imposing auras rising steadily.
The audience below fully focused their attention on the match.
Mo Tingtao blurred, turning into a cyan shadow that lunged straight at Yan Yue.
The longsword in his hand thrust forward. Spirit Power surged at the tip, transforming into layers of water-like Sword Qi that swept down to engulf Yan Yue.
Yan Yue's gaze sharpened, and he stomped hard onto the ground.
While his body violently retreated, the Crimson Flame Blade in his hand slashed horizontally.
Blade radiance flared. The crimson flaming blade energy met the cascading water-like Sword Qi like a scorching sun.
Boom—
Water and fire clashed, erupting with violent Spirit Power fluctuations.
The Formations surrounding the ring instantly flared to life, completely blocking the shockwaves.
Yan Wujin narrowed his eyes slightly and looked at Mo Wentian. "Senior Mo truly places great importance on Daoist Friend Tingtao. That Magic Treasure is considered a fine artifact even among Low-grade magic treasures.
It shouldn't be too far from becoming a Mid-Grade Magic Treasure."
"Isn't the same true for Daoist Friend Yan?" Mo Wentian's lips curled up slightly.
Meanwhile.
On the arena.
Mo Tingtao moved again, thrusting his Cyan Wave Sword continuously.
His sword stance was like water—sometimes like a trickling stream, sometimes like a torrential river—unpredictable and endless.
Yan Yue met the assault with his blade. As the Crimson Flame Blade danced, flames roared and blade energy swept wildly.
He followed a path of ferocious strength. Every strike was wide open, carrying heavy and imposing momentum.
The two—one water, one fire; one soft, one hard—fought to a standstill on the ring.
The audience watched with rapt attention.
In the blink of an eye, the two had exchanged over thirty moves.
Mo Tingtao's sword stance grew increasingly dense. The rippling Sword Qi stacked up layer after layer, slowly entrapping Yan Yue within.
Yan Yue gradually felt the pressure.
Although his fiery blade energy was fierce, every collision with the water-like Sword Qi felt like slicing into a bundle of cotton. The force was effortlessly neutralized layer by layer, rendering his attacks ineffective.
Furthermore, his opponent had an elemental advantage.
The situation had become extremely disadvantageous for him.
"Water inherently counters fire. Combined with Mo Tingtao's deeper well of Mana, Yan Yue will inevitably fall to a disadvantage."
A Golden Core Perfected Person whispered an evaluation.
Seven or eight minutes later.
The Cyan Wave Sword in Mo Tingtao's hand traced profound trajectories through the air.
The water-like Sword Qi gradually converged into a torrential flood that swept toward Yan Yue.
Yan Yue's pupils shrank. He gripped his blade with both hands as the Spirit Power within his body frantically surged.
The flames on the Crimson Flame Blade exploded violently, forming a three-meter-long blade light that slashed down head-on.
Boom—
Amidst the earth-shattering collision, Yan Yue's figure was sent flying backward, landing heavily on the edge of the battle ring. He nearly tumbled off.
Mo Tingtao sheathed his sword and stood his ground, deciding not to press the attack. He cupped his fists. "Thank you for letting me win. Daoist Friend Yan's strength is quite formidable. I was merely lucky to win by half a move."
"Daoist Friend Mo is too polite." Yan Yue let out a light sigh, quickly flying back to his seat.
However, Mo Tingtao clearly intended to keep fighting.
But the Azure Dragon Prefecture had very few newly advanced Golden Core Cultivators, and even fewer lingering at the first layer of the Golden Core.
"I'll go."
Xu Mingshu stood up from her seat and flew onto the ring.
Many people's pupils contracted slightly.
Their expressions involuntarily grew a few shades more serious.
This was solely because Xu Mingshu was an Elder of the Xu Family.
"Xu Mingshu, a newly advanced Golden Core of the Xu Family. Please instruct me, Daoist Friend Mo."
"Fairy Xu is too polite!"
Xu Mingxuan revealed a smile, transmitting a message to Xu Mingyuan beside him. "Second Brother, Fourth Sister loves stealing the spotlight too much.
With her deep reserves of Mana, the Magic Treasures on her body, and the Spirit Beasts she has raised...
