Zhan Chen

Zhan Chen...

Ghaus seethed with fury. Old First's comments were a jab he shouldn't have made, inviting a multitude of gazes to converge on Ghaus, a humiliation that made him wish the earth would swallow him.

He was the one who'd branded Qin Wentian as 'useless baggage,' yet this same individual had clinched the top spot for the White Deer Institute in this exchange. It was a triumph that had nothing to do with Ghaus.

Never had Ghaus imagined that at such a tender age, Qin Wentian would wield such mastery over the Dao of Divine Inscriptions. The question lingered, though—if Qin Wentian was already so exceptionally gifted, why had the White Deer Institute also extended an invitation to him, Ghaus? Perhaps they were equally unaware of Qin Wentian's true potential.

Ghaus wasn't the sole soul marinating in shock. Many from the Star-Seizing Manor surreptitiously eyed Qin Wentian.

This young man could potentially follow in the footsteps of Grandmaster Fenrir and ascend to become a fourth-ranked Divine Inscriptionist Grandmaster.

A fourth-ranked Inscriptionist held a different stature, far superior to a third-ranked counterpart. The former could craft fourth-ranked Inscriptions, erect formations that stood a chance against Heavenly Dipper Sovereigns. Their might rivaled, if not surpassed, the power of Heavenly Dipper Sovereigns.

That's why the Yan Clan had decided to ease tensions by sacrificing Yan Kong. With the White Deer Institute bolstering Qin Wentian, they lacked the muscle to eliminate him. Thus, allowing Qin Wentian to flourish without any hindrance was the wise route. Antagonizing a future fourth-ranked Inscriptionist was sheer folly.

Qin Wentian's demeanor remained composed. Securing the top position had been his commitment to Bailu Yi. Plus, displaying his prowess could only serve him well, smoothing the path when he eventually unveiled his true identity to the clandestine Azure Faction.

"Everyone has performed admirably," chimed in an elder from the vantage point beside Grandmaster Fenrir. "According to the standings, the champion of this exchange, the White Deer Institute, is entitled to bring ten additional individuals apart from the Divine Inscriptionist himself. The Watermoon Mountain Villa can select eight more, while the Demon Cult can choose six."

Ghaus seethed with anger, his blood boiling like a volcano ready to erupt. The Elder Brother among the trio, Old First, had crossed the line with his thoughtless remarks. Those words spread like wildfire through the gathering crowd, forcing every pair of eyes to lock onto Ghaus. He wished he could dig a hole and hide in it to escape the overwhelming embarrassment.

Who could forget? He was the genius who had mockingly labeled Qin Wentian as 'worthless baggage.' Yet, here stood Qin Wentian, basking in the glory of being ranked first in the exchange for the White Deer Institute. Ghaus had nothing to do with this success, and that realization was like swallowing a bitter concoction.

Imagine the surprise of discovering that Qin Wentian, at such a tender age, possessed an unparalleled mastery of the Dao of Divine Inscriptions. But if Qin Wentian had such remarkable potential, why did the White Deer Institute even consider inviting Ghaus in the first place? Unless, unbeknownst to Ghaus, the White Deer Institute was equally oblivious to Qin Wentian's true abilities.

Ghaus was not the sole recipient of shock that day. Numerous eyes from the Star-Seizing Manor were stealing furtive glances at Qin Wentian.

"This lad might actually have a shot at becoming another Grandmaster Fenrir, one of the legendary fourth-ranked Divine Inscriptionist Grandmasters," whispered a spectator to his companion, the suspense hanging in the air like a thick fog.

Climbing from a third-ranked to a fourth-ranked Inscriptionist was like ascending from the shadows into the radiant sun. A fourth-ranked Grandmaster could etch fourth-ranked Inscriptions, constructing formations capable of confronting even the mighty Heavenly Dipper Sovereigns. Their might rivaled, or perhaps even surpassed, that of Heavenly Dipper Sovereigns.

This profound insight was exactly why the Yan Clan had opted to quell the hostility by offering up Yan Kong as a sacrificial lamb. With the White Deer Institute shielding Qin Wentian, the Yan Clan lacked the power to eliminate him. It was foolish, therefore, to antagonize a future fourth-ranked Inscriptionist – an imminent force to be reckoned with.

Qin Wentian's demeanor remained as tranquil as a serene lake. Securing the top spot was his pledge to Bailu Yi, and besides, showcasing his talents was an advantage. It would undoubtedly smoothen his path when he eventually unveiled his concealed identity to the enigmatic Azure Faction.

"We appreciate the efforts everyone has put in," spoke an elder perched beside Grandmaster Fenrir on the elevated platform. His voice was as gentle as a zephyr's caress. "According to the results, as the triumphant champions of this exchange, the White Deer Institute is entitled to select an additional ten individuals apart from the Divine Inscriptionist himself. The Watermoon Mountain Villa can extend invitations to eight more, while the Demon Cult is granted the chance to include six extra members."

