Blocked Path

Blocked Path...

Having handed over the ancient scroll to Bailu Yi, Qin Wentian watched as she eagerly immersed her consciousness in its depths. Enthralled by the intricate Inscriptions, she was soon lost in a state of total immersion.

Bailu Yi's fascination with Divine Inscriptions had always been palpable. Now, presented with the insights of an Ascendant, she found herself captivated beyond measure. Much like Qin Wentian, she was ensnared by the scroll's teachings, unable to break free once she began reading.

The Gold Element Ascendant's methodologies were both innovative and distinctive, particularly in the application of knowledge. Within the ancient scroll, Qin Wentian discovered potent fourth-ranked Inscriptions, advanced formations, techniques for refining fourth-ranked Puppets, and methodologies for forging fourth-ranked Divine Weapons.

Unfortunately, Bailu Yi's comprehension hadn't yet reached the level required for a full understanding. Despite her best efforts, she struggled to grasp the Inscriptions' true essence, only managing to glean a fraction of their meaning.

When reunited with Chu Mang and Fatty, the quartet retreated into seclusion within the White Deer Cavern, accompanied by their faithful Little Rascal.

Initially, Qin Wentian had planned to extend his meditation in the desert, yearning for more time to develop his insights. However, his concerns for Bailu Yi and Fan Le's anxiety drew him back. Now that he had returned, he was eager to engage Bailu Yi in discussions regarding the ancient scroll, further deepening his understanding. This exchange left him invigorated, satisfied with his burgeoning growth.

Meanwhile, Di Cheng's mood was anything but satisfying.

For the Di Clan to gain sway over the White Deer Institute, their approach demanded not just core members' approval, but also a concerted effort to forge alliances throughout the institution. Such relationships were essential to elicit genuine cooperation and commitment. Di Feng, without a doubt, was best positioned to secure the Institute's trust.

In a realm where cultivation and connections were intertwined, developing strong relations was as crucial as reaping benefits.

In the past few days, Di Feng had tirelessly ingratiated himself within the White Deer Institute. He interacted with elders, forging ties with both young and old alike. With each passing day, his reputation as a prodigious talent grew stronger. The number of his admirers swelled, and faith in him deepened.

But for Di Cheng, his position in the Institute was rapidly deteriorating. He was practically invisible, his presence shunned. Worse yet, he had just received news that Bailu Yi was secluded in meditation with another young man. Needless to say, his mood was anything but cheerful.

"Is Little Yi still in seclusion?" Di Cheng inquired from Bailu Yi's father, his voice tinged with frustration.

Bailu Yi's father shook his head slightly, a knowing smile tugging at his lips. He was well aware that since Qin Wentian's return, Bailu Yi hadn't left his side, not even for a moment.

He found this situation rather intriguing. Ordinarily, he might have misconstrued the dynamics between his daughter and Qin Wentian. Yet, to his own surprise, he had grown quite fond of the young man. At the very least, Qin Wentian outshone Di Cheng in every conceivable way. Even though both were Di Clan descendants, Di Cheng paled in comparison to the likes of Di Feng.

"It seems that your daughter has been swept off her feet by Qin Wentian," remarked Bailu Jing with a chuckle, standing nearby. His words were designed to irk Di Cheng further.

And as expected, Di Cheng's expression darkened instantly upon hearing that comment. "Who is this Qin Wentian? Is he truly worthy of my Little Yi?"

Bailu Jing and his father couldn't help but bristle at Di Cheng's possessive tone, though they refrained from openly confronting him. After all, he was a guest within their Institute.

"It doesn't really matter if he's worthy or not. The important thing is whether Little Yi likes him or not," quipped Bailu Jing with a sly smile, taking yet another jab at Di Cheng.

Predictably, Di Cheng's already sour expression twisted into something even more unpleasant.

"Master, the young miss has completed her seclusion," a maid hastened over to report. Bailu Yi's father smiled, his eyes lighting up with anticipation. "Finally, she's emerged."

"I should take my leave," Di Cheng said with an audible strain, prompting a shared amused glance between Bailu's father and son. The former then instructed, "Keep an eye on him, make sure he doesn't stir up any trouble."

"Of course." Bailu Jing nodded, turning to leave as well.

Shortly after Qin Wentian and Bailu Yi exited the cavern, a cluster of people greeted them, somewhat overwhelming the pair.

"That's Di Cheng," Bailu Yi whispered discreetly, indicating the individual at the forefront. A quick glance confirmed that Di Cheng had reached the fifth level of Yuanfu cultivation base. However, this level wasn't particularly impressive within the context of the Grand Xia Empire, especially considering his age.

Qin Wentian then noticed two elders from the Institute pausing in their steps as they walked by. Strangely, he couldn't discern their cultivation bases, an ability his third eye had previously afforded him.

Apparently, his current strength allowed him only to sense the cultivation of those at the Yuanfu Realm. The two elders likely had Heavenly Dipper Realm cultivation bases, which he couldn't detect.

"I've been missing you so much, Little Yi. We haven't had a chance to meet these past few days," Di Cheng greeted with an overly charming smile, leaving Qin Wentian momentarily dumbfounded. This guy was just as much a 'genius' as Fan Le.

Qin Wentian's conviction solidified further. It was apparent that the Di Clan had deliberately sent Di Cheng ahead to allow the Institute's negative impression of him to grow. This wasn't an act put on by Di Cheng; it was his genuine personality.

Bailu Yi's expression shifted immediately, her anger intensifying when she caught Qin Wentian winking at her playfully.

"Di Cheng, henceforth, you'll kindly address me as Bailu Yi," she snapped with indignation. With that, she linked arms with Qin Wentian, shot him a defiant look, and proceeded to march him away forcibly.

