173-176
Chapter 173: Celestial Stele's Imprint (Part Three)
After Lu Chunsheng left, Li Hao began to wander around the Heavenly Secrets Pavilion.
The dazzling array of cultivation techniques, meticulously categorized and displayed, gave Li Hao a sense of déjà vu, reminding him of his visit to the Listening Rain Pavilion.
However, the air here lacked the sandalwood fragrance that permeated the Listening Rain Pavilion. It was cleaner, as if frequented by visitors.
Sunlight streamed in from outside, illuminating the dust motes dancing in the air and settling on the scrolls of cultivation techniques.
Li Hao started his exploration with the Imperial Dao techniques, searching for Meridian Opening and Qi Circulation methods.
The Heavenly Secrets Pavilion's organization mirrored that of the Listening Rain Pavilion, with the most exceptional techniques placed on the top floor. Li Hao found seven Supreme Grade Qi Circulation methods and five Supreme Grade Meridian Opening techniques.
The Listening Rain Pavilion only housed three Supreme Grade Meridian Opening techniques.
Considering the Heavenly Secrets Pavilion's focus on intelligence gathering, such a rich collection was understandable.
Li Hao absorbed all the techniques into his system panel. With his sixth stage Imperial Dao comprehension, the panel instantly displayed them as mastered.
Detailed information about the five Meridian Opening techniques flooded his mind.
Li Hao closed his eyes, as if he had cultivated these five Supreme Grade techniques for decades. Insights gradually merged with his memories.
He began to understand the specific meridian locations targeted by each technique and the pathways they opened.
There was significant overlap with the meridians targeted by the techniques he had previously cultivated.
As the number of opened meridians increased, the overlap between techniques became more pronounced.
Despite this, each of the five Supreme Grade Meridian Opening techniques offered unique pathways, adding seven new meridians to Li Hao's repertoire!
His original count of 98 major meridians now stood at 105!
Only three more remained to achieve completion!
"It's a pity, the overlap is too significant," Li Hao lamented inwardly.
Each of these five Supreme Grade Meridian Opening techniques could potentially open over 50 major meridians. However, mastering them all resulted in only seven additional meridians due to the overlap.
No wonder achieving full meridian opening was so challenging. Even the Great Yu Dynasty, spanning thousands of years, had no records of such a feat.
The difficulty was simply too high.
It was incredibly time-consuming. Mastering a single Supreme Grade Meridian Opening technique to perfection would require at least decades of dedicated cultivation.
Even for prodigies, it would take eight to ten years.
Ordinary individuals lacked his level of Dao comprehension, which allowed him to effortlessly master techniques through his understanding of the Dao.
Unless one relied on an extended lifespan to slowly force the process, which would also require extensive connections and resources.
"If I could master the Imperial Meridian Opening technique, I should be able to complete the remaining three major meridians!" Li Hao thought to himself.
Unfortunately, this was just wishful thinking.
Cultivating the Imperial Meridian Opening technique was a capital offense.
It was one of the foundations of the Imperial family, untouchable.
Li Hao dismissed the thought and turned to descend the stairs.
On the floor below, numerous High Grade Meridian Opening techniques were displayed.
He meticulously examined and absorbed each one. As he collected more techniques, the information in his mind grew exponentially.
Each Meridian Opening technique entered his system panel at the mastery level. However, to his disappointment, they all overlapped with the meridians he had already opened through other techniques.
Although the pathways differed, the targeted meridians remained largely the same.
Li Hao continued his descent, floor by floor.
After absorbing over twenty High Grade Meridian Opening techniques, he finally encountered one that opened a new major meridian.
A surge of joy coursed through him as he continued his search.
Soon after, he found three more techniques, one of which yielded another new meridian.
His count now stood at 107, with only one major meridian remaining.
Li Hao pressed on, exhausting the High Grade techniques and moving on to the Mid Grade ones. However, after examining dozens, he found nothing but overlap.
With a glimmer of hope, he turned to the Low Grade techniques. If he couldn't find it here, he would have to visit renowned sects and families in the future to continue his search.
Just as his hope began to dwindle, after absorbing thirty-two Low Grade Meridian Opening techniques, he stumbled upon one that left him stunned.
This peculiar Low Grade technique took an unconventional approach, targeting the very last major meridian he needed.
All 108 major meridians now had corresponding techniques for their opening!
After a moment of disbelief, overwhelming joy washed over Li Hao. He yearned to start cultivating immediately.
However, he was still within the Heavenly Secrets Pavilion and managed to restrain himself.
He couldn't predict what kind of phenomena might occur if he opened all his major meridians, especially with his Yin and Yang meridians already activated.
His previous manifestations of the Heavenly Dharma Image and Divine Power had caused significant disturbances. Moreover, this involved his martial arts secrets, best kept hidden.
The reason swords and blades have sheaths is to conceal their sharpness.
Now, with his Meridian Opening complete, Li Hao returned to the top floor and began searching for Body Tempering techniques.
Following the same process of absorption and exploration, he found over a hundred techniques, a torrent of information flooding his mind.
Although he hadn't practiced them yet, Li Hao knew that many of these techniques could strengthen his physical body to levels he hadn't been able to reach before.
Once he started training, his physical strength would undoubtedly soar to new heights.
Next, he focused on swordsmanship, fist techniques, and other martial arts.
Li Hao systematically mastered and absorbed them all.
As he traversed the floors, collecting techniques, the sound of a zither drifted down from the top floor.
"Young General, while the abundance of manuals is a blessing, it can also be overwhelming. Allow me to play a tune to help you calm your mind," Lu Chunsheng's voice echoed through a sound transmission.
Despite phrasing it as a question, the zither melody had already begun.
"..._?"
Li Hao: _
You just want to play the zither, don't you... Li Hao thought to himself, then replied through sound transmission, "Thank you, Pavilion Master Lu."
Social graces, mastered.
With the zither music as a backdrop, Li Hao continued his selection of techniques.
Although Pavilion Master Lu's zither skills, in Li Hao's opinion, needed further refinement, his second-stage proficiency provided a pleasant ambiance.
Furthermore, Li Hao only needed to glance at the techniques to absorb them; he didn't need to delve into deep study. Otherwise, the zither music would have become unbearable noise.
Time flowed by.
An hour later, Li Hao had absorbed a significant number of techniques into his system panel.
He had swept through all the Supreme Grade techniques, except for those that couldn't be absorbed, such as saber and spear techniques.
His saber and spear skills hadn't reached the Dao realm, so the panel couldn't absorb them unless he gained enlightenment through his own practice.
