56-60

Chapter 56

Zhou Chengwen organized the disciples to go back for treatment. Song Weizhi also returned to her room and set up a barrier before taking out various healing elixirs from her storage ring. She removed her blood-stained clothes and applied the powdered medicine to her injuries. There was a wound on her back, and Song Weizhi painstakingly managed to apply the medicine. She then used bandages to wrap the wounds.

With the help of these spiritual medicines, the external injuries appeared intimidating, but with a few more days of treatment, they would heal. Song Weizhi's real concern was the Soul Summoning Sect that Zhou Chengwen mentioned. Their target seemed to be her friend Xia Xia. She wondered what these people really wanted.

On the other hand, Wei Zhao was much more comfortable than Song Weizhi. He didn't have to attend to his wounds by himself. Zhou Qingxue brought out more than a dozen types of spiritual medicines.

Wei Zhao smiled and said, "We don't need so much medicine."

Miss Zhou glared at Wei Zhao with red eyes. "Stop the nonsense. Just take them when I give them to you," she said, pouring five or six different pills into his hands.

Wei Zhao obediently took the pills. Seeing his clothes stained with blood, Miss Zhou immediately said, "You should take off your clothes so I can apply the medicine for you."

Wei Zhao nodded and took off his clothes despite the pain. He didn't stop until he was down to his undershirt, however Zhou Qingxue blushed and stopped him, saying, "Wait, that's enough. How can you, a young lady, just strip everything off?"

Wei Zhao was puzzled. "But isn't it easier to apply the medicine this way?" He couldn't understand why taking everything off would make a difference since they were both girls.

"Alright, alright, there's no need to take off anything else. This way is fine," Zhou Qingxue blushed and quickly applied the medicine to the wounds and then tightly bandaged them. She only relaxed after finishing everything.

"Now that you've applied the medicine, take your time to put your clothes back on," Zhou Qingxue said with her back turned, avoiding eye contact with Wei Zhao.

Confused, Wei Zhao glanced at Zhou Qingxue's red face. He couldn't help but feel like he was the one being watched, wondering why Miss Zhou was feeling shy.

Meanwhile, on a cliff shrouded in black mist, there stood a large mansion with various pavilions and buildings. However, the cliff was barren, in stark contrast to the mansion's grandeur.

At the center of the mansion was a grand hall where a young man sat in the middle, sipping tea. Despite emitting intermittent black aura, he looked like a young nobleman. A dozen or so people in black knelt before him. They were the ones who had clashed with Song Weizhi and others.

The lord, seemingly unfazed by those kneeling before him, sipped his tea before speaking, "You are all worthless. Several Golden Core-stage individuals were defeated by someone at the Nascent Soul stage. How dare you come back?"

Although his tone wasn't harsh, it sent shivers down the spines of the kneeling figures. The leader nervously reported, "Master, those young ones were unexpectedly formidable, far exceeding their Golden Core cultivation. Later, disciples from the Cold Mountain Sword Sect also arrived, which forced us to retreat."

The man, known as the lord, disdainfully glanced at the subordinate. "Did you see her?"

The subordinate dared not lift his head. "Reporting to the master, the guards around those young ones were extremely vigilant. We failed to get close to them."

"Hmph, you're aware of your failure. There's no need to keep you around." As he spoke, the black aura around him intensified.

Just as he was about to act, a voice sounded from the void. "Master, please hold on."

As the voice spoke, a masked man appeared in the hall and bowed to the lord. "Please calm down, master. It's not entirely their fault this time. I didn't expect those individuals with Song Zhixia to improve their cultivation so quickly. That person known as Wei Zhao has already reached the peak of Nascent Soul stage."

"Heh, interesting. I remember you said her cultivation was at the Golden Core stage when she arrived, yet she reached Nascent Soul stage within a few days? There must be something strange about this." The man glanced at the masked man and continued.

"We are still investigating the specifics. However, we have used the Soul-Guiding Stone to confirm that there are two fragments of the Xuan Bird's primordial soul within Song Zhixia's body. Her friends also possess exceptional cultivation and aptitude, particularly the woman who ranked first in the Cold Mountain Sword Sect's secret realm. I have a hunch that her cultivation is more than just at the Golden Core stage and that she and Song Zhixia share a close relationship, almost as if they are in love," the masked man elaborated to the man known as the lord.

A smile crept across the man's face. "Interesting. Two lovers. I wonder if one of them falls into the demonic path, will the other still remain devoted?"

"Master, the martial arts competition among the Four Great Sects in the City of Qimo is about to begin. I uncovered information from the palace that the first prize for this competition is the fragment of the Xuan Bird's primordial soul. Why don't we postpone dealing with Song Zhixia for now? If by chance either Song Zhixia or Song Weizhi wins, we won't have to make any effort to obtain three pieces of the primordial soul," the masked man suggested.

"No rush. Once we know the whereabouts of the primordial soul fragments, they will inevitably be mine. For now, I'll have some fun with those little brats," the lord said before dismissing the kneeling figures, allowing them to leave.

The man referred to as the lord was none other than the master of the demonic Soul-Guiding Sect, Lu Ming. To him, obtaining the Xuan Bird's primordial soul fragment could rapidly advance his cultivation. Alternatively, participating in dual cultivation with someone in possession of the Xuan Bird's primordial soul fragment could also have a similar effect. Having contemplated the masked man's words, Lu Ming lost interest in directly seizing the primordial soul fragment from Song Zhixia.

Several days later, Song Zhixia finally regained consciousness, her cultivation having improved significantly. As for Song Weizhi and the others, their injuries had nearly healed. However, Song Weizhi still harbored unease over the recent events. The adversaries sent to confront her were not the most elite, yet she struggled to handle them alone. Without Zhou Qingxue's timely rescue, she and Wei Zhao and Zhao Xuankun would not have been able to hold their ground.

When Song Zhixia awoke, she had already reached the peak of the Golden Core stage, with the boost from the primordial soul fragment within her. Eager to share her joy at the progress of her cultivation, she barged into Song Weizhi's room without even knocking.

