Sacred Royal City

Sacred Royal City

Qin Wentian found himself standing before the 22nd sword strike, a breathtaking scene unfolding before him. Unlike the previous images of monstrous demons, this one featured a vast expanse of starry sky, akin to a celestial phenomenon.

"Look at that constellation," Qin Wentian whispered to himself as he observed the demonic beasts that were now held in check by a radiant constellation. Such a display of power could only be the manifestation of a Celestial Phenomenon Ascendant.

The appearance of a constellation marked the moment when a cultivator crossed into the Celestial Phenomenon Realm, a significant milestone in their journey.

The once-rampaging demonic beasts now found themselves under the constellation's influence, their roars and destruction silenced by the brilliant starlight. Swords, sharp as meteors, rained down from the heavens, unleashing a destructive force that engulfed the entire space. The agonized howls of the demonic beasts filled the air as they were annihilated by the constellation's formidable power.

Qin Wentian couldn't help but marvel at the might of this constellation. He had heard tales of the vast disparities among constellations, and he couldn't help but wonder about the tier of this particular celestial phenomenon.

"The destructive energy feels similar to lightning, yet there are no visible signs of lightning or thunder. It's as if the light itself carries boundless destruction," Qin Wentian contemplated aloud. He knew that constellations could be formed in various ways. Some were born from the assimilation of a single Mandate's true intent into an astral soul, resulting in simpler constellations. The constellation before him, with its power over swords, indicated that it was likely formed by a sword-type astral soul.

But there were more complex constellations, formed by the fusion of true intents from multiple Mandates. These constellations could be exceptionally potent and unique, dependent on the comprehender's insights. Two people might use the same true intent, yet their constellations could differ drastically in form and strength.

The constellation he beheld seemed not to be solely born from the Mandate of Lightning but possibly also contained the true intent of the Mandate of Sword.

"Could there be the true intent of the Mandate of Sword within it?" Qin Wentian pondered. The Mandate of Sword was known for its destructive force, and it wouldn't be surprising if it contributed to such overwhelming power.

However, despite his speculations, deciphering this sword strike was no simple task. Qin Wentian was only at the seventh level of Heavenly Dipper in terms of cultivation, and he had yet to fully comprehend a true intent, let alone a fusion of them. The challenge before him was immense, but his determination remained unwavering.

The first seven sword strikes had been a challenge, but from the 22nd onward, the difficulty skyrocketed to a whole new level. Qin Wentian stood before the mountain rampart, deep in thought, his eyes closed in contemplation. He extended his palms and pressed them against the stone surface, attempting to grasp the elusive insights.

However, despite his best efforts, he failed repeatedly. There was a complexity to these sword strikes that surpassed his current understanding. The true intent of Wind seemed to be present, but there was something more—an enigmatic fusion that eluded him.

Another day passed, and Qin Wentian continued his struggle. He sensed the presence of the true intent of Wind within the sword strike, but it appeared to be intertwined with another, possibly Thunder. The fusion of these true intents might have given rise to the celestial phenomenon he witnessed, but without comprehending the steps leading to its formation, he was left in the dark.

Qin Wentian couldn't help but chuckle at his own audacity. "I haven't even mastered the true intent of any Mandate, yet I thought I could decipher this constellation. I may have overestimated myself," he admitted, but there was no hint of disappointment in his voice. He had reached the limit of what a Heavenly Dipper Sovereign could achieve. Without understanding the true intent of Mandates and condensing a constellation, unlocking the essence of the 22nd sword strike was an unattainable goal.

With a sense of acceptance, Qin Wentian turned and began his descent down the path. His decision relieved the spectators on the mountain peak. Comprehending up to the 22nd strike was already an astonishing feat. Some even whispered that perhaps there was a Celestial Phenomenon Ascendant's soul within Qin Wentian, explaining his exceptional insight.

Qin Wentian returned to the mountain peak, where Lin Shuai greeted him with a smile. "Why did you stop?"

"It would only be a waste of time for now. I'll come back when I'm better prepared," Qin Wentian replied, his tone light and confident.

Lin Shuai nodded approvingly. "You've already achieved something remarkable by comprehending the seven sword strikes imbued with the true intent of Mandates. I believe it won't be long before you grasp the true intent of your Mandates. When the time comes, you should prepare for your breakthrough to the Celestial Phenomenon level."

He continued, emphasizing the importance of quality over quantity when condensing one's constellation. "Certain treasures can aid in the breakthrough, but don't rely on external objects. Depend on your own abilities. Quality matters more than quantity."

Qin Wentian understood the wisdom in Lin Shuai's advice. Some might choose to form multiple constellations, but quality was paramount.

Lin Shuai inquired about Qin Wentian's plans. "When do you plan to depart? To the Sacred Battle Platform, I mean."

Qin Wentian replied with anticipation, "I'll head to the Sacred Royal City soon. I'm looking forward to the journey."