However, Li Hao had no intention of wasting his Skill Points on saber or spear techniques.
Fist and sword were sufficient.
To vanquish an enemy, one sword strike was enough; there was no need for a follow-up saber or spear attack.
Mastering a few skills to perfection was better than dabbling in many, especially since Skill Points weren't easily obtained.
Besides completing his Meridian Opening, his greatest gains from this visit were the Qi Circulation methods and movement techniques.
He had limited knowledge of movement techniques. The Heaven and Earth Vanishing Steps, bestowed upon him by Old Feng, was a top-tier Supreme Grade technique.
Now, with the absorption of numerous other movement techniques, his understanding had expanded significantly.
"Four Supreme Grade movement techniques, including Old Feng's, plus eighteen High Grade techniques..."
Li Hao was eager to test the limits of his speed at full power.
Although he could only utilize one movement technique at a time, mastering them all to the True Form level allowed him to integrate their strengths and compensate for their weaknesses.
Furthermore, his Grandmaster Martial Realm provided a framework to synthesize the essence of these techniques, making them his own.
Feeling deeply satisfied, Li Hao returned to the top floor, finding Pavilion Master Lu's zither music surprisingly more pleasing now.
"Young General, have you found any techniques that pique your interest?" Lu Chunsheng asked with a smile.
Seeing Li Hao emerge so quickly, he inwardly praised his virtuous conduct.
Earlier, when he had granted Li Hao free rein to choose, he had anticipated that Li Hao might secretly memorize numerous techniques.
It was a subtle hint, a gesture of goodwill.
However, it seemed that even if Li Hao had memorized some techniques, the short timeframe wouldn't have allowed him to memorize many.
Knowing when to stop, a hallmark of a true gentleman.
"The 'Embroidered Spring Breeze' sword technique is quite impressive," Li Hao said, producing a Supreme Grade sword manual. "I'll take this one."
"Excellent choice, Young General. This sword technique was created eight hundred years ago by a Three Immortals Realm cultivator. Its blade is sharp, yet its intent is gentle, befitting your refined temperament," Lu Chunsheng commented with a smile.
Despite their limited interaction, he could discern that Li Hao differed from other military figures. He lacked the heavy aura of bloodshed, possessing a gentle and scholarly demeanor.
This was one of the reasons he found Li Hao agreeable.
"Pavilion Master Lu is too kind," Li Hao replied with a smile.
Lu Chunfeng handed Li Hao a cup of freshly brewed tea and asked with a smile, "Young General, do you have any thoughts on the piece I just played?"
Li Hao: (/"≡_≡)=
Practice makes perfect... Li Hao coughed lightly and said, "Pavilion Master Lu's zither skills are like this cup of tea, sweet and refreshing!"
"Haha..."
Lu Chunfeng burst into laughter, thinking that the young man had good taste.
His mood lifted, he said, "I have another piece, one that I composed myself. Would you care to listen, Young General?"
Although phrased as a question, he had already begun to rise from his cushion.
Just as Li Hao was about to respond, a commotion erupted outside.
With his enhanced physical senses, Li Hao could hear the distant sounds clearly. Curiosity piqued, he asked, "Pavilion Master Lu, what's happening over there?"
Lu Chunfeng, who had just stood up, glanced outside and replied with a smile,
"It seems someone has successfully passed the Celestial Shadow Stele trial. Young General, would you like to take a look? Perhaps our disciples can learn a thing or two from you."
"Alright," Li Hao agreed.
The two of them flew out of the pavilion towards the training grounds.
A group of disciples who had been cultivating earlier were gathered at one end of the grounds.
Beyond them, on a path leading to a towering mountain, stood a multitude of black stone steles.
Each stele was two to three zhang tall, resembling a row of tombstones if not for their larger size.
"Senior Sister Tang succeeded in challenging Senior Brother Jiang after only three viewings of the stele!"
"Incredible! Only three viewings!"
"Senior Sister Tang is renowned for her talent. She mastered that High Grade sword technique in three repetitions and achieved proficiency in seven days!"
"It's a shame that Senior Sister Tang comes from humble beginnings. Despite her exceptional comprehension, she lacked access to good resources in her early years. Now, she's considered too old to enter the Qiankun Rankings, otherwise, she would have achieved great fame!"
"Shh, do you want to die? Why bring up that taboo?"
"Don't you find it regrettable?"
"Regrettable, my foot! If you dare say Senior Sister Tang is old, you're the one who wants to die!"
"..."
The disciples whispered amongst themselves, their voices filled with awe and regret.
Suddenly, someone noticed Li Hao and Lu Chunsheng approaching.
They were unfamiliar with Li Hao, but Lu Chunsheng was a familiar figure.
After all, a statue of Lu Chunsheng stood at the entrance of the Heavenly Secrets Pavilion.
Who was this young man who could travel alongside the Pavilion Master? Curiosity filled their minds, but they quickly bowed respectfully,
"Greetings, Pavilion Master."
Lu Chunsheng nodded slightly, indicating that they needn't be so formal.
Then, he glanced at Li Hao beside him and said with a smile, "Allow me to introduce you. This is Young General Haotian."
He was aware of Li Hao's relationship with the Li family and his declaration at the Grandmaster Assembly, so he avoided mentioning Li Hao's true name, respecting his wishes.
"Hao, Young General Haotian?"
The disciples were taken aback, some failing to grasp the significance immediately.
But soon, their eyes widened in realization.
Among the crowd, a tall, slender woman, who had been the center of attention moments ago, stood holding a longsword. Her eyes, as sharp as autumn water, held a natural air of aloofness.
Upon hearing Lu Chunsheng's introduction, her indifferent gaze flickered with surprise as she turned towards the gentle-faced young man.
As disciples of the Heavenly Secrets Pavilion, they had access to a vast network of information and were naturally familiar with the legendary exploits of Young General Haotian.
At the age of fourteen, he had been bestowed with a generalship and a noble title, fulfilling the dreams of countless youths.
Even as a woman, she couldn't help but feel a spark of curiosity towards this legendary figure.
Lu Chunsheng, observing their astonishment, smiled and then, noticing the proud and elegant woman in the crowd, he said to Li Hao,
"This is your first time here, isn't it? Are you interested in trying out our Heavenly Secrets Pavilion's Celestial Shadow Stele?"
"Is this the Celestial Shadow Stele?"
Li Hao examined the numerous black steles with a hint of surprise.
His Second Uncle had mentioned it before. The Heavenly Secrets Pavilion had once discovered a celestial stone from beyond the heavens, imbued with the Dao韵 of heaven and earth, capable of recording a person's cultivation techniques as an imprint on its surface.