"Sister, I've advanced by two minor realms," Song Zhixia exclaimed, throwing herself into Song Weizhi's arms.

Song Weizhi embraced the girl and said, "Great, my dear Xia Xia is amazing."

Nuzzling her head against Song Weizhi's shoulder, the girl asked, "Sister, have you completed your cultivation already?"

Leaving a gentle kiss on the girl's forehead, Song Weizhi whispered, "I advanced a few days before you did, Xia Xia. In the future, when you go out, make sure to bring me or Wei Zhao with you. Some unidentified people in black showed up a few days ago. We need to be extra cautious."

Alarmed by the potential danger, Song Zhixia asked, "Sister, are you hurt? Were you injured?"

Song Weizhi hugged her tightly. "I'm standing here in one piece, don't worry. Those people were suspicious, but I'm fine. We just need to be more careful."

The following days returned to normal, as if the incident with the people in black had never happened. Song Weizhi and her companions gradually became familiar with various parts of the Cold Mountain Sword Sect.

After a morning class, Qi Yingzhe informed the disciples about the martial arts competition among the four sects. This news sparked a lively discussion among the disciples.

Qi Yingzhe addressed them, "The first prize for this competition is the fragment of the Xuan Bird's primordial soul. I hope everyone will prepare well and bring honor to our sect."

"What is the Xuan Bird's primordial soul? Is it important for cultivation?"

"It is said to be a fragment left by the ancient divine beast Xuan Bird in the mortal realm. It can greatly enhance one's cultivation. However, winning first place does not concern us."

"Yeah, but will Senior Qi participate in the competition? If he does, it's a sure win for him."

"Yes, the competition is going to be intense this time."

"Well, we can just watch from the sidelines. I doubt I'll go beyond the first round."

In the main hall of the Cold Mountain Sword Sect, only Zhou Yeran and Qi Yingzhe were present. Zhou Yeran cast a prohibition in the hall.

He pondered for a while before speaking, "Yingzhe, our master has had high expectations of you for years, and you have lived up to them. You are worthy of being the top disciple of the Cold Mountain Sword Sect. You have always been steady. You are aware of the upcoming martial arts competition, where the royal family has offered the Xuan Bird's primordial soul fragment as a reward. This is an extremely rare item, with great significance for our sect. I hope that after winning the championship, you will hand over the primordial soul fragment to me. Then, the treasures of our Cold Mountain Sword Sect will be yours to choose from." Zhou Yeran's eloquent words were in fact his way of trying to claim the Xuan Bird's primordial soul fragment for himself.

However, Qi Yingzhe remained composed, showing no hint of disobedience. "Master, that's a serious request. Everything I have is given by the sect. If I am fortunate enough to win first place, I will certainly present the primordial soul fragment with both hands."

Zhou Yeran nodded with a smile. "You are truly the outstanding disciple I have always favored. Yingzhe, your future is limitless."

Chapter 57

The martial arts grand competition of the four major sects became the focus of the disciples for a while. The generous rewards and the opportunity to exchange martial arts skills and meet fellow practitioners from other sects were the main attractions.

Meanwhile, in the imperial palace of Jimo City, a man dressed in a bright yellow dragon robe sat on the dragon throne, with his favorite son, the third prince, Gao Cheng Xuan, standing beside him.

"Cheng Xuan, how is that matter being handled?" the old emperor asked as he reviewed the memorials.

"In response to Your Majesty, the rewards for the martial arts grand competition have been widely publicized. According to recent intelligence reports, all four major sects are determined to secure these rewards, even to the extent of making backup plans," the third prince respectfully replied.

"Well, the arrogance of the four major sects is too much. This is a good opportunity to keep them in check. Otherwise, it will be detrimental to the royal family sooner or later," the old emperor said with a serious tone.

"I understand, the more chaotic the martial arts grand competition, the better," Gao Cheng Xuan said with a knowing expression.

"I trust in your capability. Your exceptional talent is suitable for cultivating immortal arts. In the future, these sect powers will need you to manage. As for the Crown Prince, he can be in charge of internal affairs. With your support, the Crown Prince will certainly benefit greatly," the old emperor remarked.

"Rest assured, Father. I will do my best to assist my elder brother. I will take my leave now," Gao Cheng Xuan bowed to the old emperor.

The old emperor nodded, permitting his departure.

As Gao Cheng Xuan stepped out of the imperial palace, the humility on his face had long disappeared. He couldn't understand why his father favored his useless older brother, Wen Tao. Both in literary and military strategies, he should be the one favored.

Several days later, the martial arts grand competition took place as scheduled. However, this time, the competition venue was the special martial arts field of the royal army in Jimo City. There were dozens of arenas, and each participant held a spirit stone displaying their name and number. Participants with the same number were matched up for the competition.

Song Zhi Xia's first match was scheduled for the morning against a junior disciple from Lingjiang Sect. The disciple was still in the foundational stage, and his cultivation level was nowhere near Song Zhi Xia's. Therefore, she defeated him with a single strike, sending him off the stage before he even had a chance to speak.

Wu Lue and Zhou Qing Xue had similar experiences. With their Nascent Soul stage cultivation, they effortlessly defeated the junior disciples without even drawing their weapons.

Song Wei Zhi's match was in the afternoon. She found the martial arts grand competition peculiar and, coupled with the incident with the mysterious cloaked individual, she was cautious. She was determined to obtain the fragments of the Xuan Bird's soul.

Her opponent was a junior disciple from Xuantian Sect who had just reached the Foundation Establishment stage. The disciple, seeing a beautiful female cultivator, attempted to strike up a conversation with Song Wei Zhi.

"Sister, are you called Song Wei Zhi? What a beautiful name. Can we get to know each other after our match?" the junior disciple asked. Before he could say another word, the sound of a gong signaled the start of the match. With a single strike, the junior disciple was sent flying and coughing up blood, making it one of the few matches to draw blood on the first day of the competition.

