Chapter 8: Triggering the Task

The sudden benefits from accepting the challenge delighted Chu Xiaotian. He had been ready to prove himself, but the additional reward was an unexpected bonus.

When asked by Elder Yang if he wanted to accept the challenge, Chu Xiaotian calmly agreed. Elder Yang was visibly relieved. Had Chu Xiaotian refused, it would have cast further doubt on his strength. By accepting the challenge, he was affirming his capabilities.

"Whoever wants to challenge me, step forward," Chu Xiaotian announced, taking his position in the designated fighting area of the plaza.

"Is that all the challengers?" Chu Xiaotian provocatively asked upon seeing only a few volunteers, "Are all of you too afraid to challenge me?"

Provoked by his words, more individuals stepped forward, burning with anger and a desire to teach Chu Xiaotian a lesson.

Facing the group of challengers, none of whom had reached the Martial Realm, Chu Xiaotian nonchalantly invited them to attack together. This statement further incensed the crowd, but Chu Xiaotian remained unbothered.

With a swift motion, he drew his sword, its sound resonating across the plaza. In the blink of an eye, he was before the challengers, moving so fast they could only see his afterimage.

"Puff puff puff!" In an instant, all challengers were sent flying back. The plaza fell silent in awe of Chu Xiaotian's overwhelming strength.

Elder Yang beamed with pride, knowing he had acquired a true gem in Chu Xiaotian. The other elders could only look on with envy and resignation, realizing they had lost the chance to claim such a talent for their own academies.

After the display, Elder Yang wasted no time in leaving the plaza with the new disciples, including Chu Xiaotian, to head to the Divine Sword Academy, located in the Sword Spirit Mountain outside Shen Du. The mountain was known as the First Peak of Shen Du and was shrouded in an almost mystical fog, accessible only to disciples of the academy.

The journey to the academy was a climb up the mountain, a test of endurance and strength. The climb, which took about half an hour, left many exhausted. But Chu Xiaotian and a few others managed to keep pace with Elder Yang, demonstrating their stamina and resolve.

Upon reaching the ancient gates of the Divine Sword Academy, Chu Xiaotian was captivated by an inscription: "Where the Long Sword Points, All Shall Yield." As he pondered over these words, he suddenly gained a new understanding.

"Ding! Congratulations to the host for comprehending 10% of Sword Intent."

"Ding! Congratulations to the host on receiving the Sword Intent beginner's gift package, along with 5,000 points."