Amidst the excitement, Ghaus stewed in his internal tempest, his previous arrogance blown to smithereens. Old First's misguided comment had ignited a storm, and Ghaus was left grappling with the thunderous consequences of his own pride.

"Three sunrises from now, muster your crew and convene at this very spot. From there, we shall embark on the trial's journey in unison with the other transcendent factions of our celestial Moon Continent. Arm yourselves with utmost care," announced the sharp middle-aged man, his words causing a subtle ripple of unease to sweep across the assembled throng.

The message was clear to all. While the trial held promises of boundless rewards, its perils were commensurate, lurking like shadows in the corners.

Within the confines of the Eastern City, apart from the renowned White Deer Institute, Watermoon Mountain Villa, and the enigmatic Demon Cult, loomed the imposing Star-Seizing Manor. Beyond these city walls, the Moon Continent sheltered three more transcendent powers poised to dispatch their contingents. As these formidable entities converged, inevitable clashes lay ahead, mingling peril with the already treacherous landscape of the hidden realm. Prudence was the order of the day.

"In the forthcoming expedition, expect delegates of peak Yuanfu Cultivators representing these transcendent forces. There's even speculation of the Moon Continent's Heaven's Chosen gracing us with their presence," mused many as they dispersed, their thoughts swirling.

As the crowd dispersed like dandelion seeds carried by the wind, Grandmaster Fenrir exchanged a knowing smile with the elder at his side. "This crop of Divine Inscriptionists showcased today can be aptly dubbed the crème de la crème. The Star-Seizing Manor's contingent for the realm venture seems poised for an unprecedented zenith."

The middle-aged elder offered a contrary perspective. "It would be true perfection if only Grandmaster himself could join the ranks."

A hearty laugh echoed, "Hahaha, my presence would only warrant the inclusion of other powers' Heavenly Dipper Sovereigns. Have faith in the new blood. If there's naught else, I'll bid adieu for now." Grandmaster Fenrir took his leave with a graceful bow before departing.

Turning to Yang Fan, who stood close by, the middle-aged elder inquired, "Yang Fan, what are your musings?"

"Let's hope they aren't just mere decoration," Yang Fan responded in hushed tones.

To his discerning gaze, no matter how illustrious a third-ranked Divine Inscriptionist might appear, they remained naught but trifles. While the world might revere these scribes, affording them an elevated stature, to Yang Fan, a Heaven's Chosen and scion of a transcendent dynasty, being a Divine Inscriptionist was but an occupation, bereft of exceptional significance.

In the realm of battle, Yang Fan certainly wasn't lacking in Divine Weapons. When the frenetic chaos of true combat erupted, the span required for a third-ranked Divine Inscriptionist to etch a peak-tier third-ranked Inscription was ample time for Yang Fan to dispatch them a few hundred times over.

In his eyes, personal cultivation remained the utmost priority. Power was the currency of supremacy.

These Divine Inscriptionists, for him, were mere implements, tools wielded within the secretive expanse. Their worth extended no further.

...

Within the White Deer Institute, jubilation cascaded like a waterfall after the return of Qin Wentian and his companions. Their top-ranking achievement earned them the right to designate ten individuals for the imminent venture into the secret realm.

Additional openings for the trial site held monumental importance – each added spot equated to an extra set of capable hands.

Within the grand hall, the weight of authority congregated among the majority of White Deer Institute's members. Qin Wentian was among them, but Ghaus was conspicuously absent.

Ghaus, well aware of his redundancy, had vanished. Rather than returning to endure the scornful gazes of those beneath him, he chose a direct departure.

Unperturbed by Ghaus's absence, the White Deer Institute's representatives continued their deliberations. In the realm of the Dao of Divine Inscriptions, Qin Wentian surpassed Ghaus on all counts.

"Any suggestions for the chosen participants?" queried the elder with large eyes.

A gracefully attired elderly gentleman in white robes spoke up, his voice calm and collected. "Given that our first-place ranking was secured through Qin Wentian's remarkable assistance, it's only fitting for him to have the final say."

The elder with large eyes nodded in agreement. "Indeed, it's only just."

He then shifted his gaze to Qin Wentian with a knowing smile. "Qin Wentian, your significant contribution was pivotal in securing our top position. Allow me to share a confidential tidbit: rumors have swirled that the secret realm might very well be the Dao Cultivation Grounds of a Celestial Phenomenon Ascendant. In that enigmatic realm, the grander one's aspirations for fortune, the deeper the perils one faces. With the impending entry in three days, an influx of experts is expected. I wouldn't be surprised if even the lofty figures ranked as Heaven's Chosen on the Heavenly Fate Ranking join the fray."

He leaned in slightly, his tone gaining a tinge of curiosity. "Considering your pivotal role in our victory, do you have any preferences regarding the composition of the chosen ten?"

