Grandmaster Ghaus

Grandmaster Ghaus...

As Qin Wentian observed Bailu Yi casually dismiss him and walk away, he couldn't help but chuckle inwardly. The man beside her was most likely her father, he surmised.

Standing beside Bailu Yi was another young man. Clad in white robes, he playfully ruffled her hair, exhibiting a dynamic between a senior and an adorable junior. A fierce glare from Bailu Yi was met with an affectionate smile, revealing the close bond they shared.

Suddenly, the young man's gaze shifted, landing squarely on Qin Wentian. Just that single glance felt like a weighty pressure, a testament to the young man's extraordinary combat prowess. He was clearly much stronger than Qin Wentian in his current state.

"Must be Bailu Yi's elder brother," Qin Wentian thought. If this was her boyfriend, how would he ever have the chance to peacefully study Divine Inscriptions at such proximity? Their interactions mirrored his own with his sister, Qin Yao. He often found himself pinching her cheek or ruffling her hair, much to her annoyance.

"Qin Wentian, Chu Mang, and Fan Le of the younger generation respectfully greet the Institute's Elders," Qin Wentian and his companions bowed slightly, displaying deference.

There was no immediate response. Instead, Qin Wentian felt an aura of pressure weighing down on him. But he remained composed, standing there with a demeanor that was neither obsequious nor arrogant. Having faced numerous challenges, his character was steadfast and unyielding.

"Why have you come here?" An elder directed his gaze towards Qin Wentian, his eyes radiating an imposing intensity. This elder's gaze alone was often enough to make others feel overwhelmed.

"Recently, as a student of the Dao of Divine Inscriptions at the White Deer Institute, I've had the honor of encountering Miss Bailu. Through our exchanges on Divine Inscriptions, my proficiency in the art has grown by leaps and bounds. With great confidence in my abilities, I stand ready to represent the Institute in the upcoming Divine Inscriptionist exchange in the Eastern City of the Moon Continent," Qin Wentian declared.

"Absurd! Do you truly believe that my Institute lacks talent? How could an outsider like you presume to represent us?" scolded an elderly man. Standing to the side, this individual's rank was lower, not among the four Supreme Elders vested with decision-making power. Nevertheless, his status allowed him to reprimand a junior openly.

"The White Deer Institute is renowned as a 'major clan,' specializing in Divine Inscriptions. Their mastery and expertise in the Dao of Divine Inscriptions surpasses most others. My interactions with Miss Bailu have been immensely enlightening and have expanded my horizons. Yet, like the path of cultivation, the Dao of Divine Inscriptions is boundless. I, Qin Wentian, firmly believe that I am well-suited to represent the Institute in this exchange. However, if the White Deer Institute concludes that my non-membership disqualifies me, I shall accept their decision with grace," Qin Wentian calmly responded.

"'Absolute confidence,' you say. Does that imply no one in my White Deer Institute is more qualified than you?" The elder with imposing eyes let out a predatory chuckle, his tone carrying a thinly veiled threat.

Qin Wentian met the elder's gaze without a trace of fear. "Exactly."

"Hmm?" The elder's eyebrows twitched as a sense of menace emanated from him. His voice dripped with threat, "Exactly? How audacious."

Under the weight of the elder's pressure, Qin Wentian's body tensed, his heart pounding. However, he stood tall, his posture unwavering. If he couldn't navigate this situation now, how could he ever hope to control the White Deer Institute in the future?

Bailu Yi's father, Bailu Shan, regarded Qin Wentian with a glimmer of admiration. Qin Wentian's resolute spirit left a lasting impression.

In this moment, a faint smile curled upon Qin Wentian's lips. "Audacious? Senior, you deem me impudent without understanding my abilities. Wouldn't that make you impudent as well?"

Upon uttering his words, Qin Wentian tilted his head slightly. His perfectly composed countenance exuded an innate self-assuredness that was palpable to those who looked at him.

The elder with imposing eyes involuntarily felt a flutter in his chest. Qin Wentian's calm demeanor and unwavering confidence stirred memories of his interactions with Heaven's Chosen he had encountered before. Now, in this moment, Qin Wentian projected a similar aura.

"Hmph, let's see if you're an ignorant fool or truly a Heaven's Chosen. I'm quite curious about your capabilities," the elder declared, a glint of intrigue in his eyes. "Bailu Yan, test his proficiency in the Dao of Divine Inscriptions."

"Very well." Stepping forward, a middle-aged man positioned himself before Qin Wentian. He was one of the three chosen representatives of the White Deer Institute for the upcoming exchange, serving as one of the two supporting Bailu Yi.

"What aspect would you like to compete in? Combat-oriented Divine Inscriptions? Formations? Puppets?" Bailu Yan sneered at Qin Wentian. He found Qin Wentian's audacity amusing, believing that ignorance bred arrogance.

"It's your choice," Qin Wentian replied nonchalantly, his demeanor as relaxed as a gentle breeze.

"Hehe, let's settle this through direct inscription of Divine Inscriptions then," Bailu Yan coldly chuckled, slamming his palm onto the ground. The sound of rumbling echoed as a radiant glow emanated from a set of runic outlines etched into the ground.

"We needn't continue the competition," Qin Wentian commented lightly, prompting puzzled glances and exchanged looks from the onlookers.

Bailu Yan halted his actions, his laughter freezing on his lips. "You're conceding so easily?"