Even if she only uses a third of her Heritage, she can completely bulldoze anyone in the Early-Stage Golden Core realm."
"In the Azure Dragon Prefecture, our Xu Family has no need to fear anyone. If Mingshu wants to play around, let her be. Besides, didn't father refrain from stopping her?"
"That's true."
Xu Mingshu was dressed in a crimson flowing immortal skirt. The hem was embroidered with dark gold cloud patterns, fluttering like flowing fire with her movements.
Her hair was tied in a high bun, adorned with nothing but a simple red jade hairpin. Yet, it only made her skin look whiter than snow, her features as beautiful as a painting.
Most ordinary beauties were delicate and gentle.
However, between her brows, there was a solemn, heroic spirit. She was like an unsheathed sword, her sharp edge briefly revealed without being Aggressive and Overbearing.
She possessed Unparalleled Elegance.
"I somehow feel a sense of familiarity with Fairy Xu Mingshu."
Someone turned their head, their gaze falling upon Xu Deling.
They were instantly struck by an epiphany.
"So she's imitating the Phoenix Plume Fairy!"
The rest of the crowd felt the same way, completely unaware that the exact opposite was true.
"Fairy Xu, please."
With Mo Tingtao's words, his Cyan Wave Sword was unsheathed once more.
Ripples flowed over the blade. From the very beginning, he attacked with all his might.
The Cyan Wave Sword transformed into a stream of cyan light. Spirit Power churned at the tip, generating cascading waves of water-like Sword Qi that crashed toward Xu Mingshu like furious tides.
This strike was three parts sharper than when he fought Yan Yue.
Xu Mingshu's expression remained unchanged. She merely raised her right hand, her palm facing outward with her fingers splayed.
Her crimson sleeve slid down slightly, revealing a pristine, snow-white wrist that sparkled dazzlingly beneath the sunlight.
A stream of dark light surged from her palm. In a blink, it transformed into a small black banner that floated in front of her.
The small banner was only about a foot long. The cloth was ink-black, with dark gold patterns faintly flowing across its surface, radiating a cold, eerie aura.
"A Mid-Grade Magic Treasure?!" someone exclaimed in shock.
"More than that," Yan Wujin's eyes narrowed. "That is a Four-Pattern Magic Treasure. Its power is far beyond extraordinary."
When it came to familiarity with Magic Treasures, only Xu Deling was above him among those present.
As for Mo Wentian, he merely observed more meticulously using his Nascent Soul level Divine sense.
Xu Mingshu lightly clenched her five fingers.
The small black banner abruptly expanded. The cloth unfurled, expanding to about three meters across.
The dark gold patterns on the banner suddenly glowed brightly, and a massive phantom shot out from it.
It was a black-scaled dragon crocodile, over thirty meters long. Its entire body was covered in pitch-black scales, and its gaping jaws revealed horrifying fangs.
The phantom of the black-scaled dragon crocodile roared at the sky. An invisible formless pressure spread outward, causing his water-like Sword Qi to stall mid-air.
The next instant, the dragon crocodile phantom dove down.
Opening its massive maw, it swallowed the cascading layers of Sword Qi into its stomach in one gulp.
Boom—
The Sword Qi detonated inside the dragon crocodile's belly, but it only caused the phantom to sway slightly before all went quiet.
Mo Tingtao's face drastically changed. With no time to think, his body rapidly retreated while he continuously swung his Cyan Wave Sword.
Streams of Sword Qi poured out like a torrential rainstorm.
However, the black-scaled dragon crocodile phantom tore through as if moving across an empty plain. It allowed the Sword Qi to slash its body; the attacks only sent specks of black light flying off its scales, leaving it entirely unharmed.
"The Essence Soul of a late Third-Tier black-scaled dragon crocodile!" Mo Wentian looked toward Xu Deling. "Phoenix Plume Fairy, you forged that banner, didn't you?"
"It is just a clumsy piece of work. I've embarrassed myself before Senior Mo."
Yan Wujin smiled bitterly. "Sect Master, if this is a clumsy piece of work, then this old man truly has no face left. With the Essence Soul of a late Third-Tier black-scaled dragon crocodile acting as the banner's spirit...
