Domineering Stance

Domineering Stance . . .

Qin Wentian stood there, a whirlwind of emotions surging within him. The immensity of the immortal realms had always been a daunting obstacle, an endless labyrinth where one could easily become lost. Mo Qingcheng's decision to remain in their particle world, steadfast in her promise to wait for his return, was a testament to her unwavering love and faith. A reassuring thought settled within him—he would find her, no matter what challenges lay ahead.

"Qingcheng will be safe," Qin Wentian affirmed to himself, his determination unshakable. Once he resolved the matters at hand concerning the Battle Sword Sect, he vowed to make his way back to the Royal Sacred Region without wasting a single precious moment.

As Lou Bingyu and Qin Wentian continued their journey, the question hung in the air. Lou Bingyu couldn't help but wonder about Qin Wentian's experiences in the vast and enigmatic realm of the immortal realms. His newfound air of authority, coupled with the presence of the striking Purgatory at his side, spoke of a journey filled with remarkable accomplishments. It was a journey that should have propelled him to new heights of strength, making him a formidable figure even among the immortals.

Qin Wentian responded with a simple nod, reassuring Lou Bingyu that all was well on his end. He then turned the question back to her, inquiring about her own experiences.

"I've been doing well," Lou Bingyu replied with a smile, though she did not elaborate. The two companions fell into a comfortable silence, content in each other's presence as they approached their destination—the Battle Sword Sect.

"Bingyu, you've returned!" A familiar figure appeared, and his face lit up with joy upon spotting Qin Wentian. "Junior Brother Qin!"

"Senior Brother Ji," Qin Wentian called out, a sense of warmth enveloping him. The one who had come to greet them was none other than Ji Feixue.

"Haha, I never expected to encounter Junior Brother Qin in this vast expanse of the immortal realms," Ji Feixue exclaimed with a hearty laugh. "Come, let's not waste any time. The others will be thrilled to see you."

As Ji Feixue led the way, more figures began to appear. They were all members of the Battle Sword Sect, and Qin Wentian recognized many familiar faces among them. Senior Brother Lin Shuai, Sword Sovereign Ling Tian, Plum Mountain Sword Sovereigness, and even his god-sister Ye Lingshuang—all had gathered to welcome him.

"Qin Wentian!" Ye Lingshuang's face lit up with delight as she rushed forward to meet him. She couldn't contain her excitement at the unexpected reunion.

"Sister Lingshuang, is Foster Father here?" Qin Wentian inquired.

"Father is still in our particle world, overseeing the affairs of Ye Country," Ye Lingshuang explained. It wouldn't be appropriate for the emperor of Ye to leave his responsibilities behind. As a disciple of the Battle Sword Sect, Ye Lingshuang had every reason to be present.

"Wentian!" More familiar faces joined the gathering, and Qin Wentian greeted them all with a warm smile.

"Brat, why are you here?" A gruff voice suddenly pierced the air. The crowd parted, making way for the elderly ancestor of the Battle Sword Sect, who had made his presence known. Qin Wentian smiled in response, "Hey, old fellow, why can't I be here?"

"Always so audacious," the old ancestor mused as he approached. However, when he drew near, he launched a palm strike, releasing a surge of sword energy aimed directly at Qin Wentian.

A sly grin danced on Qin Wentian's lips as he observed the old ancestor's belligerent stance. "Curious about my abilities, are you?" he chuckled. It was no secret that this elder had nursed a grudge ever since Qin Wentian had turned down his offer to become his disciple years ago.

With a casual raise of his hand, Qin Wentian unleashed a formidable blast of energy, palm striking palm in a dazzling display of power. The shockwave rippled through the surroundings, but Qin Wentian remained unwavering, wearing an impish smile that only seemed to further irk the old ancestor. "Impressive," the elder begrudgingly admitted, "You've reached the peak level of Celestial Phenomenon and can hold your own against me."