The Heavenly Secrets Pavilion had divided this stone, creating the Celestial Shadow Steles, which became a renowned attraction, drawing countless geniuses a thousand years ago.
Later, due to certain incidents, the Heavenly Secrets Pavilion restricted access to the steles, reserving them for their own disciples and closing them off to the outside world.
Lu Chunsheng's invitation to Li Hao stemmed from a desire to have this legendary young general leave his mark on the steles. The steles would then be sealed, serving as inspiration for future generations of disciples.
(End of Chapter)
Chapter 174: Renowned Throughout the Heavenly Secrets Pavilion (Part Four)
"Alright."
Li Hao was also curious about this legendary stone monument.
Their conversation was overheard by everyone. As Lu Chunsheng led Li Hao forward, the numerous disciples instinctively made way, their eyes filled with curiosity.
The rules of the Heavenly Shadow Stele had nothing to do with cultivation level, but rather focused on comprehension ability.
The young man before them was renowned throughout the land, his cultivation speed unmatched in a millennium. They also wanted to see how his comprehension compared to theirs, how vast the difference could be.
Sometimes, fast cultivation didn't necessarily mean high comprehension.
After all, below the Celestial Realm, as long as resources were sufficient, one could rapidly improve.
If the issue of foundation wasn't considered, one could even consume a large number of elixirs and advance by leaps and bounds.
However, stepping into the Celestial Realm, apart from comprehension, also involved a bit of luck.
Some people could achieve sudden enlightenment by observing a falling leaf or cupping a handful of water.
Others might travel the world, challenge various sects, become covered in scars, yet still be stopped at the gate of the Celestial Realm.
"These one hundred Heavenly Shadow Steles record the cultivation realms and techniques of all the disciples of our Heavenly Secrets Pavilion over the past thousand years."
Lu Chunsheng said with a smile, "When the technique you demonstrate surpasses the level of the shadow within the stele, the Dao韵 (Dao essence) of the Heavenly Shadow Stele will automatically imprint your technique's level onto the stele, replacing the original shadow. This is what we call 'leaving a mark on the Heavenly Stele'."
Li Hao nodded, he knew all this.
But seeing was believing. As he approached the jet-black stele, Li Hao faintly sensed a dense Heavenly and Earthly energy covering it, along with a subtle, unfathomable aura.
"The disciples of our pavilion can only observe each stele ten times. If they fail to leave a mark after ten attempts, they are not allowed to observe it again."
Lu Chunsheng said with a smile, "The number of times one observes the stele, and whether one can leave a mark, are the measures of one's talent and comprehension."
"Interesting."
Li Hao said.
Seeing Li Hao's interest, the corners of Lu Chunsheng's mouth curled up. He knew that geniuses couldn't resist this kind of competition.
"Young General, with your talent and swordsmanship, I suggest you choose that Heavenly Shadow Stele."
Lu Chunsheng pointed to a Heavenly Shadow Stele not far away.
Everyone looked over and began to whisper amongst themselves.
"It's the Heavenly Shadow Stele that Senior Brother Kong left behind ten years ago."
"That stele's difficulty is ranked 82nd. Is he going to challenge such a difficult one right off the bat?"
"It's difficult for us, but not necessarily for him. I think he'll leave his mark within three attempts!"
"Three? That's hard to say. I think five attempts should be about right. After all, he can suppress all Grandmasters under Heaven. His talent and comprehension are definitely beyond ours."
Everyone whispered, looking at Li Hao with anticipation.
Among the crowd, Tang Zhixi also gazed intently. The 82nd ranked Senior Brother Kong's Heavenly Shadow Stele was more difficult than the 93rd ranked stele she had just broken through.
Could the young man before her achieve it in three attempts?
She pursed her lips slightly, her eyes fixed on the young man.
"Alright."
Li Hao glanced at it and walked to the Heavenly Shadow Stele.
He observed it carefully. Following Lu Chunsheng's voice transmission instructions, Li Hao placed his palm on the Heavenly Shadow Stele and then released his aura.
Soon, the Heavenly Shadow Stele seemed to be activated, its surface glowing with radiant light.
At the same time, a figure appeared within the stele. It was a young man, holding a longsword, suddenly slashing towards him.
However, this young man was only a shadow, not capable of attacking. As he slashed and swung, he displayed a sharp sword technique.
To leave a mark on the stele, one needed to replicate the same sword technique and execute it with greater finesse.
If one used a different sword technique, it wouldn't work. Therefore, countless people had come to test their talent and comprehension here.
Soon, the young man finished his demonstration.
When the young man was halfway through his demonstration, Li Hao received a prompt from the system, recording the sword technique he was displaying.
"This place can actually record sword techniques, and it doesn't seem to be a sword technique from the Heavenly Secrets Pavilion..."
Li Hao's eyes brightened.
Didn't this mean that these hundred Heavenly Shadow Steles were equivalent to a hundred cultivation manuals?!
At this moment, the young man on the Heavenly Shadow Stele finished his demonstration, and his figure faded away.
Li Hao also came back to his senses. He absorbed the information transmitted by the system, looking at the newly added "Moon Embracing Myriad Flowers Sword Technique" that had been deduced to perfection, followed by the "True Form" level. He then recalled the sword moves the young man had just demonstrated.
It seemed to be only at the Perfection level.
This was a High-Grade sword technique.
To comprehend it and cultivate it to the Perfection level within ten observations was indeed an extreme test of comprehension. Its difficulty was no less than passing the imperial examination and becoming a scholar after only one year of study.
Most people would memorize the shadow's sword moves during their first observation, then practice repeatedly on their own. After a year or two, they would challenge the stele again.
This cycle would repeat.
Ten observations could take more than a decade.
"The shadow has disappeared. I wonder if he has grasped the basics?"
"Grasping the basics isn't difficult. Even I can do it. If one can't grasp the basics after one observation, how can they be considered a genius?"
"That's right. However, Senior Brother Kong's sword technique is at the Perfection level. The higher the realm, the harder it is to discern the nuances and imitate it, making it more difficult to cultivate."
Everyone whispered amongst themselves.
Li Hao looked around for a moment, saw a tree in the distance, and beckoned a withered branch towards him.
Then, he flicked the withered branch in his hand, executing the Moon Embracing Myriad Flowers Sword Technique.
It seemed as if a bright moon appeared, embraced by the sword light in his hand. Countless sword auras, like blossoming sword flowers, scattered around, but each sword flower carried a sharp sword aura, untouchable.
Soon, he finished his sword dance.