After her match, despite the gossip and stares, Song Wei Zhi returned to her disciples' residence with her younger sister. The martial arts grand competition focused on matches, so injuries or even fatalities were considered normal.

After more than ten days, the number of eliminated participants increased, including some who died during the competition. All sects suffered losses, and in the end, only 16 participants advanced, including Song Wei Zhi and her companions.

Entering the top 16 brought not only a large audience but also the personal appearance of the third prince, Gao Cheng Xuan, who came to watch the matches. The sect leaders approached him, acknowledging the formidable strength of the royal family and its indispensable support for the sects' development.

Song Zhi Xia faced Wang Xian from the Yufeng Valley, who had just reached the Golden Core stage with a single wood-element spirit root. His spiritual beast was a giant elephant.

Although Song Zhi Xia had a higher cultivation level than Wang Xian, his spirit beast posed a challenge for her. When the gong sounded, she took the initiative. Using her Flaming Sword technique, she sent a sea of flames towards Wang Xian. In response, Wang Xian channeled his spiritual energy to draw all the leaves and vegetation around him towards himself, simultaneously launching an attack.

Thanks to Song Zhi Xia's ample spiritual power, the vegetation attack had no effect and was instead consumed by her flaming sword. She pressed closer to Wang Xian, who had to reluctantly call upon his spiritual beast to attack her from behind.

Sensing the threat, Song Zhi Xia dodged the elephant's attack, mounted the beast, and pierced it with her spirit sword, causing it to convulse and collapse. At this point, Wang Xian, panicked and distracted by his injured spiritual beast, made mistakes in his sword techniques, which ultimately led to his defeat by Song Zhi Xia.

However, a senior from Yufeng Valley berated Song Zhi Xia for injuring his disciple and attacked her. Unable to evade due to her recent use of substantial spiritual power and the opponent's higher cultivation, Song Zhi Xia was saved by Song Wei Zhi, who intercepted the attack.

As the confrontation ensued, the other sects united to condemn the elder's behavior:

"It's disgraceful to be unable to accept defeat. Leave now, elder."

The shouting in the arena grew louder and more fervent, prompting an apology from the Yufeng Valley's sect leader to Gao Cheng Xuan, averting further disgrace for the sect.

Gao Cheng Xuan, smiling, nodded in understanding and signaled for the competition to continue.

Meanwhile, Song Wei Zhi comforted her younger sister and then ascended the stage. Her earlier actions had been observed by many, leaving the opponent somewhat apprehensive due to Song Wei Zhi's display of strength.

Gao Cheng Xuan's gaze lingered on Song Zhi Xia and Song Wei Zhi, and he inquired about the victorious female cultivator.

"Zhou Sect Leader, what's the name of the woman who just won the match? She possesses exceptional beauty and strength," he remarked.

"Your Highness, it is Song Zhi Xia, a recent recruit from our Cold Mountain Sword Sect's inner disciples. Her aptitude is commendable, and I didn't expect her to make it to the top sixteen," Zhou Qing Xue promptly responded.

Gao Cheng Xuan nodded, more shooting a look in the direction of the sisters.

Song Wei Zhi lightly patted her sister's hand to provide comfort before she returned to the stage. She had sustained internal injuries due to the fierce confrontation, yet she persevered, as obtaining the Xuan Bird's soul fragments was crucial to her.

"Xiaoxiao, I'm fine. Don't act recklessly. The Xuan Bird's soul fragment rightfully belongs to you, and we must retrieve it," Song Wei Zhi assured her sister, embracing her and wiping away her tears.

Xiaoxiao sniffled, "But Sister, what about your injuries? Are they serious? Maybe we should forfeit the match? I don't want the soul fragment anymore."

"How could this be considered reckless? It's a part of your body. I can't let others obtain your soul fragment. Trust me, if my injuries were serious, how could I still be standing and talking to you?" Song Wei Zhi replied, gazing sympathetically at her sister.

"But, but..."

"Let's not dwell on that. We're almost there. Let's go," Song Wei Zhi said, leading her sister back to the stage.

Gao Cheng Xuan's attention remained focused on Song Zhi Xia and Song Wei Zhi. Later, he inquired about the victorious female cultivator.

"Zhou Sect Leader, what is the name of the woman who just won the match? She possesses exceptional beauty and strength," he remarked.

"Your Highness, it is Song Zhi Xia, a recent recruit from our Cold Mountain Sword Sect's inner disciples. Her aptitude is commendable, and I didn't expect her to make it to the top sixteen," Zhou Qing Xue promptly responded.

Gao Cheng Xuan nodded, more shooting a look in the direction of the sisters.

Song Wei Zhi lightly patted her sister's hand to provide comfort before she returned to the stage. She had sustained internal injuries due to the fierce confrontation, yet she persevered, as obtaining the Xuan Bird's soul fragments was crucial to her.

"Xiaoxiao, I'm fine. Don't act recklessly. The Xuan Bird's soul fragment rightfully belongs to you, and we must retrieve it," Song Wei Zhi assured her sister, embracing her and wiping away her tears.

Xiaoxiao sniffled, "But Sister, what about your injuries? Are they serious? Maybe we should forfeit the match? I don't want the soul fragment anymore."

"How could this be considered reckless? It's a part of your body. I can't let others obtain your soul fragment. Trust me, if my injuries were serious, how could I still be standing and talking to you?" Song Wei Zhi replied, gazing sympathetically at her sister.

"But, but..."

"Let's not dwell on that. We're almost there. Let's go," Song Wei Zhi said, leading her sister back to the stage.

Gao Cheng Xuan's attention remained focused on Song Zhi Xia and Song Wei Zhi. Later, he inquired about the victorious female cultivator.

"Zhou Sect Leader, what is the name of the woman who just won the match? She possesses exceptional beauty and strength," he remarked.

"Your Highness, it is Song Zhi Xia, a recent recruit from our Cold Mountain Sword Sect's inner disciples. Her aptitude is commendable, and I didn't expect her to make it to the top sixteen," Zhou Qing Xue promptly responded.