Laughter bubbled from the onlookers as the old ancestor, clearly pushed back a step, declared the clash a draw. Still, respect for his status kept any further comments in check.

"Old fellow, I'm just showing you a bit of mercy," Qin Wentian quipped irreverently, his jest prompting the elder to grumble, "Stop spouting nonsense."

Laughter erupted all around, and the Plum Mountain Sword Sovereigness, off to the side, couldn't help but feel a pang of complexity in her heart. Back when she had offered to take Qin Wentian as her disciple and been rebuffed, she had even lashed out with harsh words. Now, Qin Wentian had not only surpassed her but stood on the brink of outshining all others.

Qin Wentian wasn't the only one. Many younger disciples within the Battle Sword Sect showcased astonishing talent and were rapidly closing the gap with their elders.

"Qin Wentian, have some consideration for the old ancestor's dignity," Lin Shuai quipped, his laughter echoing through the air.

Qin Wentian turned his gaze to Lin Shuai, Duan Han, and the others, nodding in greeting. Despite his newfound power and abilities, he remained grounded and approachable.

"You've arrived at an inopportune moment," the Battle Sword Sect's old ancestor began, a note of concern creeping into his tone. "We find ourselves besieged by adversaries. We've earned the ire of the experts from the City Lord Manor, and they're closing in."

"What exactly happened?" Qin Wentian inquired, his curiosity piqued.

"As soon as we attempted to establish the Battle Sword Sect in Worryfree City, we drew the immediate attention of several major powers in the area. These disciples of major sects were closely connected to Xie Yu, the City Lord's son, and they've been relentless in their persecution. Ji Feixue and Bingyu engaged them in a fierce battle, which only escalated our problems," the old ancestor explained.

Lou Bingyu lowered her head, her voice tinged with regret. "I'm sorry," she murmured.

"You have nothing to apologize for; they were the ones who went too far," Ji Feixue retorted, coming to her defense.

"It matters not who's right or wrong at this point. We must prepare for battle," the old ancestor of the Battle Sword Sect declared, his tone heavy with responsibility. He reminded them that the City Lord, being an immortal-foundation expert, should not be directly involved in this conflict. It was the younger generation who had provoked them, even going so far as to threaten the complete annihilation of their sect. The old ancestor then turned his attention to Qin Wentian, seeking his input. "Qin, what are your intentions in this matter?"

Qin Wentian responded with a playful smile, his words carrying a hint of teasing. "Old fellow, I'm a Battle Sword Sect disciple, too. You're not trying to send me away, are you?"

The old ancestor's stern expression softened, and he nodded approvingly. "Good. Our faith in you was not misplaced. Regardless of the outcome, we've already decided to withdraw from Worryfree City." His words carried the weight of commitment. They were readying themselves for the impending battle, as news had arrived that their adversaries were en route.

"Understood, old ancestor," the disciples affirmed, their expressions reflecting the seriousness of the situation. This battle weighed heavily on their hearts.

With a resounding roar, the old ancestor rallied his sect members. Swords gleamed as disciples soared into the sky, their swords cutting through the air like lightning. Young warriors mounted on their swords, preparing to defend their sect. Qin Wentian couldn't help but smile at the sight; the Battle Sword Sect remained as resolute as ever, no matter where they were.

At the front of the Battle Sword Sect's position, ordinary experts stood atop towering rocks, their eyes locked on a rapidly approaching horde of foes. Qin Wentian stood among them, flanked by Lin Shuai, Ji Feixue, Lou Bingyu, and other exceptional talents. Further back, seasoned elders like Sword Sovereign Ling Tian took their positions. They all watched as a mass of experts, led by Xie Yu of the City Lord Manor, advanced on them. The majority of these younger adversaries hailed from powerful factions within Worryfree City and regarded Xie Yu as their leader.

"Prepare for battle!" The disciples of the Battle Sword Sect unleashed their sword qi, their determination evident. Lou Bingyu's gaze turned icy, her eyes fixed ahead.