The Heavenly Shadow Stele flickered with light. Then, within the jet-black stele, the figure of Li Hao's sword dance appeared.
The original shadow of the young man was covered and erased.
Lu Chunsheng was stunned, his pupils slightly constricting.
He had a deeper understanding of Li Hao and had hoped that Li Hao could leave his mark within two observations. This way, it would both preserve Li Hao's reputation as a genius and obtain Li Hao's shadow stele. He hadn't expected Li Hao to leave his mark after only one observation.
Moreover, the sword technique Li Hao had just displayed was filled with extraordinary phenomena, clearly indicating that the technique had reached the True Form level.
From Perfection, skipping Transcendence, directly reaching True Form!
Achieving this after only one observation?
Lu Chunsheng suddenly felt that he knew too little about this young man, not even scratching the surface.
He even suspected that Li Hao had practiced this sword technique beforehand.
Otherwise, even for the three Sword Saints in their youth, being able to cultivate a High-Grade sword technique to the Perfection level after just one glance would have been astonishing enough. But compared to Li Hao, they were like fireflies to the moon!
This young man's talent in the Way of the Sword was even more terrifying than the Sword Saints!
Lu Chunsheng's thoughts raced, his eyes gleaming.
The other disciples of the Heavenly Secrets Pavilion, however, were completely dumbfounded.
They had anticipated three attempts, five attempts, but they had never imagined that Li Hao would leave his mark after just one.
Moreover, the level of that sword technique, with its extraordinary phenomena, surpassed the understanding of many of them. Only a very few knew about the supreme level of True Form!
"True Form at first glance..."
Several disciples muttered to themselves, their eyes glazed over.
At this moment, Li Hao, holding the withered branch, returned to the Heavenly Shadow Stele at the edge of the training ground. According to the previous ranking, this should be the 100th, the last Heavenly Shadow Stele.
This ranking was most likely determined by the Grand Pavilion Master based on the difficulty of the techniques within the steles.
Practice makes perfect. Li Hao placed his hand on the stele and quickly activated the shadow.
However, this time the shadow was a saber technique.
Seeing this, Li Hao skipped it directly and moved to the 99th ranked Heavenly Shadow Stele next to it.
Although with his swordsmanship level, he could also simulate the saber technique and leave his mark on the stele, there was no need for that.
The 99th ranked Heavenly Shadow Stele was a fist technique.
Li Hao smiled. Soon, the system recorded it.
When the shadow disappeared, Li Hao threw a punch, filled with extraordinary phenomena.
True Form level.
Soon, his figure was imprinted on the Heavenly Shadow Stele.
Li Hao then moved on to other Heavenly Shadow Steles.
He activated more than ten Heavenly Shadow Steles in a row, including Tang Zhixi's 93rd ranked stele, which she had just left her mark on.
The female shadow on it was erased. It was a High-Grade sword technique, also at the Perfection level, but this sword technique was easier to cultivate and master.
As the True Form sword technique was executed, the shadow was directly replaced.
When Li Hao went to activate the Heavenly Shadow Steles ranked in the 70s, Lu Chunsheng finally reacted. He was stunned for a moment, then hurriedly said to Li Hao, "Young General, what are you doing?"
"I'm trying to see how many of these I can comprehend," Li Hao said with a smile.
Lu Chunsheng was dumbfounded, looking at the Heavenly Shadow Steles that were being replaced one after another. Only a few were skipped by Li Hao directly.
He suddenly had a bad feeling.
Among the crowd, Tang Zhixi stared blankly at the young man's figure. The Perfection level sword technique she had spent half a year studying and mastering had been replaced by him at a glance.
Moreover, the difference between True Form and Perfection was vast.
Could a human truly achieve this?
She also noticed a detail. When her shadow was demonstrating the sword technique, the young man even looked around, seemingly impatient...
At this moment, her mind was buzzing, her thoughts in disarray.
On the training ground, the other disciples of the Heavenly Secrets Pavilion felt much the same as Tang Zhixi. At first, they were shocked, but later, they were all speechless, their mouths agape as if they had swallowed a duck egg.
Such a terrifying scene was beyond their wildest imagination.
It was too exaggerated.
Was this even human?!
As Li Hao continued to advance, he soon reached the top thirty Heavenly Shadow Steles.
Lu Chunsheng was also filled with shock. He had never seen such an astonishing event in thousands of years, something he couldn't even fathom.
But soon, he suddenly realized a serious problem and completely snapped out of it.
Li Hao had left his mark on so many Heavenly Shadow Steles in a row and pushed all the techniques on them to the True Form level.
Who would be able to leave their mark in the future?
Observe ten times? True Form?
They would probably be cursed!
Let alone ten times, even a hundred times would be impossible.
True Form, many people had never even heard of this level of cultivation.
Those children from aristocratic families only knew about Transcendence, which was already considered the pinnacle of skill.
True Form, even for those with exceptional talent, would require decades of dedicated cultivation to achieve.
Those with average aptitude might not even achieve it in hundreds of years!
"Young General, Young General!"
Lu Chunsheng watched Li Hao continue to activate the Heavenly Shadow Steles, feeling a sense of dread. If Li Hao were to ruin all these Heavenly Shadow Steles, wouldn't they become useless in the future!
This was one of the important legacies of the Heavenly Secrets Pavilion, passed down for thousands of years!
"Hmm?"
Li Hao stopped and looked at Lu Chunsheng.
Lu Chunsheng hurriedly said, "Young General, I know your comprehension is unparalleled, but shouldn't we leave some of these Heavenly Shadow Steles untouched?"
As he said this, a hint of embarrassment flashed in his eyes, but he was already filled with regret.
He should have kept Li Hao playing the zither if he had known this would happen.
He had previously hoped that Li Hao could leave his mark, and Li Hao had indeed done so.
But he had left too many marks!
"Leave some untouched?"
Li Hao frowned, quickly understanding what he meant.
Seeing Li Hao frown, Lu Chunsheng hurriedly said, "You can try the number one Heavenly Shadow Stele, the one at the very top. Leaving your mark on that would be enough to prove your comprehension."
Li Hao felt a little helpless. He wasn't trying to prove his comprehension, he was just collecting cultivation techniques.
"Alright."
Li Hao agreed, "But I want to activate these to take a look, is that okay?"
"If it's just activation, then there's no problem." Seeing Li Hao agree, Lu Chunsheng breathed a sigh of relief and quickly agreed.
Seeing this, Li Hao immediately activated these Heavenly Shadow Steles again.
Soon, more than thirty Heavenly Shadow Steles were all activated by Li Hao. About a third of the techniques could be recorded by his system.