Gao Cheng Xuan nodded, more shooting a look in the direction of the sisters.

Such is the way of martial arts; facing a stronger opponent, Song Wei Zhi had sustained severe internal injuries and needed proper rest. As long as her opponent prolonged the match, her stamina would diminish. However, the opponent remained hesitant and refrained from attacking, giving Song Wei Zhi an opportunity. With a rare burst of spiritual energy, she channeled it all into her Departed Moon Sword and unleashed a strike with a formidable force capable of swallowing mountains and rivers.

The intimidated disciple, seeing the overwhelming momentum, made no attempt to counter and voluntarily conceded defeat by leaving the stage.

Stepping back, Song Wei Zhi suppressed the excruciating pain coursing through her body. Bearing fresh injuries caused by her recent exertion of spiritual power, she concealed her condition, forcibly containing the blood in her mouth. With steady steps, she walked onward.

Reaching out to grab Song Zhi Xia's arm, she covertly shifted her weight onto the young girl, establishing a concealment barrier and quietly instructed, "Zhi Xia, support me and don't let others notice."

Enduring the tears in her eyes, Song Zhi Xia guided Song Wei Zhi away to a more secluded area, and with her on her sword, they departed.

Chapter 58

Wei Zhao wanted to go back and check on Song Wei Zhi when she heard Zhou Qing Xue's voice, "Just looking at your master, I haven't lost yet."

Wei Zhao looked at Song Wei Zhi in the distance and then at Zhou Qing Xue. She decided to stay. Otherwise, Miss would bring this up again.

Song Wei Zhi was completely leaning on Song Zhi Xia. The composure she had on the sparring field was now gone, and after being injured and forcefully channeling her spiritual power, her consciousness was now a little fuzzy.

Song Zhi Xia supported Song Wei Zhi to prevent her from slipping and flew rapidly on her sword. After a few moments, they finally returned to their residence. Song Wei Zhi had already fallen into unconsciousness.

Song Zhi Xia gently laid her on the bed, wiped her tears, and forced herself to calm down. She lightly placed her palm on Song Wei Zhi's back, continuously channeling her spiritual power into her body.

After a few moments, Song Wei Zhi gradually opened her eyes and saw the young girl by the bed with red eyes. She wanted to raise her hand to wipe her tears, but found that she couldn't move. She had used up 400 points to exchange for medicine, and she finally felt a little better.

"Xia Xia, help me up," Song Wei Zhi smiled faintly.

Seeing Song Wei Zhi speak, the young girl carefully helped her up, "Senior Sister, how are you feeling? Does it still hurt?"

Song Wei Zhi shook her head, "I'm fine, I just need to meditate and recover for a while."

The young girl watched as Song Wei Zhi closed her eyes to regain her strength. She could only obediently watch over Song Wei Zhi, fearing that something might happen to her. She waited for a long time until she opened her eyes, and it was almost midnight.

"Senior Sister, how are you feeling?" The young girl asked with concern as she approached.

"It's all good," Song Wei Zhi replied with a smile. It took her most of the day to absorb the effects of the system's medicine, and her injuries had mostly healed.

But the young girl, upon hearing Song Wei Zhi say this, still frowned.

Song Wei Zhi embraced her and asked softly, "What's wrong? What's troubling you, my little one?"

Leaning gently on Song Wei Zhi's shoulder, the young girl said, "Senior Sister, let's leave here. Find a random small town, I don't want to stay here anymore."

"I don't like it here either, but Xia Xia, we haven't retrieved your belongings yet. Without it, the chick is not complete. Let's leave as soon as we get the fragment of the soul. Okay?"

"Senior Sister, I'm really scared of something happening tomorrow. I just hope we both stay safe and sound," the young girl tightened her grip on Song Wei Zhi's arm.

"I promise my Xia Xia, I will protect myself well. Today's incident won't happen again, okay? When we obtain the third fragment of the soul, we will leave immediately."

Song Zhi Xia glanced at Song Wei Zhi and nodded. However, for some reason, even though she slept in Song Wei Zhi's arms at night, she couldn't rest easy. She woke up several times from her dreams. Even lying next to Song Wei Zhi, she still missed her immensely.

The next morning was the regular competition day for the martial arts tournament, and there were only eight people left. After the participants drew their opponents, Song Wei Zhi was matched with a female disciple from the Lingjiang Sect, while Song Zhi Xia was matched with Wei Zhao.

The female disciple from Lingjiang Sect had reached the completion stage of the Yuan Ying realm, a whole realm higher than Song Zhi Xia, but she did not pose much of a challenge. As expected, Song Zhi Xia lost the match.

During the match between Song Wei Zhi and Wei Zhao, the latter chose to forfeit directly. The match held no value for her; she had participated only to provide extra protection for her master to acquire the fragment of the soul. So, Wei Zhao's abstention caused a sensation. Throughout the history of the martial arts tournament, no one had ever forfeited in the final stages.

Zhou Ye Ran's expression was not great. He had also heard about Wei Zhao and his daughter's matter recently. If Wei Zhao could make it to the finals, he could meet his beloved disciple, Qi Ying Zhe. Then, the soul fragment would be within his grasp.

"Wei Zhao, this is no child's play. There is no one in the martial arts tournament who would directly give up the competition," Zhou Ye Ran's expression was grim as he stared at Wei Zhao.

"I've made up my mind. In what competition is quitting not allowed?" Wei Zhao said, then nodded towards Song Wei Zhi and walked off the arena.

The referee looked towards Gao Cheng Xuan's position, and seeing him nod, announced Song Wei Zhi's victory.

Zhou Qing Xue's heart was filled with mixed feelings. Wei Zhao didn't even compete for her master. She could see that her father was not happy.

The final four contestants were Song Wei Zhi, Qi Ying Zhe, the female disciple from the Lingjiang Sect, and a male disciple from the Xuantian Sect. Song Wei Zhi was matched with the female disciple, Yue Luo, from the Lingjiang Sect, while Qi Ying Zhe faced a male disciple from the Xuantian Sect.

