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Chapter 201: Breakthrough Testing 

With the computers in his lab helping him model the flows of Qi in the meridians, Li Lang was able to refine his technique rapidly and precisely. He made a new version of his technique for Long Yi to test out.

As a Foundation Establishment cultivator, Long Yi's mastery of Qi within his body had reached new levels. Though Li Lang surmised his Qi had undergone a qualitative change, so his tests couldn't accurately represent what a normal Energy Gatherer would experience, he still deemed the test worthwhile as he could verify the safety of the technique.

It took no time for Li Lang to teach the particular set of movements to Long Yi at all, and the test soon got underway. Just like in the previous instance, with Xiao Dong, Long Yi slowly transitioned from one martial stance to another. However, this time Li Lang had accounted for the delay between movements and ensured the various Qi channels within his body would converge in his dantian at the same time and with the same strength.

This meant the critical moment was at the end when the streams of Qi would finally meet.

"How much of your Qi is being affected by the technique?" Li Lang asked his latest test subject.

"Slightly more than a tenth. It should be fine."

"Just make sure you stop as soon as you sense something wrong."

While being occasionally questioned about his experiences, Long Yi was soon able to complete the prescribed set of movements. When he did, nothing particular happened. No discomfort, no pain, or anything to worry about.

"Is this supposed to happen?" he asked.

"Not sure. The physique of a Foundation Establishment Realm cultivator may be different. This technique is meant to aid low aptitude Energy Gatherers in breaking through. In the first place, your grade three aptitude means you have enough control over Qi that you don't need it."

"So we didn't learn much from this test?"

"No, not at all. We learned that it should be safe to practice. You may be more powerful, but that would mean any adverse reaction would be even more severe. If nothing happened, I think I can resume testing with Xiao Dong again."

"Great! I'll go call him."

Li Lang looked as if wanted to say something, but in the end, he chose not to interrupt his friend. As Long Yi exited his room to call on their student, Li Lang sighed.

He was feeling a little guilty after the previous failed experiment. Thoughts of wanting to take the role of the tester resurfaced. He knew it wasn't proper for the experimenter to take part, as he would be filled with bias toward his hypothesis, but he didn't want any accidents to befall his students.

In a way, he admitted he had recruited them to take advantage of them, but that didn't mean he only saw them as tools. He wanted them to succeed too. Some techniques he would make them test may limit their potential in the future as he searched for an optimal path, but it was still better than languishing as a low-talent Energy Gatherer forever.

Before he knew it, a knock soon rang out at the door, with Long Yi returning with Xiao Dong in tow.

"Teacher, is it true we'll be resuming the tests already?"

Li Lang looked at him wistfully and nodded.

Seeing this, Xiao Dong thumped his chest, and he reassured his mentors.

"Leave it to me, then! I'll make sure I won't mess it up this time. And even if I do, it isn't that big of a deal. Nothing a Recovery Pill can't fix."

"Xiao Dong, we believe we've addressed the issue that caused you to bleed in the previous attempt," Li Lang clarified. "It shouldn't happen this time, but the dangers are always present. Have you tried out the traditional breakthrough method yet instead? With your aptitude, it shouldn't be much of an issue."

"Not yet. I've been resting as you instructed, Teacher. But I want to continue with this technique you're creating. It is what I signed up for, and it'll make it easier for when the others catch up, right?"

"In that case, let's go over the revised movements."

Li Lang saw that there was no need to have any second thoughts anymore. He was the one who started everything, so he had to see it through.

The teacher and students went over the new set of movements once more before the test immediately went underway. Both Li Lang and Long Yi were carefully scrutinizing the condition of this student throughout the test in case something went wrong. Under those two watchful gazes, Xiao Dong soon received the valuable Foundation Pill from his mentors.

"Take it when you're ready. If it goes as I intended, it could cause your breakthrough to begin."

Xiao Dong nodded earnestly before swallowing the pill in one gulp. He then got started with the series of movements right away.

"How much of your Qi is being affected?" Li Lang repeated the same questions he had asked Long Yi.

He noted down the answers he received. They were similar to Long Yi's, which assured him somewhat. It made him believe it wouldn't stray too far from what he had previously observed. 

The session continued and before long, the critical moment near the end arrived. As Xiao Dong finished the last set of movements, the two mentors stood protectively over their students, ready to react to any incidents.

"How do you feel?" Li Lang asked after a moment with no response from their pupil.

"Umm, I think I'm almost there. I just need another push and my breakthrough will begin."

For a moment, Li Lang was tempted to ask his student to immediately repeat the technique. The series of movements acted like a pump to the Qi in their meridians, pushing it in the predetermined directions. It meant it could be repeated to exert more force. However, Li Lang knew he should be satisfied with what he had so far.

They had successfully carried out the test on a peak Energy Gatherer without any harm coming to their subject. It was better for him to thoroughly examine his test subject's conditions before getting carried away. Oftentimes, approaching experiments with a slow and meticulous approach was faster than rushing things.

"There's no need for you do to anything more, Xiao Dong. Just relax. I'll just need to collect some samples from you."

Everyone associated with Li Lang was familiar with this request by now. After having been provided the Cleansing Drug, they had all received a similar request every so often. Li Lang needed to continuously monitor their blood and flesh to confirm the effects and safety of his drug. 

At the same time, it was also his way of monitoring the health of his students. It was to prevent any of his students from being overeager and cultivating beyond their limits. If any of them tried to do that, it would immediately be detected by the tests.

After thoroughly collecting everything he needed, Li Lang dismissed his student and went to work with his new samples. He spent most of the day going through them as he planned another round of testing.

Like that, the days passed with Xiao Dong testing out the technique every so often and Li Lang carefully monitoring his condition. The tests slowly escalated until the day finally came when they were determined to have Xiao Dong take on the challenge and attempt a breakthrough.

"Remember, to keep repeating the technique if you need more Qi to converge in your dantian, but once you start, don't stop midway."

"Yes, don't worry, Teacher Li. It isn't my first time."

By now, the dozens of tests had gotten Xiao Dong familiar with the series of movements catered to him. He completed one set of the technique in no time and seamlessly started his second round of it.

After doing three rounds, his dantian began to light up like he had swallowed a lightbulb. The ambient Qi in the surroundings became more active as he began absorbing more and more of it into his body.

They were the signs that meant Xiao Dong had begun his breakthrough!

However, during this critical moment, knocking could be heard. 

Annoyed, Li Lang gave a look to Long Yi that conveyed he would handle it, and that he would leave things here to him before rushing out to reprimand the student or students that had chosen to interrupt them. While Xiao Dong continued without a care, it was still a distraction. Li Lang had told his students countless times not to interrupt them during these sessions.

When he opened the door, he was surprised to find Wu San, a normally cautious and obedient student of the group. This made him swallow his words, as he knew he shouldn't have interrupted them without good reason.

"Teacher Li."

"What is it?"

"Teacher Wei is back!"

"What?!"

Chapter 202: Breakthrough Testing Pt.2

Li Lang took one glance back into the room where the current breakthrough was happening before turning back to Wu San.

"I can't leave at the moment. Welcome him back on my behalf. If he wants, he can come and join us here. Just tell him to be quiet."

"Understood. I'll go tell him that right away!"

The young and serious boy quickly turned around and dashed toward the main building of the estate. With him gone, Li Lang quickly returned to the ongoing breakthrough so he could carefully observe and note down everything.