The Sacred Battle Platform, a renowned location in the Sacred Royal City, was a destination Qin Wentian couldn't ignore. The city itself, a sprawling and formidable hub within the Royal Sacred Region, held a sacred status in the hearts of its inhabitants. Qin Wentian had long wanted to make this journey, for there was something important he needed to accomplish there.

Lin Shuai, his senior, offered assistance. "I can inform Master to send someone with you for protection," he suggested, concerned for Qin Wentian's safety.

But Qin Wentian declined the offer. "No need for that. I'm skilled in facial transformation techniques," he assured Lin Shuai.

This revelation surprised Lin Shuai, but he eventually nodded in agreement. "Very well. I'll inform the elders of our Battle Sword Faction in the Royal Sacred Sect to await your arrival at the Sacred Battle Platform."

"Thank you," Qin Wentian responded, then left the mountain peak to gather his friends, Fan Le, Ouyang Kuangsheng, and the rest. He explained his plans to travel alone to the Sacred Battle Platform.

Ouyang Kuangsheng expressed his intent to return to Grand Xia to reunite with Jiang Ting. Fan Le decided to explore the Royal Sacred Region a bit longer before heading back to Grand Xia. Yun Mengyi quietly mentioned her intention to return to Grand Xia as well.

Qin Zheng suggested their reunion in the Unmatched Realm once they returned to Grand Xia, as most of them were disciples of eccentrics from that realm.

Qin Wentian agreed, understanding that their current circumstances made it unwise to linger in the Royal Sacred Region. Additionally, each of his friends had their own matters to attend to, and separation was inevitable.

They bid their farewells, hugging tightly in parting. When it was Yun Mengyi's turn, her captivating eyes locked onto Qin Wentian. As they embraced, her gaze revealed a subtle flicker of emotion.

Qin Wentian summoned his loyal companion, Little Rascal, and together, they left the Battle Sword Sect.

........

The Royal Sacred City, nestled in the heart of the Royal Sacred Region, possessed an unassuming appearance that concealed its immense history and significance. It stood as a testament to the passage of time, welcoming countless visitors each day who entered and departed its imposing gates.

In this bustling city, the pursuit of martial excellence thrived, and it seemed that nearly every person you encountered on the street was a Celestial Phenomenon Ascendant. Crossing paths with the young masters and mistresses of influential clans here was ill-advised, as their formidable backgrounds made them formidable adversaries.

The Royal Sacred City was not only home to the dominant power in the Royal Sacred Region but also boasted the renowned Sacred Battle Platform, the most famous arena in the region. Moreover, it served as the grandest trading hub in the Royal Sacred Region.

The city hosted representatives from the Nine Great Sects, Seven Supreme Clans, Two Grand Empires, along with various reclusive sects, ancient nations, and powerful clans. They sent their disciples to the Sacred Royal City to broaden their horizons, enroll in prestigious schools and institutes, or even consider joining the Royal Sacred Sect.

Qin Wentian, disguised by a skillful facial-transformation technique, entered this ancient city.

He donned a simple white robe, his face chiseled with refined lines, portraying a handsome appearance. His appearance suggested a man around thirty, but it was all an effect of his disguise.

A petulant voice emanated from beneath Qin Wentian. The source of this voice was an adorable white tiger-shaped demonic beast. Its striped coat exuded a regal aura, and this creature was none other than Little Rascal, transformed into this form.

However, Qin Wentian wasn't the only one riding on Little Rascal's back. There was another figure, equally striking, dressed in azure attire, her features veiled behind a conical bamboo hat. Although her face remained hidden, her slender frame and aura hinted at her exceptional beauty.

When Qin Wentian had left the Battle Sword Sect, Qing'er had made the surprising decision to accompany him, even willing to be in the open. This unexpected choice warmed Qin Wentian's heart.

"Lazy creature, we're so light, and you're complaining about being tired. I've been feeding you for nothing," Qin Wentian chided playfully, rapping his fist lightly on Little Rascal's head.

"You two are a wicked pair, conspiring to bully me," Little Rascal complained, causing passersby to glance at the peculiar group with amused curiosity.

"This little one is quite entertaining!" chuckled a young woman nearby.

"What are you looking at? Haven't you ever seen such an adorable demon before?" Little Rascal retorted in its baby-like voice, drawing even more attention. Qin Wentian couldn't help but roll his eyes; he regretted bringing Little Rascal along. He had initially aimed for a low-profile entrance, but that plan was now thoroughly disrupted.

"Enough, will you stop?" Qin Wentian tried to hush Little Rascal with a slap, but it only prompted more interest from onlookers.

"Sir, if you're not fond of your pet, why not give it to me?" A voice interrupted, followed by the appearance of a large piece of Yuan Meteor Stone. It radiated a potent astral energy, its natural beauty evident.

Qin Wentian turned to see a young man offering the stone in exchange for Little Rascal. "Hand over this demon beast, and this Yuan Meteor Stone is yours," he proposed.