"Eh..." A wry smile crept onto Qin Wentian's face. This girl was using him as a buffer, drawing curious gazes from onlookers.

Even if he wanted to clarify that their relationship was purely platonic, any further explanation on his part would likely only reinforce the misconceptions. While the truth was they were just friends, the members of the White Deer Institute wouldn't be swayed from their belief.

"Qin Wentian?" Di Cheng interjected, blocking their path. He squinted, a malicious grin curving his lips.

"You're in my way," Qin Wentian retorted with a smile.

"I heard you're some independent cultivator with mediocre talent in cultivation. Your prowess in Divine Inscriptions is the only remarkable aspect about you, not to mention that you're a third-ranked Grandmaster," Di Cheng stated.

Qin Wentian's brows furrowed. Di Cheng had done his homework quite diligently.

"And?" Qin Wentian responded coolly.

"Although Divine Inscriptionists are highly regarded by others, don't let it inflate your ego. Transcendent powers like myself consider Inscriptionists as mere tools. Yes, we might require your expertise in forging Divine Weapons and refining potent Puppets, but ultimately, individuals like you are tools, expendable and replaceable. After all, using Divine Inscriptions in combat is impractical. Who'd spare you the time to inscribe mid-battle? In the end, personal cultivation is what truly matters," Di Cheng loftily declared, puffing out his chest arrogantly. Qin Wentian was rendered speechless. This guy had obstructed their path just to spout a load of nonsense, all in the name of making himself appear superior?

But was Di Cheng even worthy of such an assessment?

Of course, discussions of superiority hinge on comparing two equally capable parties. Di Cheng knew he paled in comparison to Di Feng. However, when it came to someone insignificant like Qin Wentian? How could he allow him to surpass him? He was determined to put Qin Wentian in his place.

In truth, Di Cheng wasn't naive. He comprehended the true intention behind his clan sending him to the Institute. He made it clear that his pursuit of Bailu Yi wasn't solely due to her appearance; her status within the White Deer Institute held equal allure. He understood that marrying her would grant him a measure of prestige within the Institute, something the Di Clan would undoubtedly appreciate.

And if he succeeded in his endeavor, his family would surely hold him in high regard.

"Are you done?" Qin Wentian's tone was flat as he regarded Di Cheng, as though he were addressing an insignificant annoyance. Such a response caused Di Cheng's grin to falter, his anger flickering like a barely controlled flame. "Still not catching my drift?"

As his adversary remained steadfast, Qin Wentian's gaze sharpened, his eyes emitting an intimidating gleam that bore into Di Cheng's. Di Cheng felt a wave of impending danger wash over him, prompting him to involuntarily retreat a couple of steps. These steps of withdrawal smacked of humiliation.

"Let's move along," Qin Wentian said with a smile.

Playing her role, Bailu Yi feigned innocence, a mischievous glint dancing in her eyes. Her arm remained linked with Qin Wentian's, the gesture almost audacious, as if she were deliberately signaling to Di Cheng that he should abandon his pursuit.

From a distance, Bailu Yi's father and Bailu Jing observed with grins, having witnessed the exchange. Qin Wentian's face twisted into a wry smile. Misunderstanding seemed to be the theme of the day.

As Qin Wentian and Bailu Yi continued walking, Di Cheng intercepted them once again. Swiftly, the pressure of a fifth-level Yuanfu cultivation base surged, bearing down on Qin Wentian.

"Since subtlety eludes you, allow me to be blunt. Leave the White Deer Institute," Di Cheng declared, his pressure intensifying.

However, in the next heartbeat, Qin Wentian's feet pounded the earth rhythmically, his eyes flashing with a golden light. Instantly, Di Cheng let out a guttural cry as agony struck him. He felt as though the specter of death loomed over him, its presence all-encompassing. The force of this might was beyond dispute—questioning it would be foolhardy.

"BOOOM!" The sheer force of the pressure rattled Di Cheng's mind. His complexion paled further as he staggered backward.

Undeterred, Qin Wentian pressed on, as if nothing extraordinary had occurred, and resumed his forward march. With another glance at Di Cheng, the latter's ashen visage turned even grayer, and he coughed up torrents of blood.

"Buzzz!" Overcome with fury, Di Cheng discarded his injuries and summoned his Astral Souls. His form became cloaked in Astral Energy, a protective barrier formed around him. He shot an enraged glare at Qin Wentian, his animosity tangible.

At that moment, Qin Wentian had halted right in front of him. Extending his palms and then retracting them with a swift motion, a resounding crack echoed through the air. In the blink of an eye, a myriad of runic outlines wildly interwove, coalescing into the form of a colossal Roc. This majestic creature, despite its massive size, moved with such astonishing speed that Di Cheng barely had a moment to register fear. He felt the Roc's talons grip his garments, propelling him through the air in a manner reminiscent of discarding refuse. The implicit message was clear—Qin Wentian was treating Di Cheng like mere trash.

"How audacious!" A frigid voice cut through the atmosphere as a figure materialized behind Di Cheng. With deft precision, this newcomer caught Di Cheng mid-flight, effortlessly absorbing the impact. Simultaneously, a palm strike emanated from this person, effortlessly dismantling the manifestation of the Roc conjured by Qin Wentian.

Aided by the old man, Di Cheng regained his footing, though traces of blood still stained his lips. The area around his chest was tattered, his robes utterly torn. Any traces of his former smugness had vanished entirely, replaced by an unsettling air of malevolence. His expression now bore a sinister undertone.

"Engaging in combat with Divine Inscriptions isn't beyond possibility. At the very least, against an opponent of your caliber, I can dispose of them with ease, as numerous times as I wish. So don't carry on with such arrogance, fueled by your paltry intellect," came the impassive retort. Once again, Di Cheng expelled blood, this time in sheer exasperation.