This went on for a few minutes before the door softly creaked open, and a young man wearing a strange wooden mask entered. He exchanged nods with the two adults in the room before settling next to Li Lang.

"He's a-already attempting to break through to Foundation Establishment? That's quite f-fast," Wei Ping quietly muttered.

"Perks of having grade two aptitude along with the Cleansing Drug," Li Lang replied. "But look at you. You're not far off yourself."

"R-right. There are some things I w-want to discuss, but it seems we should stay silent for the moment."

Faced with Xiao Dong's current predicament, Wei Ping, who had just reunited with his friends after years, chose to keep quiet for the moment. 

The breakthrough continued until a cracking noise could be heard. However, it didn't lead to the cultivator breaking through their restraints, but instead represented Xiao Dong's dantian cracking and leaking out Qi.

It meant failure was imminent!

"Xiao Dong, keep your mind focused!" Li Lang shouted. "You still have a chance. I've seen people succeed in their breakthroughs before, even after their dantian had cracked. Your willpower just has to be strong enough. Think about the reason you want to cultivate, what motivates you to endure all the hardship!"

What Li Lang was describing was the instance with Tang Yulian from the Eternal Wave Sect. As the first breakthrough he had ever witnessed, the experience was embedded deeply into his mind. He could still remember how a similar situation happened during her breakthrough in the pocket realm, but she managed to succeed anyway.

When he had questioned her about it later, she had told him the importance of one's willpower during each event. Wishing his student could replicate that success, Li Lang could only hope events could replay themselves.

Unfortunately, that was not to be.

A few minutes after his dantian had cracked, Xiao Dong suddenly began coughing. It made him lurch forward until he weakly fell on his side.

The strong vortex of ambient Qi around him quickly disappeared. In its place, a stream of Qi was constantly leaking from his body.

"Don't touch him, Long Yi. Just leave him there for now. His energies need to dissipate from his body or it'll be dangerous when he doesn't have control and the effects of the Foundation Pill fade."

"Relax. I'm just putting a blanket on him. Anyway, welcome back, Wei Ping! It's been quite some time, huh?"

The two who hadn't seen Wei Ping for over two years regarded him for a moment, examining any changes. Wei Ping was now at the peak of Energy Gathering, accomplishing his goal of getting inspiration by traveling around.

"While it took quite some time, it looks like your trip worked out for you," Long Yi continued.

"Yes. It w-was well worth it. I've now been at the p-peak of Energy Gathering for over a year and have learned a Qi a-art that is said to help with increasing t-the chances of breakthroughs. I thought it was a g-good time to come share what I learned."

"Oh, that's what Li Lang is exactly studying right now!"

The two turned to their friend in question, who rested his chin on his fist while his eyes were closed, deep in thought.

"Li Lang? You okay?" Long Yi inquired.

"What?"

"Wei Ping said he has come back with a Qi art that can help with breaking through to the Foundation Establishment Realm. Were you spacing out?"

"Sorry, I had my mind full with going over the test just now. What do you mean by a Qi art that can help with breaking through, Wei Ping?"

"It's c-called the Lingering Impact Technique. I learned it f-from a certain expert when I found out it could i-improve chances of breakthroughs. It w-wasn't easy to learn, though, which i-is why I took so long."

"Hmm, as you may have seen, I'm also working on creating a technique that is supposed to do the same thing. I wouldn't mind examining your Lingering Impact to see if there is anything useful to be gleaned from it, but I can't say I will focus on researching it."

"That's f-fine. I assume t-that means your technique is g-going well?"

"Hmm, it should be safe to practice and accomplish its goal, but we've only tested it with Xiao Dong for now. It'll take some time before we can say anything with certainty."

"But the test just now proved it successfully triggered the breakthrough, though, right?" Long Yi chimed in. "It just so happens Xiao Dong failed it, but it should be marked off as a success!"

"That doesn't mean anything. There are still no instances of success attributed to the use of the technique. Even if that did happen, it's not so easy to say it was due to the technique or just the cultivator's abilities. There are too many variables at play. We're going to need to have to form a control group and a test group when the others catch up."

"Wouldn't that mean half of them would be wasting their time? I don't want to be mean, but the chances of a grade one Energy Gatherer breaking through isn't that great."

"We can do crossover testing and allow everyone a chance eventually, but that'll have to wait until enough of them reach the peak of Energy Gathering first."

"I don't see the point in that if Xiao Dong manages to break through with the technique before then! I know you're trying to prove it works, but there's no one you need to prove it to. As long as we know it works, then it works."

"That isn't how we should operate. If I give in and take the sloppy approach now, then I won't ever be able to go back. My pride and credibility are at stake as well."

"Who cares—"

Before the argument could ensue, Wei Ping skillfully stepped between the two.

"Sorry t-to interrupt, but shouldn't we c-come up with a name for this new technique first? It's kind of c-clunky to keep calling that technique or n-new technique."

"That doesn't really matter right now," Li Lang retorted, shaking his head. "We don't even know if it works. We can call it the breakthrough technique, but then what if it turns out it doesn't work?"

"Names c-can be changed."

"Please don't use the breakthrough technique or anything so on the nose," Long Yi added.

"You guys can decide, then. It doesn't matter to me."

"Don't be like that. A creator has to be the one to name their work. It's an unwritten rule of society!"

"Then just call it Ascension Technique for now."

"I said not so on the—you know what, whatever."

"Isn't t-that too similar to Ascension Pills?"

Li Lang ignored all comments about the name afterward and began going over the results again. His student, Xiao Dong, managed to successfully converge the Qi to his navel area, prompting the breakthrough. Even though it ended in a failed attempt, it was still a big step forward.

Is there anything else missing? Xiao Dong already has grade two aptitude with thirty-two spiritual roots, which is much better than grade one. Even if the Ascension Technique can overcome the obstacles of converging enough Qi into the dantian, it may not be enough. After all, if this can be solved so easily, generations of cultivators before me should have done so already—or maybe not.

I'm not confident they even know basic algebra here. The Ascension Technique can be classified as a martial art. Calculating the required movements that will make sure every Qi channel in the body converges in the navel area at the same time and strength may be too advanced for most people here. That is especially so when each person's meridians are uniquely shaped.

Still, something could be missing.

Li Lang was plagued with this feeling that he had missed something. He had a lot of questions about the effectiveness of his current methods, but no answers. Thankfully, the experiments were done precisely to answer these questions, and Li Lang was eager to proceed with them. As it turned out, his assistant Wei Ping had just returned as well, so things were primed to go more smoothly from hereon.

"About t-the Lingering Impact Technique, I learned," Wei Ping voice's interrupted Li Lang's thoughts.

"Hmm, yes, please tell me all about it."

With Wei Ping back in the fold, Li Lang regained a helper to help with his research. He even brought by the potential piece of the puzzle he had been missing. Still, they would have to wait for the other students to reach the peak of Energy Gathering before intensifying the tests and adding new variables. 

Days of testing went by that turned to weeks, and then months.

Every so often, they would have Xiao Dong try again, but perhaps because he hadn't had enough accumulation in Energy Gathering or because there really was a flaw in the Ascension Technique, he had still failed in every attempt.

However, not all things were grim. After another six months, many of the other students began catching up! Several more among them with grade two aptitude had begun to reach the peak stage of Energy Gathering. Even some of the students with grade-one aptitude were showing signs of reaching this level.