It would be exceedingly rare to find a Mid-Grade Magic Treasure that could surpass its power."
Lei Wuji sized up the dragon crocodile's Essence Soul for a moment and also sighed. "Before its death, this dragon crocodile was likely close to being a Demonic Beast at the Peak Third-Tier.
Even if I were to fight with all my might, taking it down would likely cost a great deal of effort."
The expressions of the surrounding Golden Core Cultivators changed slightly.
At this moment, the situation on the ring had become entirely one-sided.
The black-scaled dragon crocodile phantom charged recklessly, forcing Mo Tingtao to continuously retreat.
The Sword Qi from the Cyan Wave Sword simply couldn't inflict much damage.
He gritted his teeth, attempting to change his tactics, but the dragon crocodile phantom was already upon him, its massive claw smashing downward.
Mo Tingtao raised his sword horizontally to block. Amidst an explosive crash, his whole body was sent flying backward, nearly tumbling out of the ring.
Before he could even steady himself, the dragon crocodile phantom was already onto him. It opened its massive jaws, aiming right at his head.
Mo Tingtao's face turned ashen.
Xu Mingshu stopped the black-scaled dragon crocodile just in time.
It leisurely floated back to her side.
"With such a Magic Treasure, one could remain undefeated even against a Late-Stage Golden Core Cultivator!" someone exclaimed.
"I concede!"
Mo Tingtao sighed softly, cupping his fists and looking at her. "Fairy Xu's Magic Treasure is truly marvelous. I am no match for you."
Saying so, he stepped down from the ring.
Xu Mingshu gave a slight nod, unbothered. She then continued, "Any Daoist Friends below the Mid-stage Golden Core who are interested may come up and spar."
Her expression was calm. "Daoist Friend Mo's sword arts are profound. Thank you for the match."
Her tone was plain, as if that overwhelming display of Destroying the Dead and Pulling Up the Rotten was merely done casually.
Mo Tingtao forced a bitter smile and cupped his fists. "Fairy Xu's Mana is deep, and her Magic Treasure is extraordinary. I am convinced both in heart and speech of my defeat."
A young man standing beside Lei Wuji seemed tempted.
"If you are interested, you may step up. Sparring in spell arts will be helpful for you in breaking through the mid-stage bottleneck."
"Yes, First Elder."
Lei Yunpeng had been stuck at the Golden Core Early Peak for over two decades.
In his hand, he held a High-Grade Magic Treasure that his grandfather had spent a tremendous price to ask True Lord Yanzhen to forge.
Now, this High-Grade Magic Treasure had already become his Natal Magic Treasure.
Though he was only at the Early-Stage Golden Core, by relying on the characteristics of his Spirit Body, he could draw out four or five parts of its true might.
Lei Yunpeng flew onto the battle ring.
He cupped his hands toward Xu Mingshu. "Lei Family, Lei Yunpeng. I ask Fairy Xu for pointers!"
"Daoist Friend Lei, please."
Her voice was clear and musical, completely lacking any trace of timidity toward battle.
Lei Yunpeng didn't waste his breath. With a flip of his right hand, lightning wildly exploded in his palm.
A stream of purple light surged from his palm, instantly forming a long spear.
The spear was purple-gold throughout. Purple lightning danced around the tip, carrying a faint sound of thunder. Complex lightning patterns were etched into the shaft, which were currently lighting up sequentially alongside the flow of his Spirit Power.
High-Grade Magic Treasure—the "Purple Thunder Spear"!
The moment this spear was drawn, the expressions of many Golden Core Perfected Persons in the crowd shifted.
"A High-Grade Magic Treasure?!"
Many looked toward Lei Wuji.
Gifting a High-Grade Magic Treasure to this junior showed exactly how heavily the Lei Family valued Lei Yunpeng.
"Everyone, do not misunderstand."
Lei Wuji smiled as he explained. "Yunpeng's grandfather, our clan's Elder Yunshan, used the fortuitous gains from his various adventures to commission True Lord Yanzhen to forge this for him."
"So that is the case."
The crowd was enlightened.