The first match was between Song Wei Zhi and Yue Luo from the Lingjiang Sect. Song Wei Zhi was at the completion stage of the initial Dan realm, but had secretly reached the completion of the Nascent Soul realm, making her unfazed despite facing Yue Luo who was a whole realm lower. While Yue Luo exhibited remarkable water-based abilities, her sword seemed to carry the might of surging waves. Despite the lack of a nearby body of water, the mist from Yue Luo's sword surged towards Song Wei Zhi. However, she effortlessly dispelled the mist with her sword, Endless Twilight. She then channeled her spiritual power into her blade and swiftly attacked Yue Luo.

Yue Luo could only raise her sword to block, but the difference in their realms was too great. With just one move, Song Wei Zhi forcefully sent Yue Luo flying. Yue Luo suffered only minor injuries, but she realized she was no match for Song Wei Zhi.

The elder from the Yufeng Valley, who had clashed with Song Wei Zhi the previous day, felt even more uncomfortable. He had thought Song Wei Zhi had only reached the completion stage of the initial Dan realm. However, after receiving her real strike, he was surprised that she could win so calmly today.

On the other hand, Qi Ying Zhe also won easily. After exchanging a dozen or so moves, he defeated the male disciple from the Xuantian Sect. This set the stage for the showdown between Song Wei Zhi and Qi Ying Zhe.

"Master Zhou, it seems like your sect has many talented disciples," Gao Cheng Xuan sat in his seat, smiling.

Zhou Ye Ran quickly stood up and replied, "Your Highness, it's just a stroke of luck for a few of our disciples."

Gao Cheng Xuan smiled and asked, "So, Master Zhou, who do you think will win?"

Zhou Ye Ran's gaze swept over Song Wei Zhi and Qi Ying Zhe. He had hoped for Qi Ying Zhe's victory, and that's what he said, "I think my disciple, Qi Ying Zhe, will win."

Gao Cheng Xuan smiled at Zhou Ye Ran without answering, and his gaze turned to the two on the stage.

At this moment, Song Wei Zhi and Qi Ying Zhe had already saluted and stood still. With the signal to start, Qi Ying Zhe calmly wielded his sword. As a cultivator with a Golden Element single spiritual root, his sword carried a heavy and ornate feeling. This gave his opponents a sense of being unable to dodge or escape his attacks.

Song Wei Zhi remained unperturbed. Having observed Qi Ying Zhe's previous matches, she recognized him as an exceptional cultivator and near-perfect in his understanding of techniques. However, ultimately, cultivation depended on one's realm and the quantity of spiritual power. So, she was not afraid of him. She held her Twilight Lament in front of her, mitigating Qi Ying Zhe's relentless offense with seemingly effortless moves.

The audience below held various discussions:

"Do you think who will win?"

"I think it's still Qi Senior Brother, universally recognized as a cultivation prodigy. Look at how calmly he wields his sword."

"It's not necessarily so. Look at Song Wei Zhi, gracefully warding off his attacks. Qi Senior Brother can't achieve that level of fluidity in his swordplay. I think she's the dark horse of this competition."

"What do you know? I don't believe Song Wei Zhi, a newcomer, can defeat Qi Ying Zhe Senior Brother. He's the talent sought after by all sects."

"Hey, after the last fight, didn't Song Wei Zhi also rise to fame? She even took a hit from a Nascent Soul realm elder, while he is at the combination period realm. I think she will be the strongest Dan Golden cultivator in the Southern Ming continent. How many Nascent Soul cultivators can a Golden Dan one defeat?"

However, the two on the stage paid no attention to the discussion below. Song Wei Zhi's use of spiritual power and the speed of her swordplay increased. Qi Ying Zhe began to struggle.

This surprised Qi Ying Zhe. He had thought that Song Wei Zhi was equally matched with him. But it turned out she could push him to such an extent. He dared not lose focus, concentrating solely on his swordplay.

Song Wei Zhi, not wanting to invite trouble, focused all her spiritual power into Twilight Lament and swiftly thrust it toward Qi Ying Zhe. Although it seemed gentle, it harbored layers of lethal intent. Qi Ying Zhe retreated several steps, blood trickling from the corner of his mouth. He signaled the referee, "There's no need to continue. I admit defeat."

He wiped the blood from his lips and said to Song Wei Zhi, "Song Junior Sister, the student surpasses the master. You are the hope of my Cold Mountain Sword Sect. I thoroughly enjoyed this match; I have learned from it."

Song Wei Zhi nodded and replied, "I was just lucky. Thank you, Senior Brother Qi, for your guidance."

In the distance, Gao Cheng Xuan smiled and said to Zhou Ye Ran beside him, "Master Zhou, your disciples are very impressive; they are not to be underestimated."

"Your Highness, you exaggerate. Compared to Your Highness, they are not as competent in the path of cultivation," Zhou Ye Ran replied.

Gao Cheng Xuan smiled and held a square box in his hand. He rose into the air and landed on the stage.

He smiled at the two and said to Song Wei Zhi, "As such, the winner of this martial arts competition is Song Wei Zhi. This is the reward, the Xuan Bird's fragment of the soul." Gao Cheng Xuan opened the box and displayed to everyone the shining yellow gas, the fragment of the soul.

Gao Cheng Xuan handed the box to Song Wei Zhi. "Thank you, Your Highness," Song Wei Zhi said and then turned to leave. In an instant, she and Song Zhi Xia disappeared.

Chapter 59

There was a slight unnatural look on Gao Chengxuan's face, while Zhou Yeran's eyes in the distance seemed like they were about to shoot fire. He gave a few instructions to the disciples around him before his expression returned to normal.

Gao Chengxuan returned to his previous position and said to Zhou Yeran, "Recently, I have been busy with affairs in the palace. I wonder if I can take some time to practice here at the Sect Leader Zhou's place."