It really highlighted how powerful the Cleansing Drug was to be able to reduce the gap between aptitude levels. Normally, the difference between the two levels wouldn't just be mere months. It would at least be in years. It was unheard of for someone with grade-one aptitude to reach the last stage before they hit twenty.

Thanks to this previous invention by Li Lang, he soon found himself with more test subjects. He was able to start control groups and test groups and bring the testing to a new level.

Chapter 203: Breakthrough Testing Pt.3

A few months after a good portion of Li Lang's students had reached the peak of Energy Gathering, adequate results were collected. With six of the dozen students actively taking part in the test, the sample size was no longer as pitiful.

This new round of testing was a lot more complicated than the previous rounds. Not only were they more participants, but there was also more content as well.

Wei Ping had returned from his travels, bringing back a technique said to be able to aid in a cultivator's breakthrough to the Foundation Establishment Realm. He naturally shared it with Li Lang.

The contents of the Qi art involved a technique that could allow the user to strike the target twice with one attack. A punch would hit the target and then, a few seconds later, another impact would occur at the same spot. It was called the Lingering Impact Technique for that reason.

While the contents of this Qi art were straightforward, analyzing how it could contribute to a breakthrough was not. The only thing Wei Ping knew was that many experts in the higher realms agreed learning this technique did indeed improve a cultivator's chances of breaking through. However, he didn't know exactly how.

When Li Lang learned about this Qi art, he quickly incorporated it into his experiments. It added a new variable to the equation, making it more difficult to identify what exactly helped, but he didn't mind. There was time to figure all that out later. Instead, he prioritized getting his students into the next major realm by trying everything that seemed like it would help.

There was also another reason he so readily incorporated the Lingering Impact Technique. He believed the secret behind it was the missing piece in the puzzle. So far, his new Ascension Technique helped his students invoke a breakthrough by increasing the concentration of Qi in the dantian to a degree that triggered a qualitative change. 

However, Xiao Dong had failed in all his breakthrough attempts. While this may not be uncommon, he always believed that there should be a way to increase the chances of overcoming that last hurdle if things like the Ascension Pill existed, allowing anyone to reach the next major realm. He surmised that while his students managed to start the breakthrough process, their ability to exert control of their Qi had fallen short.

Normally, one would remain stuck in the peak of Energy Gathering, training their Qi control until they could converge enough Qi by themselves. Unfortunately, that threshold to be able to do that was too difficult for those with only rank one aptitude. Using the Ascension Technique to bypass that didn't change the fact their strength of control over their Qi was lacking.

After learning about the Lingering Impact Technique, Li Lang believed that this Qi art could remedy that exact issue.

The technique involved compressing one's Qi and maintaining control over it. When the practitioner struck a target, they would transfer over some compressed Qi. That compacted energy could then be erupted to create the second impact.

The act of compressing one's Qi and maintaining control of it was exactly what was needed to finish the breakthrough process. The technique was a perfect tool to train this ability.

"I can't b-believe all six of them managed to learn t-the Lingering Impact Technique already. I s-spent more than a year learning it," Wei Ping muttered as he finished the last of his breakfast.

Sitting around the small table with him were Li Lang and Long Yi. They were overlooking a much larger table beside them, where all their students sat and ate.

"Only in training, though," Li Lang replied. "I doubt they could use it in a combat situation like you can. It doesn't qualify as truly having learned it."

"Still, y-your Ascension Technique is amazing. It c-can even be used to help learn other techniques."

"Well, that's because it's not much of a singular technique, but a collection of how your Qi flows in relation to specific sets of movements. That just used that as a basis to master what your Lingering Technique requires."

Studying The Lingering Impact Technique, Li Lang found that it used surprisingly similar principles that he had been studying. It involved converging streams of Qi together to compress it, which was what his Ascension Technique was all about.

"Still, I'm surprised you managed to obtain this Qi art. I've been told techniques of this quality are usually a cultivator's trump card or closed inheritances."

"It t-took a lot of convincing from a certain senior b-before they agreed to teach me. Even then, t-they only showed me the basics."

"Hey, is this Lingering Impact really that hard? I managed to learn it after a month," Long Yi chimed in.

"It's obviously just the first chapter of a more comprehensive technique. I think it is only challenging for Energy Gatherers, too. The skills required to use it should be similar to what one needs to succeed in their breakthrough. You having already accomplished that, naturally means it wouldn't pose much of a challenge for you."

"Hmm, where can I find this expert?" Long Yi turned to ask his masked friend. "I wouldn't mind learning the other parts of it. It seems pretty useful in combat."

Their chat continued throughout the morning before they all got back to work. With the focus now on practicing The Lingering Impact and Ascension Technique, everyone in the estate would gather in Li Lang's room to cultivate after breakfast.

The three adults could oversee the tests while they cultivated themselves. They had been proceeding like this for months.

Today was yet another day where Xiao Dong and his companions would tackle the big bottleneck that separated true cultivators from mortals.

After training their Qi control for a few hours, they would then move on and consume a Foundation Pill to attempt a breakthrough. The frequent use of Foundation Pills could only be maintained thanks to Li Lang's secret agreement with Nightmoon Valley.

As the premier organization in the entirety of the Luminescent Realm, Nightmoon Valley had small branches throughout every major city. That included Emberglow City. Previously, there was little to do there as Li Lang didn't know anyone from that branch. Now that he had an official agreement with the organization, it was the place where he could stay in touch with his collaborators and reap the benefits of their deal.

He was supplied with these valuable pills whenever he wanted, but it wasn't free. Only the first batch was. The subsequent pills required him to buy them, albeit at a discounted price compared to the open markets.

Thankfully, he had a healthy income from the constant printing of Warding Talismans. The Brushweaver Guild had even established a new deal with the Merchant Guild to supply them with his work. Selling thousands of talismans allowed him to barely keep up with the Foundation Pill expenses for half a dozen people. It made his growing wealth stagnate.

Like any other day, his student's dantian began to glow shortly after they consumed the pill. They had begun practicing the specific movements catered to the layout of their meridians and started the breakthrough event.

It was quite a scene when six people tried to break through together. It prompted Li Lang to buy a barrier talisman to keep the building contained and avoid prying eyes.

One by one, the ordeal intensified for each student as they furrowed their brows. It was something that happened every few days. Just like always, the students who had stepped into the peak of Energy Gathering more recently failed first. They spewed out blood or slumped over powerlessly as Qi slowly leaked out of their body.

One of their fellow students would then come to take care of them, but today, everyone in the room suddenly froze. After some time had passed since starting his breakthrough, Xiao Dong still hadn't failed!

It drew everyone's attention, as they usually only lasted an hour or two.

"Could it be that he's actually going to succeed today?" Long Yi muttered.

His words caused even those focused on their training to snap out of it in order to observe the situation.

Just like with Long Yi's ordeal, the breakthrough became more strenuous the longer it lasted. Xiao Dong's robes were soaked, and he wore a painful expression. Only he knew what he was going through.

Long Yi had recounted his experiences before, but it didn't make much sense. It was as if they were confronted with a dream that tested their mental resilience.

As everyone watched on with bated breath, sunset approached. It marked the start of the ambient Qi turning more turbulent as they swirled around Xiao Dong.

A few of the younger students yelped out in surprise, but it only caused the three adults in the room to get closer to the source of the disturbance. They knew this was the critical part, and they didn't want to miss a thing!

