Strongest Contender

The mention of the Shi Clan involuntarily brought to mind a reflection of himself for Qin Wentian.

Within him flowed two distinct bloodlines. One of these seemed akin to that of an ancient primordial beast emperor. Despite his current standing at the seventh level of Yuanfu, the full depths of his bloodline's secrets had yet to be fully unveiled.

Possessing two potent bloodlines, his potential was immeasurable, contingent on his gradual revelation of their mysteries.

The Shi Clan's cultivators occupied their designated seats. Once everyone had settled, servants appeared with delectable food and aromatic wine, laying out a banquet table. The atmosphere took on an easy air, akin to a casual gathering. There was no hint of tension lingering in the atmosphere.

The various transcendent powers engaged in harmonious interaction, an outsider observing them would never guess they'd clashed fiercely for thousands of years.

"We are deeply honored by your presence, a testament to the respect you grant us. The younger generation naturally ascends to take their place, and in seeing so many talented young cultivators among us, my heart swells with pride," the leader of the Chen Clan addressed the assembly, dressed in robes adorned with the image of a grand sun.

"Brother Hua, has young Taixu joined us as well?" The middle-aged figure from the Chen Clan turned his gaze towards the Hua Clan, inquiring about the presence of Hua Taixu. Among the younger generation, Hua Taixu held the top spot. Even at the Yuanfu Realm, he had reigned supreme in Grand Xia for years.

"Taixu is in seclusion, working to make a breakthrough. If all goes as planned, he should ascend to the second level of Heavenly Dipper in a matter of days." A member of the Hua Clan responded with a smile carrying a hint of pride. The announcement left the assembly momentarily stunned. No wonder Hua Taixu reigned supreme on the Heavenly Fate Rankings. Already breaking through to Heavenly Dipper, he was now aiming for the second level. Undoubtedly, the distance between him and those trailing behind him was growing ever wider.

"Haha, it seems that among the younger generation, Hua Taixu is destined to lead the Hua Clan." The Chen Clan representative laughed. Hua Taixu's brilliance had long overshadowed his peers, even shining brighter than certain elders. It was a certainty that Hua Taixu would ascend to the position of clan lord sooner or later.

"And isn't young Chen Wang destined for the same fate?" The Hua Clan elder inquired politely.

Chen Wang of the Great Solar Chen Clan held the second spot on the Heavenly Fate Rankings. His title, Chen Wang (Chen King), was believed to be a bestowed name, granted after countless victories in combat, symbolizing the great hopes his clan pinned on him.

"He's decent, currently at the Yuanfu Realm without any breakthroughs yet," the Chen Clan elder chuckled, though a tinge of discontent could be glimpsed beneath his smile.

"Seeing as Nephew Chen Wang has chosen to linger at the pinnacle of Yuanfu, he undoubtedly has his own reasons," the Hua Clan elder chimed in, his chuckle bearing an air of nonchalance. He had received word that Chen Wang possessed the ability to advance into the realm of Heavenly Dipper, yet for some undisclosed motive, he constrained himself to the pinnacle of Yuanfu.

"And what about Nephew Shi Potian?" The elder from the Chen Clan redirected the conversation, his attention now on the Shi Clan.

Shi Potian, occupying the third position on the Heavenly Fate Rankings, became the subject of inquiry.

"Much like Chen Wang, those ranked below him have already transcended into Heavenly Dipper, yet he remains at the pinnacle of Yuanfu," a member of the Shi Clan responded nonchalantly.

The phrase 'those ranked below him' alluded to Jing Wu from the Venerate Heavens Sect, the fourth-ranking individual on the Heavenly Fate Rankings.

Amused laughter rippled from those of the Chen Clan. "Hehe, I wonder if Emperor Azure, seated at fifth in the Heavenly Rankings, has crossed that threshold. The Azure Emperor Palace has become quite enigmatic in recent years."

"We needn't concern ourselves overly with the matters of the younger generation. We are but spectators in the upcoming year-end ranking battle," inserted Luo He with a composed tone, her gaze momentarily drifting towards the Pill Emperor Hall after her statement.

"Luo He speaks wisely. The most formidable contenders from the younger generation partake in this gathering today. Our role is to observe silently and revel in their contests," the middle-aged representative from the Chen Clan remarked casually. Despite his demeanor, the transcendent powers of Grand Xia were all deadly serious about the impending struggle for positions on the Heavenly Fate Rankings.