Zhou Yeran smiled, "It is our entire Cold Mountain Sword Sect's honor for you to stay here. I will immediately have someone arrange it for you."

Gao Chengxuan nodded, indicating for Zhou Yeran to lead the way, while he himself got on the carriage, with over a hundred soldiers following him for protection.

Gao Chengxuan set up a barrier, whispered a few words to a person named Zuo Xuan, and then sat on the carriage with his eyes closed to rest.

On the other side, Song Weizhi found a secluded place nearby and set up a barrier around themselves. Then she opened a small wooden box and yellow gas poured into her hands. She infused these gases with spiritual power and pushed them into Song Zhixia's body.

The young girl was quite familiar with this process, but refining the spirit still required some time. So she started meditating on the spot, while Song Weizhi cautiously kept an eye on the surroundings. She knew that once she obtained this fragment of the spirit, she would be a target for everyone. It was better to be cautious.

Sure enough, it didn't take half an hour before someone came to find her. The person leading them was Qi Yingzhe, the one she had just finished sparring with. He was followed by dozens of disciples.

Song Weizhi walked out of the barrier nonchalantly. "Senior Brother Qi, is there something you need?"

Qi Yingzhe glanced at Song Weizhi and then looked at Song Zhixia behind her. "Song Junior Sister, why don't you come back with me? Master wants to see you both."

"What if we refuse?" Song Weizhi said, with the sword already in front of her chest.

"In that case, I'll have to take action, and you will offend me, Song Junior Sister," Qi Yingzhe said, drawing out his own sword.

Alone, Song Weizhi stood in front, protecting Song Zhixia who was still absorbing the spirit fragments. At this moment, she only wanted to buy more time for the young girl. She channeled her spiritual power into the Departing Arctic Sword and thrust it out without hesitation. Some of Qi Yingzhe's disciples were knocked back several meters, coughing up blood.

Qi Yingzhe didn't expect Song Weizhi to strike. "Song Junior Sister, Master simply wants to have a conversation in the main hall. Why hurt people unnecessarily?"

Song Weizhi sneered, "A conversation? I'm afraid it's a one-way trip for us."

"Whether it is or not, you'll know when you get there. Song Weizhi, your actions are akin to betraying the Sect. Don't blame me for being ruthless," Qi Yingzhe said, launching an attack. Song Weizhi channeled her spiritual power into her palm, and a single slap made Qi Yingzhe fall backward, coughing up blood.

At this point, Qi Yingzhe's reinforcements arrived—several elders from the Cold Mountain Sword Sect. Song Weizhi instantly felt that things were taking a bad turn as three elders, all at the combined-body stage with much higher cultivation than hers, had joined the fray.

"Song Junior Sister, we are all on the same side. It's better for you to come back with us and meet the Sect Leader. Otherwise, you should know the strength of these three elders," Qi Yingzhe said.

Song Weizhi glanced at Song Zhixia behind her and charged at the three elders with her sword. She couldn't afford a head-on confrontation, only dodging left and right to buy more time for Song Zhixia. However, the difference in strength was too great, and Song Weizhi was soon running out of spiritual power. She received several blows and was bleeding from her mouth, unable to do anything but shield herself in front of the barrier.

The chief elder's palm came crashing toward Song Weizhi. With her spiritual power almost depleted, she didn't have time to react and was heavily struck to the ground. When she tried to get up, she realized she was too sore to move.

Fortunately, at that moment, Song Zhixia completed the absorption of the spirit fragments and ran to shield Song Weizhi. But ultimately, Song Zhixia was only at the Golden Core stage, and the several elders paid her no heed.

"Sister, are you okay? Why are you bleeding so much?" Song Zhixia supported Song Weizhi and held her in her arms.

Song Weizhi felt as though she had been crushed all over and her ribs in the back seemed to be broken. She couldn't muster any strength. "I'm fine, Xiaxia. This time, we are really in deep trouble. But remember not to agree to anything they say. Remember my words," Song Weizhi said through gritted teeth, as if speaking those words had exhausted all her strength.

"Alright, I will listen to you, sister. Everything will be fine. We will be fine," Song Zhixia held Song Weizhi, tears streaming down her face.

"Enough, just come with us. You've made us go through a lot of trouble," the chief elder complained impatiently, and he produced a gleaming rope in his hand. With a wave of his hand, the rope immediately entwined around Song Weizhi and Song Zhixia.

"If you want to tie someone up, tie me. Don't touch my sister. She's already seriously injured and can't run away. Why do this?" Song Zhixia pleaded urgently.

"Oh, little girl, you can tell the Sect Leader yourself later. We won't take any risks. Just now, didn't you see how arrogant your sister was? She even hurt quite a few disciples. Come on, take them away," the chief elder said impatiently.

Several disciples set up a sword formation to encircle the two women and flew them to the main hall of the Cold Mountain Sword Sect. Song Weizhi's heart sank at the sudden turn of events. After all, her strength was insufficient, and her lack of planning made her anxious. She wasn't concerned about herself, as she had already died once, but she didn't want the young girl to suffer the same fate. Thinking about the faces of those people in the main hall, Song Weizhi's stomach churned.

Meanwhile, Wei Zhao learned that Zhou Yeran had sent people to look for Song Weizhi. He gradually realized that something was amiss.

"Where are you going, Wei Zhao?" Zhou Qingxue was already upset because Wei Zhao had conceded without saying a word, and now he wanted to leave without a word. She was immediately anxious.

"Why is your father looking for my master?" Wei Zhao turned to look at Zhou Qingxue with a scrutinizing gaze.

Zhou Qingxue was furious at her tone. Her father had always doted on her. She couldn't believe that Wei Zhao would question him like this. "What could he want? My father is the leader of a sect. Is he capable of harming her? If you don't believe me, you can go see for yourself. My father should be around the main hall."

Before Zhou Qingxue could finish, Wei Zhao had already soared away on his sword, leaving Zhou Qingxue shouting, "Are you really going? Wait for me!"