By the time the sun fully set, a crashing noise could be heard, followed by a bright light. Li Lang quickly got the weaker students to distance themselves as Long Yi stepped forward protectively.

Before long, things settled and everyone in the room let out a gasp. That was because Xiao Dong had succeeded and stepped into the Foundation Establishment Realm!

Chapter 204: Proceeding to the Next Phase

Once the breakthrough had settled, Xiao Dong immediately plopped down to his seat. He had lost consciousness!

"Help him change into new robes before throwing him into his bed," Li Lang ordered.

Wu San, one of the closer students to Xiao Dong, complied without a word as the other students began conversing about what they had just witnessed.

"I can't believe Xiao Dong finally did it. That's crazy, he's still so young!"

"Hmm, he at least had grade-two aptitude. I wonder if it will really work with people like us who have grade-one aptitude."

Li Lang didn't mind the ruckus. He had no spare capability to manage the students right now, so he quickly retreated toward his private area, cordoned off by a few dividers. His two companions followed.

"Give me a moment to process everything."

Wei Peing shared a quick glance with Long Yi before they both nodded.

Meanwhile, Li Lang had already entered Ruby's artifact space. He jumped onto his computer right away. He noted down his observations and plotted the latest set of data.

"Congratulations, Master! You've succeeded!"

"Not yet. This is just one instance where the subject had grade-two aptitude. It's still too hasty for any conclusions."

"But you'll start practicing the Ascension Technique and Lingering Impact Technique, right? It seems safe so far, and the earlier you practice them, the better!"

"Hmm, you may be right. I can practice them now, and only go through with it once I see how others with the same aptitude react to it," Li Lang muttered as he placed the latest samples into the auto-analyzer.

"And I can't wait for Master to reach the next realm! You'll be able to unlock more of my power by then, I'm sure of it. You'll also be able to retrieve those three brats from the Crucible, too!"

"We'll have to see…"

After noting everything down, Li Lang exited the artifact space to consult with his companions about their next step.

Now that one of their students has reached the Foundation Establishment Realm, they had to put other parts of their plans into motion.

"How long do you think we can hide this?" Li Lang asked no one in particular.

"L-likely no more than a few months. If w-what you say about us being under surveillance is true."

"We'll also need to get Xiao Dong and anyone else who subsequently breaks through their Earth-grade cultivation techniques, too. You know how important that is, right?" Long Yi chimed in. "They won't be able to make any progress without one."

"We were planning to go to the Crucible for that. I may not be able to do anything more than allow people entry into the pocket realm, but our original plan was for me to get closer to breaking through first. Only then can we move the Crucible around with us."

"But y-you have that agreement w-with Nightmoon Valley. It shouldn't b-be a problem to make use of the p-pocket realm now."

"Hmm, let me go talk to them tomorrow. I'll leave talking to Xiao Dong to you two, then."

The two nodded, each with a thoughtful expression.

With an additional Foundation Establishment cultivator, things were no longer the same. Not even considering what impact that had on their little organization, the significance of the news getting around was already hard to comprehend.

A bunch of young cultivators like them had the audacity to accept students so early on, but those students managed to shed their mortality in such a short time! Even back when the three geniuses of the Luminescent Domain broke through, they were at a similar age to Xiao Dong. While he was deficient when it came to both martial and Qi arts, it couldn't be denied he was now a full-fledged cultivator. 

Outsiders wouldn't even know about these details. All they would see was either they had managed to recruit a genius or they chanced upon some incredible treasures.

According to their plans, they would now move the entire group into the Crucible to keep a lower profile and hide from the world. The pocket realm was an impregnable fortress that had everything they would need to continue their cultivation. The only problem with that was that they wouldn't be able to enter and leave without being scrutinized.

Thanks to the deal with Nightmoon Valley, it should no longer be an issue, but that didn't change the fact Li Lang preferred to have the ability to move the Crucible at will first. To do that, it required him to break through. It was the only way he could gain a little more control of his Spirit-grade artifact.

The next day, Li Lang headed out for Nightmoon Valley's branch office in Emberglow City, first thing in the morning.

The place wasn't as grand or spacious as one would expect from the premier organization of all demonic cultivators. It was a simple estate, similar to Li Lang's own. Stationed there were three members of the prestigious organization. Li Lang had come to know all three of them, but today, there he happened to spot none of them.

"Greetings. How may Nightmoon Valley be of assistance to you?" a fierce woman valiantly called out.

Li Lang had been looking confused as he searched for his acquaintances, so she quickly approached him.

"Oh, my name is Li Lang. I wonder if Senior Yong or Bing is here?"

"Those geezers got rotated out."

"Did they do something wrong?"

"Hmm, no. We regularly get rotated to new locations. I am Zhu Leigong, by the way. The one in charge of the Emberglow branch for now. They told me about you before they left."

Despite how casual the woman was, she was still a Foundation Establishment cultivator. Li Lang quickly clasped his fist toward her in a formal greeting.

"Greetings, Senior Zhu."

"So, how can we help you?"

"Have you been informed of my agreement with your valley?"

"About trading for Foundation and Ascension Pills?"

"Hmm, not quite. Can you contact your Valley Master or Senior Jian for me? You can tell them it's about my end of the agreement."

"No problem. I'll attach it to the daily report I'll be making tonight. Anything else?"

"Umm, no. Thank you!"

"Sure, thing. I'll send you a message should I receive a reply. You're still living around—the Southern Dark Spot, right?"

"That's right. Thank you again for your consideration. I hope you have a good day."

Unsure if this new woman was privy to his secret deal with Nightmoon Valley or not, Li Lang quickly got out of there without revealing any details. After all, Jian Beiyun had left instructions to contact him should the need arise.

With the matter settled, Li Lang could only return and patiently await a reply. He didn't know exactly what method of communication Nightmoon Valley used. He was aware there were transmission jades that could contact their headquarters instantly, but he didn't know if it would be used in everyday communications. 

That's why he wasn't alarmed when no one came to find him, even after two days. If any other method of communication was used, it wouldn't be surprising for it to take a few days for the message to reach Jian Beiyun.

In the meantime, he could only continue his training and research, while his students did the same. Their motivation had skyrocketed in recent times after witnessing one of their own reaching the fabled Foundation Establishment Realm. It was something those with only grade one aptitude could only dream of. Even in their dreams, they would require the use of Ascension Pills.

They all looked up to their new role model, Xiao Dong, as he quickly recovered from the fatigue of his breakthrough. He had proven to them that he had become a true cultivator. He had the ability to exert his power, unlike those who consumed the Ascension Pill. With the help of his three mentors, he even procured an Earth-grade cultivation method from the Bloodwave bazaar.

He was hard at work, trying to address his shortcomings. Even now, in an entirely different realm, it didn't change the fact he had neglected to practice any martial or Qi arts.

As the training ramped up for everyone in Li Lang's estate, a visitor showed up five days after he had contacted Nightmoon Valley. A mischievous visitor who didn't hesitate to ambush Li Lang when he exited his house for his routine visit to The Orchid Covenant.

As he walked past the gates to his estate, his vision suddenly grew dim, as if someone had closed the curtains around him.

"Junior Sister, you can't do that. No matter how close you are to the person. They may respond with lethal intent to your sudden pranks."

"Geez, as if Li Lang has the strength to do that yet. Look at him. Still stuck at the peak of Energy Gathering. He really needs to work harder!"