In Grand Xia, a prevailing belief persisted: "The ranking battle for the Heavenly Fate Rankings is intricately intertwined with the fortune and destiny of Grand Xia." For the transcendent powers boasting exceptional disciples, a higher placement promised greater strength for their respective factions in the future.

Among the groups founded by the Seven Grand Clans, those from the Ginkou Continent were particularly formidable. Positioned in the heartland of Grand Xia for countless generations, they ranked as the supreme transcendent powers.

"Luo He, rumors have it that your newest disciple, Mo Qingcheng, possesses a Seven Apertures Mystical Heart, matched by an unparalleled beauty. Many of us are curious about her, so why isn't she in attendance?" One of the attendees turned towards Luo He inquisitively.

"That young lady is engrossed in her cultivation and dislikes crowded affairs," Luo He brushed the inquiry aside indifferently. Yet, her countenance swiftly shifted, as if sensing something amiss. A forced smile played on her lips as she responded, "However, she will be showing her respect to the esteemed elders today."

As her words trailed off, a few figures soared gracefully through the air, making their way towards the island. Leading them was a maiden, draped in white, exuding an unparalleled grace and possessing a flawless visage.

A hushed stillness rippled through the male onlookers, even the most esteemed elders held their tongues, awestruck by her radiance. No wonder a prodigy like Hua Taixu would be captivated. A maiden of such grace, coupled with her exceptional talent, could anyone resist being enamored by her?

When even the seasoned elders were entranced, could the hearts of the younger disciples remain unaffected?

The allure of beauty was universal, transcending whether one was a gifted prodigy or an ordinary mortal. There were no exceptions.

Luo Huan playfully tugged at Qin Wentian's arm, earning a wince as he glanced her way. "Senior Sister, please spare me from any complications."

"She's even more captivating now. Could it be that cultivation enhances one's beauty? Looks like I need to work on myself even harder." Luo Huan chuckled mirthfully. Mo Qingcheng's presence was now suffused with an air of sanctity.

As Mo Qingcheng alighted and made her way towards the Pill Emperor Palace, she respectfully greeted, "Master."

"Yes, Qingcheng, go ahead and pay your respects to the elders," Luo He acknowledged with a nod. Mo Qingcheng turned toward the assembly and bestowed a delicate bow, each movement radiating elegance and grace, stirring emotions. Countless young men mirrored her every motion, as if they had finally glimpsed the embodiment of their dreams.

"Qingcheng pays her respects to the esteemed elders," Mo Qingcheng murmured softly. Then, she took her place beside Luo He, her gaze glancing toward the Ouyang Aristocrat Clan. Upon catching Qin Wentian's gaze, a playful glint danced in her eyes. This reaction stirred a warmth in Qin Wentian's heart. That mischievous look in her eyes was a throwback to their shared history.

Several youths pinched themselves discreetly. Did they really see what they thought they did? Could Mo Qingcheng have shown that reaction earlier?

"Luo He, congratulations on acquiring such an exceptional disciple. I wonder, does she already have someone in her heart? If not, I'd be happy to introduce some of the outstanding talents from the Chen Clan's younger generation," the Chen Clan elder proposed, a smile playing on his lips.

Before Luo He could respond, Mo Qingcheng spoke up. "Elder, I've already found someone who holds my heart."

The elder from the Chen Clan appeared momentarily taken aback. Could it be that Mo Qingcheng had fallen for Hua Taixu? Considering Hua Taixu's prowess, they would indeed make an exemplary match.

Of course, she could have been referring to Zhan Chen. Since both of them were disciples of the Pill Emperor Hall, they shared a common background. Familiarity often fostered affection, and that was nothing out of the ordinary.

"I wonder who among the young heroes has had the fortune of capturing Miss Mo's attention," the Chen Clan elder mused, his laughter resonating through the air.

"All will be revealed after the ranking battle at the end of the year," Mo Qingcheng's response was accompanied by a smile, inciting astonishment among many. So, it wasn't Hua Taixu then? And not even Zhan Chen?

"Let's set that aside for now," Luo He intervened, her tone tinged with annoyance.

"Agreed," the middle-aged Chen Clan elder nodded. He shifted his attention to the Ouyang Aristocrat Clan and inquired, "Nephew Ouyang proposed a cross-generational exchange between the younger members of our clans, which was why I extended these invitations. Beyond fostering better relations, this offers us a chance to showcase the talents of our younger generation who haven't yet graced the Heavenly Fate Rankings."