Finally, Li Hao arrived in front of the largest Heavenly Shadow Stele, standing at the top of the mountain.
While other Heavenly Shadow Steles were only two to three zhang tall, this one was over ten zhang tall. Even with the magnificent waterfall resembling a silver river as a backdrop, this Heavenly Shadow Stele was extremely eye-catching.
Li Hao raised his hand and activated it. A figure holding a sword appeared on it.
Li Hao glanced at it and raised his eyebrows slightly. He found this person somewhat familiar. It was Jian Wudao, the Sword Saint from the Sword Hut.
However, the shadow was of his middle-aged self.
His hair was black and short, unlike the flowing white hair he had now.
But his facial features hadn't changed much. After all, the current Jian Wudao had a ruddy complexion and no wrinkles.
"Back then, Jian Wudao came to challenge me and asked me to grant him a request. He wanted to try this Heavenly Shadow Stele. I lost, so I had to agree."
Lu Chunsheng came to Li Hao's side and sighed, "We were both young then. Although he exceeded the age limit, I still allowed him."
"He observed the stele seven times, spending a total of three years comprehending it, and cultivated this sword technique to the Transcendence level. For over a hundred years, no one has been able to surpass it."
Li Hao's eyes flickered.
Comprehending a sword technique to the Transcendence level in three years was indeed a sign of extremely high comprehension.
No wonder he could become a Sword Saint.
Moreover, Jian Wudao at that time was not yet a Sword Saint, but in his middle age, his swordsmanship realm was far from what it was now.
"Do you want to erase it? I can help."
Li Hao sensed a hint of emotion in Lu Chunsheng's words, as if he still couldn't let go of this matter.
Although he didn't know what had happened back then, it didn't seem to be a pleasant experience.
Lu Chunsheng was taken aback by Li Hao's words:
"Are you confident? This is an ancient, incomplete sword technique. Just one and a half moves are already at the Peak sword technique level!"
"Oh?"
Li Hao's eyes lit up, suddenly intrigued.
(End of Chapter)
Chapter 175: Lightning Assault on Liang Province (Fifth Update, Seeking Monthly Votes)
"I'll give it a try," Li Hao said.
Lu Chunsheng glanced at him, nodded, and stepped aside. "Though I hope you can surpass him, the rules cannot be broken. You only have ten chances to observe the Shadow Steles."
"Alright."
Li Hao gazed at the Shadow Stele ranked first, where the middle-aged Jian Wudao had already raised his sword.
Even though it was a projection across the stele, Li Hao could still feel a vast sword intent surging towards him.
The sword light suddenly slashed out, as if trying to pierce through the stele itself.
The sword energy flowed, lingering and ethereal, like a spirit roaming the void. The sword intent was restrained yet sharp.
Li Hao observed quietly. Soon, a notification appeared on his panel.
[Detected a high-level sword technique: Sixteen Laws (Incomplete). Do you wish to record it?]
Li Hao chose to record it.
Although the sword technique Jian Wudao displayed was vastly different from the other sword techniques on the Shadow Steles, in the face of the panel's Dao Realm, all were equal.
As it was recorded, Li Hao also learned the name of this sword technique:
Sixteen Laws
A strange name, seemingly unrelated to swordsmanship, but more like some kind of calligraphy or musical score.
Li Hao was a bit surprised, but the panel's recording wouldn't be wrong. Perhaps this was the original name of the sword technique.
At this moment, behind the Sixteen Laws sword technique, the panel had already deduced it to the True Form level.
Furthermore, it had also deduced the subsequent sword moves, all the way to the ninth.
The sword moves demonstrated by the middle-aged Jian Wudao earlier only consisted of three.
Lu Chunsheng had said that this sword technique, with just one and a half moves, was already considered a top-tier sword technique.
The remaining one and a half moves were deduced by Jian Wudao himself.
Now, relying on his sixth-stage Sword Dao, Li Hao had deduced these three moves to the ninth.
Li Hao guessed that Jian Wudao's comprehension of Sword Dao back then should have been around the fourth stage.
"Even with my Sword Dao, I still can't complete this sword technique..." Li Hao's eyes were solemn.
The deduced sword technique had already integrated into his memory. Li Hao could feel the profoundness of this sword technique, which contained a certain mystical charm.
Li Hao's Music Dao had already reached his heart, now at the fourth stage.
At this moment, he had a vague feeling that the original form of this sword technique might not have been a sword technique at all, but some kind of music.
It was just that someone had listened to it, recorded it, and extracted its Dao韵 (Dao rhyme), cultivating it into a sword technique.
If that were the case, then this strange name might make sense.
But what kind of music could allow someone to extract its Dao rhyme and condense it into a peerless sword technique?
Li Hao couldn't help but feel curious and yearning. At the same time, he thought of another question.
In the future, when his Music Dao reached a certain level, would he be able to produce the original sound of this sword technique?
If he could reach that level, could the music he played also evolve into other supreme cultivation techniques?
Li Hao gathered his thoughts, looked at the Shadow Stele in front of him, took a deep breath, stepped back slightly, and then waved the withered branch in his hand, executing the nine sword moves consecutively.
The sword intent was like a melodious ancient tune, flowing and dynamic. Each sword strike contained the power and momentum of tracing back to the origin.
Around Li Hao, a faint hum resonated between heaven and earth. This was the True Form of this sword technique, capable of triggering a resonance with the universe!
Not far away, Lu Chunsheng was stunned.
Although he didn't cultivate Sword Dao, he could still see how terrifying the sword technique Li Hao was displaying was.
He even felt a sense of being unable to resist. If they were at the same realm, Li Hao could probably defeat him in an instant with this sword technique, without any chance of resistance!
The sword light continued endlessly. After the nine sword moves were exhausted, the withered branch in Li Hao's hand shattered, turning into ashes.
On the Shadow Stele, something seemed to shatter. The figure of the middle-aged Jian Wudao disappeared, replaced by the youthful figure of Li Hao practicing the sword technique just now.
Nine Swords True Form.
To surpass it, unless the current Jian Wudao himself came, there would only be a sliver of possibility.
Lu Chunsheng came back to his senses and looked at the young man in shock. He had initially held only a glimmer of hope, perhaps this young man could create a miracle again. As a result, Li Hao truly created a miracle, a miracle beyond his wildest imagination!
Just by watching it once, Li Hao had actually mastered this supreme sword technique to the True Form level.
Moreover, it seemed that he had also deduced other sword moves to connect to it, seamlessly. This was simply unbelievable!
