Chapter 162 - Arc 11: The Sects Grand Competition |

Chapter 162 - Arc 11: The Sect's Grand Competition |

Translator: Lynn

Following that, Xu Ziqing engaged in a session of meditative practice to regulate his breathing, restore his vital energy, and prepare for another round of combat.

This time, he wielded the Qingyun Needle, incorporating an additional lethal technique compared to his previous approach. If faced with a suitable adversary, he would initiate the “Four Seasons Sword Art” as the first line of offense, honing his swordplay. If the opponent’s swordsmanship surpassed his own, the Qingyun Needle would be deployed in tandem to breach the opponent’s defenses.

With each battle, the murderous aura surrounding the Qingyun Needle intensified, enhancing its potency for subsequent conflicts. Throughout this series of engagements, the Qingyun Needle underwent tempering, drawing awe and intrigue from onlookers.

It became increasingly clear to everyone that the Qingyun Needle was condensed from the essence of Yimu within Xu Ziqing’s being, melding with his flesh and blood. As Xu Ziqing’s strength grew, the needle would evolve to be more formidable and commanding. Even a standard natal magic weapon might find itself outmatched.

A natal magic weapon typically represented a chosen magical implement of a monk, crafted from superior materials and continually refined with the essence and blood of their own heart. This process united the weapon with their flesh and blood, establishing a symbiotic connection and aligning with their consciousness, akin to an extension of their own body.

For monks with lesser capabilities, selecting a potent magic weapon was common to bolster their defenses and augment their skills. Conversely, more powerful monks exercised caution in their choice of a destiny-bound magic weapon. These could often be substituted or elevated, allowing the weapon to grow in strength alongside the monk’s abilities. This dynamic turned the magic weapon into a versatile tool, a deeply concealed tactic, or even a form of second life.

It was evident that Xu Ziqing’s Qingyun Needle was deeply entwined with being a natal magic weapon.

What remained unknown to everyone was his possession of a natal tree, destined to eventually exert command over all the trees in the world, granting him numerous capabilities beyond the norm. This was why people were constantly in search of potent and unique techniques—highlighting the distinction between them and commonplace practices.

Despite Xu Ziqing being at the foundational stage of cultivation and having never delved into the art of weapon refinement, his understanding honed through battles allowed him to manifest the Qingyun Needle from his very flesh and blood.

Hence, although the Qingyun Needle had recently come into existence and was still fragile, incomplete, and imperfect, it already possessed a spirit, earning the esteemed title of a spiritual weapon.

In an instant, the radiant blue lights subsided, marking a significant advancement in his cultivation!

Xu Ziqing opened his eyes, and the luminescent blue glow within them dissipated. Miraculously, he appeared more robust now, exuding a sense of comfort throughout his entire being. His breath had harmonized, a clear indication of deeper connection with the inner world.

Since his arrival in the Qingyun Great World, despite encountering some challenges, overall, his cultivation had steadily progressed. Even in the face of great danger, he adeptly turned it into safety, a feat undoubtedly aided by the support of his master and the sect.

Upon witnessing his awakening, Qiu Ze and the others extended their congratulations, saying, “Congratulations, Fellow Daoist Xu, on your breakthrough.”

The eight junior sisters also saluted, and Ying Sheng added, “Congratulations, second senior brother!”

Qiu He further commended, “Ziqing possesses remarkable talent, comparable to Yun’er. He should strive diligently to attain the Golden Core soon, bringing glory to our Xiaozhu Peak!”

Qiu Ze felt deeply moved, offering repeated kowtows, his eyes welling up with emotion.

Having lived as an inner sect disciple for numerous years, Qiu Ze had endured innumerable hardships to attain his present level of cultivation. Encountering such an affectionate master now truly made him believe that all the suffering he endured in the past was indeed worthwhile.

Observing Qiu Ze’s expression, Yue Jun and the others experienced a blend of emotions, including a tinge of sorrow.

Master Qiu He looked at the group of juniors, speaking with warmth, “Luo Yao, Yue Jun, Long Xuan, though I haven’t officially taken you as disciples, you’ve stood by Qiu Ze for many years. You can join my Little Bamboo Peak together, choose a spot with abundant spiritual energy, and establish a cave to live and cultivate independently. It’s a better option than staying in the disciples’ quarters.” The other three exchanged glances, their joy evident, and they promptly expressed their gratitude to the venerable master.

Securing four promising juniors with good potential brought great relief and joy to Qiu He. Waving his hand to prompt everyone to rise, he continued, “Qiu Ze, you are now the third disciple of Zhenchuan and will meet your two senior brothers.” Qiu Ze swiftly composed himself and, upon looking at Yun Lie and Xu Ziqing, felt a different sense of respect. After adjusting his attire, he saluted, “Greetings, Da Shixiong. Greetings, Er Shixiong.”

Yun Lie nodded slightly, affirming the greeting.

Xu Ziqing offered a gentle smile, “No need for excessive formality, Shidi.” Reflecting on the etiquette when acknowledging a junior brother, he naturally intended to present a gift. However, although he possessed some elixirs, for monks in the later stages of foundation establishment, they might not suffice, appearing somewhat lacking. This made him feel a bit embarrassed, especially given his recent transition to being a novice.

Observing Xu Ziqing’s slight discomfort, Yun Lie raised his hand and conjured a ball of yellow light, stating, “Master and I...” He paused briefly, then rephrased, “I am presenting a gift with Ziqing.”

Qiu Ze felt honored, swiftly extending his hand to accept the gift, anticipating it might be a bit challenging. To his surprise, the yellow light felt somewhat weak upon contact, containing only a modest amount. Upon closer inspection, he noticed a potent earthy essence on his palm. It turned out to be a golden bell and a flying sword.

These two magical weapons displayed remarkable agility, with subdued light and an understated yet elegant appearance. A faint roar of surging earth energy emanated from the spiritual light’s inhalation and exhalation. Judging by their auras, they were indeed middle-grade spiritual weapons, fitting for a cultivator of his level!

Such a generous gift!

Witnessing this gesture, Yue Jun and the others were also taken aback by this remarkable display of generosity.

Qiu Ze promptly expressed his gratitude with a solemn expression, “Thank you, Shixiong.”

Xu Ziqing smiled gently, “We’re fellow sect members; there’s no need for excessive politeness.” Subsequently, the other eight junior sisters approached to welcome their third senior brother, and Qiu Ze naturally offered them useful gifts like pills as a gesture of greeting.

At this moment, aside from Xu Ziqing, the other nine monks who had made it to the top ten were also confirmed.

The battles on Yanwutai had concluded.

Black dragon roared, intending for these ten individuals to ascend the Black Dragon puppet and return to face the chief Sixing Peak.

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