When they arrived at the main hall, they saw several elders holding something in their hands. Wei Zhao hurriedly landed his sword and saw that Song Weizhi and Song Zhixia were barely alive, tied with the ropes.

Wei Zhao's head seemed to be exploding. He immediately blocked the paths of those people, trying to wrest the rope tying Song Weizhi and Song Zhixia away from them.

"What are you doing? Are you mad? Release my master," Wei Zhao said, as he swung his whip toward the chief elder. Unfortunately, before the whip could reach the chief elder, Wei Zhao was struck and sent flying into a pillar in the main hall. He only stopped after coughing up a mouthful of blood.

Zhou Qingxue was stunned. Her father had always been so affectionate towards her. She had never seen this side of him. "Father, why did you use such force?"

Zhou Yeran, frowning, glanced at Zhou Qingxue. "I have spoiled you too much. Now that you have grown up, you must remember not to be lenient with enemies."

"But what have they done? Why treat them like this?" Zhou Qingxue questioned loudly.

"What have they done? You should ask Song Weizhi. As long as you hand over the Phoenix's spirit fragment, I guarantee to release you and Song Zhixia. I will also give you other treasures as compensation. What do you think?" Zhou Yeran looked coldly at Song Weizhi.

"Do you want the fragment? Hmph, I've already thrown it away. Don't even think about it," Song Weizhi gritted her teeth, but Zhou Yeran, in a fit of rage, unlocked the chains and delivered a heavy blow. The impact on Song Weizhi's face left her bloodied and even obscured her eyes with the flowing blood.

"Sister, how are you? Come at me with whatever you have, but don't touch Sister," Song Zhixia's throat was already hoarse from shouting.

Zhou Qingxue watched everything unfold, tears streaming down her cheeks. She could hardly believe that this was the same father who had always been loving and affectionate towards her. "Dad, I beg you, please don't do this. Let them go. The rewards of the martial arts competition rightfully belong to the winner. You have always taught me to be an upright person, but now, how are you any different from a bandit?" Her voice was murmuring, hoping that what she was seeing was not real.

Zhou Yeran showed no mercy. He snorted coldly at Zhou Qingxue, "I have spoiled you. Some things require humility, but others must be in one's own hands. Obtaining these things inevitably involves shedding some blood. You and your brother have been corrupted by your mother. How can you inherit the Cold Mountain Sword Sect in the future?"

Zhou Qingxue shook her head in disbelief and retreated to Wei Zhao's side, whose eyelids were heavy, having fainted.

During Zhou Yeran and Zhou Qingxue's conversation, Song Weizhi, ignoring the blood on her face, mustered the last of her strength to say to Song Zhixia, "Xiaxia, don't agree to anything. Even if we agree, we won't survive."

Bound by the ropes, Song Zhixia could only nod in place, already exhausted from crying, but no one paid her any attention.

Chapter 60

At the same time, Zuo Xuan, who was sent out by Gao Cheng Xuan, had returned to report to him. He knelt and paid his respects to Gao Cheng Xuan before speaking, "Your Highness, I have completed the investigation you ordered. I followed Zhou Yeran's men and indeed found the traces of Song Weizhi and others. Song Zhixia was indeed meditating on refining the soul in the original place."

"Song Zhixia already had soul fragments in her body even before she obtained the soul of the martial arts competition. I noticed it the first time I saw her. It's quite interesting; I wonder how many soul fragments are hidden in her body." A hint of amusement appeared at the corner of Gao Cheng Xuan's lips.

"Forgive my ignorance, Your Highness. Why didn't you just let me kill Song Zhixia directly? That way, regardless of how many soul fragments she has, they would all belong to you," Zuo Xuan asked puzzled.

Gao Cheng Xuan smiled and said, "There are two uses for soul fragments. One is as you said, to seize and possess, and the other is to merge with the person who possesses the soul fragment, achieving the same effect. I find Song Zhixia quite interesting, and I'm rather reluctant to kill her."

Zuo Xuan nodded and said, "Your Highness is wise. I understand."

"Song Weizhi, will you surrender? Crushing you is no different from crushing an ant to me." In the grand hall, Zhou Yeran stared at the almost dying Song Weizhi.

"What surrender? Isn't all this just robbery in essence?" Song Weizhi spoke with little strength left in her voice.

"Hm, still so stubborn. It seems I've been too lenient," said Zhou Yeran, just as he was about to make a move.

At that moment, Gao Cheng Xuan's voice came from outside the grand hall, interrupting the scene, "Head Zhou, what are you doing here?"

Recognizing Gao Cheng Xuan's voice, Zhou Yeran immediately walked out of the grand hall, changing his expression to greet Gao Cheng Xuan, "Third Royal Highness, I was just dealing with the wrongdoers. Why have you come? Please be careful not to soil your eyes."

Gao Cheng Xuan smiled as he walked and said, "It's only proper for Head Zhou to deal with his disciples. I just wanted to ask Miss Song a few questions about something. Whether I can have Song Zhixia is another matter."

After a glance at Song Zhixia and then at Gao Cheng Xuan, Zhou Yeran understood. However, he was still unsure about the location of the soul fragment of the Xuan Bird. Therefore, he wasn't keen on releasing anyone.

Seeing his hesitation, Gao Cheng Xuan sneered, "Why is Head Zhou hesitant to release the captive?"

"Your Highness, please calm down. It's not that I don't want to release her, but both of these offenders are hiding secret treasures of my Cold Mountain Sword Sect. Neither of them is willing to hand it over, so the situation is quite tricky," Zhou Yeran's expression turned somewhat unnatural.

"What treasures? Isn't it the soul fragment of the Xuan Bird? Head Zhou, there's no need to hide it," Gao Cheng Xuan saw through the reason Zhou Yeran refused to release the captives.

Zhou Yeran's expression changed, but he quickly regained composure. He couldn't afford to offend the royal family, and only with their support could the Cold Mountain Sword Sect claim the position of the leading sect among the four major sects. "What are you talking about, Your Highness? I don't understand your meaning."