Hearing those familiar voices, Li Lang didn't even bother to muster up words to retort. He simply sighed.

Chapter 205: The Dark Sea Arena

Seeing the arrival of the two Nightmoon Valley disciples, Li Lang did not hesitate to invite them into his estate.

"Look at you, getting your own place. You've sure come up in the world, huh?" Sima Xue teased with a grin.

"In case you haven't noticed, we're on the outskirts of town, where the prices are cheap. Most mortals can afford to live around these parts, albeit in a smaller house." 

"Yeah, but how many actually do? The dark is more than just an inconvenience in their everyday lives. From what I saw, most of the people here are cultivators."

Before they could progress their conversation, Jian Beiyun cleared his throat ostentatiously to draw attention to himself.

"Don't think you can just change the topic and chat away with Li Lang here. We still haven't finished our talk about your behavior. You're not a child anymore, your actions can represent Nightmoon Valley itself. We can't have you getting into the habit of casting Qi arts randomly on the street, even if it's on someone you're well acquainted with."

"Yeah, yeah. There was no harm done. I know how to adapt to the situation. Don't worry."

"You telling me not to worry is exactly why I'm so troubled. Your track record speaks for itself."

"Gosh, you said it yourself. I'm no longer a child anymore. Stop comparing me to my past."

As the bickering continued, the three of them soon made their way into the main hall of the estate. There wasn't a lot there, but Ouyang Jie could be seen sitting inside, reading some notes. He immediately caught sight of the two visitors and waved in a reserved manner.

"Oh, would you look at that! Is this who I think he is?" Sima Xue said as she flashed an amused smile. She exchanged a look with her senior brother, who only shook his head in response as he knew what she was planning.

The high and mighty Foundation Establishment cultivator from the premier organization of the Luminescent Realm beelined for the young teenager.

"Hi there, my name is Sima Xue. Are you a student of Li Lang over there?"

The boy was taken aback at the sudden questioning. He didn't expect one of the guests to engage in a conversation with him. Even if he did expect it, Ouyang Jie was the type to still falter at such social interactions.

"Umm, y-yes."

"Ohhh!"

Sima Xue then pressured the poor boy with her sparkling gaze. The fact she said nothing but gave the boy a thorough examination only made it worse.

Seeing this, Li Lang quickly got in between the two.

"Weren't you here on official business? Let's hurry up and get that out of the way first, okay?"

"Ehh, my Senior Brother can deal with all that. I'd rather have a little chat with your cute disciples."

"They're not our disciples. We haven't formed an organization or sect. We're simply mentors, much like the relationship between me and my craft teachers."

"Well, they're still all your disciple candidates. Who knows when you'll have a change of heart and take one of them in officially as your disciple?"

In the cultivation world, master and disciple was a relationship akin to parent and child. Some said it was an even closer relationship than that. It was only with such a tight-knit bond that cultivators could entrust the future generation with their secret techniques and a lifetime of experiences.

In contrast, a mentor and student was a more casual relationship. As important as crafting skills were to cultivators, they still paled in comparison to their core cultivation techniques. Combined with their disciples often having varied interests, this casual relationship was the norm when it came to the crafts. After all, it enabled one to learn more from several teachers if they desired to dabble in more than one profession.

It was common to have many mentors, but never more than one master.

Li Lang shrugged off Sima Xue's curious questions and guided the two to their dining hall. It was only there that they had the furniture to seat the guests.

"Senior Jian, let me be direct. Did you come here for the message I sent you?"

The man nodded.

"That's correct. You had something to say regarding that deal you made, right?" He snapped his finger and a transparent dome enveloped them. "Then go ahead, let's talk."

"I wanted to move ahead of schedule and enter the pocket realm. How soon can we do that?"

"Hmm, you're in a dire rush? Does it have anything to do with that other cultivator nearby?"

Li Lang paused for a split second before realizing he was referring to Xiao Dong, who was now in the Foundation Establishment Realm. He could be regarded as a threat now, and it was understandable how Jian Beiyun would get suspicious of a mysterious expert living among them. Based on what he knew, Li Lang's group only had one Foundation Establishment cultivator in Long Yi.

"No, no. It's nothing close to a life and death situation, but I'd prefer if we could enter it as soon as possible. Within reason, of course."

"Hmm, in that case, you're looking at a month at the very best. We'd need to start discussing with the other organizations and explain how we had taken control of the pocket realm. Then, we'll have to put on a show to demonstrate our control of it. We'll need your cooperation for that part."

"Sounds like a lot of work. Sorry to spring this on you."

"No worries. It actually works out better for me. This way, I can focus on preparing for The Dark Sea Arena after settling this matter."

"I see—in that case, thank you."

"Judging from your lack of reaction, it looks like you haven't heard of The Dark Sea Arena before," Sima Xue chimed in. "You should really get more acquainted with upcoming events, at least for the major ones."

"It's not so easy when it seems like there are hundreds of them, each held at different intervals of time between them. I only know that this isn't an annual event, right?"

"Well, it's an event for Foundation Establishment Cultivators. Hosting them year by year would be too tedious. Some of them could easily go into closed-door cultivators for several years. It's why this event is held every five years."

"Then it sounds like it doesn't have anything to do with the current me. I'm still a lowly mortal."

"But what about your friend, Long Yi?" Jian Beiyun added. "It should be a good opportunity to polish himself and gain experience against other early-stage Foundation Establishment competitors."

"I'll let him know about it and see where it goes from there."

"No problem. There's still over half a year until it starts. It'll take place on Sword Saint Isle, though, so plan for a long trip."

"Right."

Jian Beiyun then went over some details of the event and how to get there until Sima Xue groaned impatiently.

"Enough about that. We've talked long enough. If you two want to continue, then do so without me. I'm going to go check in on your cute students."

Seeing Sima Xue storm out of the room, the two men left behind realized the time and decided to call it there. They chased after the little princess, both wanting to ensure she didn't do anything outrageous.

Li Lang took this opportunity to give her a tour as well. He believed it was better than allowing her to roam free.

By the time they were done, the evening had arrived and the two Nightmoon Valley disciples took their leave.

"We'll be around for a few more days," Jian Beiyun said as they walked out the front gates. "We'll come to inform you of the details about the matter we discussed once we've finalized it."

"Understood. Feel free to come over any time."

"Yeah, see you tomorrow," Sima Xue nonchalantly agreed.

Once the two were gone from sight, Li Lang finished up his remaining duties to his student, ate dinner, and conversed with Long Yi about the matter of The Dark Sea Arena before retreating back to his research.

Now that there were two Foundation Establishment cultivators amidst their group, he gained a new perspective to tap into.

Despite Xiao Dong's breakthrough, Li Lang couldn't attribute all the success to his techniques. After all, his student had grade-two aptitude, so there was a chance he broke through even without any additional help.

Currently, he wasn't sure if the Lingering Impact Technique Wei Ping had brought back really helped train the muscle that allowed cultivators to compress Qi or if it did anything else. Even if it did, then he also wanted to learn exactly how. From his knowledge, regular cultivation already helped train this aspect. He wondered how one particular technique had a secret ingredient that differed from all the other techniques.

The main difference in The Lingering Impact Technique is its compression of Qi. It's hard to maintain and imposes a lot of strain on the user. Without adequate concentration, it could easily go off prematurely.

Wait—concentration. That's it!

