Chapter 170 The Heavenly Dao Sword (II)
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The scene changes to another location within the secret realm—a place filled with dark clouds swirling ominously around a towering cliff.
At the top of the cliff stood a formidable tower, its structure ancient and mysterious. A lone figure emerged from the fog and approached the tower.
It was Thomas Frank, the inner disciple Arthur knew.
With a ragged appearance and wearing glasses, Thomas seemed determined as he gazed at the tower before him.
He reached into his pocket and pulled out a golden compass, which immediately pointed towards the tower.
A triumphant smile crossed his face as he carefully placed the compass on the circular hole of the first stone step.
"Finally, those damn creatures were dealt. It's fascinating how some spirit beast can evolve when exposed to certain conditions. I might have to study more on this later on," he said as he watched the compass settle in the opening.
It fit perfectly, as if destined to be there.
Thomas then retrieved an old book and began chanting in an ancient language, the words flowing with power and resonance.
"Tomblak-Anktakt-Romghklit....Anakilatraks...On-Kolos!"
As he chanted, mysterious runes appeared and infused into the compass.
A brilliant golden light shot forth into the skies and then vanished, replaced by a voice that resonated through the surroundings.
"Who trespasses into the times beyond?" the voice boomed.
"The Heavenly Dao Seeker peers into all secrets of the heavens and is no trespasser, for he is blessed by the heavens and hence has the authority," Thomas answered with confidence.
"Is the authority freely given?" the voice inquired.
"The Heavenly Dao Seeker is also The Heavenly Dao Peeper," Thomas replied.
The voice laughed, seemingly amused by Thomas' response. "Enter, young one."
With the voice's permission, the stone steps on the ground transformed into a flight of stairs, leading to a door at the top of the tower.
However, the golden compass that had served as the key cracked and scattered into motes of light.
Thomas let out a sigh at the loss of the compass but remained undeterred. He began to climb the stairs, each step filled with anticipation and determination.
Meanwhile, in another location, Crixus, Julius, and their team arrived at a dark valley surrounded by a formidable Barrier.
The air was tinged with an aura of ancient power and mystery.
Crixus looked at the Barrier, wondering how to break through it. Julius, on the other hand, wore a confident smile, seemingly aware of the solution.
"How do we break this Barrier?" Crixus asked, his curiosity piqued.
Julius chuckled, "It's quite simple. A blood sacrifice is all that's needed."
He commanded one of his servants to touch the Barrier, and then a man with dull eyes stepped forward and touched the barrier.
"An enslaved cultivator?" Crixus asked.
"Yes, they can come handy sometimes like in this situation."
Then as the servant's hand remained on the barrier, something happened.
*Sizzle*
His blood was inexplicably sucked dry until he fell lifeless to the ground. The Barrier shimmered and then dissipated, allowing Crixus, Julius, and their team to enter the dark valley.
Unbeknownst to them, a figure watched from a distance. It was Zaith Asura, whose eyes revealed a puzzled look as he wondered how they had discovered this secret location.
In his mind, a voice whispered, "They are probably here for that old geezer's legacy."
"Your enemy?"
"No, how can that weakling b worthy of me the enemy of the Defiler of the Heavens."
"Whatever..."
Zaith proceeded ahead.
Back at the tower, Thomas' ascent was filled with an air of mystery as he ventured deeper into the tower.
Each step he took seemed to resonate with ancient energy, and he couldn't help but wonder what secrets awaited him at the top.
On the other hand, Crixus and Julius moved cautiously through the dark valley, surrounded by an eerie atmosphere. They were determined to uncover the rumored legacy hidden within.
As they ventured further into the valley, Zaith Asura watched them from afar, his curiosity and suspicions heightened. How had they learned about this hidden place? What were their true intentions?
The voice in his head whispered more information, "That old geezer's legacy must be quite valuable for them to go through such lengths."
With each passing moment, the tension in the air grew, and everyone had their own thoughts in their hearts.
As Thomas, driven by his determination and curiosity, continued to climb the tower with unwavering resolve. He couldn't help but feel a connection to the ancient energy emanating from the structure.
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At this time, back at the Heavenly Sword Pavilion, as the scenes shifted once more, Kira found herself sitting cross-legged on a circular floating platform, her brows furrowed in concentration.
She was in the midst of a mental trial, navigating through illusions and challenges presented by the Artifact Spirit.
With a deep breath, Kira focused her mind and senses, determined to break through the illusion. After a few seconds, her brows relaxed, and she opened her eyes, a victorious smile spreading across her face.
"You broke through the illusion in such a short amount of time. It seems you are fated to receive this technique," the resonating voice of the Artifact Spirit echoed around her.
Kira couldn't help but feel a surge of pride at her accomplishment. "Of course, I'm awesome," she said confidently, her usual spirited self shining through.
The Artifact Spirit materialized before her, and Kira raised an eyebrow as it remarked on her contrasting personalities. "Your personality is completely different from when you are with others."
Kira rolled her eyes playfully. "Just give me the damned technique already. What's with all these questions?"
The Artifact Spirit chuckled, handing over a parchment to her. Kira quickly scanned its contents and saw the name "Sovereign Sword Array."
"This technique is meant for sword practitioners. Since you are not one, you probably have some other uses for it," the Artifact Spirit commented.
Kira nodded, a determined look in her eyes. "Exactly. I'm getting it for my grandfather, who is a Rune Master. He might find some applications for it in rune crafting."
The Artifact Spirit's expression showed understanding as it acknowledged her purpose. "I see. In that case, I believe you are the right person to inherit this technique."
Kira smiled gratefully, appreciating the Artifact Spirit's understanding.
The Artifact Spirit then inquired, "Will you continue with the trials?"
Without hesitation, Kira replied, "Yes, I will."
In an instant, Kira was transported to a new location that resembled a battlefield. She looked around, slightly perplexed. "Another illusion?"
The Artifact Spirit's voice echoed, "This is a trial tailored to your individual strengths and skills. Face it fearlessly, and you shall be rewarded."
With renewed determination, Kira readied herself for the challenges that lay ahead. She had a motto that was taught to her by her father.
"If you are going to do something, do it to the best of your ability."
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