Li Hao let out a soft breath. After absorbing this sword technique, he felt his head swell a little.
He had recorded numerous secret manuals from the Heavenly Secrets Tower in one go today and absorbed dozens of cultivation techniques from the Shadow Steles. He felt a little overwhelmed.
He needed to properly organize his thoughts and memories.
"Tower Master Lu, if there's nothing else, I'll return to Heaven's Gate Pass," Li Hao said to Lu Chunsheng.
Lu Chunsheng was taken aback and quickly said, "Won't you stay for a few more days? You've just arrived, you haven't seen the scenery of our Yong Province yet. Our Heavenly Secrets Tower also has a cultivation sanctuary..."
Li Hao shook his head slightly and said, "There will be time in the future. I'll visit again later. Tower Master Lu also knows that I'm stationed at Heaven's Gate Pass and have provoked a few Demon Kings. I'm worried that if news of my departure leaks, they'll take the opportunity to vent their anger on the people of Cragcliff City."
The Heaven's Gate Pass now was not like when he was alone.
Cragcliff City was prosperous and bustling. Apart from the young men and women who came to make a name for themselves and visit, there were also many merchants who came to the city to do business, as well as some refugees with nowhere to go, who also came here to settle down.
If the city fell, countless people would die.
Hearing Li Hao's words, Lu Chunsheng knew that it was not appropriate to keep him any longer.
After all, Li Hao was a general with military duties, not to mention the involvement of the people at the border.
"In that case, let me see you off," Lu Chunsheng said.
Li Hao nodded and didn't refuse.
The two immediately flew out of the Heavenly Secrets Tower.
When he had received the young man earlier, Lu Chunsheng had only sent the Heavenly Secrets Mountain Man to do so. But today, seeing Li Hao's terrifying comprehension ability, he finally understood that the young man in front of him was not his junior, but someone who would stand shoulder to shoulder with him in the near future, or even surpass him.
Therefore, his thoughts had changed. From initially wanting to offer Li Hao a favor, he now wanted to sincerely befriend him.
In the training grounds at the foot of the mountain.
Numerous Heavenly Secrets Tower disciples watched the figures of the Tower Master and the young man depart. After a long time, they finally came back to their senses.
The previously silent training grounds suddenly erupted with a wave of shocked silence.
Amidst the cacophony, several outstanding disciples of the Heavenly Secrets Tower stood silently, feeling a chill run down their spines, their Dao hearts on the verge of shattering.
Their fervent desire to strive forward was crushed at this moment.
The gap was too vast.
Was this the difference between people?
It felt like the difference between humans and gods!
"Is this the talent of the one who could be appointed a general and ennobled at fourteen? Mastering True Form with a single glance, all techniques reduced to dust..."
Someone muttered to themselves, feeling as if their chest was blocked by something, a feeling of wanting to cry.
It wasn't jealousy, but despair.
Tang Zhixi silently looked at the distant sky, her eyes vacant and lost in thought, too speechless to utter a word.
She felt as if a gust of wind could knock her down.
The talent and comprehension she had always been proud of, which had allowed her to rise from a humble background and catch up with the pace of the geniuses.
Even towards those geniuses from the Divine General's Mansion, or the disciples of Sword Saints, or even those Buddha's Sons, True Person's direct disciples, etc., she still had some不服 (unyielding spirit) in her heart.
She felt that if she had been given the same background, she could have done better.
Because she was very smart.
But today, she suddenly realized that her pride, in front of that young man, seemed to be nothing.
The sword technique she had spent half a year studying and pondering over, that young man had only glanced at it.
Just one glance.
And he had mastered it, and surpassed it!
Surpassed it to a level she couldn't reach!!
If she was a genius, then what was that young man? A monster?
If that young man was just a genius, then what was she? A commoner? A fool? An idiot?
Or an uncivilized beast?
She didn't know. But suddenly, she had an urge, she wanted to go to Liang Province, to that pass, to be by that young man's side. She wanted to see with her own eyes how such a person cultivated on a daily basis.
...
...
Two thousand miles west of Liang Province.
In a pitch-black deep lake, shadows coiled and intertwined. Looking down from high above, the shadows were extremely dark, their forms狰狞 (fierce and sinister), making one's hair stand on end.
However, the surface of the lake was calm and tranquil. These colossal creatures swam within, yet they didn't create the slightest ripple.
But in this stillness, suddenly, ripples appeared on the surface of the lake.
Then, the ripples gradually expanded, like raindrops splashing on the lake. The calm water surface suddenly bounced like popping beans, splashing water droplets.
The water droplets bounced violently on the lake surface, and the entire deep lake trembled!
In the lake, the colossal shadows that were swimming quietly were all startled by the tremors. Their bodies rapidly contracted, transforming into figures, some rushing out from the bottom of the lake and into the air.
Others plunged towards the depths of the lake.
Suddenly, at the center of the lake, where the fluctuations were most intense, the lake water abruptly bulged upwards, like a swelling bag.
Then it burst, and a gigantic True Dragon shot out from within!
Its dragon body was dark purple and black, its scales like forged divine weapons, sharp and tightly covering its entire body.
Its body was a hundred zhang long, its dragon head fierce, capable of coiling around a hill.
Roar!!
The True Dragon soared straight into the sky, piercing through countless layers of clouds, reaching the intense sunlight. Its scales seemed to reflect a divine light that was impossible to look at directly.
Its dark and crimson eyes reflected the distant sun in the sky, then it abruptly plunged back into the clouds, diving downwards.
When it emerged from the last layer of clouds, it had already transformed into an elderly man in a dark purple robe.
"Great Elder!"
"Great Elder!"
Numerous transformed figures gathered towards him.
In the deep lake, the aquatic demons all looked up in awe, trembling, but with a fanatical reverence in their eyes.
"Are there any Transcendent Realm experts stationed in Liang Province?"
The elder's voice was deep and carried immense authority.
"We haven't detected any yet," a green-robed elder respectfully replied.
Among demons, the hierarchy was even stricter, otherwise, they would be eaten.
"In that case, launch a swift attack on Liang Province. Have the Empyrean Realm armies assembled?" the dark purple-robed Great Elder asked coldly.
"The Empyrean Realm armies have long been waiting and prepared for battle. The Sacred Palace's armies are still on their way here. Our Dragon Gate's armies have already assembled at Sishui Lake, Green Shadow Lake, and Sunken Horn Forest," another elder quickly reported.
"Those Sacred Palace fellows, always dragging their feet. No wonder they've been entangled with the Li family in Yanbei for over a decade. They're reluctant to suffer losses, yet they want territory. Truly useless!"