Chapter 206: Concentration & Willpower

The next day, Li Lang interviewed his companions and Xiao Dong about his theory of what made The Lingering Impact Technique special.

"I know you previously told me you were in a dream-like state during the latter parts of your breakthroughs and that you can't really recall the details of what you dreamed about, but how challenging would you say it was?"

"Hmm, like I said, I don't really remember. It really was just like a dream where I only have a fleeting memory of it," Long Yi answered. "It's the same for you, right Xiao Dong?"

"Yes. It became harder and harder to hold myself together the longer it went, so I barely remembered what happened towards the last half."

"How were you feeling during the days leading up to the breakthrough?" Li Lang inquired despite having asked this same question regularly. Previously, Xiao Dong had always answered curtly with a "I'm fine." For someone of his age, it was understandable that they would be embarrassed to show any weakness.

"Um, nothing out of the ordinary, as I had said. Just more focused, as I wanted to live up to expectations."

"I see. I assume it was frustrating having failed for the previous few months?"

Xiao Dong carefully nodded.

"Well, everything turned out fine in the end," Long Yi added. "Told you not to stress about it. Are you done with the questions, Li Lang?"

Li Lang gave a dismissive shrug to Long Yi before turning to regard his student more carefully.

"Sorry about the redundant questioning, but I need to ensure I have collected accurate information. I currently believe that the reason you have succeeded is that you managed to polish your willpower and concentration over the course of all the failed attempts you made. Does this sound accurate to you?"

"Umm, I don't know. Maybe?"

As much as Li Lang wanted to groan about the unreliable response, he couldn't exactly blame his student. Intangible things like willpower and concentration weren't something people could accurately gauge, especially when it came to themself. It was like asking if they noticed their own personality changing. A third-party observer in that case would have an easier time noticing it.

"No worries. I know it's not an easy question to answer. Instead, I would like the two of you to do a few tests for me to set a benchmark for your willpower and concentration."

"Hmm? How are you going to test those things? You're going to torture us with your poison like you did in the entrance tests before?"

"That is an option, but I don't have access to anything that would be effective against a Foundation Establishment cultivator right now. It would just drain your Qi reserves as your body cleanses away the foreign substance, right?"

"From the few tests you did, yeah. I've seen several cultivation techniques at the bazaar that are more efficient at defending against poison, but my body already reflexively reacts to harmful substances."

"Don't worry about it. I have a few other types of tests in mind."

Throughout the history of Li Lang's old world, there have been many studies related to a person's concentration. One of the oldest ones he knew of was called the Stroop Test, where participants were shown color words printed in various hues of ink. They were then asked to name the color of the ink rather than reading the word itself. There were numerous other studies over the years that Li Lang could refer to as well.

As for willpower, Li Lang had just the thing for it. He had developed flavored Nourishment Pills some time ago that have been increasingly growing in popularity. Throughout his tests to make a more economical version, he found several inferior formulas that didn't address the hunger one felt despite providing the necessary nutrients.

He planned to measure his students' willpower by making them take this flawed Nourishment Pill while he presented freshly cooked food before their eyes every meal. By measuring how long they could endure, he could get a sense of where their willpower stood. Of course, it wasn't one hundred percent accurate. Some people were more gluttonous than others, while some reveled in other pleasures. Unfortunately, when it came to intangibles like willpower, he had to make a compromise or he would never get anywhere.

Like that, his students were doomed to endure another type of torture amidst their busy training schedules.

The only saving grace was that Li Lang and Wei Ping would endure the same trials as them. After seeing the success of Xiao Dong, the two decided to begin practicing the Ascension Technique and Lingering Impact Technique as well. They didn't make any attempts at the breakthrough yet, but mainly familiarized themselves with the various aspects of the technique. Having one of their students surpass them, they were both eager to catch up.

The next few days peacefully passed by as Sima Xue came to visit during the afternoons and they busied themselves with the new tests during the other times. It was only when Jian Beiyun showed up a week later that they had to plan their future schedule.

In three weeks' time, they were invited to venture back out to where the Great Trial of Watercrest was in order to show the world Nightmoon Valley's control of the pocket realm. Then, Long Yi and Xiao Dong decided to participate in The Dark Sea Arena at the Sword Saint Isle in half a year's time. 

The former was fine as everyone would be going together, but as for the latter, it had to be planned around. Heading to a foreign place to attend a tournament was both exciting and dangerous due to the long-distance trip. Despite many of them wanting to attend, they had to sort out who would go and who would stay behind in the pocket realm. Thankfully, they had half a year to decide. They had plenty of time to deliberate while they continued their routine.

Unfortunately, before they faced the future, they had to endure being starved.

"Umm, Li Lang, do you really have to feed me these bland-tasting Nourishment Pills when you can refine better-tasting ones? I prefer the original candied ones you sell to the guild, you know?"

"What are you whining about in front of all the students? You're a Foundation Establishment cultivator, for goodness' sake. Lead us by example. You agreed to help with this test, right?"

"That—" Long Yi was speechless, unable to retort. He cast his gaze downward, crestfallen, and bit the bullet—or in this case, the Nourishment Pill. This all happened as the aroma of freshly cooked food assaulted his nose. Some of the kids, particularly the ones who hadn't begun cultivating yet, happily stuffed their mouths as envious gazes assaulted them.

Even after eating the pill, his stomach still growled. As a few of the other students began picking up their chopsticks to eat the hearty meal, Long Yi could only tightly shut his eyes and focus on other thoughts.

For better or worse, this was just the beginning. Many others would soon follow in Long Yi's foot steps.

One month passed by in a flash.

Li Lang's entire group prepared to leave one morning for the Crucible, or otherwise more commonly known as The Great Trial of Water Crest.

During this one month, a lot of progress was made. This was especially true not just in the areas of cultivation, but in crafts as well. Having the power of the Foundation Establishment Realm, Long Yi dove back into his studies in artificing along with Li Lang during his spare time.

This was in part fueled by Long Yi's desire for a weapon that could unleash his potential. Li Lang had stalled on refining the artifact weapon he had promised as he got carried away with the research into breaking through. As he had taken up the profession already, Long Yi saw fit to continue on with it.

Thanks to his new powers, it wasn't long before he became familiar with the process of creating an artifact! However, he still needed more practice and has yet to succeed in any attempts. They also didn't have unlimited beast cores to practice on. Still, it didn't deter Long Yi from trying, and he happened to make an attempt on the morning of their departure.

"Long Yi!" Wei Ping called out as he knocked on his door. "W-we're leaving soon. Come o-out already!"

No response came, so Wei Ping decided to barge in to fetch his friend. When he stepped inside, he found Long Yi still snoring away. All four of his limbs were wrapped around a pillow. However, upon casting his blanket aside, he found what he was snuggling up to wasn't a pillow, but in fact, a large jade-green broadsword.

Chapter 207: Declaring Ownership

Seeing Long Yi still sleeping despite having taken away his blanket, Wei Ping proceeded to shake him awake. But before he could grab him, Long Yi turned to his side at just the right moment to dodge his grasp.

"Give me a few more minutes," Long Yi mumbled. 

Having shed his mortality, a Foundation Establishment cultivator naturally wouldn't be caught off guard so easily, even in their sleep. It wasn't a surprise that Long Yi had detected his presence already. To be precise, he had long detected Wei Ping before he even opened the door to his room.

"If y-you're aware enough to talk, then wake up! We have to g-get going!"

"You guys can take off without me. I'll catch up later."

