Chapter 14: The Path to Power and a Formidable Rival

Jiang Cheng stood on the edge of a mist-covered valley, his body still aching from the intense battles of the tournament. Though he had emerged victorious, he knew it was only the beginning. The true road to power was still ahead, and if he wished to stand at the peak, he could not waste a single moment.

After gathering information, he had heard whispers of an abandoned training ground deep within the sect's forbidden zone. It was said to be a place where an ancient expert once cultivated, leaving behind remnants of their profound insights. If Jiang Cheng could uncover its secrets, he might gain the edge he needed.

The Hidden Training Ground

Traversing through the dense forest, Jiang Cheng felt the presence of natural energy becoming thicker. The air crackled with a strange force, almost as if the heavens themselves had once descended upon this land. Soon, he reached a hidden cave nestled within a cliffside. Inside, strange symbols lined the walls, radiating an eerie glow.

Sitting cross-legged, Jiang Cheng activated his cultivation technique, drawing in the surrounding spiritual energy. Immediately, he felt resistance—this was no ordinary place. The energy here was wild, chaotic, but also incredibly pure. If he could tame it, his cultivation might soar to new heights.

Hours turned into days as he meditated, sweat pouring down his body. The chaotic energy clashed within him, causing sharp pain in his meridians. Yet, Jiang Cheng gritted his teeth and endured. He recalled his master's teachings: To reach true strength, one must break through their limits, again and again.

As he neared a breakthrough, a powerful force suddenly erupted in the cave. The walls trembled, and a deep voice echoed.

"You are not the only one seeking power."

Jiang Cheng's eyes snapped open, and he turned to face the entrance. A young man stood there, exuding overwhelming confidence. His robes bore the insignia of an elite disciple, and his piercing gaze was filled with arrogance.

Enter Qin Feng—The Arrogant Genius

Qin Feng was a prodigy known throughout the sect. He had been away on special training, but now he had returned, and his sights were set on Jiang Cheng.

"I saw your little performance in the tournament," Qin Feng said, stepping forward. "Not bad. But compared to true geniuses, you're still lacking."

Jiang Cheng remained silent. He could sense Qin Feng's cultivation—the peak of the Core Formation Realm. A level higher than his own.

Qin Feng smirked. "You don't believe me? Then let's see if you can handle this."

Without warning, he launched forward, his palm glowing with golden energy. Jiang Cheng barely had time to react before a force slammed into his chest, sending him skidding backward.

A Battle of Strength and Wits

Jiang Cheng steadied himself, wiping blood from his lips. The impact was powerful, but he had suffered worse.

He activated his movement technique, vanishing from sight. In the next instant, he reappeared behind Qin Feng, launching a devastating punch. But Qin Feng was faster. He spun around and caught Jiang Cheng's fist, countering with a knee strike to the ribs.

Jiang Cheng winced but didn't falter. He had fought stronger opponents before. His eyes sharpened—if brute force wasn't enough, he would use strategy.

He deliberately retreated, baiting Qin Feng into attacking recklessly. Just as Qin Feng lunged forward, Jiang Cheng executed a sudden shift, dodging at the last second and delivering a precise counterstrike.

A loud boom echoed through the cave as Qin Feng was forced back. He narrowed his eyes. "Interesting. You're better than I thought."

Jiang Cheng exhaled, feeling his cultivation surging. The intense battle was forcing him to push past his limits. He was on the verge of a breakthrough.

Qin Feng sensed the change and frowned. "Tch. You think you can surpass me? I refuse to accept that!"

With a roar, he unleashed his strongest technique—a massive energy wave aimed directly at Jiang Cheng.

The Breakthrough

Jiang Cheng knew he had only one chance. He channeled every ounce of his strength, focusing on the chaotic energy around him. The symbols in the cave glowed brightly, resonating with his body.

Boom!

A blinding light erupted as Jiang Cheng stepped forward, his aura skyrocketing. His cultivation surged, breaking through to the late Core Formation Realm!

With newfound power, he countered Qin Feng's attack, dispersing it completely. For the first time, Qin Feng's expression changed—shock flickered in his eyes.

Jiang Cheng stood firm, his energy surging like a tidal wave. He looked at Qin Feng and spoke calmly.

"You were right about one thing—I was lacking. But not anymore."

Qin Feng clenched his fists, realizing he had underestimated his opponent. With a final glance, he turned away. "Hmph. This isn't over, Jiang Cheng."

As Qin Feng vanished into the shadows, Jiang Cheng remained standing, his body still buzzing with power. He had taken another step forward on his path, but he knew this was just the beginning. More powerful foes awaited, and he had no intention of stopping here.

End of Chapter 14.