The dark purple-robed Great Elder snorted coldly.
Then, he said, "This time, although I'm personally leading the attack on Liang Province, the true main force is the Empyrean Realm. As we discussed earlier, they will break through the border, and we'll only be responsible for destroying all the cities. If there are any Transcendent Realm experts, I'll deal with them."
"At that time, you'll be responsible for killing and devouring all the remaining humans!"
"We're going to bathe the entire Liang Province in blood, leaving no survivors!"
"Let that old geezer suffer a heavy blow!"
"Yes, Great Elder."
"Let's go, to the Empyrean Realm first!" the dark purple-robed elder said coldly.
He took the lead and charged out. In the deep lake, numerous demons who had reached the Fifteen Li Realm also flew out of the lake, transforming into thousands of streams of light, following the True Dragon Great Elder, streaking across the vast expanse of heaven and earth like meteors.
(End of Chapter)
Chapter 176: Li Tiangang, Come Out and Die!! (Part 1)
Liangzhou, Eastern Border.
Beyond the Black Stone Great Wall, the vast expanse of the landscape stretched as far as the eye could see.
Grey clouds hung low, and the grasslands were eerily still.
Within the Wall, the border defenses stretched wide. Patrols clad in light armor diligently scanned the horizon.
Inside the military camp, Li Tiangang held a military report, detailing the recent intelligence gathered from across Liangzhou.
Six months ago, demonic beasts had attacked the north. But a single missive from him to the Xia Clan, requesting the aid of their border troops, had forced the beasts to retreat.
The Xia Clan was initially reluctant to cross the border. After all, this was the Li Clan's responsibility. Though the two clans maintained amicable relations, dispatching troops across borders was a significant undertaking, reserved for calamities that threatened multiple cities.
However, Li Tiangang's letter had clearly stated that the attack was likely a probing action by the demonic beasts. If the Xia Clan remained passive observers, the beasts would exploit the northern region as a breach point, transforming it into a major battlefield.
Such a conflict would inevitably spill over into the Xia Clan's Jizhou province, ultimately causing them greater losses.
To persuade them, he had shared a portion of Liangzhou's military intelligence, revealing the stringent defenses of the eastern and western borders, as well as the presence of a Four Pillars Realm expert guarding the Southern Heaven's Gate Pass. This finally convinced the Xia Clan that the flames of war might engulf them, leading them to join forces with the northern Liangzhou military headquarters and drive back the demonic beasts.
As Li Tiangang had predicted, the north had remained quiet since then, with no further signs of demonic activity.
The Xia Clan had also witnessed the strategic acumen of this generation's true dragon of the Li Clan. No wonder he had managed to hold the line against the demonic beasts for over a decade in Yanbei, despite facing overwhelming odds, and ultimately emerge victorious.
"The demonic beasts on Fifth Brother's side have been quiet for a while now. They feigned a retreat, but the demonic tide in Liuzhou hasn't withdrawn nor attacked. It's far too obvious a feint!"
"That's a diversion!"
"The true killing blow of these demonic beasts isn't aimed at Liuzhou, but at Liangzhou, or perhaps Youzhou!"
Li Tiangang's eyes were cold. He had been stationed in Liangzhou for nearly a year. Since his arrival and the initial repulsion of the invading demonic beasts from the eastern border, they had refrained from large-scale attacks, resorting only to occasional harassment.
His gaze swept across the panoramic view of Liangzhou, but his perception extended beyond, encompassing other provinces. Based on the intelligence received from these regions, he discerned the true intentions of the demonic beasts.
This was the reason he had remained here for so long, despite the lack of major battles.
He had seen through the demonic beasts' schemes.
"The reconstruction of Cragcliff City..."
Li Tiangang's expression darkened as he read the intelligence report.
With Li Hao stationed at the Southern Heaven's Gate Pass, he naturally paid close attention to that region. However, the successive reports had failed to bring him any joy.
Since Li Muxiu and the Heavenly Secrets Pavilion Master, Lu Chunsheng, had assisted Li Hao in repelling the three ancient Demon Kings, including the Mountain King, who had occupied the area outside the Pass for many years, the Heaven's Gate Pass had enjoyed a period of unprecedented peace.
During this respite, the city, once reduced to rubble, was being rebuilt.
This was undoubtedly a positive development, a cause for celebration.
Li Tiangang understood the sentiment.
However, if it were merely the construction of a city, it would be acceptable. Establishing defensive formations would signify the re-establishment of a fortified line.
But after the city's reconstruction, people from various provinces were allowed to enter freely. The city gates remained open, with no restrictions in place. Numerous commoners had even relocated there, along with merchants establishing businesses. It was as if the border pass was being treated as a city deep within the realm's interior.
Currently, Cragcliff City was bustling with activity, resembling a major city far from the border.
But this was, after all, the border, not the heartland!
The threat of demonic beast attacks loomed constantly!
Especially considering Liangzhou's precarious situation, if the demonic beasts were to attack the Heaven's Gate Pass, it would be another bloody battle, resulting in countless casualties!
"A little success, and they've become complacent."
"Hongzhuang too, why hasn't she intervened? A child might not understand, but surely she does. After so many years guarding the border, can't she see through this false prosperity?!"
Li Tiangang's face was grim. Everyone close to that child seemed to indulge him, allowing him to act as he pleased.
His Second Uncle, his Fifth Uncle, his sister-in-law, and now, even his younger sister, a seasoned warrior who had guarded the border for years!
Was it all because of that child's unparalleled talent?
He acknowledged Li Hao's exceptional talent, far surpassing his own. But precisely because of this, he could not be indulged!
Considering Li Hao's various actions, he only regretted that he had intervened too late.
The prolonged battle in Yanbei had prevented him from returning to the family estate sooner. This was his greatest regret in recent times.
"Bring me paper and brush."
Li Tiangang commanded. He needed to draft a military order, instructing Li Hongzhuang at the Heaven's Gate Pass to evacuate the city's civilian population.
As a border city, it only required a small number of people for logistics and trade. Gathering so many commoners there was simply courting disaster.
Upon hearing this, Li Fu was about to turn and fetch the writing materials. But just then, a thunderous roar erupted from the distant border:
"Li Tiangang, come out and die!!"
The terrifying sound waves, despite the distance, caused the curtains of the military tent to flutter violently.
Li Fu, who had just stepped out of the tent, paled. Anger and shock flashed across his face. His spirit surged from his back, leaping into the air and gazing towards the distant border.
There, a tiny black dot stood in the sky, arms clasped behind his back. He was clad in a magnificent, gold-inlaid battle robe, his gaze icy.