"We barely h-have enough room after buying a third Skyrunner. We can't s-spare one for you. Do you think you can catch up without o-one? Your Qi will d-dry up long before you see our s-shadow."

The giant man in the bed exhaled forcefully as he roused from his slumber. He slowly sat as he stretched his back. Just as he was standing up, a third person entered the room.

"What are you guys doing? Everyone is waiting for you."

"B-Boss, Long Yi just woke up."

"Yeah, yeah. My bad."

"What in the world were you doing? You knew that we were—wait, is that what you were doing?" Li Lang's eyes widened as it turned to the jade-green broadsword lying on the bed.

"Yeah. I tried making an artifact on a whim last night using the last of the materials you gave me for practice. It seems like I succeeded."

"You just happen to succeed? To think you said you had no talent in the crafts."

"Well, Teacher Tie Qian did say it is easier to work on artifacts in a grade that is a realm lower than my cultivation."

"Is t-that a thing?" Wei Ping asked. "Then they s-should dedicate more time to producing a-artifacts of a lower level to increase the supply."

"It's not without good reason they don't do that often in any craft," Long Yi continued. "They say it stifles development if one dedicates too much time on lower grade items. Something about getting complacent while you instead need to keep taking on new challenges to progress." 

"We can save this conversation for the trip to the pocket realm," Li Lang interrupted. "Come on, let's go."

With that said, the trio reunited with their students waiting outside and began their journey to where the pocket realm. Their convoy of three Skyrunners could only travel as fast as their weakest link. That meant their journey would take days, if not an entire week.

Li Lang used this time to teach the kids what to expect when they arrived at the pocket realm. After all, he planned to have the majority of them reside there for the foreseeable future while he was still debating if he should keep someone stationed in their estate in Emberglow City as their public face.

"You will be faced with trials where your every move will be monitored. The reward for completing these trials will be based on your actions, often complementing what you have shown. Every day, if the realm deems your progress lacking, it will incur a point penalty, so be sure to plan your schedule carefully."

His explanations were no different from those of various organizations educating their new generation's first foray into the pocket realm. They also didn't want to reveal too many details about their relationship with the realm. Even the trial points would be reinstated when they entered because it created a sense of urgency that spurred progress.

There was a colossal difference in motivation when a time limit was imposed. Of course, that didn't mean blindly adding pressure on people was correct. There was a balance in all things. Straying off to either side would only stagger their students' growth. They believed the system the pocket realm's previous creator left behind had gotten the right balance.

While Li Lang wasn't too worried about his students' progress in cultivation techniques once they entered, crafts were another story. He didn't oversee their training in that area, so he tried his best to gauge where they currently were and gave them some advice.

Filled with preparations to be made and training to be done, a week was only a brief period of time for a cultivator.

They soon spotted the four towering stone pillars that represented the entrance to The Great Trial of Water Crest and a teahouse nearby. They were surprised to find the place bustling with activity.

The group had expected the place to only have an elder or two from various faction plus some people from Nightmoon Valley. However, reality was different. The entire place was as lively as their previous visit when each organization had brought along hundreds of disciples. Though there was one stark difference. The crowd didn't consist of young disciples who were new to the journey of cultivation, but older ladies and gentlemen. It was hard to tell their exact age, but one could tell at a glance that they were all experts to a degree. Few were below the Foundation Establishment Realm.

"What's going on here? Is this going to be a big event?" Long Yi muttered to no one in particular.

"Hmm, Senior Jian did say they had to notify all parties about their possession of the pocket realm, but I didn't expect so many people to show up—"

"Boss, look c-carefully. Their clothes a-are varied. The majority of them are independent cultivators!"

Everyone, including their students, craned their necks down to get a second look at the crowd. They swiftly realized Wei Ping had been right! The mismatched and scattered attire indicated they didn't come from a few large groups, but from a gathering of individuals.

This led the group to wander about their purpose here, instead. It was a curious sight.

They didn't get lost in their musing for long as they had to land. They had no trouble finding the area belonging to Nightmoon Valley and disembarked near their towering tent. As if having predicted their arrival, Jian Beiyun suddenly emerged to welcome them. Naturally, Sima Xue tagged along as well.

"Welcome, welcome. Everything is ready. Just come with us."

"Yeah, Senior Brother has been working really hard! He even skipped out on his regular gatherings at the Alchemy Guild."

The group chatted as they walked into the tent, away from prying eyes. There were numerous Nightmoon Valley disciples present, all wearing the same beige robes. Very soon, Li Lang and his companions were handed sets of the same attire along with a small pouch.

Inside, they found a translucent brown amulet. Jian Beiyun quickly informed its purpose.

"It's to conceal you from all the experts who will be carefully watching. Make sure you wear it. You can hang it on your waist, wrist, ankle, or anything, really."

After ensuring all their students were dressed, they were then guided outside, toward the teahouse that was surrounded by cultivators.

"There sure are a lot of independent cultivators around," Li Lang commented.

"I'm sure one of the organization here today purposefully leaked the news in order to put pressure on us," Jian Beiyun replied.

"They sure are something to have the guts to apply pressure to an organization as big as yours."

"We're used to it. It happens all the time as long as there are benefits to fight for. It's their way of warning us not to monopolize the pocket realm. Not that we would. Anyway, leave the politicking to us. You have your own role to carry out today."

Li Lang nodded and didn't say anything else. He glanced out at the crowd of cultivators, waiting for the start of the rowdy event that his allies had planned. He was destined not to be in the spotlight, as the entire goal was to have Nightmoon Valley draw all the attention.

Despite thousands upon thousands of cultivators present, everyone knew to keep quiet when a young woman flew up toward the roof of the teahouse. Her robes marked her as a member of Nightmoon Valley, commanding respect from the crowd.

"Greetings everyone!" She yelled as she clasped her fist toward her audience. "Thank you for coming today, where our Nightmoon Valley will be officially announcing our ownership of the pocket realm known as The Great Trial of Water Crest!"

The crowd cheered, so the woman allowed them a few seconds to get it out of their system. 

"Now, this doesn't mean our Nightmoon Valley plans to monopolize this wonderful realm. It can help produce many generations of young heroes and heroines, so we plan to proceed with as little changes as possible."

"If you control it, doesn't that mean you can expand the number of people allowed in? Or even open the realm more often. You saying you plan to keep things the same just means you'll monopolize all these new opportunities, right?"

"This friend in the crowd, I hope you'll not look down on our valley's integrity. We have no such schemes in mind."

"Still, for the sake of fairness, you should continue to allow the various organizations to post their people here to monitor the situation."

The woman hovering in the air simply smiled pleasantly at the proposal and patiently explained how it wasn't appropriate for outsiders to be stationed near their property. Despite the calmness the Nightmoon Valley Elder had, Li Lang noticed his companion didn't share the same composure. Sima Xue glared at the troublesome member of the audience with hostility.

"How dare that guy disrespect Elder Yun like that," Sima Xue muttered.

"Calm down," the elder Nightmoon Valley disciple placated. "The elder knows how to handle the situation. And stop releasing your killing intent on that man. It's not him you should be angry towards. He's just a puppet."

The Elder Yun patiently explained the plans her organization had for the pocket realm, while various members of the crowd continued to fire off multiple questions. Still, these independent cultivators had limited influence, so they weren't able to pressure the experienced elder at all. That was until a member of one of the established organizations stepped out to join in.