"No, but you're not up to the task," Qin Wentian replied casually, causing a frosty smile to cross Bailu Yan's face. His initial irritation had transformed into rage. This newcomer's audacity knew no bounds.

Not only did Bailu Yan feel this way, but his sentiments were shared by many in the crowd. Even Bailu Shan's expression bore a frown.

Standing at the side of Bailu Yi, Bailu Jing observed the scene with an intrigued expression.

However, in that crucial moment, the crowd witnessed Qin Wentian lifting his hand and unleashing a powerful palm strike. In an instant, a brilliant light erupted, forming intricate patterns in midair. Yet, these were not just runic outlines; they had transformed into a complete picture.

The onlookers' hearts trembled, especially the elder with imposing eyes, who stared in stunned fascination.

"Is this satisfactory?" Qin Wentian clasped his hands together, causing the dazzling display of light to gradually fade. He turned his composed gaze onto Bailu Yan as he inquired.

"Impossible. Even a third-ranked Divine Inscriptionist would require a medium to inscribe Divine Inscriptions in midair," Bailu Yan thought, feeling like a colossal hammer had struck his heart. He could hardly believe his eyes.

"Your inability doesn't equate to the impossibility for others," Qin Wentian responded calmly, continuing to advance. Each step he took gave rise to Sword-type Divine Inscriptions beneath his feet. The resounding hum of sword vibrations accompanied his movements, growing louder with each stride.

Qin Wentian seemed to maintain a deliberate rhythm as he advanced. The sword resonance intensified, and the sword intent emanating from him grew more potent.

Finally reaching the stairs leading to the platform, Qin Wentian's every step ignited a cacophony of sword resonance, melding into a torrent of sword intent. These converging sword energies coalesced into an overwhelming blade of energy. This radiant sword seemed to materialize, tearing through the fabric of space, hurtling ferociously towards Bailu Yan.

Bailu Yan's expression twisted in distress as he retreated hurriedly. He flailed his arms, inscribing desperate Divine Inscriptions to counter the incoming attack. Yet, his efforts proved futile. The sword beam enveloped Bailu Yan effortlessly, despite his frantic attempts to resist. A thunderous collision echoed as Bailu Yan's Astral Souls surged, but even so, the sword energy endured. The dome of light eventually shattered, leaving Bailu Yan in an utterly disheveled and pitiable state.

The crowd's attention shifted back to Qin Wentian, who stood unscathed, as if nothing extraordinary had occurred. He sidestepped slightly and offered a courteous bow to Bailu Yan, his voice laced with sarcasm, "I beg your pardon."

"Hmph," Bailu Yan huffed, flicking his sleeves before departing. Although he begrudgingly accepted his loss to a junior, he couldn't shake off the sting to his pride.

"Indeed, you've proven yourself," remarked the elder with imposing eyes. "Being able to inscribe Divine Inscriptions in midair is no small feat. I'll grant you an opportunity. You and Bailu Yi will serve as support during the exchange."

"Support?" Bailu Yi's expression wavered. Originally, she was supposed to take the lead position while two others supported her. Given the arrival of Qin Wentian, she was more than willing to step aside. However, now the elder stated that both she and Qin Wentian would be relegated to support roles. Who would be taking the lead position then?

"Yes, Little Yi, Grandmaster Ghaus will be representing our White Deer Institute this time. I'd like to ask you and Qin Wentian to support him," the elder explained, smiling at Bailu Yi. Her expression froze for a moment before she managed to speak, "Has Grandmaster Ghaus returned?"

"The Institute extended a special invitation to him for this occasion," the elder revealed, causing Bailu Yi to tremble slightly. She hadn't expected them to go to such lengths as inviting Grandmaster Ghaus. Clearly, the Institute attached immense importance to this exchange.

"Grandmaster Ghaus, would you mind stepping forward?" the elder called out. After a brief pause, an elderly man clad in black walked forward. As he reached the platform, he greeted, "Greetings, esteemed elders. I trust you are all in good health."

"During Grandmaster Ghaus's past stay with us, our Institute's reputation flourished. With Grandmaster's inscription attainments now reaching the Transformation Boundary of the third level, we are depending on you for this exchange," the elder replied with respect.

"I'm honored to represent the Institute," Ghaus replied amiably.

It seemed as if Qin Wentian had been sidelined. The elder then turned his gaze to Qin Wentian. "Based on our information, several major clans and sects will be sending formidable participants to this exchange. With Grandmaster Ghaus's presence, our chances of victory will be significantly higher."

"Do you have any objections?" the elder inquired.

Qin Wentian pondered for a moment before responding with a smile, "No objections."

After all, his objective for today was to make his name known within the White Deer Institute. Even though he had showcased his capabilities, the Institute might lean towards an older and more experienced Divine Inscriptionist due to his age. That was fine with him. He had achieved his goal. Furthermore, if he could display even more of his true abilities during the exchange, the roles of lead and support might become irrelevant. The supporter could very well end up being the driving force behind their victory.

Furthermore, the White Deer Institute seemed to have reached a decision already. Objecting now might come across as a lack of understanding of proper protocol.

The elder with imposing eyes focused on Qin Wentian for a moment, then smiled and nodded. The encounter today had allowed the members of the White Deer Institute to get to know Qin Wentian better. And by all indications, their initial impression of him seemed to be quite positive!