"Head Zhou is a clever person. You should know what I'm talking about. I can support the Cold Mountain Sword Sect, or I can abandon it and support another sect. There are matters beyond your imagination." Gao Cheng Xuan had already walked several steps to where Zhou Yeran had been sitting.

Despite his annoyed expression, when Zhou Yeran saw Left Xuan by Gao Cheng Xuan's side, he immediately abandoned the idea of not surrendering anyone. Even Gao Cheng Xuan's personal guards were as skilled as him. The royal family indeed had many talents. If the soul fragment indeed existed on Song Weizhi, he still had a chance to obtain it. Therefore, he decided to give Gao Cheng Xuan face, and if Song Weizhi didn't have it, then he would have to let it go.

"Your wish, Your Highness. Song Zhixia will be handed over to Your Highness," Zhou Yeran changed his earlier reluctance and respectfully gave way to Gao Cheng Xuan.

"Good. Then I won't interfere with the Sect Head's affairs anymore. Left Xuan, let's go," Gao Cheng Xuan said to Left Xuan.

"No, I won't leave. I want to stay with my senior sister," Song Zhixia tried to move towards Song Weizhi, but before she could move far, the Elder used spiritual power to restrain her, immobilizing her, regardless of her attempts to struggle.

At this point, the consciousness of Song Weizhi had already become fuzzy. Whether it was blood or something else in front of her, her strength had diminished, and she couldn't even open her eyes. However, just before she passed out, she was still murmuring Song Zhixia's name softly, "Xiaxia..."

Zhou Qingxue rushed forward and stood in front of Song Zhixia. "Father, what are you doing? Isn't the soul fragment of the Xuan Bird supposed to belong to the winner? How can you go back on your word?"

"How dare you! I'll deal with you later," Zhou Yeran said with an iron face. But the moment he spoke to Gao Cheng Xuan, he immediately changed his expression, "Third Royal Highness, my daughter has been spoiled by me. I hope you won't mind." Saying this, Zhou Yeran signaled to the Elder with a meaningful look.

Understanding the signal, the Elder calmly struck Zhou Qingxue, causing her to faint, to be taken care of by the nearby female disciple.

"It's all right. It's normal for the Sect Head's daughter to be innocent and lovely," Gao Cheng Xuan said to Left Xuan, who immediately grasped the situation. He used a technique, and Song Zhixia fell silent. No matter how she screamed, there was not a sound.

She was like a lamb to the slaughter, held in Left Xuan's hands. After a few breaths, Gao Cheng Xuan's group disappeared from the spot.

"What about Song Weizhi and Wei Zhao?" the Elder asked.

Zhou Yeran spoke calmly, "First, have someone keep an eye on Song Weizhi alone. As for Wei Zhao, lock him up in a water dungeon for now."

The Elder understood and promptly arranged for the disciples to carry out the orders.

As for Zhou Qingxue, Zhou Yeran had two female disciples support her and took her back to her residence.

Despite the order not to spread the news, the important incident in the grand hall had already leaked out. By the time Zhou Chengwen and Yao Xintong arrived, Zhou Yeran had taken Zhou Qingxue back to their residence.

The two hurried to Zhou Qingxue's residence, but when they arrived, there were only Zhou Yeran and the unconscious Zhou Qingxue in the room. Seeing this, Yao Xintong rushed to her daughter's bedside, "Qingxue, what's wrong?"

Rushing to her daughter's bedside, Yao Xintong asked anxiously, "Qingxue, what's going on?"

Tears gathered in Yao Xintong's eyes.

On the other hand, Song Weizhi had been thrown into a practice room. This room was built near the mountains, with molten magma underground. The purpose of the practice room being located there was to temper the disciples' endurance and enhance their cultivation, which posed an even greater challenge to those with ice or water spiritual roots.

Song Weizhi was confined in the lowest chamber of the practice room. She didn't know whether she was in agony or feeling the intense heat, but she had no strength left in her body. Her body pressed against the scorching ground, and she felt as if she were better off dead.

Before long, the door of the practice room was opened, yet Song Weizhi could barely lift her head.

"Ah, isn't this the champion of the martial arts competition? How did you end up as a prisoner here? Weren't you and Qi Yingzhe both considered cultivation geniuses? How did you manage to provoke Master so quickly?" It was Li Qingyuan. He had always looked down on Qi Yingzhe, and now, with the addition of someone who was considered the strongest Nascent Soul cultivator on the continent, he had long been dissatisfied with Song Weizhi. Finding the opportunity this time, he voluntarily asked Master to guard Song Weizhi, as Master had said that as long as he didn't kill anyone, he could do whatever he pleased.

"You were once hailed as a genius? Is this the extent of your endurance?" With these words, Li Qingyuan stepped on Song Weizhi's hand, channeling spiritual power into his foot. The sound of cracking bones echoed in the empty practice room, as Song Weizhi's hand bones were gradually crushed.

Despite the excruciating pain, Song Weizhi bit her lips, refusing to make a sound. Her face was covered in blood, with some wounds scabbed over, while others continued to seep fresh blood.

"Hm, quite resilient," Li Qingyuan chuckled as he addressed his disciples observing the torment. "But if both her hand and foot bones are crushed, I wonder if our 'genius' can endure it?"

As he spoke, he applied pressure on Song Weizhi's other hand. The delicate and fair hand was deformed and the flesh mutilated. Drenched in sweat and unable to find a pain-free spot on her body, Song Weizhi endured indescribable suffering.

From above, Li Qingyuan's voice rang out, "I thought this task was a pleasant one, but it seems you've been reduced to this state. Your face is hardly recognizable. I can't find the motivation to continue, so I'll have to content myself with tormenting you in this fashion to alleviate my boredom."

His words were followed by another round of bone-cracking sounds, as this time, it was the sound of Song Weizhi's left ankle bone fracturing. Li Qingyuan continued, "But I've heard that someone close to you, Song Zhixia, didn't suffer much injury to her face. I wonder how the Third Prince will treat her?"