A flicker of contemplation danced across Qin Wentian's countenance. Fortunes, it seemed, were directly proportional to danger. Those too feeble to enter might well never emerge again. Even Chu Mang, formidable as he was, might not ensure his own safe return.

And should perils lurk within the realm's depths, the White Deer Institute would undoubtedly prioritize the safeguarding of Bailu Yi, followed by him.

"The decision rests with the White Deer Institute. I have no particular requests," Qin Wentian responded, his gaze flickering. All things considered, it might be best if Fan Le and Chu Mang abstained from entering. The Institute's resources might not suffice to shield them all.

"Very well, given your neutrality, we shall proceed with our selection. Now, to stave off inevitable tedium, why don't you and Little Yi take a leisurely stroll?" suggested the elder with large eyes, his grin igniting a fierce blaze of ire in Bailu Yi's eyes.

Stepping out of the grand hall, Qin Wentian couldn't help but wryly smile at the fiery glint in Bailu Yi's otherwise serene gaze. "Why glare at me like that?"

"It's your fault that everyone around here thinks there's something more between us. And now, even if I explain, it'd probably just fan the flames," Bailu Yi huffed, her pure features betraying her exasperation.

"Want me to clarify things for them?" Qin Wentian shrugged.

"The more you try, the more they'll gossip. Hmph, trying to sever our non-existent relationship?" Bailu Yi's retort prompted a few perplexed lines to crease Qin Wentian's forehead. Women's logic remained a perpetual mystery.

Observing the bemusement clouding Qin Wentian's features, Bailu Yi broke into a smile. "Never mind. I was just teasing you. As long as we know the truth, who cares about the rest? Let's take a stroll. Any place you want to visit?"

"The Hell Arena might be fun. I've exhausted all the Yuan Meteor Stones I won before. Figured we could replenish our stash before heading into the secret realm," Qin Wentian said with a grin, provoking an eye roll from Bailu Yi.

What did he consider the Hell Arena, a mint for free Yuan Meteor Stones? Still, after witnessing his prowess, Bailu Yi had little to add. Now that Qin Wentian had crossed into the third level of Yuanfu, the outcomes remained unchanged. Foes of the same realm couldn't hope to match him, and against opponents of equivalent strength, he stood unrivaled.

Qin Wentian's triumphant march persisted, an unbroken stride stretching from 60 successive victories to a remarkable 90.

The name 'Kirin' had already become a resounding echo within the hallowed walls of the Hell Arena. While standing at the second level of Yuanfu, his combat ledger bore an astonishing 60 wins against zero losses. Following his advancement into the third Yuanfu level, he rapidly accrued thirty additional triumphs. Could this signify that if he were to reappear, he might etch his name into the exclusive annals of those who attained a century of continuous, untainted victories?

Within the Arena's confines, only the most exalted of figures could lay claim to such a pristine record.

Whispers filled the air, the audience pondering whether Kirin could potentially establish a groundbreaking new Arena precedent.

...

Within the Pill Emperor Hall, similar deliberations on the secret realm access took place.

Control over the entrance to the secret realm was divided among the Moon Continent's four transcendent powers. By agreement, each faction could dispatch a total of twenty individuals into the realm each year.

"Zhan Chen, the task of leading our members into the secret realm falls to you this time," a middle-aged man addressed a young, good-looking fellow.

This youth's visage emanated an air of kindness, his appearance strikingly handsome.

He was one of the Moon Continent's four Heaven's Chosen, Zhan Chen from the Pill Emperor Hall, ranked at #11 in the Heavenly Fate Rankings.

"Your disciple understands," Zhan Chen nodded, then shifted his gaze toward an alluring woman standing beside him. Despite her age, this woman exuded an irresistible allure and mature beauty. In her youth, she must have easily belonged to the category of women who could topple empires with their charm.

This woman was none other than Luo He, the daughter of the Pill Emperor.

"Martial Aunt, shall Junior Sister Qingcheng partake in the secret realm expedition this time?" Zhan Chen inquired with a genial smile.

"Qingcheng's cultivation hasn't reached the requisite level; I'd rather she not take unnecessary risks. However, Bai Fei desires to venture forth and gather experience. Would you do me the honor of looking out for her in my stead?" Luo He chuckled.

"Junior Sister, you're exceptionally protective of Qingcheng," the middle-aged man from earlier chimed in, a smile gracing his features. "I've noticed you've been declining proposals from other powers. Could it be that you already have someone in mind for Qingcheng?"

"No definitive plans yet. However, I'm intent on keeping her from marrying into the Hua Clan. It's a pity that Zhan Chen already has his heart spoken for. Otherwise, I'd gladly betroth Qingcheng to him," Luo He responded. Her words painted a clear picture of her sentiments toward the young man before her – it was apparent that she held him in the highest regard!