"I am Elder Ji from the Drenched Earth Sect. I ask that Nightmoon Valley reconsider the proposal to allow members of other organizations to station their people here."

The crowd instantly quieted down as they sensed the drama about to unfold. There was a huge difference between an independent cultivator questioning Nightmoon Valley and a member of a large organization doing it. Everyone was excited to see how this would play out.

Chapter 208: Instigator

Elder Yun, an esteemed member of Nightmoon Valley, stared at her counterpart from the Drenched Earth sect with a pleasant smile on her face.

"Elder Ji, I understand your concerns and how your Drenched Earth Sect may have gotten used to overseeing the pocket realm, but things have changed. The Great Trail of Water Crest is now under my valley's control. We owe you nothing. Nevertheless, we have decided to continue sharing the benefits of the pocket realm with you. Please do not mistake our kindness for submissiveness."

"I apologize," the Drenched Earth Sect elder said. "I didn't mean to come across as being ungrateful. It's just that I'm particularly concerned about what's good for the entire Luminescent Domain. You must understand that there are numerous diamonds in the rough hiding all around. Gui Tianzi from the Eroding March Pavillion is exactly one such case in recent times. I believe that allowing various organizations to station observers here can keep things transparent, preventing things like nepotism from festering."

Elder Ji made no attempts to hide his scheme of inciting the crowd to be on his side. He wanted to stoke the fear of Nightmoon Valley monopolizing the pocket realm, and thus depriving them of benefits.

"You can say what you want, but our valley has already made a decision. If you want to protest that, then please head to Nightshade Valley to speak with our Valley Master."

Hearing those words, Elder Ji didn't react at all and simply looked on with a casual demeanor. The reason for that quickly unfolded as a young man appeared by Elder Ji's side.

"If you esteemed seniors are done talking, then please allow me to indulge in a casual sparring session. I, Xin Dou, of the Drenched Earth Sect, would like to challenge Lady Sima Xue to a friendly duel!"

The abrupt change in topic caused the crowd to be taken aback. This is doubly so for Li Lang's group, as the person who had been called out was standing right next to them.

"That brat dares to challenge us with force after failing to get their way?" Sima Xue cried out. "I'll be happy to teach him a lesson."

"Now, now, Junior Sister. You can hardly call him a brat. He's a full generation older than you. Just let Elder Yun handle this."

"Senior Jian, you're the one that's been saying a few years is no longer significant after having reached the Foundation Establishment Realm. This Xin Dou can hardly be regarded as my senior.:

"That—"

Not able to find the words to stop his junior sister, Jian Beiyun watched on as Sima Xue flew over to answer the challenge. Despite there being many demerits for someone of her calibre to be seen fighting so publicly, it also had its upsides as well.

As one of the most famous cultivators within Nightmoon Valley, being able to display her power was good for both her and the organization overall. Cultivators only listened to those with strength. The less you exercised it, the easier it was for people to start getting ideas.

In the end, Jian Beiyun relented and chose not to intervene.

"Are you sure you'll just let her go fight in the duel?" Li Lang asked. "Isn't that just doing what they want?"

"Maybe, but this experience will allow my junior sister to receive some much-needed tempering. She is still too green when it comes to real combat. It'll do her good to fight earnestly with someone in the same realm as her. Otherwise, things will only get harder for her when it comes time for the Dark Sea Arena."

The young Nightmoon Valley prodigy soon arrived before Elder Yun and came face to face with her challenger. 

Xin Dou grinned upon seeing her.

"Thank you for accepting my challenge, Lady Sima. I've been wanting to fight you ever since I heard about your breakthrough. To think you've grown up so much since our last meeting."

"I don't remember you at all, nor am I interested in holding a conversation with you. You called me out to fight, not to talk, so let's fight."

"That's unfortunate, but there's no need to be in such a hurry, Lady Sima. What fun will it be if we just began like that?"

"What are you trying to say?"

"How about a wager to spice up the fight some more? If I win, I would like a few extra quotas for the pocket realm if that's okay."

"And if you lose?"

"I'll give you all my belongings within my space ring. I happen to just have gotten some valuable Earth-grade and even some Saint-grade materials."

Sima Xue never cared about the details of the bet. To her, it was a win that the duel was happening at all. It gave her an excuse to put the person antagonizing her organization in their place. That was all she needed.

"Hmph, very well, then. If you're that eager to give me free things, I won't stop you."

With that, the two demonic cultivators flew higher to create enough space between their battle and the spectators.

The two stared at each other while hovering high in the skies. It was as if they were waiting for a signal to start the duel, but one would never come. Informal duels didn't have referees or any arbiter, as it was no different from a life-and-death battle out in the wild. The only thing they needed were witnesses, and that they had plenty. The fight had already begun the moment they acknowledged each other.

While their standoff seemed boring, all the experts in the crowd watched in amusement. It was during these brief moments during the beginning of duels that was especially telling about the cultivators.

The way they shifted their body, positioned their hands, or even how much distance they kept, all contributed toward painting the larger picture. To most cultivators, it was these details that they tried to perfect. It allowed them to start the fight in a more advantageous position or force it to progress in a certain way of their choosing. It could be compared to chess openings that chess players studied.

However, all these high-level combat concepts completely went over Li Lang's head. As someone who wasn't interested in combat, Li Lang wasn't too mindful about these details. His priority of concerns went from surviving to possible retreat routes, and then to ways to make his opponent's life harder. Only after that came ways to defeat his foes unless something related to his research was on the line.

He had none of the thirst to vanquish strong foes and prove himself powerful to anyone.

As he craned his neck up to spectate the battle, he couldn't help but glance over toward the Crucible. He was excited to return after such a long time to visit the three artifact spirits. It was the perfect place to cultivate undisturbed, so he planned to challenge his breakthrough there. His students could all do the same. After all, people would sooner or later find out all his students had progressed at blazing speeds. Moving forward, they needed the protection and privacy of the pocket realm.

Suddenly, a bright flash of light drew his attention back to the duel. He glanced up to find Sima Xue had drawn her sword, and that sword was glowing brightly, like a star!

One moment, they were hovering in the air. The next moment, Sima Xue charged in with her bright sword drawn. Then, the surroundings seemed to have changed abruptly as the light vanished. A large chunk of space above the teahouse has been enveloped by a dome of darkness!

Before Li Lang could make sense of what happened, he heard Jian Beiyun sigh wistfully behind him.

"That girl. How can she be this inconsiderate with so many people here? She has forced Elder Yun's hand," the Nightmoon Valley disciple said, as he shook his head in disapproval.

"What do you mean?" Li Lang asked. "What's happening up there?"

"Don't worry. Our elder simply cast a Qi art to isolate them from the rest of us. "

"But then we won't be able to see anything," Li Lang said with a frown. 

He was looking forward to spectating more fights at the Foundation Establishment Realm. He had too little information about combat at that level. While he had experienced such ordeals before, it became the exact reason he wanted to learn more about such high-level combat. It would prepare him for the future, so he wouldn't have to struggle as much the next time.

"That's the point. That girl went ahead and used one of the techniques our organization would rather not openly display, and it just happens there are numerous independent cultivators here. Once anything becomes known to them, who knows how far they'll spread that information?"

"Well, many of them are travelers, I guess."

"Forget about this silly fight. Let us go prepare for what is to come. Elder Yun and Little Xue can handle the rest."

"Of course."