Chen Wang, Shi Potian, and the others hadn't made an appearance today. They clearly had no intention of contending for any superficial accolades; they were saving their ultimate cards for the decisive ranking battle later in the year, where true glory could be secured.

Given that Ouyang Kuangsheng was at the seventh level of Yuanfu, the Chen Clan was willing to accommodate his request for a sparring session.

"Are you all open to having the younger generation engage in friendly combat?" The Chen Clan elder's gaze swept over the assembly as he smiled.

"How would that work?" a member of the Wang Clan inquired.

"Given that Nephew Ouyang is at the seventh level of Yuanfu, why not select representatives from our clans to challenge each other? Let's see which among our younger generation is stronger," the Chen Clan elder proposed with a chuckle. "Of course, this is just a lighthearted exchange, so there's no need to take it too seriously."

"Sounds interesting. Should we add a little incentive to motivate them?" someone in the crowd suggested.

"Why not? Here's the deal: the winning faction can put forth a request to the other powers. As long as the request is reasonable and doesn't meet any objections, we'll honor it. Any disagreements?" The Chen Clan elder glanced around, seeking consensus. The leaders of the various powers nodded; a friendly bout among the younger generations would surely enliven the atmosphere. However, the Chen Clan's plan was transparent—they aimed to humble the Ouyang Aristocrat Clan.

It was evident that they were well aware that, in addition to Chen Wang, another prodigious talent of theirs stood at the seventh level of Yuanfu.

"Now that everyone's in agreement, let's swiftly select the participants. Those chosen will compete on the battle arena," the elder announced, prompting two figures from the Chen Clan to step forward and ascend the platform.

"As expected, it's Chen Zhan," a murmur spread among the crowd as their eyes focused on the Chen Clan's representative. Chen Zhan's combat prowess was nothing short of terrifying; he was capable of contending against someone at the ninth level of Yuanfu. His profound understanding, coupled with the might of the Great Sun Universe Art, exuded a domineering aura.

"Care to join me?" Ouyang Kuangsheng's gaze fixed on Qin Wentian. With Qin Wentian by his side, the outcome of this battle would be a foregone conclusion.

"Absolutely." Qin Wentian nodded, his mind already made up after the Chen Clan elder's proposal. He had a request of his own to put forward, and he was determined to participate in this contest.

A single, vital request that held immense significance to him.

A fleeting exchange of glances was followed by a shared chuckle. The two friends advanced, stepping onto the battle arena. Simultaneously, representatives from the other six powers did the same.

Wang Xiao was among them, though his attention wasn't solely fixed on Chen Zhan of the Chen Clan. Instead, he directed his intense gaze at Qin Wentian. He was acutely aware that Qin Wentian could very well surpass Chen Zhan in prowess. Even before undergoing the Heavenly Stele's trial, Qin Wentian had already proven his strength by injuring Situ Po in a duel. Now, post-Heavenly Stele, Wang Xiao could hardly fathom the extent of Qin Wentian's newfound power. All he could ascertain was that Qin Wentian's strength had magnified exponentially, rendering Wang Xiao's understanding obsolete. The Chen Clan's meticulously laid plans seemed destined to crumble.

"Qin Wentian, you dared to slay a member of my Hua Clan. Hmph, today I'll teach you a lesson." From the ranks of the Hua Clan, a young man sneered coldly, attempting to provoke Qin Wentian. Unfazed, Qin Wentian didn't even spare him a glance.

Each contender emanated an aura of formidable strength. Just as the middle-aged Chen Clan elder was poised to lay out the rules…

"Ouyang, let's not waste any more time," Qin Wentian whispered softly, catching Ouyang Kuangsheng off guard. What was his companion scheming?

But without warning, Qin Wentian surged forward, pulling Ouyang Kuangsheng along. "If the young generation aspires to be the best, then there's no point in abiding by conventional rules, is there?"

Gasps of astonishment spread through the audience. What was he implying?

Undeterred, Qin Wentian continued, "Let's skip the rules. How about this—take us on together."

Ouyang Kuangsheng's heart skipped a beat. What was Qin Wentian plotting? But in truth, fighting against peers held little appeal for Qin Wentian.

The crowd's expressions froze as they stared at Qin Wentian. What was this young upstart implying?

Qin Wentian pressed on, "We don't need the rules to constrain us. All of you, come at us simultaneously."

Ouyang Kuangsheng couldn't help but tremble. This fellow… but Qin Wentian's perspective was straightforward: battling opponents of similar caliber hardly challenged him.