Laughter, crude and offensive, reached their ears from the advancing enemy. These disrespectful remarks, objectifying and demeaning women, fueled the rage within the Battle Sword Sect's ranks.

"If the Battle Sword Sect were to offer all its females as gifts, we might spare a few of you pathetic lives," one taunted, inciting a surge of killing intent from the Battle Sword Sect.

As more enemy experts appeared, someone among them suddenly exclaimed in pleasant surprise, "Wow, there's a beauty here I've never seen before. She exudes a captivating allure."

The person who had spoken couldn't tear their eyes away from Purgatory in her captivating human form, positioned elegantly behind Qin Wentian. She emanated a fiery allure, her figure accentuated by blazing armor that added to her alluring presence. Her beauty and demonic charm drew the attention of many, leaving them utterly captivated.

"Ah, the Battle Sword Sect truly harbors exceptional talent. Xie Yu, just look at her. Between her and Lou Bingyu, who do you prefer?" The speaker playfully nudged Xie Yu, who was acting strangely. His provocation had faded, and he seemed disinterested in Purgatory. Instead, his gaze was locked onto the young man before her.

Qin Wentian stood confidently, his robes billowing in the wind, his presence sending ripples of turmoil through Xie Yu's heart. Why was he here? Could he be involved in this situation?

Qin Wentian's unwavering gaze fixed on Xie Yu, unsettling him and causing his expression to sour.

"Xie Yu, what's the matter?" The young man beside Xie Yu sensed something was amiss and inquired.

"This matter has nothing to do with you, right?" Xie Yu stared at Qin Wentian, nervously posing the question. His words puzzled those around him. Did Xie Yu know this person? Could he also be a disciple from an immortal-ranked power?

Members of the Battle Sword Sect also turned their attention to Qin Wentian. Xie Yu apparently knew him.

Qin Wentian remained calm, his penetrating gaze locked onto Xie Yu. His eyes seemed capable of piercing through Xie Yu's very soul, causing panic to surge within him, and his expression grew increasingly unsightly. Why was this person's gaze so unnerving?

"Summon your parents to meet with me," Qin Wentian declared coldly. His words left everyone stunned. Xie Yu's parents were immortal-foundation experts, yet Qin Wentian had instructed him to bring them to meet him?

"You must be tired of living," a young man sneered, his cold laughter filling the air. The experts standing with Xie Yu radiated hostility, and even the Battle Sword Sect members were left dumbfounded, their eyes locked on Qin Wentian.

Yet, Qin Wentian's unwavering gaze remained fixed on Xie Yu. He knew that despite residing in this small Worryfree City, Xie Yu, as the City Lord's son, should be aware of Qin Wentian's current identity.

"Very well, I'll go and fetch my parents right away," Xie Yu acquiesced, shocking everyone into stunned silence. Even the experts accompanying Xie Yu were left wondering who this young man was.

"Who said you could bring your men and leave?" Qin Wentian's voice was icy, his words cutting through the tense air like a blade. "Do my instructions not make sense to you?"

The members of the Battle Sword Sect watched in astonishment as Qin Wentian underwent a startling transformation. The warmth and gentleness that had characterized him moments ago had evaporated, replaced by an aura of absolute dominance. His words were a command that brooked no disobedience.

Puzzlement washed over the Battle Sword Sect's members. They had braced themselves for a fierce battle, but this sudden turn of events left them bewildered. Lou Bingyu, too, stared at Qin Wentian in confusion.

"Yes," Xie Yu yielded once more to Qin Wentian's overwhelming presence. He nodded and muttered, "I will immediately convey your message to them."

With that, he retrieved a precious talisman and shattered it on the spot. Simultaneously, Xie Yu telepathically communicated with the experts accompanying him. "Hurry, summon your sect's elders and arrange for them to come and offer an apology. If not, disaster will befall us all."