Li Fu's expression shifted. Even from afar, he could sense the overwhelming pressure emanating from the figure, a terrifying aura that made his heart tremble.
With his years of experience fighting alongside Li Tiangang, he recognized it instantly: a Demon King!
Before Li Fu could turn and report, the commotion had already alerted the surrounding border camps.
Hearing the roar, Li Tiangang's eyes narrowed. Those beasts had finally lost their patience, had they?
He strode out of the military camp, soaring into the sky.
Across the vast distance, beyond the border defenses, the Demon King in the gold-inlaid robe met his gaze.
"Good, you're still here!"
Phoenix Mountain Lord felt a sense of relief upon seeing Li Tiangang. He had been suppressing his fury for so long, and finally, he had found an outlet for his rage.
That damned brat had cost him a life!
A single chance to defy fate, squandered just like that! It was an unforgivable offense!
"Die!!"
Phoenix Mountain Lord roared, summoning a crimson flame spear and charging forward.
Within the defenses, panic erupted.
This was the first time a Demon King had launched a lone assault, openly challenging them. It was an act of blatant aggression!
"Activate the formation!"
Li Tiangang's eyes were cold, but he remained calm. He bellowed a command.
His powerful voice resonated throughout the area, steadying the momentarily shaken morale of the troops.
As Phoenix Mountain Lord's spear, blazing with divine flame, reached the border, it triggered the defensive formation.
The formation erupted with a myriad of golden rays, coalescing into a protective barrier that enveloped the defenses.
Golden runes shimmered across its surface, imbued with the profound power of the stars and heavenly stems.
Phoenix Mountain Lord's attack was blocked by the formation, but the impact sent tremors through the barrier. His eyes blazed with crimson flames as he launched a relentless assault, his spear repeatedly striking the formation, causing golden light to scatter in all directions.
Meanwhile, within the defenses, the military camps were rapidly assembling, their movements swift and efficient.
The first to form ranks was the Li Clan's elite force, the Yuan Battalion!
Ten thousand Yuan Battalion soldiers channeled their power into the formation, strengthening its defenses.
With the Six Aspects Star Formation and the support of ten thousand Yuan Battalion soldiers, they could withstand a Demon King's assault for a full incense stick's worth of time!
"Yu Xuan, quickly, inform the other battalions to enter full combat readiness. The demonic army could arrive at any moment!"
Li Tiangang swiftly issued orders to Yu Xuan, who stood beside him.
Yu Xuan was momentarily stunned, then comprehension dawned. The Demon King, risking exposure and capture to launch this lone attack, was most likely attempting to draw their attention.
The absence of a demonic tide beyond the border suggested that the main force might be targeting other sections of the defenses.
He immediately acknowledged the order and departed.
A series of horn blasts echoed from within the defenses, spreading rapidly. Soon, the entire border reverberated with the ancient, elephantine calls of the war horns.
Every military camp within the defenses, upon hearing the call to arms, sprang into action. Soldiers donned their armor, grasped their weapons, and took their positions, ready for battle.
Far in the distance, beyond the outermost reaches of the defenses, the ground trembled on the horizon. A vast, dark mass surged forward, resembling a black mudslide, its approach accompanied by an earth-shattering roar.
Confirming the arrival of the demonic tide, the distant defenses immediately sent up signal flares.
Beacons of fire shot into the sky, accompanied by the sharp whistles of bird-shaped projectiles.
These flares, highly visible, were spotted by soldiers stationed at other sections of the defenses.
Li Tiangang also noticed them, his deductions proven correct.
"Kill!"
Li Tiangang's eyes turned cold as he observed the lone Demon King relentlessly attacking the formation. He stepped forward, drawing upon the formation's power to summon a sealed demonic soul.
However, he refrained from unleashing the full might of the formation, as they would need its strength to withstand the impending demonic assault.
He summoned only a single demonic soul and fused it with his own body.
With a wave of his hand, a brilliant divine blade shot out from the military tent. Simultaneously, pieces of his previously removed armor flew towards him, attaching themselves to his body.
Shoulder guards, a cape, a chest plate, wrist guards, knee guards, and battle boots.
In the blink of an eye, he was fully clad in his battle armor, wielding the divine blade, its surface ablaze with radiant divine power.
"Die!!"
Li Tiangang lunged forward, a formidable warrior, bursting through the formation and charging towards the Demon King.
"A mere Three Immortals cultivator dares to seek death?!"
"Just like your damned beast of a son, you shall both die!!"
Phoenix Mountain Lord burst into laughter upon seeing Li Tiangang emerge from the formation, but his face contorted with hatred and rage.
He swept his spear horizontally, unleashing a torrent of flames that scorched the air, distorting it with intense heat.
Combined with his Dao Rhyme, his attacks were guaranteed to hit their mark.
Facing the onslaught of the Phoenix Flame Spear, the demonic soul fused with Li Tiangang let out a piercing shriek. The divine power on his blade blazed brightly as he slashed forward.
A golden river of blade light cleaved through the air, severing the Phoenix Flame.
But the shattered flames transformed into a sea of fire, engulfing Li Tiangang.
The intense heat caused the golden runes on the formation to flicker and warp, rapidly depleting its energy.
Phoenix Mountain Lord abruptly raised his hand, emitting a phoenix cry. His body spun like a drill, piercing through the sea of fire. He thrust his spear towards Li Tiangang's chest.
With a resounding boom, Li Tiangang was forced back, crashing against the formation.
But he immediately rebounded, the demonic soul submerging into his body, enhancing his aura. He charged forward, launching a series of relentless attacks.
"Do you also aspire to emulate your son, slaying a Demon King as a Three Immortals cultivator?!"
"Not enough! Not enough! Not enough!!"
Phoenix Mountain Lord's eyes gleamed with a terrifying light. He roared, "You are far inferior to your son!!"
"Damned beast, you court death!!"
Li Tiangang's eyes widened in fury. He unleashed a devastating slash, his power erupting in a rainbow of blade light.
Phoenix Mountain Lord retreated, evading the attack. As Li Tiangang pursued, a mocking smirk appeared on his face. He swung his spear, shattering the second wave of Li Tiangang's divine blade attack.
"Your time has come!"
A fiery wing, formed from True Phoenix flames, suddenly materialized behind Phoenix Mountain Lord. He abruptly halted his retreat and lunged towards Li Tiangang.
His attack displaced the air before Li Tiangang, allowing him to teleport instantaneously, appearing right before his opponent.
He swept his spear horizontally, aiming a fatal blow at Li Tiangang's head.
(End of Chapter)